Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for game day or a cozy family dinner, you’ve come to the right place! These Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders are not only delicious but also super easy to whip up. Picture this: fluffy slider buns filled with juicy shredded chicken, all smothered in zesty Frank’s hot buffalo sauce and gooey melted cheese. It’s comfort food at its finest!

What I love about these sliders is their versatility. They’re great for busy weeknights when you need something quick and satisfying, or they can steal the show at any gathering. Plus, everyone will rave about them—trust me!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Whip these up in just 35 minutes! Perfect for last-minute gatherings or when you’re short on time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will devour these spicy sliders. They’re a hit across all ages!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep the filling in advance, so when it’s time to bake, all you have to do is pop them in the oven.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of spicy buffalo sauce and creamy ranch dressing will leave your taste buds dancing.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for our Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders. You probably have most of these on hand already!

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

For the Topping

• 2 Tbsp butter
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp Italian seasoning

Variations

One of the best things about these spicy buffalo chicken sliders is how flexible they are! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have available or your personal taste preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use shredded turkey or even plant-based chicken alternatives for a lighter option.
• Add extra veggies: Toss in some diced celery or green onions for added crunch and freshness.
• Change up the cheese: Try using a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for a different flavor profile.
• Make it cheesy: Layer some cream cheese into the filling for an extra creamy texture.

How to Make Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures that your sliders bake evenly and turn out perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Mix the Chicken Filling

In a bowl, combine your shredded chicken with Frank’s buffalo hot sauce, ranch dressing, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Mixing these ingredients together creates a flavorful filling that packs a spicy punch. Ensure everything is well-coated so every bite is bursting with flavor!

Step 3: Assemble the Sliders

Place the bottom halves of your slider buns into a lined baking sheet. Spoon an equal amount of your chicken mixture onto each bun. Don’t be shy—load them up! Then sprinkle shredded cheese over each bun before topping them with their respective tops. This layering helps create that delightful melty goodness we all crave.

Step 4: Prepare the Topping

In a separate small bowl, melt your butter and mix in garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Brush this buttery mixture generously over the tops of the buns. This adds flavor and helps achieve that beautiful golden crust as they bake.

Step 5: Bake

Cover your baking sheet with foil and place it in your preheated oven. Bake for about 15 minutes before removing the foil. Then continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes until they’re lightly golden and bubbly on top. This step ensures that the cheese melts beautifully without burning.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Once baked to perfection, cut apart your sliders and serve them immediately while still warm! They pair wonderfully with sides like fresh veggies or crispy chips. Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

These sliders are a fantastic addition to any gathering, and with a few tips, you can make them even more delicious!

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: This not only saves time but also adds incredible flavor without any extra effort. Just shred the chicken from your favorite rotisserie and toss it with the sauce.

• Don’t Skimp on the Sauce: Make sure to coat the chicken generously in the hot sauce mixture. This ensures every bite is bursting with that iconic buffalo flavor.

• Experiment with Cheese: While shredded cheese is a classic choice, mixing in some blue cheese or pepper jack can add an exciting twist to your sliders.

• Toast the Buns: For added texture and flavor, lightly toast the slider buns before adding the filling. This helps prevent them from getting soggy.

• Let Them Rest: Allowing the sliders to sit for a few minutes after baking makes them easier to cut and gives the flavors time to meld together.

How to Serve Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Presentation is key when serving your spicy buffalo chicken sliders! Whether it’s a game day gathering or a family meal, here are some ideas for serving these tasty treats.

Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions: A sprinkle of fresh green onions adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness that balances out the spice.

• Sliced Jalapeños: For those who love extra heat, fresh jalapeño slices on top provide an eye-catching garnish and an additional kick.

Side Dishes

• Crispy Veggie Sticks: Carrot and celery sticks served with ranch or hummus make for a crunchy, healthy side that complements the richness of the sliders.

• Sweet Potato Fries: These provide a slightly sweet contrast to the spicy sliders. Bake or air-fry them until crispy for an irresistible side dish.

• Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw offers a refreshing crunch that pairs beautifully with the heat of the buffalo chicken, balancing out flavors perfectly.

• Potato Salad: A classic comfort food, potato salad serves as a hearty side that rounds out your meal while offering cooling notes against the spiciness.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your spicy buffalo chicken sliders will surely be a hit at any gathering! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them in advance, store leftovers, or even freeze them for later. Here’s how to manage your sliders effectively:

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover sliders in an airtight container.
• Keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To maintain freshness, consider wrapping individual sliders in plastic wrap.

Freezing

• Allow the sliders to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap each slider tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just label the bags with the date!

Reheating

• For best results, thaw the sliders overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the sliders on a baking sheet and cover with foil to prevent drying out.
• Bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders that you might have.

Can I make Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble them a day ahead, cover with foil, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.

What can I serve with Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders?

These sliders pair wonderfully with fresh veggies and dip, potato chips, or a crisp salad for a complete meal.

How spicy are Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders?

The spice level depends on how much hot sauce you use. If you’re sensitive to heat, feel free to adjust the amount of Frank’s hot sauce!

Can I use another type of sauce instead of Frank’s hot buffalo sauce?

Yes! You can experiment with different hot sauces or even barbecue sauce for a sweeter flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders as much as I do! They’re not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion—from game day gatherings to cozy family dinners. I’m sure your friends and family will love these cheesy, spicy bites. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations!