When the excitement of game day fills the air, there’s nothing I crave more than a plate of spicy buffalo chicken sliders. The first time I pulled these little beauties from the oven, the irresistible aroma of spicy buffalo sauce mingling with melty cheese had everyone gathering around the kitchen like moths to a flame.
These sliders are the perfect solution for turning a regular weeknight into something special or making a statement at your next social gathering. Imagine juicy, shredded chicken smothered in rich hot sauce, nestled delightfully in soft, buttery slider buns. They are a treat that’s not just easy to whip up, but also packed with bold flavors that make every bite a celebration.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just satisfying a late-night craving, these spicy buffalo chicken sliders won’t disappoint. Plus, they can be made ahead of time, so you can focus on what really matters—enjoying great food with even better company!
Why Choose Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders?
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: These sliders are a surefire hit for any gathering, ensuring smiles all around.
Quick and Easy: Made in under 30 minutes, they save you time without sacrificing flavor.
Bold Flavor Explosion: The combination of spicy buffalo sauce and creamy ranch dressing delivers a kick that tantalizes the taste buds.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for meal prep, allowing you to assemble them hours in advance while still fresh and delicious.
Versatile Options: Customize with different proteins or sauces to suit any preference, making them suitable for everyone!
Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders Ingredients
For the Sliders
• Slider Buns – Choose soft, fluffy slider or hamburger buns for the best texture to hold your spicy buffalo chicken sliders.
• Shredded Chicken – Use rotisserie chicken for convenience and an extra layer of flavor.
• Franks Buffalo Hot Sauce – This gives the authentic buffalo flavor; feel free to swap with your favorite hot sauce for varying spice levels.
• Ranch Dressing – Creaminess balances the heat; you can substitute blue cheese dressing to stay classic.
For Seasoning
• Salt – Enhances all the delicious flavors; adjust according to the seasoning of your chicken.
• Ground Black Pepper – Adds a subtle kick; using fresh cracked pepper will amplify the flavor.
• Garlic Powder – Infuses savory goodness; use fresh minced garlic for an extra aromatic touch.
• Paprika – Brings mild sweetness and beautiful color; smoked paprika is a delightful alternative.
• Italian Seasoning – Offers a lovely aromatic backdrop; you can replace it with oregano or thyme if preferred.
For the Cheesy Topping
• Shredded Cheese – Cheddar for a sharper taste or mozzarella for that gooey stretchiness; both work wonderfully.
• Garlic Butter – Imparts rich flavor; mix melted butter with crushed garlic for an unforgettable finish.
These spicy buffalo chicken sliders are not just a recipe; they’re a bond over good food, making every gathering feel more special and every bite delightful! Enjoy making these at your next gathering—you won’t regret it!
How to Make Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9 baking dish with parchment paper. This step ensures even cooking and makes cleaning up a breeze.
- Combine shredded chicken, buffalo hot sauce, ranch dressing, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika in a large bowl. Mix well until the chicken is fully coated with the flavorful sauce.
- Place the bottom halves of the slider buns in the baking dish, creating a sturdy base for your spicy buffalo chicken sliders.
- Spoon the chicken mixture evenly over the buns, sprinkling with shredded cheese before adding the top halves. This layering makes each bite packed with flavor and gooey cheese.
- Mix melted butter with garlic powder and Italian seasoning in a small bowl, then brush this savory mixture over the top buns. This adds a rich flavor that beautifully complements the spicy filling.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove the foil, then bake for another 5-10 minutes until the buns are golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Cut the sliders apart and serve them hot with your favorite dips and sides. They’ll be too irresistible to resist!
Optional: Serve with celery sticks and a side of ranch or blue cheese for dipping.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These spicy buffalo chicken sliders are perfect for meal prep! You can assemble the sliders up to 24 hours in advance—simply complete steps 1 through 5, covering the dish tightly with foil and refrigerating. To maintain their quality and avoid sogginess, keep the chicken mixture and buns separate until you’re ready to bake. When it’s time to enjoy, preheat your oven and bake from refrigerated, adding an extra 5 minutes to the cooking time, if needed. This way, you’ll have delicious, freshly baked spicy buffalo chicken sliders ready to serve with minimal effort, allowing you to focus on fun rather than frantic kitchen prep!
Expert Tips for Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders
- Cool Before Cutting: Allow sliders to cool slightly before cutting to prevent the filling from spilling out and maintain texture.
- Add Crunch: For extra crunch, incorporate fresh shredded cabbage or lettuce inside the buns to balance the heat of the spicy buffalo chicken sliders.
- Assemble Wisely: Avoid assembling sliders too far in advance; this can lead to soggy buns. Assemble just before baking for the best results.
- Cheese Choices: Experiment with cheese varieties; mozzarella provides stretchiness, while cheddar offers a sharper bite. Choose what excites your taste buds!
- Perfect Pairings: Serve with celery sticks and ranch or blue cheese dressing for a classic buffalo experience that enhances flavor and adds freshness.
What to Serve with Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders?
These delightful sliders create the perfect base for a game day spread that will leave your guests cheering for more.
-
Celery Sticks: Crunchy and refreshing, they provide a cool contrast to the spicy sliders while maintaining that classic buffalo pairing.
-
Ranch Dressing: This creamy dip complements the heat of the chicken, making it a must-have for an authentic buffalo experience. Drizzle it on your sliders for an extra layer of flavor!
-
Sweet Potato Fries: Offering a delightful sweetness, these crispy fries balance the spiciness of the sliders and add a different texture to your plate.
-
Coleslaw: Creamy and tangy, a fresh coleslaw adds a crunchy texture that pairs beautifully with the sliders, enhancing every bite.
-
Guacamole: Rich and creamy, this avocado spread offers a cooling effect that perfectly counters the heat of buffalo sauce while adding a delicious twist.
-
Craft Beer: A crisp lager or hoppy IPA can elevate your sliders, complementing the bold flavors and keeping the celebration lively.
-
Mini Cheesecakes: For a sweet finish to your game-night feast, serve these bite-sized treats to balance out the spicy, savory sliders. Each bite will be a tasty contrast.
Pairing your spicy buffalo chicken sliders with these options not only builds a feast but creates a memorable, flavor-packed experience!
Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders Variations
Feel free to put your unique spin on these sliders and unleash your culinary creativity!
- Ground Turkey: Swap shredded chicken for lean ground turkey for a healthier twist. This brings a whole new texture to your sliders.
- Vegetarian Delight: Use shredded jackfruit or chickpeas mixed with buffalo sauce for a delicious vegetarian alternative that’s just as satisfying.
- Sriracha Kick: Substitute buffalo sauce with sriracha for an extra spicy heat that will bring your flavor-loving friends to their knees. Don’t shy away from the fire!
- Smoky Flavor: Use smoked paprika instead of regular for added depth and that irresistible smoky aroma, elevating your sliders to gourmet status.
- Cheese Varieties: Experiment with various cheeses like pepper jack for a spicier build or gouda for a creamy indulgence. Mix and match until you find your favorite.
- Sweet & Spicy: For a unique flavor boost, add a dash of honey or brown sugar to your buffalo sauce mixture and experience a sweet and spicy combo that surprises the palate.
- Crunchy Toppings: Top your sliders with crispy fried onions or fresh coleslaw to add texture and a delightful contrast to the spicy filling.
- Hot Sauce Fusion: Combine different hot sauces—like a mix of buffalo and teriyaki—for a delicious fusion that satisfies diverse tastes and introduces new flavors to the party.
Each variation invites you to explore and enjoy making these sliders your own, adding a touch of warmth and personality to your gatherings!
How to Store and Freeze Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure they’ve cooled completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze assembled but unbaked sliders. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months for best flavor.
Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through. This way, your spicy buffalo chicken sliders taste fresh and delicious!
Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble sliders a few hours before baking. This helps save time on game day while ensuring every bite is full of flavor.
Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders Recipe FAQs
What type of slider buns should I use?
Choose soft, fluffy slider or hamburger buns for the best texture to hold your spicy buffalo chicken sliders. Fluffy buns provide a delightful contrast to the spicy filling, ensuring each bite is a perfect blend of flavors.
How long can I store leftover sliders in the fridge?
Absolutely! Store leftover spicy buffalo chicken sliders in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure they’ve cooled completely before sealing, as this helps maintain their freshness and texture.
Can I freeze my assembled sliders?
Yes! For long-term storage, assemble the sliders but do not bake them. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
What can I do if my sliders turn out soggy?
To avoid soggy sliders, ensure you do not assemble them too far in advance. If they do become soggy, try allowing them to sit uncovered in a warm oven for a few minutes before serving to help crisp them up again. Adding crunchy elements like shredded cabbage or lettuce can also help in balancing textures.
Are these sliders safe for my pets?
No, it’s best to avoid giving these spicy buffalo chicken sliders to your pets. Ingredients like garlic and onion can be harmful to dogs, and the spicy elements can cause digestive issues for both dogs and cats. Always stick to pet-friendly treats for your furry friends!
Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders for Your Epic Game Night Feast
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x9 baking dish with parchment paper.
- Combine shredded chicken, buffalo hot sauce, ranch dressing, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika in a large bowl.
- Place the bottom halves of the slider buns in the baking dish.
- Spoon the chicken mixture evenly over the buns and sprinkle with shredded cheese before adding the top halves.
- Mix melted butter with garlic powder and Italian seasoning, then brush this mixture over the top buns.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 5-10 minutes.
- Cut the sliders apart and serve them hot with your favorite dips.