Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

These Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders are a crowd-pleaser that can elevate any gathering! With soft slider buns stuffed with tender shredded chicken and bursting with flavor from Frank’s hot buffalo sauce, these sliders are perfect for game day, parties, or a cozy family dinner. Their cheesy topping and crispy edges make them an irresistible treat everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With only 10 minutes of prep time, you can have these sliders in the oven in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of spicy buffalo sauce and creamy ranch dressing delivers a mouthwatering taste experience.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as an appetizer or main dish, these sliders can be enjoyed at any occasion.
• Crowd Favorite: These sliders are sure to please both kids and adults alike, making them ideal for gatherings.
• Easily Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or sides for a more personalized meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowl
• Pastry brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking your sliders, ensuring they cook evenly.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients without spilling.
• Pastry brush: Perfect for applying butter evenly on top of the buns for added flavor.

Ingredients

To make these delicious Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders, you’ll need the following ingredients:

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
• 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) and 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 buffalo hot sauce
3. Ranch dressing
4. Salt
5. Ground black pepper
6. Garlic powder
7. Paprika

Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Sliders

1. Place the bottom halves of the slider buns onto the lined baking sheet.
2. Evenly distribute the chicken mixture over each bun.
3. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the chicken filling.
4. Close with the top halves of the slider buns.

Step 4: Butter the Buns

In a small bowl, melt butter and mix it with garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Use a pastry brush to generously coat the tops of the buns with this mixture.

Step 5: Bake the Sliders

1. Cover the baking sheet with foil.
2. Bake in preheated oven for 15 minutes.
3. Remove foil and bake an additional 5-10 minutes until golden brown and cheese is melted.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Carefully remove from oven, cut into individual sliders, and serve warm with your desired sides!

Enjoy making these flavorful Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Spicy buffalo chicken sliders are versatile and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or a casual gathering, these sliders can be served in various ways to enhance their flavor and presentation.

Casual Gathering

• Platter Style: Arrange the sliders on a large platter, garnished with fresh parsley or celery sticks for a pop of color.
• Dip Station: Offer ranch or blue cheese dressing as dipping sauces on the side to complement the spicy flavors.

Game Day Treat

• Finger Food: Serve the sliders directly on napkins for easy eating while cheering on your favorite team.
• Mini Bites: Cut each slider in half for bite-sized portions, making it easier for guests to enjoy multiple flavors.

Family Dinner

• With Sides: Pair the sliders with homemade coleslaw and sweet potato fries for a comforting family meal.
• Themed Dinner: Create an American-themed dinner night by serving these sliders alongside classic sides like potato salad and corn on the cob.

How to Perfect Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

To make your spicy buffalo chicken sliders truly outstanding, consider these helpful tips:

• Bold chicken flavor: Use rotisserie chicken for added taste and convenience.
• Adjust spice level: Mix in extra hot sauce if you prefer a spicier kick; alternatively, use less for milder flavor.
• Cheese choice: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or mozzarella for unique flavors.
• Bun selection: Opt for whole wheat or gluten-free buns if you want healthier alternatives.
• Make ahead: Prepare the filling in advance and store it in the fridge; assemble and bake just before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Serving side dishes with your spicy buffalo chicken sliders can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Crunchy Coleslaw: A refreshing side that balances the heat of the sliders with its cool, crisp texture.
2. Sweet Potato Fries: These provide a deliciously sweet contrast to the spicy flavors of the sliders; bake them until crispy!
3. Vegetable Platter: An assortment of fresh veggies like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers served with dip adds color and nutrition.
4. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad pairs well with spicy dishes; prepare it with light mayo for a healthier option.
5. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn brushed with butter offers a classic American side that everyone loves.
6. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks seasoned with garlic complement the richness of the sliders perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders can be a fun and rewarding experience. However, there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Overcooking the chicken: Ensure your chicken is cooked just right before shredding. Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough.
• Ignoring seasoning balance: Don’t forget to taste! Adjust the hot sauce and ranch dressing to find the perfect flavor balance for your palate.
• Not using fresh ingredients: Always opt for fresh ingredients over stale or expired items. Freshness enhances the flavor significantly.
• Skipping the butter brush: Brushing the tops of your buns with butter not only adds flavor but helps achieve a golden finish. Don’t skip this step!
• Cutting too soon: Allow sliders to cool slightly before cutting. This helps keep everything intact and makes for easier serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

• 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 3 months.

Reheating Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place sliders on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place one slider on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 30 seconds or until warm. Be cautious as they may get soggy.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid. This method keeps them moist while warming through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding making Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders.

Can I use different meats for Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders?

Yes! You can substitute shredded turkey, beef, or lamb depending on your preference.

How spicy are these Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders?

The level of spiciness can be adjusted by varying the amount of Frank’s hot sauce used. Start with less if you prefer milder flavors.

What sides pair well with Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders?

Consider serving them with celery sticks, carrot sticks, or a simple side salad for a refreshing contrast.

Can I make Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare all components ahead of time and assemble just before baking. This saves time during entertaining!

How do I customize my Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders?

Feel free to add toppings like lettuce, tomato, or additional cheese based on your taste preferences!

Final Thoughts

These Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders are not just delicious but also versatile. You can customize them easily by adding your favorite toppings or adjusting the spice levels. Perfect for parties or casual dinners, they are sure to please everyone at your table!