Buffalo Chicken Sliders
Buffalo Chicken Sliders are small, spicy little sandwiches packed with shredded chicken smothered in tangy buffalo sauce. These mini sliders bring all the delicious flavors of classic buffalo wings, but…
Tip: save now, cook later.Buffalo Chicken Sliders are small, spicy little sandwiches packed with shredded chicken smothered in tangy buffalo sauce. These mini sliders bring all the delicious flavors of classic buffalo wings, but in a fun, easy-to-hold form that’s perfect for parties or casual dinners.
I love making these because they’re quick to put together and just hit the right balance of heat and creaminess—especially when you add a bit of blue cheese or ranch dressing on top. The soft slider buns keep everything cozy inside, and the chicken stays juicy and full of flavor every time.
My favorite way to serve these is with a simple side of crunchy celery sticks and some extra blue cheese dip for dunking. They’re a total crowd-pleaser and always disappear fast during game day or family gatherings. If you’re a fan of buffalo sauce, these sliders are definitely worth making at home!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shredded Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is great for convenience and flavor, but you can also boil or bake chicken breasts. For a vegetarian option, shredded jackfruit or pulled mushrooms make a fun substitute that soaks up the sauce well.
Buffalo Wing Sauce: Classic buffalo sauce like Frank’s RedHot works best for that tangy, spicy kick. If you want less heat, mix in a little melted butter or try a milder hot sauce. You can also make your own buffalo sauce by combining hot sauce and butter.
Slider Buns: Soft Hawaiian rolls are perfect here for a slightly sweet and pillowy texture. If you can’t find them, small sandwich buns or mini brioche buns work well too. Toasting the buns lightly can add extra flavor and prevent sogginess.
Blue Cheese Crumbles: Classic blue cheese offers a creamy, bold taste. If you aren’t a fan, ranch dressing or shredded cheddar cheese can be tasty alternatives. For dairy-free, a plant-based cheese or avocado slices add creaminess.
Celery: This adds a nice crunch and balances the heat, but if you’re not a celery fan, try thinly sliced cucumber or bell pepper for crunch and freshness.
How Do I Keep Slider Buns Soft and Delicious After Baking?
Since the sliders bake with sauce inside, the buns can sometimes get soggy or dry out.
- Don’t separate the buns: Keeping the slider buns connected in a baking dish helps steam them just enough to stay soft.
- Brush tops with butter: Butter mixed with garlic powder not only adds flavor but also helps keep the bun tops golden and moist.
- Bake just until warmed through: About 15 minutes is enough. Baking longer can dry the buns out.
- Serve immediately: Sliders taste best fresh from the oven to keep the buns soft and the chicken juicy.
Following these tips will give you perfectly tender buns that soak up the buffalo flavor without falling apart.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking dish – Holds all sliders together so they warm evenly and stay soft.
- Mixing bowl – Perfect for tossing the shredded chicken with buffalo sauce.
- Pastry brush – Makes it easy to spread buttery garlic on the buns.
- Sharp knife – Needed to slice the slider buns apart after baking cleanly.
- Measuring cups and spoons – For precise amounts of sauce, butter, and spices.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for pulled pork or shredded turkey – great if you want a different meat with buffalo sauce.
- Use pepper jack or cheddar cheese instead of blue cheese – mellower and melts nicely.
- Add sliced avocado or cucumber for fresh creaminess and crunch.
- Mix ranch dressing into the buffalo chicken for a creamier, less spicy flavor.
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Sliders?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Filling:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or boiled)
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (e.g., Frank’s RedHot)
- 1/2 cup blue cheese crumbles
- 1/4 cup shredded celery (optional, for crunch)
For The Sliders:
- 12 slider buns or Hawaiian rolls
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to bake, so you’re looking at roughly 25 minutes total from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and tasty snack or meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Chicken with Buffalo Sauce:
In a medium bowl, toss the cooked shredded chicken with the buffalo wing sauce until it’s all nicely coated. This spicy mixture is the heart of your sliders!
2. Prepare the Slider Buns:
Carefully slice the slider buns in half, but don’t separate each bun. Keep them together as a whole set and place the bottom halves into a baking dish.
3. Assemble the Sliders:
Spread the buffalo chicken evenly over the bottom buns. Sprinkle the blue cheese crumbles and shredded celery (if using) over the chicken. Then, place the top halves of the buns back on.
4. Add the Garlic Butter and Bake:
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with garlic powder. Brush this flavorful butter over the top of the buns. Bake everything in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15 minutes until warmed through and the tops are a nice golden color.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the sliders from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Use a sharp knife to separate each slider. Serve warm and enjoy these spicy, creamy little bites!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for Buffalo Chicken Sliders?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before shredding and mixing with the buffalo sauce. This helps maintain the best texture and flavor.
Can I Make Buffalo Chicken Sliders Ahead of Time?
Absolutely. You can assemble the sliders and refrigerate them uncovered for a few hours before baking. Bake just before serving to keep the buns soft and fresh.
How Should I Store Leftover Sliders?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to avoid drying out the chicken and buns.
What Can I Use Instead of Blue Cheese?
If you’re not a fan of blue cheese, ranch dressing or shredded cheddar cheese make great alternatives to complement the spicy buffalo chicken.
