Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

These spicy buffalo chicken sliders are my go to party appetizer when I want something comforting with a kick. Soft slider buns are packed with juicy shredded chicken all tossed in tangy buffalo sauce and plenty of gooey cheese then baked until golden and melty. They disappear in minutes every time I put them out because each bite has a satisfying blend of heat creaminess and buttery crunch.

I started making these sliders to bring to our annual neighborhood potluck a few years ago and now my friends ask for them at every gathering. The mix of spicy tangy and cheesy never fails to win everyone over.

Ingredients

• Slider buns: the soft and fluffy kind makes the perfect vessel for messy fillings look for ones that feel pillowy when you squeeze the pack
• Shredded chicken: use leftover roasted or store bought rotisserie for easiest prep check for moisture to avoid dry sliders
• Franks buffalo hot sauce: brings classic buffalo flavor with tang and heat the authentic choice for that craveable taste
• Ranch dressing: creamy and herby balances the heat of the buffalo sauce try to use a thicker refrigerated variety for best results
• Salt: makes other flavors pop use fine sea salt for even seasoning
• Ground black pepper: adds bite freshly cracked gives better aroma
• Garlic powder: amps up the savoriness look for a fine powder that blends well
• Paprika: adds smoky depth choose a bright red paprika for best color
• Shredded cheese: melts into gooey goodness cheddar or mozzarella both work well shred your own for best melt
• Butter: key for a golden finish use unsalted and melt gently
• Garlic powder for the butter: more savory punch
• Italian seasoning: a touch of herbs to the butter adds extra aroma opt for a blend with visible green flakes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Baking Dish:

Line a nine inch square baking dish or similar casserole with parchment this prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.

Mix the Chicken Filling:

In a large bowl combine shredded chicken buffalo sauce ranch salt black pepper garlic powder and paprika. Use a sturdy spoon to toss until every bit of chicken is coated and glossy with sauce.

Build the Sliders:

Place the bottom halves of the slider buns into your prepared dish arranging them snugly so there are no gaps. Scoop the chicken mixture evenly across all the buns and gently press down so the filling sits flat. Sprinkle shredded cheese generously over the chicken making sure to spread it all the way to the edges. Top with the remaining bun halves to complete your slider rows.

Brush with Garlic Butter:

Melt the butter then stir in garlic powder and Italian seasoning until the herbs are well distributed. Using a pastry brush coat the tops of the buns with the buttery mixture ensuring full coverage for flavor and a shiny finish.

Bake Covered:

Drape foil loosely over the baking dish and transfer to the oven. Bake at three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit for fifteen minutes this allows the cheese to melt and the chicken to heat through without drying the buns.

Finish Baking Uncovered:

Remove the foil and continue baking for another five to ten minutes. Watch closely for golden tops and bubbling cheese at the edges this is when the sliders are perfectly done.

Serve Hot:

Cut the sliders apart using a sharp knife and serve immediately while the cheese is still hot and stringy. Add extra ranch or celery sticks on the side if you like.

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My personal favorite part is the way the buttery tops become slightly crispy once baked. My family always fights over the edge pieces where the cheese caramelizes along the pan.

Storage Tips

If you have any leftovers store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat place covered in a low oven about three hundred degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through this keeps the buns from getting tough or soggy. Avoid microwaving as buns may become chewy.

Ingredient Substitutions

No rotisserie chicken on hand You can quickly poach chicken breasts in salted water then shred once cool. For cheese you can use Monterey Jack Colby or even pepper jack if you want extra heat. If buffalo sauce is not available mix hot sauce with a bit of melted butter for a similar effect.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these hot with extra dipping sauces like blue cheese or more ranch. Celery sticks or carrot sticks on the side help cool things off and add a crunchy balance. For a complete meal pair with a crisp green salad or a creamy potato salad.

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Cultural and Historical Context

Buffalo chicken flavor originated in Buffalo New York and is a favorite for American sports gatherings and casual get togethers. Turning the classic wings into sliders gives you all the fun and flavor with much less mess and makes them easy to share.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of chicken works best?

Cooked and shredded rotisserie or poached chicken breast combines easily with the buffalo sauce and stays juicy in the oven.

→ How spicy are these sliders?

The heat depends on the buffalo sauce. For milder flavor, use less hot sauce or blend with extra ranch dressing before assembly.

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

You can prep the filling in advance and assemble just before baking. For best texture, bake right before serving.

→ What cheese is recommended?

Shredded mozzarella or cheddar both melt beautifully. For extra flavor, try a blend of gouda or Monterey Jack.

→ What goes well as a side dish?

Serve with celery sticks, carrot strips, fries, or a crisp side salad to balance the spicy, savory flavors.