Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders
If you’re looking for a crowd-pleaser that combines flavor and fun, then these Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders are just the ticket! Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a lively family gathering, these sliders are sure to steal the show. Picture fluffy buns stuffed with juicy, spicy chicken and melted cheese—what’s not to love? Plus, they’re super easy to whip up, making them perfect for any occasion!
These sliders have become a staple in my home because they bring everyone together. They’re great for game days or just a cozy dinner with loved ones. Once you try this recipe, I promise you’ll find yourself making them again and again!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for those busy evenings!
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy these flavorful sliders. It’s always a hit at the dinner table!
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep the filling in advance and assemble the sliders right before baking.
- Packed with Flavor: The combination of spicy buffalo sauce and creamy ranch dressing creates an irresistible taste sensation.
- Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for parties, potlucks, or casual get-togethers—everyone will want seconds!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s dive into the simple, wholesome ingredients that make these Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders so delicious. You’ll find everything you need right in your kitchen!
- 9 pack slider buns
- 1 1/2 cups shredded chicken
- 1/2 cup Franks 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 this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix it up according to your tastes or what you have on hand.
- Swap the protein: Try using shredded turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.
- Change up the cheese: Pepper jack adds an extra kick, while cheddar offers a classic flavor.
- Add some veggies: Toss in some diced bell peppers or green onions for added crunch and color.
- Make it milder: If you prefer less heat, use mild buffalo sauce or mix in some cream cheese to tone it down.
How to Make Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is important because it ensures that your sliders will bake evenly and come out perfectly golden brown.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the hot sauce, ranch dressing, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Mixing these ingredients together not only coats the chicken but also infuses it with that signature buffalo flavor that makes these sliders so special.
Step 3: Assemble the Sliders
Take your lined baking sheet and place the bottom halves of the slider buns down first. Spoon generous amounts of the chicken mixture onto each bun. Top with shredded cheese before placing the top halves back on. This layering creates delicious cheesy goodness in every bite.
Step 4: Brush with Garlic Butter
In a small bowl, melt butter and combine it with garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Using a pastry brush, gently brush this mixture over the tops of your buns. This step adds flavor as well as a lovely golden color when baked.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Cover your baking sheet with foil and bake for 15 minutes. After that time has passed, remove the foil and let them bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until they are lightly golden brown and bubbly. This ensures that each slider is warm and gooey inside.
Step 6: Serve Warm
Once out of the oven, cut them into individual sliders. Serve immediately while still hot! Pair them with your favorite sides like veggie sticks or fries for an unforgettable meal.
Enjoy making these Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders! I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out!
Pro Tips for Making Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders
Making the perfect spicy buffalo chicken sliders is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your sliders are a hit!
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Use fresh ingredients: Fresh ingredients, such as freshly shredded chicken and high-quality hot sauce, enhance the flavor of your sliders, making them irresistible.
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Don’t skimp on the cheese: A generous layer of cheese not only adds richness but also helps bind the ingredients together, ensuring each bite is melty and satisfying.
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Let the buns soak up the flavors: After assembling the sliders, let them sit for a few minutes before baking. This allows the buns to absorb some of the buffalo sauce and ranch dressing, resulting in more flavorful bites.
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Experiment with toppings: Don’t be afraid to mix it up! Try adding sliced jalapeños or pickles for an extra kick or crunch that complements the spicy chicken.
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Serve immediately: These sliders are best enjoyed hot out of the oven when they’re gooey and warm. If you have leftovers, reheat quickly in a microwave or oven to bring back that delightful texture.
How to Serve Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders
Presenting your spicy buffalo chicken sliders in an appetizing way can elevate your dining experience. Here are some ideas to make them stand out!
Garnishes
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Chopped green onions: Sprinkling chopped green onions on top adds a pop of color and a fresh crunch that balances out the heat.
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Sour cream or yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or dairy-free yogurt on top gives a creamy contrast to the spiciness while providing a cooling effect.
Side Dishes
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Celery sticks: Crisp celery sticks are classic accompaniments that add a refreshing crunch and help cleanse your palate between bites.
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Carrot sticks: Sweet carrot sticks provide a lovely contrast and are great for dipping into any leftover ranch dressing you might have on hand.
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Sweet potato fries: Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the spice of buffalo sauce, making sweet potato fries an excellent choice for balancing flavors.
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Mixed green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing side that complements the richness of the sliders.
By following these serving suggestions and pro tips, your spicy buffalo chicken sliders will not only taste amazing but will also look fabulous on any table! Enjoy this crowd-pleaser at your next gathering!
Make Ahead and Storage
These Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders are perfect for meal prep, making them an excellent choice for busy weeknights or game days. You can easily whip up a batch ahead of time, and they store beautifully for quick meals later on.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the sliders to cool completely before storing.
- Place leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Consume within 3-4 days for the best taste.
Freezing
- To freeze, wrap each slider tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place wrapped sliders in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating
- For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through (about 10-15 minutes).
- Alternatively, you can microwave individual sliders for about 30-60 seconds, though this may affect texture.
FAQs
Here are some common questions about making Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders.
Can I use a different type of chicken for Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders?
Absolutely! You can use rotisserie chicken or even grilled chicken if you prefer. Just ensure it’s shredded so it mixes well with the sauce.
How spicy are Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders?
The spiciness largely depends on how much hot sauce you add. Frank’s hot buffalo sauce has a moderate heat level, but feel free to adjust according to your taste preferences!
What sides go well with Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders?
These sliders pair wonderfully with celery sticks and carrot sticks, along with ranch or blue cheese dressing. A fresh salad also complements them nicely!
Can I make Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free slider buns and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
I hope you give these Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders a try—they’re sure to become a favorite in your home! The combination of flavors is delightful, and they’re incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just enjoying a cozy night in, these sliders will surely impress. Enjoy making them and sharing them with your loved ones!
Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 9 sliders 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders are the ultimate game-day treat or family dinner option that’s sure to please everyone. With fluffy slider buns filled with tender, spicy shredded chicken and topped with gooey melted cheese, these sliders are a flavor explosion in every bite. They’re quick to prepare, taking only 35 minutes from start to finish, making them perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. You can also make the filling ahead of time for an even easier preparation process. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauces and sides, and watch as they disappear from the table!
Ingredients
- 9 slider buns
- 1 1/2 cups shredded chicken
- 1/2 cup hot sauce
- 2 tablespoons ranch dressing
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- Butter
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix shredded chicken with hot sauce, ranch dressing, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Place the bottom halves of the slider buns on a lined baking sheet and spoon the chicken mixture on top.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the chicken and cover with the top halves of the buns.
- Brush melted butter mixed with garlic powder and Italian seasoning over the tops of the buns.
- Bake covered with foil for 15 minutes; then uncover and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve warm.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider (about 90g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 470mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
