Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

If you’re looking for a dish that brings excitement to your table, these Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders are just what you need! They are perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet delicious, or for family gatherings where you want to impress without the stress. Every bite is packed with flavor, and trust me, they’ll have everyone coming back for seconds!

What makes this recipe even more special is how simple it is. You can whip these up in no time and serve them hot out of the oven, making it a fantastic choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: You can have these sliders ready in just 35 minutes, making them ideal for last-minute meals.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Even picky eaters will love these sliders; the flavors are bold but not overwhelming!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s game day or a casual dinner, these sliders fit right in.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the chicken filling ahead of time for an even easier assembly when you’re ready to bake.
• Deliciously Cheesy: The combination of melted cheese on top takes these sliders to another level of yumminess!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make these mouthwatering sliders. Don’t worry, these ingredients are simple and wholesome, perfect for creating a comforting dish.

Slider Ingredients

• 9 pack slider buns
• 1 1/2 cups shredded chicken
• 1/2 cup Frank’s buffalo hot sauce
• 2 Tbsp ranch dressing
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp ground black pepper
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp paprika
• 1 cup shredded cheese
• 2 Tbsp butter
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp Italian seasoning

Variations

One of the best things about these sliders is their versatility! Feel free to get creative with the ingredients.

• Swap the protein: Try using shredded turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option!
• Change up the cheese: Monterey Jack or pepper jack will add a nice twist with extra flavor.
• Add some crunch: Toss in diced celery or green onions into the chicken mixture for added texture.
• Spice it up more: If you love heat, add some diced jalapeños into the filling for an extra kick!

How to Make Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F. This ensures that your sliders will bake evenly and come out perfectly golden.

Step 2: Mix Up the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine your shredded chicken with Frank’s hot buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Mixing these ingredients well allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together!

Step 3: Assemble the Sliders

Grab your lined baking sheet and place the bottoms of your slider buns on it. Spoon your delicious chicken mixture evenly onto each bun. Don’t be shy; pile it high! Then sprinkle shredded cheese on top before placing the tops of the buns back on.

Step 4: Brush with Butter Mixture

In a small bowl, blend melted butter with garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Use a pastry brush to generously coat the tops of your buns with this mixture. This step adds that beautiful golden finish and enhances flavor.

Step 5: Bake Time

Cover your baking sheet with foil and pop it into your preheated oven. Bake at 350°F for about 15 minutes. After that, remove the foil and let them bake for another 5-10 minutes until they are lightly golden and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Once they’re done baking, slice them apart and serve immediately while they’re hot! These spicy buffalo chicken sliders are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven alongside your favorite sides.

Now gather around your loved ones and enjoy this delightful dish!

Pro Tips for Making Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

These sliders are a delightful treat, and with a few handy tips, you can make them even more scrumptious!

• Use rotisserie chicken: This saves time and adds incredible flavor. Pre-cooked chicken is moist and tender, making your preparation super quick!
• Adjust the heat: If you’re serving guests who may not handle spice well, feel free to reduce the amount of hot sauce. You can also mix in some mild sauce for those who prefer less heat.
• Experiment with cheese: While shredded cheese works great, consider using a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for an extra kick and creaminess.
• Toast the buns lightly: Before filling the buns, give them a quick toast to prevent them from getting soggy. This adds a nice texture that complements the filling perfectly.
• Make-ahead option: Prepare the chicken mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Assemble the sliders just before baking for a quick meal anytime!

How to Serve Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

These Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders are perfect for parties, game day gatherings, or cozy family dinners. Here are some fun ways to present this delicious dish!

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: Sprinkling chopped green onions on top adds freshness and a pop of color.
• Celery sticks: Serve a few celery sticks on the side for crunch and a classic accompaniment to buffalo flavors.

Side Dishes

• Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: These sweet potato fries add a slightly sweet contrast to the spicy sliders, making for a delightful combination that everyone will love.
• Classic Coleslaw: A cool and crunchy coleslaw balances the heat of the sliders perfectly while adding texture to your meal.
• Vegetable Platter with Dips: Offer a variety of fresh veggies like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers alongside creamy ranch or hummus dip for healthy munching.
• Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob is an easy-to-eat side that pairs wonderfully with buffalo flavors, adding sweetness to each bite.

Enjoy these sliders at your next gathering, and watch them disappear in no time!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders are not only a hit at parties but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time and store them for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover sliders in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Freezing

• Wrap each slider individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped sliders in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw frozen sliders in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake covered with foil for about 15 minutes, then uncover for an additional 5-10 minutes until heated through.
• Alternatively, use a microwave to heat sliders on medium power until warmed.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders!

Can I use different sauces for Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other hot sauces or even barbecue sauce if you’re looking for a different flavor profile. Just keep the proportions similar so that the filling stays moist.

How can I make Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders healthier?

You can opt for whole wheat slider buns and use low-fat ranch dressing to reduce calories. Additionally, consider using grilled chicken instead of shredded chicken for a lighter option.

Can I make Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders without ranch dressing?

Yes, you can omit ranch dressing if you prefer. For added creaminess, try substituting it with Greek yogurt or another dairy-free alternative.

Are Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders suitable for a crowd?

Definitely! This recipe makes 9 sliders, making it an ideal choice for gatherings or game days. You can easily double the recipe to serve more guests.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders as much as I do! They’re not just delicious; they’re also versatile enough to suit any occasion. Whether it’s game day, a casual get-together, or just a cozy night in, these sliders are sure to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your tasty creations!