Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dish that’s both tasty and easy to make, these Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders are perfect for you! Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a fun family gathering, this recipe is sure to win hearts. With tender shredded chicken enveloped in fluffy buns and drenched in zesty buffalo sauce, every bite is an explosion of flavor. Plus, they are quick to whip up, making them ideal for any occasion!

What I love most about these sliders is how versatile they are. You can serve them as an appetizer for game day or as the main dish for dinner. No matter when you choose to indulge, everyone will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, these sliders come together in a flash!
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the spicy yet savory flavors.
• Make-ahead option: You can assemble them before your event and bake them just before serving.
• Comfort food at its best: These sliders are cheesy, saucy, and utterly delicious—perfect for satisfying cravings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started with this recipe is a breeze because the ingredients are simple and wholesome. You might already have many of them in your kitchen! Here’s what you’ll need to bring those Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders to life:

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

For Topping

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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with different ingredients or toppings that suit your taste. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use shredded turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
• Change the cheese: Pepper jack adds an extra kick if you like more heat!
• Add veggies: Toss in some finely chopped bell peppers or celery for added crunch.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, add sliced jalapeños into the mix!

How to Make Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This ensures that your sliders cook evenly and come out perfectly golden and bubbly.

Step 2: Mix the Chicken Filling

In a bowl, combine your shredded chicken with Frank’s buffalo hot sauce, ranch dressing, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. This step is crucial as it builds the flavor base of your sliders. Mixing well ensures every bite bursts with deliciousness!

Step 3: Assemble the Sliders

Place the bottoms of the slider buns on a lined baking sheet. Spoon the flavorful chicken mixture generously onto each bun. Top with cheese and then place the top buns back on. This creates those delightful layers we all crave.

Step 4: Prepare for Baking

In a small bowl, mix melted butter with additional garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Brush this mixture over the tops of the sliders—this not only adds flavor but also gives them a beautiful golden color as they bake.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover your baking sheet with foil and pop it in the oven for 15 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until lightly golden and bubbly. The melting cheese will create an irresistible crust that holds everything together.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

Once they’re done baking, cut your sliders apart and serve immediately while still hot. Enjoy them on their own or pair with your favorite sides like fresh veggies or chips.

And there you have it! A simple yet scrumptious recipe that’s bound to become a favorite in your home. Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

These sliders are not just easy to make, but with a few extra tips, you can elevate them to the next level!

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quicker option, shredded rotisserie chicken works perfectly and adds great flavor without the hassle of cooking raw chicken.
• Customize Heat Levels: If you’re sensitive to spice, start with less hot sauce and gradually add more until you reach your desired heat. This way, everyone can enjoy the sliders!
• Add Fresh Ingredients: Consider adding diced celery or green onions into the chicken mixture for added crunch and freshness. It enhances flavor and texture beautifully.
• Experiment with Cheese: While shredded cheese is delicious, trying a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack can add a fun twist to the flavor profile.
• Make Ahead for Easy Meal Prep: Prepare the chicken filling in advance and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, simply assemble and bake for a quick meal!

How to Serve Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Presenting your buffalo chicken sliders can be as fun as making them! Here are some ideas to serve these tasty treats that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Cilantro: Adds a burst of freshness and color to your sliders.
• Sliced Jalapeños: For those who love an extra kick, fresh jalapeños bring both heat and a pop of color.

Side Dishes

• Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness of sweet potatoes complements the spicy flavors of the sliders perfectly.
• Classic Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch that balances out the spicy richness of the sliders.
• Vegetable Sticks with Hummus: Crisp veggie sticks such as carrots and celery served with hummus provide a light and healthy contrast.
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad drizzled with vinaigrette can lighten up your meal while adding additional nutrients.

With these tips on how to serve your Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders, you’ll create not just a meal but an unforgettable dining experience! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders are perfect for meal prep! You can whip them up ahead of time, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Here’s how to store and preserve their deliciousness.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy them within 3 days for optimal freshness.
• Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving to restore their tasty warmth.

Freezing

• Assemble the sliders but do not bake them. Instead, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Place wrapped sliders in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place sliders on a baking sheet and cover with foil to prevent drying out.
• Bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through, removing the foil for the last few minutes to crisp up the tops if desired.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders that might help you as you prepare this delicious dish!

Can I use a different sauce for my Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders?

Absolutely! While Frank’s hot buffalo sauce gives that classic flavor, feel free to experiment with other hot sauces or even barbecue sauce if you prefer a different taste.

How can I make my Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders healthier?

To make these sliders healthier, consider using whole grain slider buns and reducing the amount of cheese. You can also add more veggies like lettuce or avocado for extra nutrition!

What sides go well with Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders?

These sliders pair wonderfully with fresh veggie sticks, sweet potato fries, or a light salad. Feel free to mix and match your favorite sides!

Can I make Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble these sliders ahead of time and store them until you’re ready to bake. This makes them a great option for meal prepping!

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe brings joy and deliciousness to your table! These Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders are not only easy to prepare but are sure to impress family and friends alike. Enjoy making them, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences or variations – I’d love to hear how they turn out for you! Happy cooking!