Buffalo Chicken Sliders

When it comes to party platters or game day snacks, few things are as irresistible as Buffalo Chicken Sliders. These little bites pack a punch of flavor and are incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re hosting friends for the big game, throwing a casual gathering, or simply craving something tasty, these sliders are sure to impress. Featuring tender chicken, spicy buffalo sauce, and gooey cheese, they’re the perfect combination of comfort food and crowd-pleaser. Plus, they come together in no time, making them the ideal choice for busy hosts.

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

Buffalo Chicken Sliders are the ultimate crowd-pleasing dish for several reasons. First, they strike a perfect balance between spice and flavor, making them appealing to a wide audience. The combination of shredded chicken and buffalo sauce creates a savory filling that’s both hearty and satisfying. Added to that, the melty cheese and soft Hawaiian rolls bring a comforting touch that makes each slider irresistible. They are also easy to customize with different toppings, allowing everyone to make them just the way they like. Whether your guests prefer a little extra hot sauce, a drizzle of ranch, or a fresh crunch from veggies, these sliders can accommodate all tastes.

Ingredients at a Glance

• 12 oz slider-size Hawaiian rolls, sliced in half
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
• 2/3 cup buffalo wing hot sauce (such as Frank’s Red Hot)
• 1/2 cup cottage cheese
• 1 cup shredded Colby Jack cheese
• 6 slices provolone cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• Poppy seeds for sprinkling

Prep & Cook Tools

• Large Mixing Bowl: For combining the chicken and buffalo sauce.
• Baking Dish: To assemble and bake the sliders.
• Spatula: Useful for spreading the mixture evenly.
• Brush: For brushing melted butter on the rolls.
• Aluminum Foil: To cover the sliders while baking for extra moisture.

Buffalo Chicken Sliders Made Stepwise

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your sliders bake evenly and become deliciously golden.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded or cubed chicken with the buffalo wing hot sauce and cottage cheese. Stir until thoroughly mixed, ensuring that the chicken is well coated with the sauce.

Step 3: Assemble the Sliders

Take the bottom half of the Hawaiian rolls and place them in a baking dish. Spoon the buffalo chicken mixture evenly over the rolls. Sprinkle the shredded Colby Jack cheese on top, followed by the slices of provolone cheese.

Step 4: Cover with the Top Rolls

Place the top halves of the Hawaiian rolls over the filled bottom halves. This creates a neat sandwich that will bake together beautifully.

Step 5: Brush with Butter

In a small bowl, melt the butter and brush it generously over the tops of the rolls. This will add a lovely golden color and a rich flavor.

Step 6: Sprinkle with Poppy Seeds

For an extra touch, sprinkle poppy seeds over the buttered tops of the rolls. This adds a nice crunch and visual appeal.

Step 7: Bake in the Oven

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 15 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the tops are golden and the cheese is bubbly.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the sliders from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Slice them apart, and they’re ready to serve! Pair with extra buffalo sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.

Season-by-Season Upgrades

• Spring: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a bright touch.
• Summer: Top with sliced avocado and a sprinkle of lime juice for a creamy twist.
• Fall: Incorporate roasted pumpkin seeds for added crunch and a seasonal flavor.
• Winter: Serve with a side of homemade hot soup for a comforting meal.

Frequent Missteps to Avoid

• Not fully cooking the chicken: Ensure your chicken is cooked through before mixing.
• Overloading on sauce: While buffalo sauce is key, too much can make the sliders soggy.
• Skipping the butter: Brushing butter on the rolls is essential for flavor and color.
• Not covering while baking: Covering with foil helps retain moisture, preventing dry sliders.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, these sliders freeze beautifully. Wrap individual sliders in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Common Questions

Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses. Cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack are all excellent choices that can enhance the flavor profile.

What if I don’t like spicy food?

You can reduce the amount of buffalo sauce or use a milder sauce. Mixing in a bit of barbecue sauce can also add sweetness without the heat.

Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken mixture and assemble the sliders a few hours in advance. Just cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.

Are these sliders suitable for a gluten-free diet?

To make these sliders gluten-free, simply substitute the Hawaiian rolls with gluten-free rolls or bread. Just be sure to check that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Ready, Set, Cook

Now that you have the perfect recipe for Buffalo Chicken Sliders, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! With a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious platter that will have everyone coming back for more. These sliders are not only delicious but also versatile, making them a fantastic option for any occasion. So roll up your sleeves, crank up the oven, and get ready to impress your guests with this scrumptious dish. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors, and don’t forget to let the compliments roll in!