Buffalo Chicken Sliders
Buffalo Chicken Sliders are a fun and tasty way to enjoy that classic spicy buffalo flavor. These little sandwiches are packed with tender shredded chicken coated in a tangy, spicy…
Tip: save now, cook later.Buffalo Chicken Sliders are a fun and tasty way to enjoy that classic spicy buffalo flavor. These little sandwiches are packed with tender shredded chicken coated in a tangy, spicy buffalo sauce, all tucked inside soft, fluffy slider buns. The kick of the sauce pairs perfectly with a cool, creamy dressing or a slice of cheese, making every bite a delicious mix of heat and smoothness.
I love making these sliders for casual get-togethers or game days because they’re easy to handle and full of flavor without being messy. One of my favorite tricks is adding a bit of crunchy celery or a sliver of pickle inside to give it an extra layer of texture and freshness. Plus, these sliders are quick to whip up, which means I get to enjoy them (and share them) without spending hours in the kitchen.
Buffalo Chicken Sliders are also a great crowd-pleaser since they hit that perfect balance of spicy and creamy. I sometimes serve them with extra ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side for dipping. They always bring people together—whether it’s a simple family dinner or a lively party. Whenever I make these, I’m reminded how a little bite-sized sandwich can bring so much joy and flavor at once!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shredded Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. You can also use cooked chicken breasts or thighs. For a vegetarian option, try shredded jackfruit or cooked chickpeas with buffalo sauce.
Buffalo Wing Sauce: Classic hot sauce mixed with butter gives the spicy, tangy flavor. If you want less heat, reduce the sauce or use a mild wing sauce. For a dairy-free version, use olive oil instead of butter.
Slider Buns: Soft, slightly sweet buns work best to balance the spicy filling. You can swap for small sandwich rolls or Hawaiian rolls, which add a nice flavor contrast.
Cheese & Dressing: Cheddar melts well for gooey texture, and blue cheese adds sharpness. If blue cheese isn’t your thing, ranch dressing or even cream cheese are tasty, milder choices.
How Can I Keep Buffalo Chicken Sliders Moist and Easy to Assemble?
To avoid dry sliders, toss the shredded chicken well in the buffalo butter sauce so every bite is flavorful and juicy. Warm the sliders wrapped in foil to melt cheese evenly without drying out the buns.
- Mix melted butter and wing sauce thoroughly before adding chicken.
- Arrange chicken evenly on buns for consistent flavor.
- Cover with foil during baking to keep moisture locked in.
- Add creamy dressing and cheese after baking for extra creaminess.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – perfect for heating the sliders evenly without mess.
- Microwave-safe bowl – makes melting butter and mixing sauce quick and easy.
- Mixing spoon or spatula – helps toss the chicken in sauce smoothly.
- Sharp knife – to slice slider buns cleanly in half.
- Aluminum foil – covers the sliders while baking to keep them moist.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for shredded turkey or pulled pork for a twist on the protein.
- Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a spicier kick.
- Add thin sliced celery or pickles inside for crunch and freshness.
- Mix some garlic powder or smoked paprika into the buffalo sauce for extra depth.
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Sliders?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Sliders:
- 12 slider buns or small dinner rolls
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup blue cheese crumbles
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of baking. It’s quick and perfect for a tasty meal or snack in about half an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Buffalo Chicken:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter, then stir in the buffalo wing sauce until mixed well. Add the shredded chicken and toss until every piece is coated with the buffalo butter sauce.
2. Assemble the Sliders:
Slice the slider buns in half horizontally. Place the bottom halves on a baking sheet. Spread the buffalo chicken evenly over them, then sprinkle cheddar cheese on top. Cover with the top halves of the buns.
3. Bake and Finish:
Cover the baking sheet loosely with aluminum foil. Bake for about 15 minutes, until the cheese melts and everything is warm. Take the sliders out of the oven, then spoon ranch or blue cheese dressing over the chicken inside each slider. Add blue cheese crumbles and a sprinkle of chopped parsley if you like. Serve warm and enjoy the delicious blend of spicy and creamy flavors!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for Buffalo Chicken Sliders?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the chicken completely in the fridge overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Shred it well before mixing with the buffalo sauce.
How Can I Make These Sliders Less Spicy?
To tone down the heat, use less buffalo wing sauce or choose a mild wing sauce. You can also add extra butter to balance the spice or serve with more ranch or blue cheese dressing.
Can I Prepare Buffalo Chicken Sliders Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the buffalo chicken and assemble the sliders, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving to enjoy fresh, melty sliders.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven wrapped with foil or in the microwave until warmed through.
