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This buffalo chicken slider recipe brings a perfect game day appetizer or casual dinner option to your table. The combination of spicy, tangy buffalo chicken with melted cheese on soft slider buns creates an irresistible treat that disappears faster than you can make them.
I first made these sliders for a last minute Super Bowl gathering, and they were such a hit that they've become my most requested contribution to potlucks. The combination of that signature buffalo heat with creamy cheese makes them completely addictive.
Ingredients
- Slider buns the foundation of this recipe, look for fresh, soft ones that will hold up to the filling
- Shredded chicken use rotisserie chicken for convenience and extra flavor
- Franks buffalo hot sauce the authentic buffalo wing flavor, adjust amount based on heat preference
- Ranch dressing adds creaminess to balance the heat, use good quality for best results
- Salt enhances all the flavors in the recipe
- Ground black pepper provides subtle background heat
- Garlic powder adds depth without overpowering, fresh garlic would be too intense here
- Paprika brings color and mild smokiness to the filling
- Shredded cheese binds everything together, a cheddar blend works best
- Butter creates that golden top crust, unsalted allows better control of flavor
- Italian seasoning complements the buffalo flavor with herbal notes
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat The Oven
- Set your oven to 350°F to ensure even cooking throughout. Line your baking dish with parchment paper which prevents sticking and makes cleanup significantly easier. The 9×9 size is perfect for standard slider buns.
- Prepare The Buffalo Chicken Filling
- Combine your shredded chicken with the buffalo sauce, ranch, and seasonings in a large bowl. Mix thoroughly until every piece of chicken is evenly coated with the sauce mixture. The consistency should be moist but not dripping wet. This filling is the heart of the recipe so take your time mixing.
- Assemble The Base
- Place the bottom halves of your slider buns in your prepared baking dish. Keep them connected rather than separating them which helps maintain moisture during baking. The bottoms should fit snugly in your dish.
- Add Filling And Cheese
- Distribute the buffalo chicken mixture evenly across all bun bottoms. Press down gently to create a level surface. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the chicken mixture, making sure to cover completely for that perfect melty layer.
- Top And Butter
- Place the top halves of the buns over the cheese layer. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with garlic powder and Italian seasoning until well combined. Use a pastry brush to generously coat the tops of the buns with this flavorful butter mixture.
- Bake To Perfection
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes which allows the filling to heat through and the cheese to begin melting without burning the tops. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 5 to 10 minutes until the tops are golden brown and the cheese is completely melted and bubbling.
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The Frank's hot sauce is truly the star ingredient in this recipe. My family has a tradition of buffalo chicken dishes for every major sporting event, and I've learned that nothing quite replicates that distinctive tangy heat. When I make these for my kids, I sometimes reduce the hot sauce slightly and increase the ranch to create a milder version they love just as much.
Make Ahead Options
These sliders work wonderfully as a make ahead option. You can prepare the entire recipe up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply add about 5 extra minutes to the covered baking time to ensure they heat all the way through. The flavors actually develop nicely when allowed to rest, making this a perfect option for busy hosts.
Serving Suggestions
Buffalo chicken sliders pair perfectly with cooling side dishes that balance their spiciness. Serve alongside celery and carrot sticks with blue cheese dressing for a classic buffalo wing experience. A simple coleslaw provides wonderful textural contrast, while potato chips offer a satisfying crunch. For a more substantial meal, add a green salad or french fries on the side. These sliders are also excellent with pickles which cut through the richness.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you prefer a milder option, substitute part of the buffalo sauce with barbecue sauce for a sweeter profile. Blue cheese dressing works wonderfully in place of ranch for a more traditional buffalo flavor combination. For a lighter version, use ground chicken breast or turkey instead of shredded chicken. Vegetarians can substitute jackfruit or cauliflower for the chicken. Gluten free slider buns work well for those with dietary restrictions, and dairy free cheese can replace conventional cheese for a lactose free version.
Your Questions Answered About This Recipe
- → Can I use rotisserie chicken for these buffalo sliders?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves preparation time. Simply shred the meat from a store-bought rotisserie chicken and proceed with the recipe as directed. It's a convenient shortcut that doesn't sacrifice flavor.
- → How spicy are these buffalo chicken sliders?
With 1/2 cup of Frank's buffalo hot sauce, these sliders have a moderate kick. If you prefer less heat, reduce the hot sauce to 1/3 cup and increase the ranch dressing. For extra spicy sliders, add a dash of cayenne pepper to the chicken mixture.
- → What sides pair well with buffalo chicken sliders?
These sliders pair wonderfully with fresh vegetable sticks and blue cheese dip, potato chips, coleslaw, or a simple green salad. For a complete meal, consider serving with sweet potato fries or a light potato salad.
- → Can I make these buffalo chicken sliders ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken mixture up to a day in advance and store it refrigerated. Assemble the sliders just before baking. Alternatively, assemble completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 4 hours before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the covered baking time.
- → What cheese works best for buffalo chicken sliders?
Mozzarella, cheddar, or a combination of both work wonderfully. Monterey Jack offers nice meltability with mild flavor. For an authentic buffalo chicken experience, consider using crumbled blue cheese or a mixture of blue cheese and mozzarella.
- → How do I store and reheat leftover sliders?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 325°F oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through, or wrap individual sliders in a damp paper towel and microwave for 30-45 seconds. The oven method helps maintain the bread's texture better than microwaving.