Introduction to Buffalo Chicken Sliders
If you're looking to impress your friends at the next game day gathering or simply want a tasty weeknight meal, Buffalo chicken sliders are an absolute must-try! These mini sandwiches pack a punch with their zesty Buffalo sauce paired with tender shredded chicken, making them not only flavorful but also easy to prepare. The delightful combination of spicy and savory elements, topped with melty cheese, creates a truly satisfying bite that will leave your guests coming back for more.
What really makes these sliders stand out is their versatility. Want to turn it into a vegetarian option? Swap out the chicken for jackfruit! Looking for a twist? Add some sautéed veggies for extra crunch. Buffalo chicken sliders also cater perfectly to a variety of diets, especially when you choose your preferred dressing—opt for Greek yogurt-based ranch for a healthier touch!
What makes Buffalo chicken sliders a must-try recipe?
The appeal of these sliders lies not just in their flavor but also in their convenience. They can be whipped up in under 30 minutes and are easily customizable. Plus, sliders make for fantastic left-overs! Store them wrapped up in the fridge for a quick snack or meal during the week. With that delicious kick of Buffalo sauce and gooey cheese, these sliders are sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Don’t forget to check out How to Cook Shredded Chicken for an easy guide to preparing the chicken. Enjoy every bite!
Ingredients for Buffalo Chicken Sliders
When you think of a game day snack or a simple weeknight dinner, Buffalo chicken sliders hit the spot! Here's what you need to whip up these delicious bites:
- 12-ounce package Hawaiian sweet dinner rolls: Look for brands like King’s Hawaiian for that perfect sweetness!
- 3 cups shredded chicken breast: About 8 ounces of cooked chicken will do. If you're unsure how to cook it, check out this guide on cooking shredded chicken.
- ¾ cup hot sauce: Frank’s RedHot or Frank’s Buffalo are two fantastic options to bring the heat.
- ¼ cup ranch dressing: A Greek-yogurt-based version keeps it light and tangy.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: For that extra punch of flavor.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: You can mix it up with provolone or Havarti if you're feeling adventurous.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: Melted to add richness.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: This gives a wonderful depth of flavor.
These ingredients come together to create sliders that are messy, flavorful, and just plain fun to eat! Get ready to impress your friends and family; they'll be reaching for seconds in no time!
Step-by-step Preparation of Buffalo Chicken Sliders
Making delicious Buffalo chicken sliders is an exciting way to spice up your weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings! Follow these simple steps to create sliders that are sure to impress your friends and satisfy your cravings.
Gather and prep your ingredients
Before diving into the fun of cooking, it’s essential to have all your ingredients ready. Here’s what you need:
- 12-ounce package of Hawaiian sweet dinner rolls
- 3 cups shredded chicken breast (about 8 ounces; you can learn how to cook shredded chicken here)
- ¾ cup hot sauce (I recommend Frank's RedHot)
- ¼ cup ranch dressing (a Greek-yogurt based option works well!)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Having everything on hand makes the process smoother and more enjoyable!
Mix the Buffalo chicken filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, hot sauce, ranch dressing, and garlic powder. Ensure everything is well mixed; you want your chicken to be evenly coated in that delicious spicy sauce. Taste a little of the filling—because who can resist the burst of flavor? This mixture is where your sliders will get their fantastic taste.
Assemble the sliders
Now that your filling is ready, it's time to put everything together. Without separating the buns, slice them horizontally to create a top and bottom. Place the bottom half in the center of a lined baking sheet.
- Sprinkle a small handful of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the bottom half.
- Add a generous amount of your Buffalo chicken mixture on top.
- Follow with another layer of shredded cheese over the chicken.
Carefully place the top bun over your cheesy, saucy delight.
Brush and bake the sliders
This part is where the magic happens! In a small bowl, mix the melted butter and Italian seasoning. Brush this mixture liberally over the top of the buns. This gives them a lovely golden color while baking.
Pop your sliders into a preheated oven at 375°F. Bake for about 10 to 12 minutes or until the cheese is melty and bubbling, and the tops are a beautiful golden brown.
Cool, slice, and serve
Once your sliders are out of the oven, allow them to cool for a few minutes—this will also help the cheese set slightly. With a serrated knife, carefully slice apart the sliders. Serve immediately and watch them disappear!
These Buffalo chicken sliders are a perfect blend of tangy, creamy, and spicy flavors, making them a crowd favorite at any gathering. Enjoy the delightful taste of homemade sliders while sparking memorable conversations!
Variations on Buffalo Chicken Sliders
Buffalo chicken sliders are versatile and perfect for any occasion. Here are a couple of fun twists to elevate your slider game.
Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders
If you're craving an extra kick, try adding crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of cayenne pepper to your buffalo chicken mixture. This creates a flavorful punch that elevates the heat. You could even include jalapeños for that fresh crunch!
Vegetarian Buffalo Sliders with Cauliflower
For a vegetarian alternative, replace the chicken with roasted cauliflower. Simply toss cauliflower florets in hot sauce, roast them until crispy, and layer them between your sweet buns. Drizzle with ranch dressing or blue cheese for that classic buffalo flavor. It's a satisfying option that even meat lovers will enjoy.
For more tips on cooking cauliflower, check out this guide on how to roast cauliflower.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Buffalo Chicken Sliders
When making Buffalo chicken sliders, it's essential to get the flavor just right! Here are some tips to ensure your sliders are a hit:
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Shredded Chicken: Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option that still tastes amazing. Just shred the meat and mix it with your hot sauce for an instant flavor boost. Check out this guide for cooking methods.
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Cheese Choices: While mozzarella is fantastic, don’t hesitate to experiment with provolone or even a spicy pepper jack to elevate those flavors!
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Versatile Toppings: Add sliced jalapeños or pickles on top of your sliders before baking for an exciting twist.
With these tips, your sliders are bound to impress! Happy cooking!
Serving Suggestions for Buffalo Chicken Sliders
When you're ready to serve your Buffalo chicken sliders, consider pairing them with delightful accompaniments to elevate your meal. These sliders shine with:
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Crispy Veggies: Fresh vegetable sticks, like carrot and celery, add a refreshing crunch. Serve them with a simple ranch or tzatziki dip to enhance those flavors.
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Chips or Fries: A side of crispy potato chips or spicy sweet potato fries can create a satisfying crunch. You could opt for air-fried options for a healthier twist!
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Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw or creamy cucumber salad can provide a nice contrast to the spicy sliders, balancing flavors beautifully.
For a more indulgent touch, consider serving your sliders with a side of loaded potato skins or buffalo cauliflower bites. Enjoy sharing these tasty Buffalo chicken sliders with friends during game day or casual gatherings!
Time Breakdown for Buffalo Chicken Sliders
Preparation Time
Getting ready to whip up your Buffalo chicken sliders will take around 15 minutes. Make sure to gather all your ingredients—this is the fun part!
Baking Time
Once assembled, these sliders bake to bubbly perfection in about 10 to 12 minutes. Just enough time to get excited about your upcoming meal!
Total Time
In just 25 to 27 minutes, you’ll have flavor-packed Buffalo chicken sliders fresh from the oven. Perfect for game days or a cozy night in!
Feel free to check out How to Cook Shredded Chicken if you need tips on preparing your chicken, ensuring every bite is tender and delicious! And don't forget to keep it simple with hot sauce for that essential kick. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Facts for Buffalo Chicken Sliders
When you indulge in Buffalo chicken sliders, it's good to know what you're putting into your body. Here's a quick rundown of their nutritional content:
Calories: Each slider contains approximately 254 calories, making them a delightful, satisfying treat for any occasion.
Protein: Packed with about 16 grams of protein per slider, these are a fantastic way to fuel your day!
Sodium: Keep an eye on sodium intake, as these sliders come in around 650 mg of sodium each, largely influenced by the hot sauce.
For more tips on making healthier choices while enjoying your favorite dishes, check out Nutritional Guidelines.
FAQ about Buffalo Chicken Sliders
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken can save you time in the kitchen. Just shred the chicken and mix it with your favorite hot sauce, ranch dressing, and spices for that deliciously bold flavor. Plus, it's a great way to use leftovers from a previous meal!
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
To keep your Buffalo Chicken Sliders fresh, wrap any leftovers in foil and refrigerate them for up to 2 to 3 days. If you have more than you can eat, consider freezing them! Just wrap them in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or place them in an airtight container. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer.
How can I make these sliders healthier?
For a healthier twist, consider using whole wheat slider rolls instead of traditional white ones. Additionally, opt for a light Greek yogurt-based ranch dressing and reduce the cheese. You can also load them up with veggies like spinach or arugula for added nutrition! Check out this guide to healthy eating for more tips on smart ingredient swaps.
Conclusion on Buffalo Chicken Sliders
In summary, Buffalo chicken sliders are a fantastic way to bring bold flavors to your next gathering. They're easy to make, perfect for sharing, and can be customized to suit everyone’s tastes. So why not give them a try? Your guests will be asking for seconds!
Buffalo Chicken Sliders
Equipment
- Oven
- Baking sheet
- Mixing Bowl
- Parchment paper
Ingredients
Buns and Fillings
- 1 package Hawaiian sweet dinner rolls such as King’s Hawaiian
- 3 cups shredded chicken breast about 8 ounces cooked
- ¾ cup hot sauce such as Frank’s RedHot or Frank’s Buffalo
- ¼ cup ranch dressing I use a Greek-yogurt based
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella or provolone, or Havarti cheese, divided
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
Preparation
- Place a rack in the center of your oven and preheat to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Without disconnecting the buns at their sides, slice the slider buns in half horizontally. Place the bottom half in the center of the baking sheet.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken, Buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, and garlic powder.
- Scatter a small handful of the cheese on the bottom buns, then top evenly with the Buffalo chicken. Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly over the top.
- Place the top bun over the chicken. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter and Italian seasoning, then brush liberally over the top of the buns.
- Bake the Buffalo chicken sliders until the cheese is melty and the tops are golden, about 10 to 12 minutes. Transfer to a cutting board and let cool a few minutes. Carefully slice apart with a serrated knife, and serve.
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