Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dish that’s packed with flavor and easy to make, then these Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders are just the ticket! These little bites of goodness are not only delicious but also perfect for any occasion—from busy weeknights to family gatherings or game day celebrations. The combination of fluffy slider buns, juicy shredded chicken tossed in zesty buffalo sauce, and melted cheese creates a delightful experience that everyone will love.

This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it’s one of those meals that brings people together. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply feeding your family, these sliders will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have these sliders ready in no time. Perfect for those busy evenings!
• Family-Friendly: Children and adults alike adore the bold flavors, making it a hit at the dinner table.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the filling ahead of time and assemble the sliders when you’re ready to bake.
• Customizable: Feel free to tweak the ingredients to suit your taste or pantry items—there’s room for creativity!
• Deliciously Cheesy: Who doesn’t love gooey melted cheese? It takes these sliders over the top!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be pleased to know that these spicy buffalo chicken sliders come together with simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have on hand. Here’s what you need:

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

For Seasoning

• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp ground black pepper
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp paprika

For Topping

• 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 get creative with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Use shredded turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.
• Change up the sauce: Try different hot sauces or even barbecue sauce for a milder flavor.
• Add veggies: Toss in some chopped bell peppers or onions for extra crunch and flavor.
• Use different cheeses: Monterrey Jack or Pepper Jack can give an exciting new taste!

How to Make Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Trust me; this little step goes a long way!

Step 2: Mix Your Filling

In a bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, hot sauce, ranch dressing, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. This mix is where all that delicious flavor comes from! Ensure everything is well combined so each bite is packed with that spicy goodness.

Step 3: Assemble the Sliders

Place the bottom halves of the slider buns on your lined baking sheet. Divide the chicken mixture evenly among them. Top each one with a generous sprinkle of shredded cheese before placing on the bun tops. This assembly is key—it ensures every slider gets its fair share of flavor!

Step 4: Add Flavor on Top

In a small bowl, melt butter and mix in garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Brush this flavorful mixture over the tops of each bun using a pastry brush. This step not only adds flavor but also gives those buns a beautiful golden color when baked.

Step 5: Bake Perfectly

Cover your baking sheet with foil and bake at 350°F for 15 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until they are lightly golden and bubbly. This process melts all that cheese into gooey perfection while keeping your sliders nice and warm.

Step 6: Serve Immediately

Once baked, cut them apart carefully (if needed) and serve right away while still hot! Pair them with some fresh veggies or chips for an extra crunch.

Enjoy making these Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders; they’re sure to become a favorite in your household just like they are in mine!

Pro Tips for Making Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

These sliders are a fantastic snack or meal that everyone will love, and with these tips, you’ll make them even better!

• Use rotisserie chicken – Rotisserie chicken is convenient and adds incredible flavor, saving you time on shredding and cooking.
• Adjust the heat – If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of hot sauce or mix in some barbecue sauce for a sweet twist.
• Choose the right cheese – Opt for a melty cheese like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack to enhance the creaminess and flavor profile of your sliders.
• Make ahead – You can prepare the chicken mixture in advance and assemble the sliders just before baking. This is perfect for parties!
• Experiment with toppings – Try adding sliced jalapeños, green onions, or even avocado slices for an extra kick and freshness.

How to Serve Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Serving these spicy buffalo chicken sliders can be as fun as making them! Here are some creative ways to present this delicious dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley or cilantro – A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds color and brightness to the sliders.
• Sliced pickles – Pickles provide a tangy crunch that complements the spiciness beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Celery sticks with ranch dressing – These crunchy veggies offer a refreshing contrast to the rich sliders and are classic accompaniments.
• Sweet potato fries – The natural sweetness of sweet potatoes pairs nicely with the spicy flavors of the buffalo chicken.
• Coleslaw – A creamy coleslaw adds a crunchy texture and balances out the heat of the sliders beautifully.
• Veggie platter with hummus – Fresh vegetables served with hummus provide a light side option that’s both healthy and satisfying.

With these suggestions, your Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders will be not only delicious but also visually appealing and perfectly complemented by tasty sides! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders are perfect for meal prep, as they can be made in advance and stored for later enjoyment. Whether you’re gearing up for a party or just want a quick weeknight meal, these sliders will save you time without sacrificing flavor.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Wrap individual sliders tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped sliders in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat frozen sliders in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
• If using a microwave, heat on medium power until hot, but be cautious of sogginess.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders:

Can I use rotisserie chicken for Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders?

Yes! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds wonderful flavor to your sliders. Just shred it and mix with the buffalo sauce and seasonings as directed.

What can I serve with Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders?

These sliders pair wonderfully with celery sticks, carrot sticks, or a light salad. You could also serve them alongside some homemade fries or chips!

How spicy are these Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders?

The spiciness of these sliders primarily depends on the amount of Frank’s hot sauce you use. Feel free to adjust the quantity to suit your spice preference!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders! They’re not only delicious but easy to prepare, making them perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home. Enjoy every cheesy, spicy bite and don’t hesitate to share your experiences. Happy cooking!