Buffalo Chicken Sliders

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Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Buffalo chicken sliders have a way of bringing people together. Bite-sized, full of bold flavor, and perfect for sharing, these sliders balance spicy, creamy, tangy, and savory notes. They’re the kind of party snack that disappears fast—whether it’s game day, a family get-together, or just a weeknight treat. Here, I’ll show you how to make the ultimate Buffalo chicken sliders, with plenty of practical tips, storage hacks, and mouth-watering variations.

Why Buffalo Chicken Sliders Are a Crowd Favorite

Buffalo chicken is known for its tangy heat and finger-licking reputation. When you tuck this iconic filling into pillowy slider buns with gooey cheese and a buttery garlic crust, you get the best of all worlds—spicy, creamy, crispy, and soft.

Whether you’re looking to scale up for a big group, need something quick for a potluck, or want to use up leftover rotisserie chicken, these sliders deliver. You can prep them ahead, adjust the level of heat, and play with add-ins to suit your crowd’s tastes.

Ingredients for Perfect Buffalo Chicken Sliders

For this recipe, I use simple pantry staples and everyday ingredients, but the result is anything but ordinary. Here’s a breakdown:

• Slider Buns: Hawaiian rolls or any soft dinner rolls. Their subtle sweetness works well with the spicy filling.
• Cooked Shredded Chicken: Rotisserie chicken keeps things quick, but any cooked chicken will do. Pulled chicken breast or thigh meat both work.
• Buffalo Sauce: A good-quality Buffalo wing sauce flavors every bite. Frank’s RedHot is a classic, but you can use your favorite brand.
• Ranch or Blue Cheese Dressing: These mellow out the heat and add extra depth. Choose based on your preferred flavor profile.
• Shredded Cheese: Mozzarella melts beautifully for a stretchy bite, while sharp cheddar brings a robust flavor. Both add that gooey texture everyone loves.
• Unsalted Butter: Brushed over the tops for a golden finish.
• Garlic Powder: Blends with melted butter for a savory finish.
• Fresh Parsley: For a burst of color and freshness to cut through the richness.
• Optional Additions: Blue cheese crumbles, sliced jalapeños, cooked bacon, or caramelized onions.

Buffalo Chicken Sliders Ingredient Table

How to Make Buffalo Chicken Sliders: Step-by-Step

The process is simple and allows time for prepping sides or chatting with guests.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Mixture

Combine the shredded chicken, Buffalo sauce, and ranch (or blue cheese) dressing in a large bowl. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated and the mixture is creamy. If you want more heat, add a little extra Buffalo sauce or a dash of hot sauce.

Step 2: Assemble the Sliders

• Use a serrated knife to slice the sheet of slider rolls in half horizontally. Keep the rolls connected.
• Place the bottom half in a lightly greased or parchment-lined 9×13 baking dish.
• Spread the Buffalo chicken mixture over the bottom layer. Sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar cheese all over the chicken.
• Lay the top half of the buns back over the filling.

Step 3: Add the Buttery Garlic Topping

Melt the butter in a small bowl and whisk in the garlic powder. Use a pastry brush to coat the tops of the buns generously. This helps them brown evenly and adds big flavor.

Step 4: Bake

Cover the pan with foil. Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 10 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking another 10 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the cheese is melted and bubbling.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Let the sliders cool for about 5 minutes after baking for easier slicing. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. For extra flair, scatter blue cheese crumbles on top or add sliced jalapeños before serving.

Slice along the lines of the rolls and serve warm. Pair with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping, plus crunchy celery and carrot sticks on the side.

Tips for Extra-Tasty Buffalo Chicken Sliders

• Use Soft Rolls: Hawaiian rolls are ideal, but soft slider buns or brioche rolls work, too.
• Don’t Overfill: Too much filling makes sliders hard to handle. Tailor the amount to your preference.
• Customize the Heat: Use mild or hot Buffalo sauce to match your crowd. For heat seekers, mix in cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
• Make Them Cheesy: Double up on cheese for extra gooey sliders. Crumbled blue cheese stirred into the filling adds punch.
• Prep Ahead: Assemble sliders up to eight hours in advance and refrigerate. Wait to brush with butter until just before baking.
• Mix-Ins: Try adding crispy bacon, caramelized onions, or chopped green onions for more flavor layers.

Variations and Substitutions

Buffalo chicken sliders can be tweaked to fit a range of tastes and dietary needs.

• Low-Carb Option: Substitute buns for halved mini bell peppers, then bake as usual.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free rolls or buns.
• Vegetarian: Swap chicken for roasted cauliflower florets tossed in Buffalo sauce.
• Different Proteins: Try shredded turkey, pulled pork, or even cooked shrimp for a twist.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Buffalo chicken sliders are just as convenient as they are delicious.

Make-Ahead Directions

• Assemble the sliders (without brushing butter on top) and cover tightly with foil. Refrigerate for up to one day.
• When ready to bake, brush with butter, and add 2-3 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from cold.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cooked sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat covered in a low oven (300°F) until warmed through.

Freezing Instructions

• Assemble sliders without butter topping. Wrap tightly in foil and plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Freeze the chicken mixture separately in a freezer-safe bag for up to 6 months. Thaw overnight before using.

Serving Suggestions

Buffalo chicken sliders are versatile. Serve them as a main course with a green salad, or as party snacks with classic sides such as:

• Celery and carrot sticks
• Potato chips or fries
• Pickle spears
• Coleslaw

For dipping, set out small bowls of ranch, blue cheese, extra Buffalo sauce, or even honey mustard.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use leftover chicken?

Absolutely. Leftover rotisserie or grilled chicken works well. Just shred or chop it finely for even saucing.

Is it possible to make these in advance?

Yes. Assemble up to a day ahead. Add the buttery topping right before baking.

Can I use a different sauce?

Yes. While Buffalo sauce is classic, try spicy BBQ, chipotle, or garlic parmesan for new flavors.

Buffalo chicken sliders check all the right boxes for crowd-pleasing snacks and easy meals. With a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a tray in half an hour—no complicated steps or fancy equipment needed. Once you see how fast these fly off the platter, you’ll find yourself returning to this recipe for every gathering, weekend lunch, or late-night craving.

Now, all that’s left is to make a batch and watch them disappear.