Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

These Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders are perfect for any gathering, from game day parties to casual weeknight dinners. With fluffy slider buns stuffed with juicy shredded chicken, all slathered in Frank’s hot buffalo sauce and topped with melted cheese, these sliders deliver a flavor punch that everyone will love. They are not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making them an ideal choice for busy cooks looking to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Prep: These sliders can be assembled in just 10 minutes, allowing you more time to enjoy your company.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The spicy kick combined with cheesy goodness makes them a hit at any party or family meal.
• Versatile: Perfect as an appetizer or main course, they pair well with various sides like veggies or salads.
• Easy Cleanup: With just one baking sheet needed, cleanup is a breeze after enjoying these tasty sliders.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the spice level or toppings according to your preferences for a personalized touch.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these spicy buffalo chicken sliders:

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: This is essential for evenly baking your sliders and ensuring they come out perfectly golden.
• Parchment paper: It prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier; no one wants to scrub off baked-on cheese!
• Mixing bowl: A good mixing bowl is crucial for combining the ingredients efficiently without spills.
• Pastry brush: Use this tool to apply melted butter evenly over the buns for that irresistible golden finish.

Ingredients

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

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 to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:
1. Shredded chicken
2. Hot sauce
3. Ranch dressing
4. Salt
5. Pepper
6. Garlic powder
7. Paprika

Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Sliders

Place the bottom halves of the slider buns into the prepared baking sheet. Evenly distribute the chicken mixture across all buns, then top with shredded cheese. Close each slider with their respective top buns.

Step 4: Add Topping Mix

In a small bowl, mix together melted butter, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Brush this mixture generously over the tops of the slider buns using your pastry brush.

Step 5: Bake

Cover the baking sheet with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes until lightly golden and cheese has melted.

Step 6: Serve

Once done, cut into individual sliders and serve immediately while they’re still hot, alongside your favorite sides!

How to Serve Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

These spicy buffalo chicken sliders are perfect for gatherings, game days, or any casual get-together. They are easy to make and can be served in various ways to enhance the flavor experience.

Pair with Fresh Veggies

• Carrot Sticks – Crunchy and refreshing, these add a nice contrast to the spicy flavors.
• Celery Sticks – Perfect for dipping in ranch dressing, adding extra crunch and freshness.

Accompany with Dips

• Ranch Dressing – A classic pairing that complements the heat of the buffalo sauce.
• Blue Cheese Dressing – Offers a rich and tangy flavor that balances the spice.

Serve with Pickles

• Dill Pickles – Their briny taste cuts through the richness of the sliders, making each bite delightful.
• Pickled Jalapeños – For those who want an extra kick, these add both spice and tang.

Add Some Crunch

• Potato Chips – Simple and satisfying, they provide a crunchy texture alongside the soft sliders.
• Coleslaw – Creamy slaw adds a coolness that pairs well with spicy flavors.

How to Perfect Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

To ensure your spicy buffalo chicken sliders turn out delicious every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh chicken and high-quality hot sauce will elevate the flavor profile.
• Monitor Baking Time – Keep an eye on your sliders to avoid over-baking; you want them golden but not dry.
• Mix Sauce Well – Ensure even distribution of hot sauce and ranch by mixing thoroughly before adding to buns.
• Customize Heat Levels – Adjust the amount of hot sauce based on your spice tolerance for a more personalized slider.
• Cheese Choices Matter – Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for an added kick or mozzarella for a milder option.

Best Side Dishes for Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Complement your spicy buffalo chicken sliders with these delicious side dishes that will enhance your meal experience.

1. French Fries – Crispy and golden, fries are a classic side that everyone loves. Consider serving them with garlic aioli.
2. Sweet Potato Fries – A healthier twist that provides sweetness to balance the spiciness of the sliders.
3. Garden Salad – A fresh mix of greens helps cleanse the palate between bites of spicy goodness.
4. Corn on the Cob – Grilled or boiled, corn adds sweetness and is great for summer gatherings.
5. Macaroni Salad – Creamy pasta salad serves as a comforting side that pairs well with buffalo flavors.
6. Baked Beans – Their smoky sweetness complements spicy dishes beautifully while adding protein.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can make your spicy buffalo chicken sliders even better! Here are some mistakes to steer clear of:

• Boldly Overcooking the Chicken: Using chicken that is overcooked can make it dry. Always cook the chicken just until it’s done and shred it carefully.
• Boldly Skipping the Seasoning: Not seasoning the filling can lead to bland sliders. Be sure to add salt, pepper, and spices to enhance flavor.
• Boldly Ignoring the Cheese: Forgetting to add cheese results in less creamy sliders. Incorporate shredded cheese generously for a rich taste.
• Boldly Using Stale Buns: Old slider buns can ruin the texture. Always use fresh buns for a soft and fluffy bite.
• Boldly Baking Without Foil: Not covering the sliders while baking can lead to over-browning. Use foil for part of the baking time to keep them moist.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

• Wrap individual sliders tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, wrap sliders in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place sliders on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 30-60 seconds or until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, covering with a lid for about 5 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about spicy buffalo chicken sliders:

What type of chicken should I use for Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders?

You can use rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken breast that you shred. Both options work well and save time!

Can I make Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the filling a day ahead, store it in the fridge, and then assemble and bake when ready.

How do I customize my Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders?

Feel free to add toppings like sliced jalapeños or avocado for extra flavor. You could also swap ranch dressing for blue cheese dressing if desired.

What sides pair well with Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders?

These sliders go great with celery sticks, carrot sticks, or a fresh salad. Chips or fries are also fantastic companions!

Final Thoughts

Spicy buffalo chicken sliders are not only delicious but also versatile! You can easily customize them with your favorite toppings or adjust the spice level according to your taste. Try making this recipe for your next gathering; it’s sure to impress!