Buffalo Chicken Sliders
Buffalo Chicken Sliders are the perfect little bites of spicy, tangy, and juicy goodness all tucked between soft, mini buns. They’re made with tender shredded chicken tossed in flavorful buffalo…
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Buffalo Chicken Sliders are the perfect little bites of spicy, tangy, and juicy goodness all tucked between soft, mini buns. They’re made with tender shredded chicken tossed in flavorful buffalo sauce and topped with a cool, creamy dressing that balances the heat. These sliders pack a punch of classic buffalo wing flavors in a fun and easy-to-eat form.
I love making these sliders for game day or casual get-togethers because they’re always a hit and so simple to whip up. One tip I’ve learned is to toast the buns slightly before assembling—they get just enough crunch and hold up nicely against the saucy chicken. I also like to add a bit of crisp celery or pickles for some extra crunch and freshness.
These sliders remind me of laid-back evenings with friends, sharing snacks and laughs. You don’t need fancy plates or utensils—just stack them up and let everyone grab their favorite. They’re perfect when you want that buffalo flavor without the mess of traditional wings, and I always find myself reaching for seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Cooked, shredded chicken breast works well because it absorbs the buffalo sauce nicely. You can swap in rotisserie or leftover chicken for a shortcut. If you want a vegetarian option, shredded jackfruit is a good alternative.
Buffalo Hot Sauce: Classic Frank’s RedHot is my go-to because of its tangy heat. If you’re sensitive to spice, try mixing it with a bit of melted butter or use a milder wing sauce.
Buns: Soft slider buns are important for that easy-to-handle slider feel. Hawaiian rolls are a tasty choice if you like a bit of sweetness. Gluten-free buns also work fine if needed.
Dressing & Cheese: Ranch or blue cheese dressing cools the heat and adds creaminess. If you prefer, you can use a dairy-free ranch or vegan cheese crumbles to make it dairy-free.
Celery: Adds nice crunch and freshness. If celery isn’t your thing, thin slices of cucumber or carrot can work as a substitute.
How Can I Keep the Sliders from Getting Soggy?
Slider buns can get soggy quickly when loaded with saucy chicken. Here are some tips to keep them just right:
- Lightly toast or warm the slider buns before assembling to create a barrier that holds up better against moisture.
- Spread a thin layer of dressing on the buns first; this helps keep moisture away from the bread.
- Avoid piling on too much buffalo sauce—coat the chicken evenly but not too heavily.
- Serve the sliders right after assembling for best texture and freshness.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl – perfect for tossing the shredded chicken with buffalo sauce evenly.
- Medium skillet or saucepan – to gently warm the buffalo chicken before assembling.
- Toaster or oven – to lightly toast the slider buns for extra crispness.
- Spatula or tongs – helpful for mixing and serving the saucy chicken without making a mess.
- Cutting board and knife – if you want to chop celery or other add-ins for crunch.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Try pulled pork instead of chicken for a smoky, hearty twist that still pairs great with buffalo sauce.
- Swap blue cheese for shredded mozzarella or pepper jack for milder or spicier cheese options.
- Add sliced pickles or jalapeños for extra tanginess and crunch.
- Mix in chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a bright, fresh note on top.
Buffalo Chicken Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken breast
- 1/2 cup buffalo hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing
- 12 slider buns or small soft rolls
- 1/3 cup crumbled blue cheese
- Fresh celery leaves or chopped celery (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and assemble, with no extra cooking time needed if your chicken is already cooked. Toasting the buns and warming the chicken mixture adds just a few minutes but makes a big difference.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
In a medium bowl, toss the shredded chicken with the buffalo hot sauce until every piece is nicely coated.
2. Warm It Up:
Heat the buffalo chicken in a pan over low heat or use a microwave until it’s warmed through. This helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to serve.
3. Toast The Buns:
Lightly toast the slider buns to add a bit of crunch and help prevent them from getting soggy once you add the saucy chicken.
4. Dress the Buns:
Spread a thin layer of ranch or blue cheese dressing on the bottom halves of each toasted bun. This adds creaminess and balances the spiciness.
5. Assemble The Sliders:
Divide the warm buffalo chicken evenly among the buns, piling it generously. Then sprinkle crumbled blue cheese over the chicken for that classic tangy flavor.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Add some fresh celery leaves or chopped celery on top for crunch and freshness if you like. Finish by placing the top buns on each slider and serve immediately to enjoy at their best.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for Buffalo Chicken Sliders?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken before shredding and mixing with the sauce. Thaw in the fridge overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave for quicker prep.
How Can I Make These Sliders Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the shredded chicken and toss it with buffalo sauce up to 1 day in advance. Keep it covered in the fridge, then warm it gently before assembling the sliders. Toast the buns right before serving to keep them fresh.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftover sliders or components separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat the chicken mixture and toast buns again for the best texture.
Can I Customize the Heat Level?
Absolutely! Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to make it milder or spicier. You can also mix the buffalo sauce with a little melted butter or ranch dressing to tone down the heat if needed.
