Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for game day, family dinners, or just a cozy night in, these Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders are the answer! They are packed with flavor and are super easy to make. Trust me, once you try them, they will quickly become a favorite in your household. The combination of tender chicken tossed in spicy buffalo sauce and melted cheese nestled in fluffy slider buns is simply irresistible!

These sliders are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re entertaining guests or need a quick meal on a busy weeknight, this recipe has got you covered. Plus, they’re great for meal prep—just whip up a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have these sliders ready to bake!
• Family-Friendly: The mild spice level makes them suitable for both kids and adults.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the filling in advance and assemble the sliders when you’re ready to bake.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of buffalo sauce and ranch dressing gives these sliders a unique taste that everyone will love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how simple and wholesome these ingredients are! Each one plays an important role in crafting the delightful flavors of these Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders.

• 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 this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

• Swap the protein: Use shredded turkey or rotisserie chicken for a different flavor.
• Add some crunch: Toss in some diced celery or green onions for added texture.
• Spice it up: For extra heat, add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the filling.
• Make it veggie: Substitute shredded chicken with lentils or chickpeas for a plant-based option.

How to Make Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This ensures that your sliders bake evenly and come out perfectly golden brown. While it’s warming up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken with Frank’s buffalo hot sauce, ranch dressing, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Mixing these ingredients well allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully—this step is key to achieving that delicious taste!

Step 3: Assemble the Sliders

Place the bottom halves of the slider buns on your lined baking sheet. Divide the spicy chicken mixture evenly among all the buns. Don’t be shy; pile it high! Then sprinkle shredded cheese on top before placing the top halves of the buns back on.

Step 4: Brush with Butter Mixture

In a small bowl, melt some butter and mix in additional garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Use a pastry brush to generously coat the tops of your buns. This will give them that beautiful golden color and enhance their flavor while baking.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Cover your baking sheet with foil and pop it in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes. This helps steam them so they stay soft! After that time, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes until they’re lightly golden brown and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Once they’re out of the oven, let them cool slightly before cutting into individual sliders. Serve immediately with your favorite sides like fresh veggies or chips while they’re still warm and gooey!

Enjoy making these Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders—they’re sure to bring smiles around your table!

Pro Tips for Making Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Making the perfect spicy buffalo chicken sliders is all about the details. Here are some tips to help you achieve slider perfection!

• Use Shredded Chicken: Opting for shredded chicken rather than cubed or diced ensures that every bite is packed with flavor and moisture, making your sliders juicier and more satisfying.
• Adjust the Heat: If you’re sensitive to spice, feel free to reduce the amount of Frank’s hot sauce or mix it with a milder hot sauce. This way, everyone can enjoy the sliders without feeling overwhelmed by heat.
• Choose Quality Buns: Using fresh, fluffy slider buns will enhance the overall texture and flavor of your sliders. Look for whole wheat or artisan options for added nutrition.
• Experiment with Cheese: While shredded cheese is delicious, consider trying pepper jack or a blend of cheeses for an extra kick! The right cheese can elevate the dish and complement the buffalo flavor beautifully.
• Make Ahead: If you’re planning for a gathering, prepare the chicken filling ahead of time. Just assemble and bake when you’re ready to serve. This will save you time and stress on party day!

How to Serve Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Serving these spicy buffalo chicken sliders can be as fun as making them! Here are some creative ideas to present this delightful dish to your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle freshly chopped green onions on top for a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that pairs perfectly with the rich buffalo sauce.
• Sliced Jalapeños: For those who love an extra kick, offer sliced pickled or fresh jalapeños as a garnish. They add both heat and crunch!

Side Dishes

• Celery Sticks: Crunchy celery sticks are a classic pairing with buffalo flavors. Serve them alongside your sliders for a refreshing crunch that balances out the richness.
• Carrot Sticks: Sweet and crunchy carrot sticks make for a great side that adds color to your plate while providing a healthy option that complements the spicy flavors.
• Potato Wedges: Crispy baked potato wedges seasoned with herbs make a hearty side dish. They’re perfect for dipping into any leftover ranch dressing!
• Side Salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber drizzled with vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the bold flavors of the sliders.

By following these serving suggestions and tips, you’ll create an unforgettable meal that’s sure to impress anyone at your table! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders are perfect for meal prep, making weeknight dinners a breeze! You can prepare them in advance and store them, so you always have a delicious option ready to go.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the sliders to cool completely before storing.
• Place any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Prepare the sliders as instructed but do not bake them.
• Wrap the assembled sliders tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Remove the foil and plastic wrap from the sliders.
• Bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through and cheese is melted.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders that might help you out!

Can I use rotisserie chicken for Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. Just shred it and mix it with the buffalo sauce and other ingredients for quick preparation.

How spicy are these Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders?

The spice level can be adjusted based on how much Frank’s hot sauce you use. For milder sliders, reduce the amount of hot sauce or mix in some extra ranch dressing to balance out the heat!

Can I make these sliders without cheese?

Yes! You can skip the cheese if desired. Alternatively, try using a dairy-free cheese substitute to keep it flavorful while accommodating dietary preferences.

What sides pair well with Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders?

These sliders are delicious on their own but pair nicely with carrot sticks, celery, or a refreshing green salad for a complete meal!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about making these Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders as I am! They’re not only simple to prepare but also packed with flavor that friends and family will love. Whether it’s game day or a cozy family dinner, these sliders are sure to be a hit. Enjoy crafting this recipe, and don’t hesitate to share your results or variations with me—I’d love to hear how they turn out!