Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

These Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders are the ultimate crowd-pleaser! Perfect for game day, parties, or a simple family dinner, these sliders combine fluffy buns with juicy shredded chicken smothered in Frank’s hot buffalo sauce. Topped with melted cheese and a buttery garlic finish, they are bursting with flavor and sure to impress guests of all ages.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: These sliders only take about 10 minutes of prep time, making them a fantastic option for a fast meal.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of buffalo sauce and seasonings creates an irresistible taste that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
• Versatile Dish: Serve these spicy buffalo chicken sliders as an appetizer or main course; they’re perfect for any occasion.
• Crowd Favorite: Ideal for gatherings, these sliders are sure to be the star of the show at your next get-together.
• Customizable Options: Feel free to adjust the spice level or add extra toppings to suit your preferences!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything on hand will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Essential for holding your sliders during baking and ensuring even cooking.
• Parchment paper: Helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Pastry brush: Ideal for applying butter and seasonings evenly over the slider tops.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious spicy buffalo chicken 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 (175°C). Line a 9×9 baking sheet or casserole dish with parchment paper to make cleanup easier.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine:
Shredded chicken
Hot sauce
Ranch dressing
Salt
Ground black pepper
Garlic powder
Paprika

Mix well until the chicken is fully coated in the sauce and spices.

Step 3: Assemble the Sliders

Place the bottom halves of the slider buns on the prepared baking sheet. Evenly divide the chicken filling among each bun. Top with shredded cheese and then place the top halves of the buns over them.

Step 4: Brush with Butter Mixture

In a small bowl, melt butter and mix in additional garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Use a pastry brush to coat the tops of the buns with this mixture for added flavor.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden Brown

Cover the baking sheet with foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes. After that, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5–10 minutes until lightly golden brown and cheesy.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Once baked, cut into individual sliders. Serve immediately while still hot, alongside your favorite dipping sauces or sides. Enjoy every bite!

How to Serve Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

These Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders are perfect for any gathering or game day. They can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience.

Classic Presentation

• Serve sliders on a large platter, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Dipping Sauce Delight

• Offer a selection of dipping sauces like ranch dressing, blue cheese, or extra buffalo sauce for guests to customize their sliders.

Mini Appetizer Bites

• Cut sliders into halves or quarters for bite-sized pieces, making them perfect for appetizers at parties.

Slider Bar Setup

• Create a slider bar with toppings such as pickles, jalapeños, and shredded lettuce. Let guests build their own sliders!

Side Pairing Idea

• Present sliders alongside classic sides like coleslaw or potato chips for a complete meal.

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How to Perfect Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

To make the best Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders, follow these tips to ensure they are irresistible and flavorful.

• Use fresh ingredients: Always opt for fresh chicken and quality buns for the best flavor and texture.
• Adjust spice levels: Customize the heat by adding more or less buffalo sauce according to your taste.
• Add extra cheese: For an even cheesier experience, layer additional cheese in between the chicken filling.
• Toast the buns: Lightly toast the slider buns before assembling to keep them from getting soggy.
• Let them rest: Allow the assembled sliders to sit for a few minutes after baking; this helps meld the flavors.
• Experiment with toppings: Try adding sliced avocado or crispy bacon bits for added texture and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Pairing side dishes with your Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders can elevate your meal. Here are some suggestions:

1. Classic Coleslaw: This crunchy side adds a refreshing contrast to spicy sliders.
2. Sweet Potato Fries: Their sweetness balances the heat of the buffalo sauce nicely; bake or fry until crispy.
3. Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad complements the flavors of the sliders well; prepare it ahead of time for convenience.
4. Veggie Platter: Fresh vegetables with dip provide a lighter option that contrasts beautifully with rich flavors.
5. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn coated in butter is a delightful summer side that pairs well with chicken dishes.
6. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with zesty salsa add an exciting crunch next to your sliders.
7. Onion Rings: Crispy onion rings offer a savory addition that everyone loves; serve them hot and fresh!
8. Macaroni Salad: A creamy macaroni salad is always a crowd-pleaser; it’s easy to make ahead of time and serve cold.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making spicy buffalo chicken sliders, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken mixture well can lead to bland sliders. Always taste your filling before assembling.
• Overfilling the buns: Stuffing too much filling into each bun may cause them to fall apart. Use just enough chicken mixture for a neat slider that holds together well.
• Ignoring the baking time: Baking for too long can dry out the sliders. Keep an eye on them, especially during the last few minutes.
• Not using fresh ingredients: Using stale slider buns or old chicken can affect taste and texture. Fresh ingredients make a significant difference in flavor.
• Underestimating the sauce: Using too little buffalo sauce might not provide enough heat. Adjust to your spice preference, but don’t skimp on flavor.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover sliders in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

• Wrap individual sliders tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped sliders in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.

Reheating Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Wrap sliders in foil and bake for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place a slider on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 30-45 seconds. Check if they are warm enough.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and place sliders inside, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about spicy buffalo chicken sliders.

How spicy are Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders?

The level of spiciness can vary based on how much hot sauce you use. Frank’s hot buffalo sauce is flavorful but adjustable according to your taste.

Can I make Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the filling and assemble the sliders ahead of time. Just store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

What sides go well with Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders?

These sliders pair excellently with veggie sticks, potato chips, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Are there any variations for Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders?

Absolutely! You can add toppings like jalapeños, blue cheese, or switch out ranch dressing with another favorite dip.

Final Thoughts

Spicy buffalo chicken sliders are not only delicious but also versatile! You can easily customize them with different toppings or sauces based on your preferences. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them as a quick dinner, these sliders are sure to impress!