Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

These Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders are the ultimate crowd-pleaser! Perfect for game day, parties, or a family dinner, these sliders combine juicy shredded chicken with bold flavors that are sure to impress. The fluffy buns and melted cheese create a delicious bite that’s both satisfying and flavorful, making them a must-try for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll have these sliders ready in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of buffalo sauce and ranch dressing gives these sliders a kick that is simply irresistible.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as an appetizer or main course, these sliders fit right in at gatherings, potlucks, or casual family dinners.
• Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love these spicy buffalo chicken sliders—just adjust the heat level to your preference!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the filling ahead of time, making it easy to assemble and bake when you’re ready to serve.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders effortlessly, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment helps streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet or casserole dish
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowl
• Pastry brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet or casserole dish: Provides even heat distribution, ensuring your sliders bake perfectly without burning.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking, making cleanup a breeze after baking your sliders.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
• Pastry brush: Perfect for brushing melted butter on top of the buns for that golden finish.

Ingredients

For the Sliders

• 9 pack slider buns
• 1 1/2 cups shredded chicken
• 1/2 cup Franks 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

For Topping

• 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 (175°C). Line a 9×9 baking sheet or casserole dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Mixture

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

Mix well until the chicken is fully coated in the sauce.

Step 3: Assemble the Sliders

Add the bottom halves of the slider buns to your lined baking sheet.
Divide the chicken mixture evenly among all the buns.
Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of each filled bun and close with their tops.

Step 4: Add Toppings

In a small bowl, melt butter and mix in garlic powder and Italian seasoning.
Brush this mixture generously over the tops of each slider bun using a pastry brush.

Step 5: Bake

Cover the baking sheet with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes.
Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 5–10 minutes until golden brown and cheese has melted.

Step 6: Serve

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

How to Serve Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders are perfect for any gathering or casual meal. They are not only delicious but also versatile, making them easy to pair with various sides and accompaniments.

With Dipping Sauces

• Ranch Dressing: Drizzle or serve ranch dressing on the side for a creamy contrast to the spice.
• Blue Cheese Dressing: This classic pairing enhances the buffalo flavor and adds a tangy richness.
• Hot Sauce: For spice lovers, offer extra hot sauce to kick up the heat even more!

On a Platter

• Garnished with Fresh Veggies: Surround the sliders with carrot sticks, celery, and cherry tomatoes for a colorful presentation.
• Serve with Pickles: Add dill pickles for a crunchy, tangy bite that complements the sliders well.

As a Meal

• With Fries: Serve these sliders alongside crispy French fries or sweet potato fries for a classic combo.
• With Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and balances out the heat of the chicken.

How to Perfect Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

To make the best Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders, follow these simple tips. They will help you elevate your dish and impress your guests.

• Use High-Quality Chicken: Opt for juicy, tender shredded chicken for better flavor in your sliders.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Modify the amount of hot sauce according to your heat preference; feel free to start with less and add more!
• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Fresh buns and quality cheese will enhance both taste and texture.
• Don’t Skip the Butter: Brushing melted butter on top of the buns gives them a golden finish and adds richness.

Best Side Dishes for Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

When serving Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders, consider these tasty side dishes that complement their bold flavors perfectly.

1. French Fries: Crispy fries are a classic choice that pairs wonderfully with sliders.
2. Sweet Potato Wedges: These sweet wedges add a nice balance to the spicy flavors of the sliders.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and freshness that brightens up the meal.
4. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad offers comfort and is always a crowd-pleaser.
5. Veggie Platter: A mix of fresh vegetables like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers adds color and healthiness.
6. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with salsa create an easy, flavorful accompaniment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders from good to great. Here are some pitfalls to steer clear of:

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to properly season your chicken can lead to bland sliders. Be sure to include salt, pepper, and other spices as outlined in the recipe.
• Overfilling the sliders: Stuffing too much filling into each slider can make them difficult to handle. Stick to a manageable amount for easy eating and delicious bites.
• Neglecting bun quality: Using stale or low-quality buns can ruin the texture of your sliders. Choose fresh, fluffy slider buns for the best results.
• Not monitoring baking time: Overbaking can dry out the sliders or burn the tops. Keep an eye on them and remove when they’re golden brown.
• Serving cold: These sliders are best enjoyed hot. Make sure to serve them immediately after baking for maximum flavor and enjoyment.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Ensure the sliders are completely cooled before sealing.

Freezing Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

• Place cooled sliders in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in foil.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, cover with foil, and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual sliders on a microwave-safe plate for about 30 seconds, checking if they’re heated thoroughly.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, covering for even heating; this takes about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

Can I use frozen shredded chicken?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw it before mixing it with the buffalo sauce.

What can I substitute for ranch dressing?

You can use blue cheese dressing or any creamy dressing of your choice for a different flavor twist.

How spicy are Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders?

The spice level largely depends on how much hot sauce you use. Adjust according to your preference!

Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare them up to baking, cover well, and refrigerate overnight. Bake when ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

These Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s game day or a cozy family dinner. Their versatility allows you to customize flavors and toppings easily—try adding jalapeños or different cheeses! Don’t hesitate; give this recipe a try—you won’t regret it!