Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleaser that packs a punch, these Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders are just what you need! They are perfect for everything from busy weeknights to family gatherings or game day parties. With their fluffy buns and zesty buffalo chicken filling, they bring both flavor and fun to any occasion. Plus, they’re so easy to make that even the most novice cooks can impress their friends and family.

These sliders are not only delicious but also adaptable to your taste. You can whip them up in no time, making them a go-to recipe for those last-minute get-togethers!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 35 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the spicy yet savory flavors of these sliders.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep the filling ahead of time and assemble when you’re ready to bake!
• Endless Customization: You can tweak the ingredients or spice levels to match your family’s preferences.
• Perfect for Parties: These sliders are sure to be a hit at any gathering—everyone will be coming back for seconds!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to bring these Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders to life. You might already have some of these in your pantry!

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

Variations

This recipe is versatile, allowing you to make it your own! Here are a few ideas to switch things up:

• Swap the protein: Use shredded turkey or rotisserie chicken if you want something different.
• Change up the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for an extra kick or mozzarella for a milder flavor.
• Add veggies: Toss in some diced bell peppers or jalapeños into the chicken mixture for added crunch and flavor.
• Go meatless: Substitute the chicken with cauliflower or chickpeas tossed in hot sauce for a vegetarian option.

How to Make Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare everything else. This ensures that your sliders cook evenly and come out perfectly golden.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken with hot sauce, ranch dressing, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Mixing these ingredients together brings out all those amazing flavors that make each bite irresistible!

Step 3: Assemble the Sliders

Place the bottom halves of the slider buns onto a lined baking sheet. Spoon generous portions of the buffalo chicken mixture onto each bun. Don’t skimp on this step—the more filling, the better! Top them off with shredded cheese before placing on the top halves of the buns.

Step 4: Add Flavorful Topping

In a small bowl, melt butter and mix in garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Brush this delightful mixture over the tops of the assembled sliders. This will give them an irresistible golden crust as they bake.

Step 5: Bake

Cover your baking sheet with foil and pop it into your preheated oven. Bake for about 15 minutes, then remove the foil and let it bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until they are lightly golden brown and bubbly. This step ensures that every bite is melty and delicious!

Step 6: Serve Hot

Once done, slice them apart carefully and serve immediately while they’re still hot. Pair them with your favorite sides like carrot sticks or crispy chips for a complete meal that everyone will love!

Pro Tips for Making Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

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

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quick and easy option, using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds great flavor without the hassle of cooking raw chicken.

• Customize the Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Frank’s hot sauce to suit your taste. If you prefer milder sliders, reduce the sauce, or mix in a bit of honey for a sweet twist.

• Add Extra Veggies: Consider adding diced celery or shredded carrots to the chicken mixture for a refreshing crunch and extra flavor.

• Opt for Whole Wheat Buns: For a healthier twist, use whole wheat slider buns. They add a nutty flavor and pack in more nutrients.

• Make Ahead: You can assemble the sliders ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. This makes them perfect for parties or game day!

How to Serve Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Presenting your spicy buffalo chicken sliders beautifully can elevate your meal experience. Here are some ideas to make your dish shine!

Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle freshly chopped green onions on top for a pop of color and added freshness.
• Fresh Cilantro: A few cilantro leaves can add an aromatic touch that complements the spicy flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Vegetable Sticks with Hummus: Crisp vegetable sticks like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers served with creamy hummus create a refreshing contrast to the spicy sliders.
• Sweet Potato Fries: Baked sweet potato fries offer a sweet crunch that pairs perfectly with the heat of the buffalo chicken.
• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw made with cabbage and carrots dressed in vinegar or mayo provides a crunchy texture that balances out the richness of the sliders.
• Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad dressed in lemon juice can cleanse your palate between bites, enhancing your dining experience.

Enjoy making these spicy buffalo chicken sliders! They’re perfect for any gathering or just a cozy night in.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time, store them, or even freeze them for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Prepare the sliders as per the recipe but do not bake them.
• Wrap the assembled but unbaked sliders tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Unwrap the sliders and place them on a baking sheet.
• Bake covered with foil for about 15 minutes until warmed through, then remove the foil for an additional 5 minutes to crisp up the tops.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making these Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders.

Can I use a different sauce instead of Frank’s hot sauce for my Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders?

Absolutely! While Frank’s hot sauce is traditional, feel free to experiment with other hot sauces that match your heat preference. Just make sure it’s a buffalo-style sauce for that signature flavor!

How can I make Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders spicier?

To kick up the heat in your Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders, consider adding chopped jalapeños or extra hot sauce into the chicken mixture. You can also use a spicier cheese like pepper jack!

Can I prepare Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders without ranch dressing?

Yes! If you’re looking to omit ranch dressing, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt or leave it out entirely. Adjusting seasonings can help maintain flavor.

What sides go well with Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders?

These sliders pair wonderfully with crispy veggies, potato wedges, or a fresh garden salad. You could also serve them with celery sticks and a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders! They’re not just a dish; they’re an experience that brings people together with their bold flavors and comforting warmth. Whether it’s game day or just a cozy night in, I’m sure these sliders will be a hit! Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to share your creations!