Buffalo chicken sliders are the ultimate party snack, a game-day favorite, and a great option for casual get-togethers. These bite-sized sliders combine the tangy, spicy goodness of buffalo sauce, shredded chicken, and melted cheese, all sandwiched between soft, buttery buns. They’re quick to assemble, easy to make, and, most importantly, delicious! This guide will take you step by step through the process of creating the perfect buffalo chicken sliders.
Whether you’re preparing for a large party, a family meal, or just craving something flavorful, these buffalo chicken sliders are guaranteed to be a hit. In this article, we’ll cover everything from essential ingredients and variations to serving suggestions and FAQs.
If you’re also interested in easy chicken recipes, you might love other options like Bang Bang Chicken Skewers for a deliciously different chicken appetizer.
What Are Buffalo Chicken Sliders?
Sliders, originally inspired by hamburgers, have evolved into various culinary delights, with buffalo chicken sliders being one of the most popular. They’re a handheld, mess-free alternative to the traditional buffalo chicken wings, combining the bold flavors of spicy sauce with creamy cheese. For parties, you can pair these sliders with fun chicken-based appetizers such as bang bang chicken, which features a similarly bold flavor profile. If you’re curious about the sauce, check out what bang bang chicken skewers sauce is made of.
Unlike traditional chicken wings, these sliders are easier to serve, eat, and enjoy without the mess. The balance of spicy buffalo sauce, tender chicken, and melty cheese makes these sliders a perfect handheld snack for any occasion.
Ingredients Breakdown
To make buffalo chicken sliders, you’ll need just a handful of ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of the main components and possible substitutions:
Main Ingredients:
- Shredded Chicken: About 3 ½ cups. You can use leftover chicken or a store-bought rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Buffalo Sauce: ½ cup. You can use a store-bought sauce, like Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Sauce, or make your own from scratch. If you prefer homemade, here’s a simple recipe for buffalo sauce.
- Ranch Dressing: ½ cup to add creaminess and balance out the heat.
- Honey: 2 tbsp. Adds a subtle sweetness to counterbalance the tang and heat of the buffalo sauce.
- Cheese: Mozzarella (2 cups) and Parmesan (½ cup) for that gooey, melty texture. You can swap these for other cheeses like cheddar, blue cheese, or pepper jack.
- Slider Buns: King’s Hawaiian Rolls are a great choice, but any soft, small bun will do. Need alternatives? Check out this guide on different types of slider buns.
Flavor Enhancers:
- Garlic: Adds depth to the flavor of the chicken.
- Pepper: Just a pinch to enhance the spice.
- Butter: 4 tbsp, melted to brush over the slider buns before baking.
- Italian Seasoning and Garlic Salt: These give the buns an extra layer of flavor when brushed with butter before baking.
Step-by-Step Preparation Process
Making buffalo chicken sliders is incredibly simple, and it only takes a few key steps. Here’s the detailed preparation process:
1. Shredding the Chicken
- Start with your shredded chicken. You can either use leftover chicken or shred a rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- If you’re cooking fresh chicken, boil or bake chicken breasts and use forks to shred them once they’re fully cooked.
2. Making the Buffalo Sauce
- For store-bought buffalo sauce, brands like Frank’s RedHot work well. However, you can also make your own by combining hot sauce with butter and a splash of vinegar.
- Mix the buffalo sauce with ranch dressing, honey, garlic, and pepper to create a flavorful chicken filling.
3. Assembling the Sliders
- Layer the Chicken: Place the bottom half of the buns on a baking tray. Spread the shredded chicken mixture evenly over the buns.
- Add the Cheese: Top the chicken with a generous layer of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. You can also add blue cheese or cheddar for extra flavor.
- Top with Buns: Place the top halves of the buns over the chicken and cheese.
4. Baking the Sliders
- Brush the tops of the buns with melted butter mixed with Italian seasoning and garlic salt.
- Cover the tray with foil and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until everything is hot and the cheese has melted. Remove the foil and bake for another 5 minutes to brown the tops of the buns.
Tips for the Best Buffalo Chicken Sliders
Here are some pro tips to ensure your sliders come out perfect every time:
- Use Fresh Cheese: Always grate your cheese fresh, as pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly.
- Avoid Sogginess: Ensure the chicken mixture is well-drained to prevent soggy sliders. Use the right ratio of sauce and chicken to keep everything moist but not drenched.
- Toast the Buns: If you want extra crispy bottoms, toast the buns lightly before assembling.
- Adjust Spiciness: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of buffalo sauce or mix in more ranch dressing. For spicier sliders, consider adding cayenne pepper or using a hotter buffalo sauce.
Variations of Buffalo Chicken Sliders
While the traditional buffalo chicken sliders are amazing, there are plenty of ways to customize them to suit your taste:
Cheese Variations:
- Swap out the mozzarella for cheddar, pepper jack, or blue cheese crumbles. These options provide a richer, bolder flavor.
- For a deeper dive into melting cheeses, check out this guide on the best cheese for melting.
Bun Options:
- While King’s Hawaiian Rolls are popular for their soft texture and slight sweetness, you can also use brioche, pretzel buns, or gluten-free buns for different textures and dietary needs.
Buffalo Chicken Slider Spin-Offs:
- Try adding bacon or caramelized onions to the sliders for extra richness.
- Experiment with different sauces, like BBQ or honey mustard, for a non-spicy version.
- Create vegetarian sliders by using buffalo-flavored tofu or jackfruit as a substitute for chicken.
Best Sides and Pairings
Pairing the right side dishes with buffalo chicken sliders can elevate the meal. Here are some ideas:
- Celery and Carrot Sticks: Classic sides that balance the heat of the buffalo sauce with a crisp, refreshing crunch.
- Fries or Tater Tots: A hearty, starchy side that complements the sliders.
- Dips and Sauces: Serve with extra ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, or more buffalo sauce for dipping.
- Pickles: Their tangy flavor helps to cut through the richness of the chicken and cheese.
How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Sliders
Serving your buffalo chicken sliders can make a big difference in presentation and enjoyment, especially for parties. Here are some ideas:
- Platter Presentation: Arrange the sliders on a large platter with celery and carrot sticks on the side.
- Keep Them Warm: Use a warming tray or cover the sliders with foil to keep them warm for guests.
- Party-Ready: Pre-cut the sliders for easy serving and let guests add extra toppings like pickles, lettuce, or tomatoes if they prefer.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Although buffalo chicken sliders are best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers for up to two days in an airtight container. Here’s how to reheat them without sacrificing quality:
- In the Oven: Reheat the sliders at 325°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- In the Microwave: Heat them in 30-second intervals until warm, but be cautious, as the buns can become soggy if microwaved for too long.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make buffalo chicken sliders ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the sliders ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Wait to brush the buns with butter and bake until you’re ready to serve.
What kind of chicken works best for buffalo sliders?
Rotisserie chicken is convenient, but any leftover or shredded chicken works well. You can also cook chicken breasts and shred them for the recipe.
How do I keep the sliders from getting soggy?
Make sure to drain the chicken mixture well and avoid overloading the sliders with sauce. Toasting the buns before assembling can also help maintain their structure.
Can I make these sliders gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free slider buns, and ensure your buffalo sauce and seasonings are gluten-free as well.
Can I use a different sauce besides buffalo?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of spicy food, swap the buffalo sauce for BBQ sauce, honey mustard, or even teriyaki for a completely different flavor profile.
Conclusion
In conclusion, buffalo chicken sliders are the perfect choice for parties, game days, or simple family meals. They offer the right balance of spicy, tangy flavors combined with creamy cheese and tender chicken. Plus, they’re customizable, easy to make, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Remember, you can tweak the ingredients to suit your taste, whether it’s making them extra spicy, using different cheeses, or opting for alternative buns. The key is to enjoy the process of making them and serving them to your guests or family.
So the next time you’re planning a party or a laid-back dinner, consider adding these delicious buffalo chicken sliders to your menu. They’re bound to disappear in no time!