Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

These Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders are perfect for any gathering, whether it’s game day or a casual get-together. With fluffy slider buns filled with juicy shredded chicken tossed in Frank’s hot buffalo sauce, these sliders pack a flavorful punch. Baked to cheesy perfection, they make for a delightful appetizer or main course that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe is simple to follow, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavor: The combination of buffalo sauce and ranch dressing creates a deliciously spicy and tangy experience.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve these sliders as an appetizer, main dish, or even at a party to impress your guests!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike enjoy the tasty flavors of buffalo chicken in a fun slider format.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the filling ahead of time and assemble the sliders when you’re ready to bake.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare these spicy buffalo chicken sliders, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet or casserole dish
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowl
• Pastry brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet or casserole dish: Provides an even cooking surface for the sliders, ensuring they bake uniformly.
• Parchment paper: Helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining all the ingredients efficiently without mess.
• Pastry brush: Ideal for evenly applying butter and seasonings on top of the buns.

Ingredients

For the Sliders

• 9 pack slider buns
• 1 1/2 cups shredded chicken
• 1/2 cup Franks 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. Line a 9×9 baking sheet or casserole dish with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Chicken Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. Shredded chicken
2. Frank’s hot buffalo sauce
3. Ranch dressing
4. Salt
5. Ground black pepper
6. Garlic powder
7. Paprika

Stir until all ingredients are well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Sliders

Place the bottom halves of the slider buns in the lined baking sheet. Evenly divide the chicken mixture among all buns.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Top Buns

Sprinkle shredded cheese over the chicken filling, then place the top halves of the slider buns on each filled bottom.

Step 5: Prepare Garlic Butter Mixture

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

Step 6: Bake the Sliders

Cover your baking sheet with foil and bake in preheated oven for 15 minutes. After that, remove the foil and continue baking for another 5–10 minutes until lightly golden brown and cheese is melted.

Step 7: Serve Hot

Once baked, cut each slider apart and serve immediately while hot! Enjoy your spicy buffalo chicken sliders with your favorite sides!

How to Serve Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders are perfect for gatherings, game days, or casual dinners. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your sliders.

Pair with Dipping Sauces

• Ranch Dressing: A cool and creamy complement that balances the heat of the buffalo sauce.
• Blue Cheese Dressing: For those who love a classic pairing with buffalo flavors.
• Honey Mustard: Adds a sweet twist that pairs well with the spice.

Add Fresh Vegetables

• Celery Sticks: Crisp and refreshing; they help cleanse the palate between bites.
• Carrot Sticks: Sweet and crunchy, they provide a nice contrast to the spicy chicken.
• Pickles: Tangy pickles add an extra layer of flavor and crunch.

Include a Side Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic choice with romaine, croutons, and parmesan that complements the sliders well.
• Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw adds a crunchy texture and balances out the spices.

How to Perfect Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

To make your Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders truly unforgettable, follow these tips for perfection.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh chicken and high-quality buns for the best taste.
• Adjust Spice Level: Modify the amount of Frank’s hot sauce based on your spice tolerance.
• Let Cheese Melt Fully: Ensure you bake until the cheese is gooey for optimal flavor and texture.
• Experiment with Toppings: Try adding jalapeños or avocado slices for added flavor and creaminess.

Best Side Dishes for Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

To round out your meal, consider these delicious side dishes that pair perfectly with Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders.

1. French Fries: Crispy fries are always a hit; try tossing them in garlic seasoning for an extra kick.
2. Sweet Potato Fries: A healthier alternative that brings sweetness to balance the spice.
3. Potato Wedges: Seasoned wedges provide a hearty side option that complements the sliders.
4. Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese offers comfort and richness alongside spicy flavors.
5. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and is easy to prepare.
6. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips with fresh salsa bring a fun, casual vibe to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making spicy buffalo chicken sliders, it’s easy to miss a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality ingredients can affect the flavor. Always opt for fresh chicken and high-quality buffalo sauce.
• Overfilling the sliders: Stuffing too much filling into each slider can lead to messy servings. Keep portions balanced for easy handling.
• Not preheating the oven: Skipping this step can result in uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to ensure consistent baking.
• Skipping the butter brush: Not brushing the tops of the buns with seasoned butter can leave them dry. This step adds flavor and keeps the buns moist.
• Underestimating cook time: Rushing through the baking process might lead to insufficient melting of cheese. Follow timing carefully for gooey perfection.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

• Wrap sliders individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30-60 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, flipping occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about spicy buffalo chicken sliders that may help you prepare this tasty dish.

How can I customize Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders?

You can add different toppings like pickles or jalapeños for extra flavor. Consider using different sauces or cheeses based on your preference.

Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?

Yes! Using rotisserie chicken will save time and still provide great flavor for your spicy buffalo chicken sliders.

What sides pair well with Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders?

These sliders go well with celery sticks, carrot sticks, or a fresh salad on the side.

How do I make these sliders less spicy?

To reduce spiciness, use less hot sauce or mix it with more ranch dressing. You can also choose a milder buffalo sauce variant.

Final Thoughts

These spicy buffalo chicken sliders are perfect for game day gatherings or family dinners. Their mouthwatering flavors and cheesy goodness make them irresistible. Feel free to customize them with your favorite toppings or sauces to suit your taste. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try!