Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for game day, family gatherings, or even a cozy weeknight dinner, these Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders are just the ticket! Imagine fluffy slider buns stuffed with juicy shredded chicken, all coated in that tangy Frank’s hot buffalo sauce and topped with gooey melted cheese. It’s comfort food at its finest! This recipe has been a family favorite for years, and I think it will become one of yours too.

These sliders are not just delicious; they’re also easy to make and will impress everyone at your table. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to treat yourself, these spicy sliders deliver on flavor and satisfaction.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip these up in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will enjoy these sliders. They’re fun to eat and packed with flavor!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the filling ahead of time and assemble the sliders just before baking.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a game night or a casual get-together, these sliders fit right in!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making these Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders is simple thanks to wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. 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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, so feel free to get creative! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Swap the protein: Use shredded turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian-friendly option.
• Change the heat level: Adjust the amount of hot sauce based on your spice tolerance. You can use mild sauce for less heat!
• Add extra toppings: Consider adding sliced jalapeños or crispy onions for an extra kick and crunch.
• Make it cheesy: Mix in different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for varied flavors.

How to Make Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheating your oven to 350°F is essential because it ensures that your sliders bake evenly and come out perfectly golden. While it’s warming up, you can multitask by prepping your ingredients!

Step 2: Mix the Filling

In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken with hot sauce, ranch dressing, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. This step is crucial because it infuses the chicken with that signature buffalo flavor! Give everything a good mix until well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Sliders

Place the bottom halves of the slider buns in your lined baking sheet. Spoon generous amounts of the chicken mixture onto each bun and sprinkle with cheese before placing on their tops. This layering creates that melty goodness we all love!

Step 4: Brush with Garlic Butter

In a small bowl, melt some butter and mix in garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Brushing this over the tops of your slider buns adds extra flavor and ensures they turn golden brown while baking.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Cover your baking sheet with foil and pop it into your preheated oven for 15 minutes. Then remove the foil and let them bake for another 5-10 minutes until they’re lightly golden and bubbly. Watching that cheese melt is truly satisfying!

Step 6: Serve Warm

Once baked to perfection, slice your sliders and serve them immediately while they’re still warm. Pair them with your favorite sides like veggies or potato chips for an unforgettable meal!

Now you’re ready to enjoy these mouthwatering Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders! Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Creating the perfect Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders is easier than you think! Here are some pro tips to elevate your sliders to the next level.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh shredded chicken and high-quality buffalo sauce will enhance the flavor profile, ensuring that each bite packs a punch of deliciousness.

• Don’t skip the butter: Brushing the tops of the buns with butter before baking not only adds flavor but also creates a beautiful golden color and crispy texture that complements the softness of the sliders.

• Let it rest: After baking, let your sliders sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, making each slider even more flavorful.

• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to add extras like sliced jalapeños or diced green onions for an added kick and freshness. These little touches can make a big difference!

• Make it ahead: You can prepare the chicken filling in advance and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, just assemble and bake your sliders for a quick, crowd-pleasing dish!

How to Serve Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Serving these sliders at your next gathering? Presentation matters! Here are some ideas to make your dish irresistible.

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro or parsley: A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds a pop of color and brightness that balances the heat.
• Sliced pickles: Adding dill pickles on top or on the side provides a tangy crunch that complements the spicy layers of flavor in your sliders.

Side Dishes

• Celery sticks with ranch dressing: A classic pairing with buffalo flavors, crunchy celery sticks offer a refreshing contrast that helps cool down those spicy bites.
• Sweet potato fries: Crispy sweet potato fries bring a hint of sweetness and pair perfectly with the heat of buffalo chicken.
• Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw adds a nice crunch and creamy texture, making it a great complement to your sliders while balancing out their spiciness.
• Vegetable platter: Serve an assortment of fresh veggies like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers alongside hummus or ranch dip for a refreshing side option that caters to everyone at the table.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in hand, your Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders will be an unforgettable hit at any gathering! Enjoy every cheesy, spicy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders are perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch ahead of time, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknights or gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Allow the sliders to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, preheat your oven to 350°F.
• Place the sliders on a baking sheet and cover with foil.
• Bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through. For refrigerated sliders, bake for 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about these delicious Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders!

Can I use other types of chicken for Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders?

Yes! You can use rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken, or even turkey as a substitute. Just make sure it’s shredded and mixed well with the sauce.

How can I make Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders less spicy?

To reduce the heat, use a milder hot sauce or mix in some additional ranch dressing to balance the flavors. You can also serve with cooling sides like celery sticks or carrot sticks.

What type of cheese is best for Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders?

Cheddar cheese is popular, but you can also use mozzarella or pepper jack for an extra kick!

Can I prepare the filling ahead of time for Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken filling a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble and bake.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making these Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders as much as I do! They’re not just flavorful; they’re also incredibly easy to prepare and perfect for sharing with friends and family. Whether it’s game day or a cozy dinner at home, these sliders are sure to impress. Happy cooking!