Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

If you’re looking for a dish that’s perfect for any gathering, these Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders are just the ticket! Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a fun family get-together, these sliders come together quickly and are sure to be a hit. There’s something about the combination of fluffy slider buns filled with tender, spicy chicken and gooey cheese that makes everyone smile. Plus, they’re super easy to prepare, so you can enjoy more time with your loved ones instead of slaving away in the kitchen.

What makes these sliders truly special is their versatility. You can serve them as an appetizer at parties, a main course for casual dinners, or even as a fun meal prep idea for the week ahead. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a favorite in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have these sliders in the oven before you know it!
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The mild heat from the buffalo sauce mixed with creamy ranch dressing makes these sliders a crowd-pleaser.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can assemble them earlier in the day and bake right before serving—perfect for busy schedules!
• Comfort Food Delight: Warm, cheesy, and flavorful—these sliders are the ultimate comfort food treat.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s game day or a casual dinner with friends, these sliders fit right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to make our Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders. You might already have many of these items in your pantry! Here’s what you’ll need:

• 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

This recipe is flexible and allows for plenty of creativity! Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Swap the protein: Try using shredded turkey or even shredded jackfruit for a plant-based option.
• Change up the sauce: If you’re feeling adventurous, experiment with different hot sauces to find your perfect level of spice!
• Add some veggies: Sautéed onions or bell peppers mixed in with the chicken add extra flavor and nutrition.
• Make it cheesy: Layer on more cheese or use a blend of cheeses like mozzarella and cheddar for delicious melty goodness.

How to Make Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This step ensures that your sliders cook evenly and get nice and golden on top. While that warms up, line a baking dish with parchment paper—this helps keep cleanup easy!

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with Frank’s buffalo hot sauce, ranch dressing, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Mixing everything together not only flavors the chicken but also creates that deliciously creamy texture we all love.

Step 3: Assemble Your Sliders

Place the bottom halves of the slider buns into your prepared baking sheet. Then divide that tasty buffalo chicken mixture evenly across all the buns. Top them off generously with shredded cheese and cover them with the bun tops. It’s like building little flavor-packed sandwiches!

Step 4: Add Flavor on Top

In a small bowl, melt some butter and mix in garlic powder along with Italian seasoning. Using a pastry brush, lightly coat the tops of each bun with this flavorful mixture. This adds an extra layer of taste while they bake.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover your baking sheet with foil and bake at 350°F for about 15 minutes. After that time, remove the foil and let them bake for another 5-10 minutes until they’re golden brown and bubbly. Keeping them covered first helps steam them so that they stay moist!

Step 6: Serve Warm

Once baked to perfection, take them out of the oven and let cool slightly before cutting into individual sliders. Serve immediately while still warm alongside your favorite sides—it’s hard not to love these delicious bites!

Enjoy making these Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders! They bring joy not just through flavor but also through shared moments around the table.

Pro Tips for Making Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

These sliders are not only delicious but also super easy to make! Here are some pro tips to ensure your spicy buffalo chicken sliders turn out perfectly every time.

• Use Cooked Chicken: Starting with pre-cooked shredded chicken saves time and ensures the meat remains tender and juicy. Rotisserie chicken is a great option for convenience!

• Customize the Heat Level: If you’re sensitive to spice, reduce the amount of hot sauce or mix in some mild sauce. On the flip side, if you love heat, feel free to add more hot sauce or even some diced jalapeños.

• Experiment with Cheeses: While the recipe calls for shredded cheese, feel free to mix it up! Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack can add different flavor profiles and make your sliders even more scrumptious.

• Don’t Skip the Butter Brush: Brushing the tops of the buns with butter not only adds flavor but also helps create that golden-brown finish that’s oh-so-tempting!

• Make Ahead Option: You can prepare the chicken filling in advance and store it in the fridge. This way, you can assemble and bake your sliders quickly when you’re ready to serve!

How to Serve Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

These spicy buffalo chicken sliders are perfect for any gathering! They can be presented in a fun and inviting way that will have everyone excited to dig in.

Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions: A sprinkle of fresh green onions adds a nice pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the buffalo sauce.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop on top adds creaminess and balances out the spiciness of the sliders beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Celery Sticks with Hummus: Crisp celery sticks are a classic pairing with buffalo flavors, and hummus adds a healthy twist!
• Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness of sweet potato fries contrasts nicely with the spicy sliders and provides a satisfying crunch.
• Garden Salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers offers freshness and balances out the richness of the sliders.
• Veggie Platter: Serve an assortment of colorful veggies like bell peppers, carrots, and cucumbers with a tangy dip for a refreshing side that’s perfect for munching between slider bites.

Enjoy these tips as you whip up a batch of your spicy buffalo chicken sliders! They’re sure to be a hit at your next mealtime or gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders are perfect for meal prep! They can be made ahead of time and stored for quick weeknight dinners or game day gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the sliders to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy the leftovers within 3 days for the best flavor.

Freezing

• Assemble the sliders but do not bake them.
• Wrap each slider tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• Store in an airtight freezer bag or container for up to 3 months.
• Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Remove sliders from their wrapping and place on a baking sheet.
• Cover with foil to prevent drying out.
• Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

FAQs

Have questions about making these delicious Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders? Here are some answers!

Can I make spicy buffalo chicken sliders ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and assemble the sliders, then store them in the refrigerator or freeze them for later use.

What can I serve with spicy buffalo chicken sliders?

These sliders pair wonderfully with veggie sticks, chips, or a fresh salad. They’re also great with your favorite dipping sauces!

How spicy are these buffalo chicken sliders?

The spice level can be adjusted based on how much hot sauce you use. If you’re sensitive to heat, reduce the amount of Frank’s hot sauce or mix it with a milder sauce.

Can I use a different type of cheese on my spicy buffalo chicken sliders?

Yes! Feel free to substitute with your favorite cheese, such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack, for extra spice.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders as much as I do! They are not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want a tasty meal during the week, these sliders are sure to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations!