Buffalo Chicken Sliders: Easy Recipes & Serving Ideas

Buffalo chicken sliders have taken the culinary world by storm, quickly becoming a favorite at gatherings, parties, and game day celebrations. These flavorful little sandwiches combine the beloved elements of buffalo chicken wings with the convenience and portability of sliders, creating the perfect bite-sized treat for any occasion. The spicy, tangy essence of buffalo sauce, paired with tender, shredded chicken, packed between soft slider buns, makes for an irresistible combination that delights taste buds and satisfies cravings.

But beyond their deliciousness, buffalo chicken sliders present a versatile dish with endless possibilities for customization. Whether you prefer classic buffalo sauce or want to experiment with different flavor profiles, the creativity in preparation and presentation allows for a range of serving ideas that can impress guests and elevate your culinary offerings. From game-day snacking to casual family dinners, having a go-to recipe for buffalo chicken sliders ensures you’re always prepared to whip up a crowd-pleaser that captures the appetites and imaginations of all who partake. Let’s explore how to make these delightful sliders and discover ways to serve them that will leave everyone asking for more!

buffalo chicken sliders

History of Buffalo Chicken

The origins of buffalo chicken can be traced back to the city of Buffalo, New York, in the 1960s. It is believed that Teresa Bellissimo, co-owner of the Anchor Bar, created the iconic dish as a late-night snack for her son and his friends. She deep-fried leftover chicken wings and tossed them in a spicy sauce made from hot pepper sauce and melted butter. This simple yet flavorful dish quickly gained popularity, becoming a staple in bars and restaurants across the country.

As buffalo wings became a beloved comfort food, culinary enthusiasts began to innovate, leading to the evolution of buffalo chicken into various forms, including buffalo chicken sandwiches and dips. The transition to sliders was a natural progression, combining the rich flavors of buffalo chicken with the convenience of bite-sized portions. Buffalo chicken sliders not only capitalize on the popularity of buffalo wings but also offer an adaptable and shareable option for gatherings, enhancing their appeal as a go-to recipe for entertaining.

buffalo chicken sliders

Ingredients Overview

To create the perfect buffalo chicken sliders, a few essential ingredients are required. The star of the show is undoubtedly the chicken, preferably boneless and skinless chicken breasts, which can be cooked to tender perfection. You’ll also need buffalo sauce to impart that signature spicy and tangy flavor that makes these sliders irresistible.

Other ingredients include:

  • Ranch or blue cheese dressing: These dressings add a creamy texture that complements the heat of the buffalo sauce.
  • Slider buns: Choose soft, mini buns to hold all the delicious fillings together.
  • Cheese (optional): Adding cheese, such as cheddar or pepper jack, can enhance the flavor profile.
  • Celery sticks: Utilizing celery as a garnish not only brings a crunch but also embodies the traditional pairing with buffalo wings.

Considerations for variations abound, too. Feel free to swap out chicken for alternative proteins like shredded cauliflower or tofu for a vegetarian version, or modify the sauces according to personal taste preferences.

Detailed Recipe Section

Ingredients

  • Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • Buffalo sauce
  • Ranch or blue cheese dressing
  • Slider buns
  • Cheese (optional)
  • Celery sticks (for garnish)

Directions

Cook the Chicken

Start by cooking the chicken. You can choose to boil it in a pot of salted water until fully cooked (approximately 15-20 minutes), grill it for a smoky flavor, or use store-bought rotisserie chicken for convenience. The goal is to ensure the chicken is tender and easy to shred.

Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, let the chicken cool slightly before shredding. Use two forks to pull the chicken apart, or for quicker results, use a hand mixer on a low setting. Aim for shredded pieces that are small enough to fit perfectly on your slider buns.

Mix with Buffalo Sauce

In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken with buffalo sauce. Start with about a cup of sauce and adjust according to your heat preference. Mix well until every piece of chicken is evenly coated for maximum flavor.

Prepare the Sliders

To assemble the sliders, start by placing a generous portion of the buffalo chicken mixture onto the bottom half of each slider bun. You can sprinkle cheese on top before adding the top half of the bun. Serve immediately, or keep warm until you’re ready to enjoy them!

Serving Suggestions

Buffalo chicken sliders are perfect for any occasion, and they pair well with a variety of sides and dips. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving experience:

  • Create a slider platter with an assortment of dipping sauces like ranch, blue cheese, or honey mustard for guests to customize their bites.
  • Serve the sliders alongside crunchy celery and carrot sticks for a refreshing contrast that complements the spicy chicken.
  • For a hearty meal, pair sliders with crispy potato wedges, French fries, or a refreshing coleslaw to balance the flavors.
  • Present sliders in a fun way by skewering them with toothpicks, making them easy to grab and enjoy at parties or tailgates.

Variations of Buffalo Chicken Sliders

The beauty of buffalo chicken sliders lies in their versatility. If you’re looking for alternatives, consider the following options:

  • Alternative proteins: Use shredded cauliflower for a vegetarian option or substitute with tofu for a plant-based protein that’s equally flavorful.
  • Unique sauces and toppings: Explore other sauces like spicy aioli, barbecue, or a twist with sriracha mayo. Customize toppings by adding sliced avocado, pickles, or jalapeños for extra flavor.

Nutritional Information

Buffalo chicken sliders can be a satisfying addition to your meal plan, but it’s essential to understand their nutritional components. On average, a buffalo chicken slider may contain:

  • Calories: Approximately 250-350 (depending on size and toppings)
  • Protein: 15-25 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 20-30 grams
  • Fat: 10-15 grams (depending on cheese and sauces used)

For a healthier version, consider using whole-grain buns, leaner cuts of chicken, or low-fat dressings as alternatives.

Tips for the Best Buffalo Chicken Sliders

To achieve the best flavors and textures in your buffalo chicken sliders, keep these tips in mind:

  • Select quality ingredients: Fresh, high-quality chicken and sauces will elevate your sliders significantly.
  • Cooking methods matter: Consider marinating the chicken in buffalo sauce before cooking to infuse it with flavor.
  • Assemble with care: Layer toppings in a way that ensures every bite contains chicken, sauce, and any additional fixings you choose.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

If you happen to have leftovers, it’s crucial to store them properly to maintain their flavor and texture:

  • Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
  • To reheat, place them in an oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or microwave individually, but be cautious not to overheat, which may result in dryness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

A few common pitfalls can affect the quality of your buffalo chicken sliders:

  • Overcooking the chicken: This can lead to dry, tough meat. Always monitor cooking times closely.
  • Skipping the sauce mixing step: Ensuring that the chicken is well-coated in sauce is key to achieving that vibrant buffalo flavor.

Reasons to Love Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Buffalo chicken sliders are beloved for numerous reasons:

  • Their versatility makes them suitable for various occasions from casual family dinners to festive gatherings.
  • The combination of spicy, tangy, and creamy flavors appeals to a broad audience, satisfying diverse taste preferences.

FAQs

What can I substitute for chicken in buffalo chicken sliders?

Consider using shredded cauliflower, tempeh, or tofu for a vegetarian or vegan option!

Can buffalo chicken sliders be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the buffalo chicken mixture in advance and assemble the sliders just before serving for the best texture.

What are the best sides to serve with buffalo chicken sliders?

Great options include celery sticks, potato wedges, coleslaw, or a fresh garden salad to balance the meal.

How spicy are buffalo chicken sliders?

The spice level can be adjusted by varying the amount of buffalo sauce used, so you can make them as mild or as hot as you like.

Can I use store-bought buffalo sauce?

Absolutely! Store-bought buffalo sauce is a convenient option, just make sure to choose one with a flavor you enjoy.

Conclusion

Buffalo chicken sliders are an excellent choice for any gathering, offering bold flavors and endless customization options. Try the recipe today and make it your own!

buffalo chicken sliders

These buffalo chicken sliders are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer or main dish, perfect for game day or casual gatherings. They feature shredded chicken tossed in spicy buffalo sauce, topped with creamy ranch dressing on soft slider buns.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course appetizer/main dish
Cuisine American
Servings 4 People
Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Slow cooker or Instant Pot
  • 1 Mixing bowl
  • 1 Large skillet
  • 1 Baking sheet
  • 1 Parchment paper
  • 1 Serving platter

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup buffalo wing sauce
  • 1 cup ranch dressing
  • 12 slider buns
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup green onions, sliced
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for cooking

Instructions
 

  • If using a slow cooker, place the chicken breasts in the cooker, pour the buffalo wing sauce over the chicken, and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours. If using an Instant Pot, add the chicken and buffalo sauce, seal, and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Release pressure and shred the chicken with two forks.
  • In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add shredded chicken along with any remaining buffalo sauce. Stir to coat the chicken evenly. Cook for 5-7 minutes until heated through.
  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Slice the slider buns in half and place the bottoms on the baking sheet. Spoon the buffalo chicken mixture onto each bun evenly. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, a drizzle of ranch dressing, chopped celery, and sliced green onions.
  • Place the top halves of the buns on each slider. Bake in the oven for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the buns are slightly toasted.
  • Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Cut sliders in half if desired, and serve with extra ranch dressing on the side.

Notes

For a milder version, reduce the amount of buffalo sauce used or mix it with the ranch dressing.
Feel free to add toppings such as pickles or jalapeños for extra flavor.
These sliders are best served warm. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

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