Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

If you’re looking for a deliciously spicy treat that’s perfect for any gathering, these Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders are just what you need! They’re not only incredibly tasty but also super easy to whip up. Picture fluffy slider buns stuffed with tender shredded chicken, all drenched in a zesty buffalo sauce and topped with melty cheese. It’s a crowd-pleaser that comes together in no time, making it ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. Whether you’re hosting game night or just want to enjoy a cozy dinner at home, these sliders are sure to impress everyone at the table. Plus, they taste just as good as leftovers—if there are any left!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have these sliders ready for the oven in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the bold flavors and cheesy goodness of these sliders.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the filling ahead of time and assemble right before baking for an effortless meal!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s game day or a weekend get-together, these sliders fit right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you may already have on hand. Let’s gather everything we need to create these scrumptious Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders!

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

For the Topping:

• 2 Tbsp butter
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp Italian seasoning

Variations

One of the best things about these sliders is their flexibility! Feel free to get creative with different flavors and ingredients. Here are a few ideas to switch things up:

• Swap the protein: Instead of chicken, try using shredded turkey or even jackfruit for a plant-based option!
• Mix up the sauces: If you’re feeling adventurous, add some barbecue sauce along with the buffalo sauce for a sweet-spicy kick.
• Add veggies: Toss in some chopped bell peppers or onions into the chicken mixture for added texture and flavor.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese like pepper jack for extra heat or mozzarella for a milder taste.

How to Make Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9 baking sheet or casserole dish with parchment paper. This step ensures that your sliders won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze!

Step 2: Mix the Filling

In a bowl, mix together your shredded chicken, hot sauce, ranch dressing, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir until everything is well combined. This flavorful mixture is what makes these Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders so irresistible!

Step 3: Assemble the Sliders

Place the bottom halves of your slider buns onto the lined baking sheet. Divide the spicy chicken filling evenly among all the buns. Top each one generously with cheese before placing the top halves back on.

Step 4: Brush on Flavor

In a small bowl, combine melted butter, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Use a pastry brush to spread this mixture over the tops of all the buns. This will give them that beautiful golden color and enhance their flavor while they bake.

Step 5: Bake

Cover your baking sheet with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes. After that, remove the foil and let them bake an additional 5-10 minutes until they’re lightly golden and cheesy perfection is achieved.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Once out of the oven, cut your sliders apart and serve them immediately while they’re still hot. Pair them with your favorite sides like fresh veggies or chips for an awesome meal experience!

Enjoy every bite of your delightful Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders!

Pro Tips for Making Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

These sliders are a crowd-pleaser, and with a few handy tips, you can make them even better!

• Use rotisserie chicken: This saves time and adds incredible flavor. Just shred the meat and toss it in your buffalo sauce for a quick prep.
• Adjust the heat: If you’re sensitive to spice, feel free to mix some of the buffalo sauce with a little barbecue sauce to tone down the heat while still keeping that delicious tang.
• Experiment with cheese: While shredded cheese is a must, consider adding blue cheese crumbles or pepper jack for an extra kick. It adds depth and richness to your sliders.
• Toast the buns: For an extra crispy texture, toast the slider buns lightly before filling. This prevents them from getting soggy and enhances the overall experience.
• Let them rest: After baking, allow the sliders to sit for a few minutes before cutting. This helps everything set nicely and makes it easier to serve.

How to Serve Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Presenting these spicy buffalo chicken sliders can take your meal from good to unforgettable! Here are some ideas to enhance your serving experience.

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: Sprinkle fresh green onions on top just before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
• Sliced jalapeños: For those who crave extra heat, fresh or pickled jalapeños add a zesty kick.

Side Dishes

• Celery sticks with ranch dressing: A classic pairing that provides crunch and cooling relief from the spice of the sliders.
• Sweet potato fries: These sweet and savory fries complement the heat of the buffalo chicken beautifully, offering a delightful contrast in flavors.
• Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw balances out the spice while adding a refreshing crunch. It’s perfect for lightening up each bite.
• Mixed green salad: A simple side salad with lemon vinaigrette can cleanse your palate between bites and round out your meal.

Enjoy serving these spicy buffalo chicken sliders at your next gathering! They’re sure to be a hit among family and friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time and store them, making it easy to enjoy this scrumptious dish whenever you like.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• Ensure they are cooled down completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap individual sliders tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• To reheat from the refrigerator, place sliders on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes.
• For frozen sliders, you can bake them straight from the freezer, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about these spicy buffalo chicken sliders.

Can I use store-bought shredded chicken for Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders?

Absolutely! Store-bought shredded chicken is a great time-saver. Just make sure it’s well-seasoned, or add a bit of extra hot sauce to enhance the flavor.

What can I serve with Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders?

These sliders pair wonderfully with celery sticks, carrot sticks, or a fresh salad. You could also serve them with sweet potato fries for a delicious twist!

How spicy are these Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders?

The heat level largely depends on how much Frank’s hot sauce you use. If you’re sensitive to spice, feel free to reduce the amount or mix it with ranch dressing for a milder flavor.

Can I customize the cheese used in Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders?

Definitely! While cheddar is traditional, feel free to experiment with other types of cheese like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for an extra kick!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders as much as I do! They’re perfect for gatherings, game nights, or just a cozy evening at home. With their bold flavors and gooey cheese, they’re sure to impress anyone who takes a bite. Enjoy this delightful recipe and share it with friends and family—you won’t regret it!