Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dish that’s packed with flavor and oh-so-easy to make, you’ve stumbled upon the perfect recipe: Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders! These little delights are a staple for my family, whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a lively game day gathering. The combination of juicy shredded chicken, tangy buffalo sauce, and gooey melted cheese all tucked into fluffy slider buns is simply irresistible. Trust me, once you make these sliders, they’ll become a favorite in your home too!

Not only do they taste fantastic, but they also come together in just about 35 minutes. Perfect for those times when you want something delicious without spending all day in the kitchen. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With only 10 minutes of prep time, these sliders are perfect for last-minute meals or unexpected guests.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the bold flavors and cheesy goodness—making mealtime fun for everyone!
• Versatile Dish: Great as a game-day snack or an easy weeknight dinner, these sliders fit right into any occasion.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepping your sliders ahead of time? No problem! Assemble them early and bake right before serving.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of spicy buffalo sauce with creamy ranch dressing creates a mouthwatering explosion of flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering up your ingredients is part of the fun! This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need to get started on these scrumptious Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders:

For the 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

For the Topping

• 2 Tbsp butter
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp Italian seasoning

Variations

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility! You can easily customize these sliders to suit your taste or whatever ingredients you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using shredded turkey or even plant-based chicken alternatives for a different twist.
• Add some crunch: Toss in some diced celery or green onions to the chicken mixture for added texture.
• Change up the cheese: Swap out cheddar for mozzarella or pepper jack for an extra kick!
• Spice it up further: If you’re feeling adventurous, add jalapeños or hot pepper flakes to crank up the heat!

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 that lovely golden-brown finish.

Step 2: Mix the Chicken Filling

In a bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, Frank’s hot buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. This is where all those delicious flavors come together! Make sure everything is well combined so each bite is bursting with flavor.

Step 3: Prepare the Buns

Place the bottom halves of your slider buns onto a lined baking sheet. This makes it super easy to fill them up without making a mess—plus, it keeps everything organized!

Step 4: Fill the Buns

Divide the chicken filling evenly between all the buns. Don’t be shy—load them up! Then sprinkle cheese on top before placing the top buns back on. That ooey-gooey cheese is what takes these sliders over the top!

Step 5: Brush with Butter Mixture

In a small bowl, combine melted butter with garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Brush this mixture over the tops of your slider buns using a pastry brush. It adds a beautiful flavor and helps achieve that golden color.

Step 6: Bake Away!

Cover your baking sheet with foil and bake at 350°F for about 15 minutes. After that time has passed, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until lightly golden and bubbly. The melted cheese will signal that it’s time to dig in!

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Cut your sliders apart and serve them immediately while they’re still warm. They pair wonderfully with fresh veggies or chips on the side—perfect for sharing (or not!). Enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

These sliders are a crowd-pleaser, and with a few extra tips, you can make them even more delicious!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh chicken and quality sauces can significantly enhance the flavor and overall experience of your sliders. Freshness means more vibrant flavors that can elevate your dish.

• Adjust the heat: If you’re looking for a milder option, reduce the amount of hot sauce or mix in some extra ranch dressing. This way, you can control the spice level based on your guests’ preferences.

• Let flavors meld: For an even tastier filling, let the mixture sit for about 30 minutes before assembling the sliders. This allows all those bold flavors to blend beautifully.

• Experiment with cheeses: While shredded cheese is perfect, feel free to mix it up! Try using pepper jack for an extra kick or mozzarella for a creamier texture. Different cheeses bring unique flavors that can change the whole experience.

• Serve warm: Sliders are best enjoyed warm, right out of the oven. If you need to keep them warm for a bit longer, cover them with a clean kitchen towel after baking to trap in the heat without making them soggy.

How to Serve Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

When it comes to serving these spicy buffalo chicken sliders, presentation can take your dish from good to spectacular. Here are some fun ideas for how to present this flavorful treat!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also brings a fresh herbaceous note that balances out the richness of the cheese and sauce.

• Sliced green onions: Chopped green onions introduce a crunchy texture and mild onion flavor that complements the spiciness perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Veggie platter with dip: A colorful array of fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell peppers served with ranch or hummus provides a crunchy contrast to the sliders and helps cool down any heat.

• Sweet potato fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a touch of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with spicy buffalo chicken. Plus, they add delightful crunchiness to your meal.

• Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw adds crunch and freshness while cutting through the rich flavors of the sliders. It’s also great for balancing out spice!

• Corn on the cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob drizzled with lime juice and sprinkled with chili powder makes for an exciting side that enhances your slider feast.

Now you’re all set to impress at your next gathering with these delicious Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time, which makes them an ideal choice for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. Here’s how to store them effectively.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap individual sliders tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F.
• Place the sliders on a baking sheet and cover with foil.
• Bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making these delicious sliders!

Can I use a different type of chicken for Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders?

Absolutely! You can use rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken, or even shredded turkey as a substitute. Just ensure it’s cooked and shredded for the best results.

What if I want my Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders less spicy?

You can easily adjust the heat by using less hot sauce or mixing it with additional ranch dressing to mellow the spice level while still enjoying that buffalo flavor.

Can I make Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the sliders ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer. Follow the storage instructions above for best practices.

What sides pair well with Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders?

Great side options include celery sticks with ranch dip, carrot sticks, or a fresh green salad. Chips or fries also complement these sliders perfectly!

Final Thoughts

These Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders are not only a crowd-pleaser but also incredibly easy to prepare! Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying a cozy night at home, they’re bound to impress. I hope you enjoy making these tasty treats as much as I do. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your toppings and sides. Happy cooking!