Name: Easy Buffalo Chicken Sliders
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken; 1/3 cup buffalo hot sauce; 12 count brioche slider buns (or brioche dinner rolls, sliced in half); 8 ounces shredded Monterey Jack cheese; 1 container (12 ounce) Heluva Good! Buttermilk Ranch Dip (divided); 3 tablespoons unsalted butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons finely chopped flat-leaf parsley; 1 cup shredded cabbage; 1/2 cup shredded carrots; 1/2 cup shredded celery

Introduction to Easy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Why Buffalo Chicken Sliders are the Perfect Homemade Snack

If you’re on the hunt for a delicious and crowd-pleasing snack, look no further than easy buffalo chicken sliders. These delightful mini sandwiches pack a flavorful punch that's sure to impress your friends and family. Perfect for game days, casual get-togethers, or even a cozy night in, they combine the classic spicy kick of buffalo chicken with the comfort of melted cheese and soft brioche buns.

What makes these sliders even better? They come together in just 45 minutes, making them an excellent choice for busy weekdays or impromptu gatherings. Each bite is a harmonious blend of flavors and textures—from the tender, juicy chicken mixed with tangy buffalo sauce to the creamy ranch dip that brings it all together.

Plus, the addition of homemade slaw brings a refreshing crunch that perfectly balances the heat. According to a recent study by the American Institute for Cancer Research, incorporating more vegetables into your meals can not only enhance flavor but also improve your overall health. So why not sneak in some cabbage and carrots for a nutritious boost?

Join me as we dive into the Easy Buffalo Chicken Sliders recipe that’s bound to become your new go-to!

Ingredients for Easy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

When whipping up these delightful Buffalo Chicken Sliders, having the right ingredients makes all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need to create this crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for game days or casual gatherings.

2 cups cooked, shredded chicken: Leftover rotisserie chicken works like a charm.
⅓ cup buffalo hot sauce: Choose your favorite brand to control the heat level!
12 count brioche slider buns: Soft, buttery buns are perfect for holding all that delicious filling.
8 ounces shredded Monterey Jack cheese: This will add a creamy, melty texture.
1 (12 ounce) container Heluva Good! Buttermilk Ranch Dip: A must-have for that creamy twist.
3 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and a glossy finish.
3 cloves garlic, minced: For an aromatic kick.
2 tablespoons finely chopped flat-leaf parsley: Freshness is key!
1 cup shredded cabbage: Adds crunch and color.
½ cup shredded carrots: A little sweetness to balance the heat.
½ cup shredded celery: Extra crunch and a refreshing element.

Now that you have your ingredients gathered, you're on your way to making these easy buffalo chicken sliders a hit! For more inspiration, check out this ranch dip recipe to elevate your slaw.

Preparing Easy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

If you're in the mood for a delicious and satisfying meal that can be whipped up in no time, you've come to the right place! Easy Buffalo Chicken Sliders are perfect for casual gatherings or a cozy night in. Let’s walk through how to prepare these flavorful bites step-by-step.

Gather and Prepare Ingredients

To kick things off, you’ll need to assemble a short but essential list of ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
⅓ cup buffalo hot sauce
12 count brioche slider buns (or brioche dinner rolls, sliced in half)
8 ounces shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1 (12 ounce) container Heluva Good! Buttermilk Ranch Dip, divided
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons finely chopped flat-leaf parsley
1 cup shredded cabbage
½ cup shredded carrots
½ cup shredded celery

Make sure to have everything prepped and ready to go. Chopping veggies, shredding chicken, and gathering ingredients will save you time when you dive into cooking. For those wanting to save on prep, consider using a rotisserie chicken—it’s a game-changer!

Preheat and Prepare the Buns

Now that you've got your ingredients in place, preheat your oven to 350ºF. While that’s heating up, place your slider buns in a small baking dish. For a creamy touch, spread a thin layer of the Heluva Good! Buttermilk Ranch Dip over the bottom buns. This adds a cool contrast to the spicy buffalo chicken we’re about to whip up.

Combine Chicken with Buffalo Sauce

In a large bowl, toss your shredded chicken with the buffalo hot sauce to ensure it's fully coated. This step gives your sliders that signature bold flavor we all crave. Once mixed, set the chicken aside. The irresistible aroma will have your mouth watering—trust me!

Assemble the Sliders

Now, it's time to bring everything together! On the assembled bottom buns, sprinkle a generous amount of shredded Monterey Jack cheese. Next, spoon over the buffalo chicken mixture evenly. Once that’s done, place the top buns back on. It’s starting to look like a slider masterpiece, isn’t it?

Prepare the Slaw

While your sliders are waiting for their cheesy coat of goodness, let’s whip up a simple slaw! In a medium-sized bowl, combine shredded cabbage, carrots, and celery. Want to elevate the flavor? Stir in a little more of that buttermilk ranch dip for extra creaminess. This fresh crunch will balance the rich flavors of your easy buffalo chicken sliders.

Bake and Serve Warm

Brush a melted butter, garlic, and parsley mixture over the top buns before sliding the entire dish into the oven. Bake until the cheese is melted and the buns are golden brown, roughly 12 minutes. Once out of the oven, carefully lift the top buns off and layer that fresh slaw onto the buffalo chicken. Put the tops back on, slice, and serve warm!

These easy buffalo chicken sliders are sure to impress. Perfect for game day or a weeknight dinner, they’re a quick and fun way to enjoy bold flavors. Enjoy every bite!

Variations on Easy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

If you love a fiery kick, try adding sliced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to your easy buffalo chicken sliders. The heat will elevate your sliders to a whole new level! For an added crunch, think about tossing in some crispy Turkey Bacon or crumbled Blue cheese for flavor contrast. You'll create a flavor explosion that'll leave your guests craving more.

Veggie Buff Sliders

For a lighter twist, consider swapping out the chicken for lentils or chickpeas to create delicious Veggie Buff sliders. Mix cooked lentils with buffalo sauce and layer between your brioche buns for a tasty, meatless option. Don't forget to pile on fresh veggies like shredded cabbage and carrots for a crisp finish. These sliders are excellent for impressing friends at your next gathering while catering to vegetarian diets.

Cooking Tips for Easy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

When making easy buffalo chicken sliders, prep is key! Shredded chicken can be made in advance—simply cook it in a slow cooker or Instant Pot for convenience. For a flavor boost, marinate the chicken in buffalo sauce overnight.

If you want a twist, try adding some diced green onions or jalapeños for a kick. Don’t skimp on the garlic butter topping; it adds a delightful crunch and flavor to the buns.

As always, feel free to experiment with toppings—crisp lettuce or sliced tomatoes can provide a fresh contrast to the spicy chicken. Check out more tips on prepping ahead over at Food Network.

For the slaw, incorporating a bit of lime juice or vinegar can enhance the flavors while keeping it light. Enjoy your sliders with a side of sweet potato fries or a refreshing veggie platter!

Serving Suggestions for Easy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

When it comes to serving easy buffalo chicken sliders, there are plenty of fun and mouthwatering options to elevate your meal. Here are some suggestions to make your sliders the star of the show:

Pair with Sides: Serve these sliders with a crunchy side salad or crispy potato wedges. For that extra zing, add a side of celery sticks and extra ranch dip for dipping.
Toppings Galore: Encourage your guests to customize their sliders with toppings like pickled jalapeños, sliced avocado, or even a sprinkle of blue cheese for a bold twist.
Drinks That Complement: Nothing like a refreshing iced tea or sparkling lemonade to wash down those spicy sliders. For some fun, why not whip up a batch of non-alcoholic fruit spritzers?

These ideas will not only please your guests but also make your easy buffalo chicken sliders unforgettable!

Time Breakdown for Easy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Preparation Time

You'll need about 15 minutes to get everything ready. This includes shredding the chicken and mixing it with the zesty buffalo sauce. You can even prep the slaw while the chicken is marinating, making the entire process seamless.

Cooking Time

The baking time for these easy buffalo chicken sliders is approximately 12 minutes. That’s just enough time for the cheese to melt beautifully and the buns to achieve that perfect golden-brown color.

Total Time

In just 45 minutes, you can have these delicious sliders ready to serve. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an easy appetizer for your next gathering, these sliders are sure to impress! For more tips on meal prep, check out resources from the USDA about safe food handling practices.

Nutritional Facts for Easy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Calories

Each serving of these easy buffalo chicken sliders contains approximately 310 calories. Perfect for satisfying your cravings without going overboard!

Protein

You'll get around 20 grams of protein per slider, thanks to the shredded chicken and cheese. This hearty filling helps keep you fueled for whatever your day has in store.

Sodium

These sliders do have a bit of a kick in the sodium department, clocking in at about 800 mg per serving. Balancing with fresh veggies, like the slaw we include, can help cut through the richness while adding extra nutrients!

FAQs about Easy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Can I use different types of chicken?

Absolutely! While the recipe calls for shredded chicken, you can easily swap in leftover turkey, rotisserie chicken, or even ground chicken. Just ensure it’s cooked through before mixing with the buffalo sauce. This flexibility makes easy buffalo chicken sliders great for using up leftovers or catering to your taste preferences!

How can I make these sliders healthier?

Making healthier versions of easy buffalo chicken sliders is simple. Use whole-grain slider buns or skip the bread altogether and serve the buffalo chicken mixture in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option. You can also opt for baked or grilled chicken instead of fried and load up on veggies in the slaw—think bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch and nutrition!

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

To store leftovers, keep the sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you need a longer option, wrap them tightly in foil or cling film and freeze for up to a month. Reheat in the oven for the best texture—just wrap them in foil to keep them moist! For more tips on food storage, check out Food Safety Guidelines.

Conclusion on Easy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

If you're looking for a crowd-pleasing dish for game days or casual gatherings, these easy buffalo chicken sliders might just be the perfect solution. With their fiery flavor and satisfying crunch from the slaw, they’re sure to impress your friends and family. Enjoy every delicious bite!