Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Introduction

Buffalo Chicken Sliders are the perfect combination of spicy, tangy, and savory flavors all packed into a bite-sized sandwich. These sliders are made with tender shredded chicken coated in a zesty buffalo sauce and served on soft slider buns, often topped with creamy ranch or blue cheese dressing to balance the heat.

I first made these sliders for a game day gathering, and they were an immediate crowd-pleaser. The tangy kick from the buffalo sauce paired with the coolness of the dressing created the ideal balance, and they disappeared in no time. The best part about these sliders is how versatile they are—you can adjust the heat to your liking by adding more or less buffalo sauce, and you can even customize the toppings to suit everyone’s taste.

What’s great about these Buffalo Chicken Sliders is that they’re quick and easy to prepare, making them the perfect option for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a simple meal, these sliders will surely be a hit with guests and family alike!

Perfect for:

• Game day parties
• Casual gatherings
• Quick weeknight dinners
• Spicy food lovers

Why You’ll Love This Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Here’s why you’ll love making Buffalo Chicken Sliders:

• Bold and Flavorful: The buffalo sauce adds a tangy and spicy kick, making these sliders a flavorful treat.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is simple and can be made in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of spicy chicken and creamy dressing makes these sliders a hit with everyone.
• Customizable: Adjust the level of spice by controlling the amount of buffalo sauce, and add toppings like pickles or cheese for extra flavor.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Leftover buffalo chicken can be used in wraps, salads, or even added to pasta for a quick meal.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 12 sliders
• Calories per serving: Approximately 200-250 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 15g, Carbs: 20g, Fat: 10g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Buffalo Chicken Sliders:

• 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken (about 2 chicken breasts)
• 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 12 slider buns
• 1/4 cup ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing (optional)
• 1 tablespoon butter (for toasting buns)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• Lettuce, pickles, or other preferred toppings (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Shredded Chicken: Tender, flavorful chicken is the base of this dish, and using cooked chicken makes it quick and easy to prepare.
• Buffalo Sauce: The key to these sliders’ signature spicy flavor, buffalo sauce adds heat and a tangy punch.
• Ranch or Blue Cheese Dressing: A creamy dressing helps cool down the heat from the buffalo sauce and adds extra richness.
• Slider Buns: Soft, pillowy slider buns provide the perfect vessel to hold the spicy chicken and other toppings.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Buffalo Chicken Sliders:

Prepare the Buffalo Chicken:

1. Shred the Chicken: If you haven’t done so already, cook the chicken breasts (either by boiling, baking, or using a slow cooker) and shred the meat using two forks or a stand mixer.
2. Combine Chicken and Buffalo Sauce: In a medium bowl, toss the shredded chicken with the buffalo sauce until fully coated. If you like it spicier, add more sauce to taste.
3. Toast the Buns: Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Place the slider buns cut side down and toast until golden brown, about 1-2 minutes.
4. Assemble the Sliders: Place a spoonful of the buffalo chicken on the bottom half of each toasted slider bun. Top with a dollop of ranch or blue cheese dressing if desired.
5. Add Toppings: Add any additional toppings you like, such as shredded lettuce, pickles, or cheese.
6. Serve: Place the top bun on each slider and serve immediately.

How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Buffalo Chicken Sliders are great for a variety of occasions and can be served in several ways:

• With Chips or Fries: Serve alongside your favorite crispy side dishes for a classic pairing.
• As Party Snacks: Serve the sliders on a platter as finger food for a party or casual get-together.
• With Celery and Carrots: Balance the heat of the buffalo sauce with a side of fresh vegetables and ranch dip.
• As a Meal: Serve these sliders with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a more substantial meal.

Additional Tips for Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Here are some tips to ensure your Buffalo Chicken Sliders are perfect every time:

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quick and easy option, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. Shred it and toss it in your favorite Buffalo sauce for extra flavor with minimal effort.
• Customize the Spice Level: Adjust the heat of your Buffalo sauce to suit your taste. Add more hot sauce for extra spice or reduce it for a milder flavor.
• Add Blue Cheese or Ranch: For extra creaminess, top your sliders with crumbled blue cheese or a drizzle of ranch dressing to balance out the heat from the Buffalo sauce.
• Toast the Buns: Lightly butter and toast the slider buns for a golden, crispy texture that adds more flavor and helps prevent sogginess.
• Use Shredded Cheese: Melt some shredded cheddar or mozzarella on top of the chicken before assembling the sliders to create a cheesy, gooey center.
• Incorporate Celery: Add some finely chopped celery to the chicken mixture for added crunch and a refreshing contrast to the heat of the Buffalo sauce.
• Serve with Pickles: Tangy dill pickles can cut through the richness of the Buffalo sauce and add a zesty flavor to your sliders.
• Try Different Buns: Experiment with different types of buns like Hawaiian rolls for a sweet contrast or brioche for extra softness.
• Make a Buffalo Chicken Dip: If you have leftover chicken and sauce, mix them into a creamy dip for an easy and delicious appetizer.
• Pair with Sides: Serve your Buffalo chicken sliders with crispy fries, sweet potato fries, or a fresh green salad to balance the meal..

Recipe Variations for Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Here are 5 variations you can try for Buffalo Chicken Sliders:

• BBQ Chicken Sliders: Swap the buffalo sauce for barbecue sauce for a tangy and smoky flavor.
• Buffalo Chicken and Cheese Sliders: Add a slice of provolone, cheddar, or mozzarella cheese for a melty, cheesy twist.
• Spicy Chicken Sliders: Add chopped jalapeños or chili flakes to the buffalo chicken for an extra spicy kick.
• Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option, serve the buffalo chicken in lettuce leaves instead of slider buns.
• Crispy Chicken Sliders: Use breaded and fried chicken tenders instead of shredded chicken for a crispy version of the sliders.

Freezing and Storage for Buffalo Chicken Sliders

• Freezing: The buffalo chicken filling can be frozen for up to 3 months. Simply place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating and assembling the sliders.
• Storage: Leftover sliders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave or in the oven for a few minutes before serving.

Special Equipment for Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Buffalo Chicken Sliders easier:

• Skillet or Griddle: To toast the buns and keep them crispy.
• Shredder or Forks: For shredding cooked chicken quickly and easily.
• Oven or Toaster Oven: If you want to melt cheese on your sliders, use the oven to quickly toast them.

Frequently Asked Questions for Buffalo Chicken Sliders

1. Can I use ground chicken instead of shredded chicken?
   Yes, ground chicken works well too, just cook it thoroughly before mixing with the buffalo sauce.
2. Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the buffalo chicken and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days before assembling the sliders.
3. How can I make these sliders spicier?
   Add more buffalo sauce, sprinkle in some cayenne pepper, or include sliced jalapeños for added heat.
4. Can I use a different sauce instead of buffalo sauce?
   Yes, you can use BBQ sauce, teriyaki sauce, or any other sauce you prefer for different flavor profiles.
5. Can I make these sliders vegetarian?
   Yes, substitute the chicken with a plant-based protein, such as tofu or a veggie patty, and add the buffalo sauce for flavor.

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Conclusion

Buffalo Chicken Sliders are a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With their spicy kick, creamy dressing, and tender chicken, they offer a delicious combination of textures and flavors that are sure to satisfy any craving. Whether served for game day, a casual meal, or as party snacks, these sliders are a crowd-pleaser you’ll want to make again and again.

This recipe is as simple to prepare as it is satisfying, making it ideal for everything from a quick weeknight dinner to a gathering with friends. With the perfect balance of spice and creaminess, these sliders are sure to be a hit every time.

I’d love to see how your Buffalo Chicken Sliders turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!