Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

These Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders are perfect for any gathering, whether it’s a casual get-together, game day, or a cozy family dinner. The combination of tender shredded chicken smothered in Frank’s hot buffalo sauce and topped with melted cheese makes these sliders incredibly delicious. They are quick to prepare and guaranteed to satisfy your guests, making them an excellent choice for both appetizers and main courses.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 10 minutes to prep, making it easy to whip up even on busy days.
• Bursting with Flavor: With the perfect blend of spicy buffalo sauce and creamy ranch dressing, every bite is packed with bold taste.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve them as appetizers at parties or as a main dish for a cozy family dinner—these sliders fit any occasion!
• Crowd-Pleaser: These sliders are sure to impress friends and family alike, making them an instant favorite at gatherings.
• Easily Customizable: Feel free to adjust the spice level or add your favorite toppings for a truly unique twist.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders, you’ll need just a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet or casserole dish
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowl
• Pastry brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet or casserole dish: Provides the perfect space for baking all sliders evenly.
• Parchment paper: Ensures easy cleanup and prevents sticking, making it hassle-free to serve.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly without mess.
• Pastry brush: Helps evenly coat the buns with melted butter and seasonings for added flavor.

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. Line a 9×9 baking sheet or casserole dish with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, hot sauce, ranch dressing, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.

Step 3: Assemble the Sliders

Add the bottoms of the slider buns to the lined baking sheet. Evenly divide the chicken filling among all buns. Top each with shredded cheese before placing the top buns over them.

Step 4: Prepare for Baking

In a small bowl, melt the butter. Stir in garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Using a pastry brush, generously coat the tops of the buns with this mixture.

Step 5: Bake the Sliders

Cover the baking sheet with foil and bake at 350°F for about 15 minutes. After that time, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5–10 minutes or until the tops are lightly golden and cheese is bubbly.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Remove from oven once done. Cut into individual sliders and serve immediately while still hot with your desired sides. Enjoy your flavorful Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders!

How to Serve Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

These spicy buffalo chicken sliders are versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or simply looking for a tasty snack, here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your slider experience.

Game Day Favorites

• With Dipping Sauces: Serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping to balance the spice.
• Buffalo Sauce Drizzle: Add an extra kick by drizzling more buffalo sauce on top before serving.

Fresh Accompaniments

• Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast to the spicy sliders.
• Pickles: Tangy pickles can cut through the richness and enhance the flavor profile.

Finger Food Style

• Mini Skewers: Serve sliders on skewers for easy grabbing; perfect for parties.
• Sliders Platter: Arrange them on a large platter with toothpicks for individual servings.

How to Perfect Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Making the best spicy buffalo chicken sliders requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh buns and quality chicken will enhance the overall flavor.
• Adjust Spice Level: Modify the amount of hot sauce based on your guests’ heat tolerance.
• Let Cheese Melt Fully: Ensure you bake until cheese is bubbly and golden for that ideal gooey texture.
• Rest Before Serving: Allow sliders to sit for a few minutes after baking to avoid burning your mouth!

Best Side Dishes for Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Pairing side dishes with spicy buffalo chicken sliders can enhance your meal. Here are some great options that complement their bold flavors wonderfully.

1. French Fries: Crispy fries are a classic pairing that everyone loves; consider seasoning them with garlic or paprika.
2. Vegetable Platter: Fresh veggies like carrots and celery provide crunch and balance out the spice of the sliders.
3. Sweet Potato Wedges: These add a sweet contrast to the spiciness; roast them with olive oil and spices.
4. Onion Rings: Crunchy onion rings offer a satisfying texture alongside your spicy sliders.
5. Macaroni Salad: A creamy macaroni salad can cool down the heat while adding a comforting element to your meal.
6. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with butter brings a sweet, smoky flavor that pairs well with buffalo chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making spicy buffalo chicken sliders, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for perfect sliders every time.

• Skipping the seasoning – Not seasoning the chicken mixture can lead to bland sliders. Always season your chicken well before baking.
• Using stale buns – Old buns can ruin the texture of your sliders. Make sure to use fresh slider buns for the best results.
• Overfilling the sliders – Packing too much filling can cause messy sliders that fall apart. Stick to a moderate amount of filling for easy handling.
• Not preheating the oven – Baking in an unpreheated oven can affect cooking times and final texture. Always preheat your oven before baking.
• Ignoring the cooling time – Digging in too quickly can result in burns from hot cheese and filling. Let them cool for a couple of minutes after baking.

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 each slider individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel, heating in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop – Heat on medium-low in a skillet, covered, flipping occasionally until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding spicy buffalo chicken sliders.

Can I use any type of chicken for these sliders?

Yes, you can use rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken, or any cooked chicken you have on hand. Just shred it before mixing with the sauce.

How can I make these spicy buffalo chicken sliders healthier?

To make healthier spicy buffalo chicken sliders, consider using whole grain slider buns and low-fat cheese or Greek yogurt instead of ranch dressing.

What sides go well with spicy buffalo chicken sliders?

These sliders pair well with carrot sticks, celery sticks, or a fresh salad. You could also serve them with chips or fries for a heartier meal.

Can I prepare spicy buffalo chicken sliders ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and assemble the sliders ahead of time. Just bake them right before serving.

Final Thoughts

Spicy buffalo chicken sliders are not only delicious but also versatile! They make an excellent choice for game day snacks or casual gatherings. Feel free to customize your toppings, adding ingredients like jalapeños or extra cheese to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try; you’re bound to impress your family and friends!