Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

These Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders are perfect for any occasion, from game day gatherings to casual family dinners. Their mouthwatering combination of tender shredded chicken smothered in Frank’s hot buffalo sauce and gooey cheese will have everyone coming back for more. Easy to make and packed with flavor, these sliders are a guaranteed hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Simple: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these sliders in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The mix of spicy buffalo sauce and creamy ranch dressing creates a deliciously bold taste.
• Perfect for Sharing: These sliders are great for parties, making them an ideal appetizer or main dish.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the spice level or add your favorite toppings to suit your taste.
• Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love these sliders, making them a family favorite.

Tools and Preparation

To make these spicy buffalo chicken sliders, you’ll need a few essential tools that ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowl
• Pastry brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: This is essential for even baking and easy cleanup when making your sliders.
• Parchment paper: It prevents sticking and makes it easier to remove the sliders after baking.
• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to combine all the ingredients thoroughly without mess.
• Pastry brush: Perfect for applying melted butter on top of the buns, ensuring they bake up golden brown.

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 (175°C). Line a 9×9 baking sheet or casserole dish with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine:
1 1/2 cups of shredded chicken
1/2 cup of Frank’s buffalo hot sauce
2 tablespoons of ranch dressing
½ teaspoon of salt
¼ teaspoon of ground black pepper
½ teaspoon of garlic powder
¼ teaspoon of paprika

Mix well until the chicken is evenly coated with the spicy buffalo sauce.

Step 3: Assemble the Sliders

Place the bottoms of the slider buns on the lined baking sheet. Evenly distribute the chicken mixture across all buns. Top each with shredded cheese before placing the top buns back on.

Step 4: Brush with Butter Mixture

In a small bowl, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add:
½ teaspoon of garlic powder
¼ teaspoon of Italian seasoning

Brush this mixture generously over the tops of the slider buns using a pastry brush.

Step 5: Bake in Oven

Cover your baking sheet with foil and bake at 350°F for about 15 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until lightly golden and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Once done, cut through the sliders and serve immediately. Enjoy your homemade spicy buffalo chicken sliders while they’re still warm!

How to Serve Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders are perfect for gatherings, game days, or even a cozy night in. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your slider experience.

Pair with Dipping Sauces

• Ranch Dressing: A classic pairing that complements the heat of the buffalo sauce.
• Blue Cheese Dressing: For those who love a tangy finish, blue cheese adds depth to each bite.

Accompany with Fresh Veggies

• Celery Sticks: Crisp and refreshing, they help balance the spiciness.
• Carrot Sticks: Sweet and crunchy, carrots are a great addition that kids will love.

Add a Crunchy Side Salad

• Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw provides a cool contrast to the spicy flavors of the sliders.
• Garden Salad: A light garden salad can freshen up your meal and add color to the table.

Serve on a Platter

• Buffalo Style: Arrange sliders on a large platter for easy access and visual appeal.
• Mini Flags: Use toothpick flags for each slider to make them festive and fun!

How to Perfect Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Making Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders is simple, but here are some tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and quality hot sauce significantly enhance flavor.
• Shred Chicken Well: Ensure chicken is shredded finely for even distribution of flavor.
• Don’t Overfill Buns: Keep the filling balanced so that buns don’t become soggy or fall apart.
• Keep an Eye on Baking Time: Watch closely during the last few minutes in the oven for perfect golden tops.

Best Side Dishes for Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Serving side dishes alongside your Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options:

1. French Fries: Crispy fries are always a hit; try seasoning them with garlic for extra flavor.
2. Potato Wedges: Oven-baked potato wedges with herbs can add a hearty touch without being too heavy.
3. Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese pairs wonderfully with spicy flavors; consider adding jalapeños for added heat!
4. Sweet Potato Fries: These provide a slightly sweet contrast to the spice and are packed with nutrients.
5. Onion Rings: Crispy onion rings offer a satisfying crunch that complements sliders nicely.
6. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds freshness and sweetness; drizzle with butter for extra indulgence.
7. Baked Beans: Their smokiness balances well with spicy dishes and is a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
8. Stuffed Peppers: Consider small stuffed peppers filled with cheese or rice as a colorful side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders can be easy, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Overcooking the chicken – Using pre-cooked chicken is convenient, but overcooking can dry it out. Shred and mix with sauce just until heated through.
• Ignoring seasoning – Not seasoning the chicken mix enough can result in bland sliders. Taste the mixture before filling the buns and adjust as needed.
• Using stale slider buns – Freshness matters! Stale buns won’t hold up well. Always use soft, fresh slider buns for the best texture.
• Skipping the butter brushing – This step adds flavor and helps create a golden top. Don’t skip it; brush melted butter on top of the buns for a delicious finish.
• Not covering while baking – Covering with foil prevents burning while allowing the cheese to melt perfectly. Remove foil only in the last minutes of baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover sliders in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

• Wrap individual sliders tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Place wrapped sliders in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F and bake covered for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat on medium power for 30-60 seconds, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop – In a skillet over medium heat, add a little butter and heat sliders until warm, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing and enjoying these spicy buffalo chicken sliders.

Can I use other sauces for the sliders?

Yes! While Frank’s hot buffalo sauce is a classic choice, you can experiment with other hot sauces or even barbecue sauce for different flavors.

How can I make these sliders less spicy?

To reduce the heat, use less hot sauce or mix in additional ranch dressing. This will still keep them flavorful without too much spice.

What sides pair well with Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders?

These sliders go great with celery sticks, carrot sticks, or a fresh salad. You could also serve them with chips or fries for a hearty meal.

Can I prepare these sliders ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble them and store them in the fridge before baking. Just remember to cover them tightly.

Final Thoughts

These Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders are not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit any gathering. You can customize them by adding your favorite toppings like jalapeños or avocado. Give this recipe a try; your family and friends will love every bite!