Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders Recipe

If you love bold, fiery flavors packed into bite-sized goodness, then you are absolutely going to adore these Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders. This recipe takes tender shredded chicken and smothers it in a tangy, spicy buffalo sauce, balanced perfectly by cool ranch dressing and melted cheese, all nestled inside soft, buttery slider buns. These sliders are not only a game-day favorite but also ideal for casual get-togethers or whenever you need a quick bite that delivers big on flavor. The combination of heat, creaminess, and melty cheese will have you coming back for more, making Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders a true crowd-pleaser and personal favorite to share with friends and family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is wonderfully simple but relies on a handful of key ingredients that bring the perfect taste, texture, and color to your Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders. Each component plays a crucial role—from the spicy buffalo sauce that gives the dish its signature kick to the garlic butter that adds a golden, fragrant finish to the buns.

• 9 pack slider buns: Choose soft, fluffy buns as the perfect vessel to hold all the delicious filling without falling apart.
• 1 1/2 cups shredded chicken: Cooked and shredded chicken forms the hearty and protein-packed base of the filling.
• 1/2 cup Franks buffalo hot sauce: This classic buffalo sauce brings tangy spice and unforgettable flavor.
• 2 Tbsp ranch dressing: Adds a cool, creamy balance to the heat of the buffalo sauce.
• ½ tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors to make them pop.
• ¼ tsp ground black pepper: Provides subtle heat and depth.
• ½ tsp garlic powder: Infuses a warm, savory note that complements the buffalo sauce.
• ¼ tsp paprika: Adds a smokey dimension and rich red color.
• 1 cup shredded cheese: Melts beautifully on top to give a creamy, indulgent finish.
• Garlic butter (2 Tbsp butter, ½ tsp garlic powder, ¼ tsp Italian seasoning): This fragrant butter brushed over the slider tops creates a golden crust and adds irresistible aroma.

How to Make Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Step 1: Prepare your oven and baking dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Line a 9×9 baking sheet or casserole dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. This step sets the stage for a perfectly crisped and melty slider experience.

Step 2: Mix the flavorful filling

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with Franks buffalo hot sauce, ranch dressing, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir everything until the chicken is evenly coated with a vibrant, spicy sauce mixture that will make each bite sing.

Step 3: Assemble your sliders

Place the bottom halves of your slider buns on the lined baking sheet in a neat row. Evenly divide the buffalo chicken filling across the bottoms of the buns. Then generously top each with shredded cheese before placing the top halves of the buns on each slider. This layering guarantees a melty, juicy center encased in soft bread.

Step 4: Brush with garlic butter

In a small bowl, melt the butter and stir in garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Using a pastry brush, coat the tops of all the slider buns with this aromatic garlic butter mixture. This little step adds a tantalizingly savory flavor and beautiful golden color once baked.

Step 5: Bake to perfection

Cover the baking sheet tightly with foil to lock in moisture and bake at 350°F for 15 minutes. After that, remove the foil and continue baking for another 5 to 10 minutes until the buns are lightly golden and the cheese has melted to gooey perfection. Your kitchen will start to smell irresistible at this point!

Step 6: Serve while hot and enjoy

Once baked, slice the sliders apart if needed and serve immediately while still piping hot. The combined textures of spicy saucy filling, melted cheese, and crisp-tender buns create an unbeatable flavor sensation you can’t wait to share or enjoy all to yourself!

How to Serve Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped green onions or parsley on top to add a pop of color and fresh flavor. A few crisp celery sticks on the side also complement the sliders perfectly and nod to traditional buffalo wing accompaniments.

Side Dishes

Serve with classic sides like crunchy carrot sticks, potato chips, or even a cool coleslaw to balance the heat and provide a nice textural contrast. For a heartier meal, pair your sliders with crispy fries or a simple garden salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette.

Creative Ways to Present

Try layering several sliders on a wooden tray for parties or stacking a trio with a decorative toothpick for an elegant game-day snack. You can also serve them open-faced on mini plates to showcase the melty cheese and buffalo goodness on top, making each bite Instagram-worthy and delicious!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftover Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders, simply place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To maintain the best texture, avoid wrapping tightly in foil or plastic wrap while still hot, as that can cause sogginess.

Freezing

You can freeze these sliders by assembling them as directed but without baking. Wrap the entire baking dish tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to a month. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake following the original instructions for fresh-from-the-oven flavor.

Reheating

Reheat refrigerated or thawed sliders in a 350°F oven for about 10-12 minutes, uncovered, to melt the cheese and warm them through without making the buns soggy. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the texture less appealing.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that saves time without sacrificing flavor. Just shred it finely before mixing with the buffalo sauce and seasonings.

How spicy are these Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders?

The heat level is moderate, thanks to the classic Franks buffalo sauce, which offers a good kick without overwhelming heat. You can always adjust the amount of hot sauce to suit your personal spice preference.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Simply swap out the shredded cheese for a dairy-free alternative and use a dairy-free ranch dressing. You can also replace the butter in the garlic butter with a plant-based spread to keep all the buttery goodness.

What cheese works best for these sliders?

Cheddar or a sharp white cheese like Monterey Jack melts well and complements the spicy buffalo flavor beautifully. You can also experiment with mozzarella for a milder, gooey texture.

Are these sliders freezer-friendly after baking?

While you can freeze baked sliders, the texture may be less ideal when reheated. For best results, freeze them before baking. If freezing after baking, wrap individually and reheat slowly to minimize sogginess.

Final Thoughts

These Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders deliver a perfect mix of heat, creaminess, and melty cheesiness that’s truly irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a party, feeding a hungry family, or just craving a fun and flavorful snack, this recipe is a total winner. Give it a try and watch your guests light up with joy as they dig into these delicious, spicy bites!

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