buffalo chicken sliders recipe

“Easy Buffalo Chicken Sliders Recipe – Spicy, Cheesy, and Perfect for Game Day!”

by

Gathering with friends and family on game day is special. The excitement and the food make it unforgettable. My mom’s buffalo chicken sliders are a favorite memory. The spicy buffalo sauce and creamy cheese were perfect for tense moments.

Making these sliders is more than just a snack. It’s about sharing cherished moments with loved ones. Plus, they’re easy to make, so you can enjoy the game more.

 

Football fans across the United States know that every great game day gathering is made even better with the right appetizers. Among the many choices, homemade buffalo chicken sliders stand out as a top pick. These sliders combine the tangy and spicy flavors of classic buffalo chicken dip with the convenience and portability of sliders, making them a crowd-pleasing favorite.

Buffalo chicken sliders appetizer options have gained popularity because they offer a delightful experience of sharing bite-sized portions that pack a flavorful punch. You’ll find that these sliders make an excellent addition to any party spread, complementing other buffalo-flavored snacks like buffalo cauliflower wings, buffalo chicken parm, and even unconventional choices such as buffalo ranch popcorn.

What makes these homemade buffalo chicken sliders truly special is their ease of preparation and versatility in ingredients. Whether you’re using classic boneless, skinless chicken breasts or shredded chicken mixed with tangy buffalo sauce, these sliders provide a satisfying mix of creamy, spicy, and savory elements. Their small size also allows guests to enjoy a little taste of everything without feeling overloaded.

In addition to being perfect for game days, these sliders are also an excellent choice for other social events and gatherings. The joyous communal atmosphere created by sharing such delicious appetizers is unparalleled, reinforcing why buffalo chicken sliders appetizer choices remain a staple in party menus.

Ingredients Needed

To make this easy buffalo chicken sliders recipe, you’ll need a few key ingredients. These are simple but pack a big punch, making your prep work a breeze.

Main Ingredients

  • 1 (12-ounce) package of Hawaiian sweet dinner rolls
  • 3 cups shredded chicken breast (approximately 8 ounces cooked)
  • ¾ cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot or Frank’s Buffalo)
  • ¼ cup ranch dressing (preferably Greek-yogurt based)
  • 2 cups shredded cheese (mozzarella, provolone, or Havarti), divided
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Spices and Flavor Enhancers

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

These ingredients are key to your easy buffalo chicken sliders recipe. By getting everything ready, you’re all set for a fun and tasty cooking session. Each part, from the chicken to the hot sauce, comes together for a dish you’ll love. It’s perfect for any time, whether as an appetizer or a main course!

Special Tools You’ll Need

Making delicious buffalo chicken sliders is easy with just a few kitchen tools. Having the right tools makes the process simpler and ensures great taste every time. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Mixing Bowl: A large bowl to mix your shredded chicken and spicy buffalo sauce well.
  • Sheet Pan: Great for baking the sliders. It helps them cook evenly and keeps all ingredients in place.

For even more convenience, consider these extra tools:

  • Parchment Paper: Use it to line your sheet pan. It prevents sticking and makes cleaning up easy.
  • Sharp Knife: Needed for cutting the rolls evenly. This ensures each slider is the perfect size.
  • Basting Brush: Perfect for applying butter sauce to the sliders. It gives them a delicious, even finish.

With these basic tools, making buffalo chicken sliders is both efficient and fun. You don’t need any fancy gadgets. So, whether you’re new to cooking or have lots of experience, you can easily make these tasty sliders.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making buffalo chicken sliders at home is simple. Just follow these steps for a great taste. Let’s go through each step to make these sliders a hit at your game day.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Mixture

Begin by cooking buffalo chicken sliders in a slow cooker. Put 3 cups (24 ounces) of shredded chicken breast in it. Add ¾ cup of hot sauce, ¼ cup of ranch dressing, and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. Cook on low for three to four hours or until it reaches 165°F.

Once cooked, shred the chicken finely. Mix well to spread the flavors evenly.

For quicker prep, use a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. Mix shredded chicken with hot sauce, ranch dressing, and garlic powder well.

Step 2: Slice the Rolls

Take a 12-ounce package of King’s Hawaiian rolls. Slice each roll horizontally without separating them. This makes a smooth base for your layers and keeps the rolls together.

Place the bottom half of the rolls in a baking dish.

Step 3: Layer the Ingredients

Spread the chicken mixture evenly over the bottom half of the rolls. Then, put 2 cups of shredded mozzarella, provolone, or Havarti cheese on top. Close the sliders with the top half of the rolls.

Step 4: Make the Butter Sauce

In a small bowl, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Add 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Brush this mixture over the tops of the rolls. It will make the sliders golden and flavorful.

Step 5: Bake and Serve

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Put the sliders in the oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. They’re done when the cheese melts and the rolls are golden.

Serve the sliders hot, garnished with parsley if you like. They’re the perfect snack for game day!

  1. Preparation time: 20 minutes
  2. Cooking temperature: 375°F
  3. Baking time: 10 to 12 minutes

Why These Sliders are Perfect for Game Day

Looking for the best buffalo chicken sliders for game day? These sliders are a perfect mix of spice and creaminess. They’re great for game day because they’re easy to eat and don’t overpower your taste buds.

Here are some compelling reasons why you should consider these buffalo chicken sliders game day-friendly:

  • Easy to Eat: You can enjoy these sliders with just one hand. They’re perfect for guests who want to keep watching the game.
  • Quick Preparation: Making these sliders is fast. You can have the chicken mix ready in 10 minutes and the sliders baked in 20. In under 30 minutes, you’ll have delicious sliders ready!
  • Perfect for Sharing: Sliders are great for sharing. You can make up to 24 servings, perfect for a big crowd. They add to the fun and festive atmosphere.
  • Flavor Explosion: The mix of buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, and cilantro is amazing. It’s a hit with spice lovers and cheese fans.

The sliders are also good for you. Each serving has about 267 calories, which is enough to fill you up without feeling too full. They also have 14g of protein, which keeps you energized during the game.

In terms of convenience and taste, buffalo chicken sliders are more than just a snack. They’re the best buffalo chicken sliders for any celebration. Their zesty flavor and easy serving make your game day unforgettable.

Tips for Making the Best Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Making the perfect Buffalo Chicken Sliders is both an art and a science. With these tips, you can make sure your sliders are delicious every time. This guide is for both experienced cooks and novices, helping you get great results with little effort.

Choosing the Right Cheese

  • Meltability: Choose cheese that melts well, like Mozzarella or Monterey Jack.
  • Flavor: Add sharp cheddar or blue cheese crumbles for extra taste. This can make your sliders even better.

Using Pre-Cooked Chicken

Using pre-cooked chicken is a great tip for quick and tasty buffalo chicken sliders. Pre-cooked shredded chicken saves time without losing flavor.

tips buffalo chicken sliders

  1. Buy a rotisserie chicken or cook extra chicken for meal prep. This way, you’ll always have chicken ready for sliders.
  2. Shred the chicken finely. This ensures it’s evenly spread in each slider, improving texture and taste.

By following these tips, your buffalo chicken sliders will be a hit at any gathering. They’re fast, easy, and loved by all!

Buffalo Chicken Sliders Recipe

These delicious buffalo chicken sliders are perfect for parties. Here’s the full recipe to make these tasty treats easily.

  • 12 Kings Hawaiian Rolls
  • 3 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded
  • ⅓ cup buffalo sauce (more as needed)
  • ¼ cup ranch or blue cheese dressing
  • 1-2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ¼ cup melted butter
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic salt
  • ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
  2. Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half and place the bottom halves in a baking dish.
  3. In a bowl, combine the shredded rotisserie chicken and buffalo sauce thoroughly.
  4. Spread the chicken mixture evenly over the bottoms of the rolls.
  5. Drizzle the ranch or blue cheese dressing over the chicken mixture.
  6. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top.
  7. Place the top halves of the rolls back on.
  8. In a separate bowl, mix the melted butter, garlic salt, and Italian seasoning. Brush this mixture over the top of the rolls.
  9. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 15-20 minutes.
  10. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the tops are golden brown.
  11. Serve the sliders hot and enjoy!

Nutritional Information (per slider):

Calories: 175 kcal | Carbohydrates: 15 g | Protein: 5 g | Fat: 10 g | Saturated Fat: 5 g | Trans Fat: 1 g | Cholesterol: 29 mg | Sodium: 484 mg | Potassium: 12 mg | Fiber: 1 g | Sugar: 4 g | Vitamin A: 184 IU | Vitamin C: 1 mg | Calcium: 51 mg | Iron: 1 mg

Ready to make these tasty sliders? They’re quick to prepare and perfect for parties.

Serving Size1 slider
Total Yield12 sliders
Calories175 kcal per slider
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time25 minutes

Alternative Ingredients and Variations

Buffalo chicken sliders can be made to fit many tastes and needs. You can try vegetarian swaps or different cheeses. These changes can make your sliders even more exciting.

Vegetarian Option

Vegetarians can enjoy game-day food too. Use buffalo cauliflower or jackfruit instead of chicken. These options taste great and are just as satisfying.

Different Cheese Choices

Cheddar is a favorite for buffalo chicken sliders. But, you can try other cheeses for a new taste. Blue cheese adds a tangy flavor, mozzarella is creamy, and pepper jack is spicy. These choices let you make the sliders your own.

IngredientSubstituteFlavor Profile
ChickenBuffalo CauliflowerSpicy, Crunchy
ChickenJackfruitSpicy, Meaty
Cheddar CheeseBlue CheeseTangy, Creamy
Cheddar CheeseMozzarellaMild, Creamy
Cheddar CheesePepper JackSpicy, Creamy

These changes make buffalo chicken sliders great for any event. Whether you pick a plant-based option or try new cheeses, there’s always something tasty to try.

Serving Suggestions

Serving buffalo chicken sliders can be a delightful experience. Pairing them with the right accompaniments makes them the star of any gathering.

Side Dishes

Choose side dishes that enhance the flavor of your buffalo chicken sliders. Here are a few ideas that will complement the spicy, cheesy goodness:

  • Celery sticks and carrot slices: These crunchy vegetables offer a refreshing contrast to the spicy sliders.
  • Coleslaw: A tangy, creamy coleslaw provides a cool counterbalance to the heat.
  • Potato wedges: Crispy, seasoned potato wedges are a hearty addition to your meal.
  • Sweet potato fries: The natural sweetness of these fries pairs perfectly with the buffalo chicken flavor.

Dipping Sauces

A variety of dipping sauces can elevate your buffalo chicken sliders. Consider a selection to cater to different tastes:

  • Ranch dressing: The creamy, herby flavor of ranch dressing is a classic choice.
  • Blue cheese dressing: This robust dressing is a favorite among many buffalo chicken enthusiasts.
  • Honey mustard: A sweet and tangy sauce that adds an extra layer of flavor.
  • Barbecue sauce: Smokey and sweet, it pairs beautifully with the spicy chicken sliders.
serving buffalo chicken sliders

These serving suggestions and accompaniments will not only enhance your meal’s presentation. They ensure your guests enjoy a well-rounded and delightful dining experience. With these sides and dipping sauces, your buffalo chicken sliders will truly shine.

Storing and Reheating Instructions

When storing homemade buffalo chicken sliders, use an airtight container to keep them fresh. They can stay in the fridge for up to 3 days. This way, they won’t lose their taste and texture.

If you have leftovers, freeze them for up to 3 months. For raw freezer meals, use 1/2 cup buffalo sauce for 2-3 lbs chicken thighs. Store for up to 3 months. Thaw the frozen sliders in the fridge for 12 to 24 hours before reheating.

Reheating buffalo chicken sliders is easy. Use an air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 2-3 minutes. This will make them crispy again. If you prefer the oven, preheat to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and reheat for 10-15 minutes.

Or, use a microwave in 30-second intervals to avoid overcooking. Always make sure the sliders reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit when reheating. This ensures they’re safe to eat.

NutrientAmount per Slider
Calories300 kcal
Carbohydrates15 g
Protein30 g
Fat12 g
Saturated Fat6 g
Polyunsaturated Fat1 g
Monounsaturated Fat3 g
Trans Fat0.2 g
Cholesterol102 mg
Sodium418 mg
Potassium448 mg
Fiber0.001 g
Sugar4 g
Vitamin A240 IU
Vitamin C1 mg
Calcium80 mg
Iron0.5 mg

By following these steps, you can enjoy your buffalo chicken sliders at their best quality anytime. Storing and reheating them correctly ensures they stay delicious.

Frequently Asked Questions About Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Buffalo chicken sliders are a hit for any event, but you might have a few questions before diving into your next batch. Here are the answers to the most common FAQ buffalo chicken sliders, with some top buffalo chicken sliders tips to ensure success.

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?

A: Yes, while blue cheese is traditional, you can substitute it with shredded mozzarella or even cheddar for a milder flavor. The key is to use 4 oz of cheese for a balanced, delicious taste.

Q: How much chicken do I need?

A: You will need between 3-4 cups of cooked, shredded chicken. Using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds wonderful flavor.

Q: Is there a recommended sauce brand?

A: While any buffalo wing sauce works, we recommend using Frank’s RedHot for its authentic taste. You’ll need 1/2 cup of buffalo sauce for the recipe.

Q: Can I pre-make these sliders?

A: Absolutely. You can assemble the sliders and refrigerate them for up to a day before baking. This is one of the useful buffalo chicken sliders tips if you need to save time on the day of your event.

Q: What are some storage instructions?

A: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Q: Can I freeze these sliders?

A: Yes, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked sliders. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed.

Q: What’s the best way to serve these sliders?

A: These sliders are best served straight out of the oven. Pair them with ranch or blue cheese dressing and some celery sticks for a classic presentation.

Q: Can I make a vegetarian version?

A: Yes, you can substitute the chicken with a plant-based meat alternative or even buffalo-flavored cauliflower for a veggie-friendly option.

Conclusion

Making Buffalo Chicken Sliders is easy and sure to please your game day guests. They only take 15 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook. Each slider has 363 kcal and 19 grams of protein, making them a satisfying snack.

These sliders are great for any occasion, thanks to their simplicity and flavor. You can make them on the stovetop, in a Crockpot, or Instant Pot. The use of Frank’s Buffalo Sauce and cream cheese adds a spicy and creamy taste.

Try these sliders at your next game day event. You can also adjust the recipe to your liking. We’re excited to hear about your experiences and any changes you make. With a 4.57 rating from 65 votes, you know they’re a hit. Happy cooking!

FAQ

Can I make buffalo chicken sliders in advance?

Yes, you can make the buffalo chicken mixture ahead of time. Store it in the fridge. Then, assemble and bake the sliders just before serving for the best taste.

How spicy are these buffalo chicken sliders?

You can adjust the spiciness to your liking. For less heat, use less buffalo sauce or a milder sauce. For more heat, add more hot sauce or jalapeños.

What cheese works best for buffalo chicken sliders?

Cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix of both are great. They melt well and taste good with buffalo sauce. Try pepper jack for an extra kick.

Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken for the recipe?

Absolutely! Using a pre-cooked chicken saves time. It makes delicious buffalo chicken sliders.

What sides go well with buffalo chicken sliders?

Try celery sticks, carrot slices, and ranch or blue cheese dressing. These sides balance the spicy sliders.

Are there vegetarian options for buffalo chicken sliders?

Yes, use plant-based chicken substitutes for vegetarian sliders. Follow the same sauce and assembly steps.

How do I store and reheat leftover buffalo chicken sliders?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10 minutes. This keeps them tasty and fresh.

Can I freeze buffalo chicken sliders?

Yes, freeze assembled sliders in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

What’s the best way to prevent the sliders from becoming soggy?

Make sure the chicken mixture isn’t too wet. Toast the rolls lightly before assembling. This helps keep the bread dry.

How many buffalo chicken sliders does this recipe make?

This recipe makes about 12 sliders, great for a small party. You can adjust the ingredients to make more or fewer sliders.

Leave a Comment