Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

These Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders are the perfect addition to any gathering! Bursting with flavor and easy to prepare, these sliders will impress your guests at game day parties, family gatherings, or any casual get-together. With juicy chicken tossed in spicy buffalo sauce and topped with melted cheese, they offer a mouthwatering experience that is both satisfying and fun.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare – With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip these up in no time.
• Flavor Explosion – The combination of spicy buffalo sauce and creamy ranch dressing creates an irresistible flavor profile.
• Perfect for Sharing – These sliders are easy to serve and share, making them ideal for gatherings.
• Customizable – Feel free to adjust the spice level or toppings based on your preferences.
• Kid-Friendly – Even picky eaters will enjoy these tasty sliders!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready makes the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowl
• Pastry brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet – Provides a sturdy base for baking multiple sliders at once.
• Parchment paper – Prevents sticking and makes for easy cleanup after baking.

Ingredients

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

For Seasoning

• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp paprika

For Topping

• 1 cup shredded cheese
• 2 Tbsp butter
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp Italian seasoning

How to Make Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a 9×9 baking sheet or casserole dish with parchment paper to ensure that the sliders do not stick.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:
1. Shredded chicken
2. Frank’s hot sauce
3. Ranch dressing
4. Salt
5. Ground black pepper
6. Garlic powder
7. Paprika

Mix well until all ingredients are evenly coated.

Step 3: Prepare the Sliders

Add the bottom halves of the slider buns to the lined baking sheet.

Step 4: Assemble the Sliders

Divide the chicken filling evenly among all the buns. Top each one generously with shredded cheese before placing on the top halves of the buns.

Step 5: Brush with Butter Mixture

In a small bowl, mix together melted butter, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Using a pastry brush, coat the tops of each bun with this mixture.

Step 6: Bake

Cover the baking sheet with foil and bake in your preheated oven for 15 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the tops are lightly golden and cheese has melted.

Step 7: Serve

Once baked, cut into individual sliders and serve immediately while still hot. Enjoy these delicious Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders with your favorite sides!

How to Serve Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders are a fantastic choice for gatherings or casual dinners. These sliders not only pack a flavorful punch but are also easy to serve and enjoy. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your slider experience.

With Dipping Sauces

• Ranch Dressing – A classic pairing that cools down the heat of the buffalo sauce.
• Blue Cheese Dressing – Adds a rich, creamy flavor that complements the spiciness perfectly.
• Celery Sticks – Crunchy and refreshing, these can be dipped into dressings for added texture.

On a Platter

• Garnished with Fresh Herbs – Sprinkle chopped parsley or cilantro over the sliders for a pop of color and freshness.
• Accompanied by Pickles – Serve dill pickles on the side for a tangy contrast to the spicy chicken.

As Part of a Buffet

• Slider Station – Set up a build-your-own slider station with toppings like jalapeños, extra cheese, and sliced avocados.
• Mini Skewers – Thread extra chicken and veggies onto skewers for easy grab-and-go options.

How to Perfect Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Perfecting your Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders can make all the difference in flavor and presentation. Follow these tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.

• Use Freshly Shredded Chicken – For the best texture and flavor, shred chicken from freshly cooked meat rather than pre-packaged options.
• Balance the Heat – Adjust the amount of hot sauce depending on your spice preference; you can always add more heat later!
• Quality Slider Buns Matter – Choose fluffy buns that can hold up to the filling without getting soggy.
• Don’t Skip the Butter Topping – Brushing melted butter on top adds richness and helps achieve a golden-brown finish.

Best Side Dishes for Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Pairing your Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders with delicious side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Crispy French Fries – Perfectly seasoned fries add crunch and comfort alongside your sliders.
2. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing crunch that balances the spicy flavors.
3. Sweet Potato Wedges – Roasted sweet potatoes offer a sweet contrast to the heat of the buffalo chicken.
4. Vegetable Sticks – Carrot, cucumber, and bell pepper sticks serve as a crunchy, healthy side option.
5. Potato Salad – A creamy potato salad complements the richness of the sliders well.
6. Corn on the Cob – Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and is fun to eat with sliders.
7. Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad can refresh your palate between bites of spicy chicken.
8. Baked Beans – Sweet baked beans provide a hearty side that pairs nicely with buffalo flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Using the wrong chicken: Opt for shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked chicken breast for the best flavor and texture. Avoid using cold or leftover chicken that hasn’t been seasoned.

• Neglecting the sauce balance: Ensure you have the right amount of Frank’s hot buffalo sauce. Too little won’t give enough heat, while too much can overpower the other flavors. Adjust according to your spice preference.

• Skipping the butter brush: Brushing the tops of the slider buns with melted butter and seasoning adds richness and enhances browning. Don’t skip this step for a perfect finish.

• Overbaking or underbaking: Keep an eye on the sliders while baking. Overbaking can make them dry, while underbaking may leave cheese unmelty. Aim for a golden-brown top.

• Ignoring resting time: Letting the sliders rest for a few minutes after baking can help meld the flavors together. Serve immediately but allow a short cooling period for easier handling.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat before serving for optimal taste.

Freezing Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

• Wrap individual sliders tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped sliders in a freezer-safe bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place sliders on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Use medium heat; cover with a damp paper towel and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over low heat, add a splash of water, cover, and steam lightly until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders?

Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders are mini sandwiches filled with shredded chicken coated in spicy buffalo sauce, topped with cheese, all nestled in soft slider buns.

Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

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

How spicy are Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders?

The spice level can be adjusted by controlling the amount of Frank’s hot buffalo sauce used. For milder flavor, reduce the sauce quantity or use a milder hot sauce.

What sides pair well with Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders?

These sliders pair wonderfully with celery sticks, carrot sticks, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them with ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side.

Final Thoughts

Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders are not just delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize these sliders by adding toppings like jalapeños or swapping out cheese types. They make an excellent appetizer or main dish for game nights, parties, or casual dinners at home. Try them today!