Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

If you’re looking for a fun and delicious way to spice up your next gathering, these Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders are just the ticket! They’re perfect for game days, family get-togethers, or even a cozy weeknight dinner. The combination of fluffy buns and juicy shredded chicken tossed in a zesty buffalo sauce is simply irresistible. Plus, who doesn’t love a dish that’s easy to prepare and always gets rave reviews?

What makes this recipe extra special is how adaptable it is. You can whip it up quickly, making it an ideal choice when you want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try these sliders, they’ll become a regular in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With bold flavors and gooey cheese, everyone will be coming back for seconds.
• Make Ahead: Prep the sliders ahead of time and just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to serve.
• Customizable: You can easily tweak ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These spicy buffalo chicken sliders are made with simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have on hand. Let’s gather what we 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
• 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! Here are some fun variations to keep things exciting:

• Swap the protein: Try using shredded turkey or even a plant-based chicken alternative for a different twist.
• Add veggies: Toss in some diced celery or green onions for an added crunch and flavor boost.
• Change the sauce: Experiment with different hot sauces or barbecue sauces if you’re looking for a milder option.
• Go cheesy: Mix in some cream cheese with the chicken filling for an extra creamy texture.

How to Make Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F. This ensures that by the time you’re ready to bake your sliders, everything is nice and hot.

Step 2: Mix Your Chicken Filling

In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken with Frank’s hot sauce, ranch dressing, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Mixing these ingredients well coats every piece of chicken in that delicious spicy goodness.

Step 3: Prepare the Slider Buns

Place the bottom halves of your slider buns in a lined baking sheet. This step sets the stage for your delicious filling—it’s like creating little boats ready to be filled with flavor!

Step 4: Assemble Your Sliders

Divide the spicy chicken mixture evenly among all the buns. Top each one with a generous sprinkle of shredded cheese before placing on the top bun. This layering is key since it melds all those wonderful flavors together as they bake.

Step 5: Brush with Butter Mixture

In a small bowl, mix melted butter with garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Use this mixture to brush over the tops of the buns; this adds flavor and gives them that beautiful golden color as they bake.

Step 6: Bake Time!

Cover your baking sheet with foil and pop it into your preheated oven for about 15 minutes. After that, remove the foil and let them bake for another 5-10 minutes until they’re lightly golden brown and oozing with melted cheese.

Step 7: Serve Immediately

Once they’re out of the oven, cut them into individual sliders and serve hot! They’re best enjoyed fresh out of the oven while still warm and cheesy. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces or sides for an unforgettable meal!

Pro Tips for Making Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

These sliders are incredibly delicious and easy to make, but a few tips can take them from great to unforgettable!

• Use freshly shredded chicken: This adds more flavor and moisture compared to pre-packaged options. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have on hand.

• Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder kick, reduce the amount of hot sauce or mix it with a bit of your favorite BBQ sauce. This way, you can customize the heat to suit everyone’s taste buds.

• Don’t skip the butter brush: Brushing the tops of the buns with garlic butter before baking not only adds flavor but also gives them a beautiful golden color and a delightful crispy texture.

• Let them rest before serving: After removing the sliders from the oven, let them sit for a few minutes. This allows the cheese to set slightly and makes them easier to cut and serve without falling apart.

• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to add sliced jalapeños or diced green onions inside or on top of your sliders. These additional toppings enhance both flavor and presentation!

How to Serve Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Presenting your spicy buffalo chicken sliders is just as important as making them! Here are some fun ideas that will impress your guests and elevate this dish even more.

Garnishes

• Fresh cilantro or parsley: A sprinkle of finely chopped herbs adds a pop of color and freshness that balances the spiciness.
• Sliced pickles: Placing pickles on top or on the side provides a crunchy contrast that complements the tender chicken filling beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: These sweet potato fries are easy to make in an air fryer or oven and offer a perfect balance of sweetness against the spicy sliders.

• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings crunch and creaminess, making it an ideal pairing while helping cut through the richness of the sliders.

• Veggie Sticks with Hummus: Fresh carrot, celery, and bell pepper sticks served with hummus provide a light and healthy complement that refreshes after each spicy bite.

• Potato Chips: Classic potato chips add texture and saltiness, perfect for dipping into extra ranch dressing or enjoying alongside your sliders.

With these serving ideas and pro tips in mind, you’re all set to host an unforgettable gathering centered around these mouth-watering spicy buffalo chicken sliders! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders are perfect for meal prep! They can be made in advance and stored for later enjoyment, making them an excellent choice for busy weeks or gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow any leftover sliders to cool completely.
• Place them in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap each slider individually in plastic wrap.
• Place the wrapped sliders in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat sliders in the oven. Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave them on a microwave-safe plate for about 30 seconds to 1 minute.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about these delicious sliders!

Can I make Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and assemble the sliders ahead of time. Just cover and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

What can I serve with Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders?

These sliders pair well with fresh veggies, chips, or a side salad. You could also serve them with additional ranch dressing or blue cheese dip for extra flavor.

How do I make Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders less spicy?

If you prefer a milder version, you can reduce the amount of buffalo sauce or mix it with some plain ranch dressing before tossing it with the chicken.

Can I use a different type of chicken for these sliders?

Certainly! Shredded rotisserie chicken works great if you’re short on time. You could also use grilled or baked chicken breasts that have been shredded.

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to try these Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders! They’re not only quick to make but also bursting with flavor that will impress your family and friends. Whether for game day snacks or a cozy dinner at home, these sliders are sure to become a favorite. Enjoy every bite and happy cooking!