Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders make for a delicious meal that packs a flavorful punch. These sliders are perfect for parties, game days, or any casual gathering where you want to impress your friends and family. The tender, spicy chicken paired with soft slider buns creates a mouthwatering combination that everyone will love. Plus, these mini sandwiches are easy to make, allowing you to focus on enjoying your time with loved ones.
Why We Love This Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders
The blend of heat and flavor in Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders is simply irresistible. You enjoy a juicy chicken breast tossed in a spicy sauce that gives it just the right amount of kick. These sliders are big on taste while being small enough to be the perfect bite size for any occasion. The sliders can be customized, making them adaptable to your preferences and those of your guests. Whether you love spicy food or just want a fun and tasty dish, these sliders win everyone over. They also make for easy serving and are a hit with both adults and kids. Preparing these sliders brings excitement to any mealtime, as the aroma of buffalo chicken fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to dig in.
Ingredients for Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders
- 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup of buffalo sauce
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon of salt
- ½ teaspoon of pepper
- 12 slider buns
- 1 cup of shredded lettuce
- 1 cup of diced tomatoes
- 1 cup of shredded cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella)
- Optional: ranch or blue cheese dressing
Directions
- Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the chicken breasts in a large pot and cover them with water. Boil the chicken for about 15-20 minutes, or until fully cooked, then drain and let cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, shred the chicken using two forks. You can use a stand mixer for easier shredding if you prefer.
- Add the buffalo sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the shredded chicken. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly.
- Arrange the slider buns on a baking sheet, cutting the tops off but leaving the bottoms intact. Spoon the buffalo chicken mixture generously onto each bottom half of the buns.
- Top the chicken with shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, and shredded lettuce.
- Place the tops of the buns back onto the sliders.
- Cover the sliders with aluminum foil and bake for about 10 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve hot, optionally with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
How to Serve Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders
Serving Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders can be as fun as making them. You can create a slider bar with various toppings and sauces so that each guest can customize their own. Set out bowls of shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, various cheeses, and dressing options such as ranch, blue cheese, or even a drizzle of extra buffalo sauce for those who crave more heat. Pair your sliders with a side of crispy potato wedges or carrot and celery sticks to balance out the flavors. You might also want to serve refreshing drinks like lemonade or iced tea to complement the spicy taste. If you’re hosting a gathering, consider presenting the sliders on a large platter, making it easy for everyone to grab one as they mingle. Remember, the key is to make it easy and enjoyable for your guests.
Expert Tips for Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders
To elevate your Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders, consider a few expert tips. First, marinate your chicken in buffalo sauce for a few hours, or even overnight, before cooking. This extra step infuses the meat with deep flavors. If you want to reduce the spice level, opt for a milder buffalo sauce or mix in some honey to create a balance. Also, preparing the chicken in a slow cooker can yield incredibly tender results, making shredding effortless. For a healthier twist, consider using chicken thighs instead of breasts for richer flavor and moisture. When serving, warm the buns slightly, either on the grill or in the oven, for an added touch of texture and warmth. Lastly, remember to offer a variety of side options for your guests to enjoy along with their sliders, keeping the overall meal well-rounded and delicious.
How to Store Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders
To store leftover Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders, first allow them to cool completely after they have been cooked. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. Properly stored, these sliders can last up to three days in the refrigerator. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them. To freeze, pack the cooled sliders in freezer-safe bags or containers, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Variations of Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders
Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders are incredibly versatile, allowing you to play around with various ingredients and flavors. For a twist on the classic, try adding blue cheese crumbles or creamy avocado slices for richness. If you prefer a different protein, use shredded turkey or even grilled veggies for a vegetarian option. You can also change the sauce by using a teriyaki glaze or honey sriracha if you’re looking for something sweet with a hint of heat. To pack even more flavor, consider adding pickles or jalapeños for an extra spicy kick. Experiment with different types of buns, too; whole wheat or pretzel buns can offer unique tastes and textures. Create sliders with other toppings like coleslaw or sautéed onions to keep your options fresh and exciting. The beauty of these sliders lies in their ability to adapt to your taste preferences and dietary needs.
FAQ about Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders
What are Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders?
Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders are mini sandwiches featuring shredded chicken mixed with spicy buffalo sauce and served on small buns, topped with veggies and cheese.
Can I make Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the buffalo chicken mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Simply assemble and bake the sliders when you’re ready to serve.
What can I serve with Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders?
These sliders pair well with sides like potato wedges, carrot and celery sticks, or a light salad. Drinks like lemonade or iced tea also complement their flavors well.
Are Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! They store well in the refrigerator or freezer and can be reheated for a quick meal during the week.
Can I use a different sauce for the sliders?
Yes, feel free to experiment with different sauces like honey mustard or teriyaki sauce for a unique flavor while keeping the slider concept.
Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders
Ingredients
For the Buffalo Chicken
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts Can substitute with chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
- 1 cup buffalo sauce Adjust for heat preference.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
For the Sliders
- 12 pieces slider buns Cut tops off but leave bottoms intact.
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheese Like cheddar or mozzarella.
- optional ranch or blue cheese dressing For dipping.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the chicken breasts in a large pot and cover them with water. Boil for 15-20 minutes, or until fully cooked, then drain and let cool slightly.
- Shred the chicken using two forks or a stand mixer.
- Add buffalo sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the shredded chicken and stir to coat evenly.
Assembly and Baking
- Arrange slider buns on a baking sheet, spoon buffalo chicken mixture onto each bottom half.
- Top with shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, and shredded lettuce.
- Place tops of buns back on sliders.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 10 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serving
- Serve hot, optionally with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
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