Buffalo Chicken Sliders are the ultimate game day food that always disappears first from my party platter. I learned this the hard way during my first Super Bowl party as a newlywed, when I spent hours preparing elaborate dishes only to watch guests swarm around these simple, spicy, cheesy sliders. They became the unexpected star of the evening, and I’ve been perfecting the recipe ever since. These quick appetizers are more than just party food; they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings people together with minimal effort from the cook.
Whether you’re hosting a big game watch or just need a satisfying weeknight dinner, this easy recipe delivers maximum flavor with a surprisingly short ingredient list.
Table of Contents
Buffalo Chicken Sliders Ingredients
Buffalo Chicken Sliders come together with simple ingredients that create incredible flavor. Here is what you will need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works perfectly)
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing, plus more for serving
- 1 package (12 count) Hawaiian Roll sliders
- 8 ounces Monterey Jack cheese, sliced or shredded
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional, for topping)
Smart Substitutions:
- Chicken: Use canned chicken for ultimate convenience or leftover slow cooker chicken.
- Sauce: Swap ranch for blue cheese dressing if you prefer the classic pairing.
- Cheese: Provolone or cheddar work beautifully instead of Monterey Jack.
- Rolls: Any soft dinner rolls or small buns will work if you cannot find Hawaiian rolls.
Buffalo Chicken Sliders Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
This is about 50% faster than many other hot party appetizers, getting you from fridge to feast in just half an hour.
Making Your Buffalo Chicken Sliders
Follow these simple steps for the perfect batch of sliders every time.
Prepare the Chicken Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, and 1/2 cup of ranch dressing. Mix until the chicken is evenly coated. This saucy, tangy filling is the heart of the sliders.
Assemble the Sliders: Without separating the individual rolls, slice the entire package of Hawaiian Roll sliders in half horizontally, creating a top and bottom slab. Place the bottom slab in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Layer on the sliced Monterey Jack cheese, then spread the buffalo chicken mixture evenly over the cheese. Place the top slab of rolls back on.
Add the Butter Topping: In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, garlic powder, and dried parsley. Brush this mixture generously over the top of the rolls, ensuring it seeps down into the cracks. This creates a gorgeous, golden, and flavorful crust.
Bake to Perfection: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the tops of the rolls are a beautiful golden brown.
Serve and Enjoy: Remove the sliders from the oven and let them rest for 2-3 minutes. This allows the cheese to set slightly, making them easier to slice. Use a sharp knife to cut them into individual sliders. Serve warm with extra ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
Buffalo Chicken Sliders Nutrition
- Calories: ~315 per slider
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fat: 16g
This recipe provides a good source of protein from the chicken, helping to keep you full and satisfied. The buffalo sauce contains capsaicin, which can boost metabolism.
Equipment for Buffalo Chicken Sliders
You only need a few basic kitchen tools:
- 9×13 inch Baking Dish
- Medium Mixing Bowl
- Pastry Brush
- Sharp Knife for slicing
Why You Will Love These Buffalo Chicken Sliders
- Incredibly Easy: This is a truly easy recipe with minimal steps and no fancy techniques required.
- Crowd-Pleasing: The combination of spicy buffalo, cool ranch, and melty cheese is universally loved.
- Quick to Make: From start to finish, you are only 30 minutes away from a hot, delicious appetizer.
- Versatile: Perfect for game day, parties, potlucks, or a fun family dinner.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can assemble these sliders hours in advance and just pop them in the oven when needed.
Healthier Buffalo Chicken Sliders
You can easily adapt this recipe to fit different dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
- Lower Fat: Use low-fat cheese, light ranch dressing, and reduce the amount of butter in the topping.
- Higher Protein: Add an extra half-cup of shredded chicken to the mixture.
- Gluten-Free: Use your favorite gluten-free rolls or buns.
- Lower Carb: Serve the buffalo chicken mixture as a dip with celery sticks or on a bed of lettuce, skipping the rolls entirely. For another handheld, high-protein option, check out our High-Protein Spicy Grilled Chicken Wraps.
Serving Your Buffalo Chicken Sliders
These sliders are a complete meal on their own, but they pair wonderfully with other game day favorites.
- Dipping Sauces: Offer extra ranch, blue cheese dressing, or even a cool cilantro-lime crema on the side.
- Fresh Sides: A simple celery stick platter, carrot sticks, or a crisp green salad help balance the richness.
- Heartier Companions: Serve alongside other party hits like potato skins, nachos, or Bang Bang Chicken Skewers for a full spread.
Common Buffalo Chicken Sliders Mistakes
Avoid these simple errors for the best results:
- Skipping the Butter Wash: The butter, garlic, and herb mixture is crucial for a soft, flavorful, and golden top. Do not skip it.
- Overfilling the Sliders: Using too much chicken mixture can make the sliders messy and difficult to eat. A thin, even layer is best.
- Not Letting Them Rest: Cutting the sliders immediately after baking will cause the filling to ooze out. A brief 2-3 minute rest makes for much cleaner slices.
Storing Your Buffalo Chicken Sliders
- Refrigerator: Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Assemble the sliders but do not bake them. Wrap the entire baking dish tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding 10-15 minutes to the covered baking time.
- Reheating: Reheat individual sliders in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes until warm and the cheese is melty again.
Final Thoughts on Buffalo Chicken Sliders
These Buffalo Chicken Sliders are my go-to for any gathering that calls for easy, delicious, and satisfying party food. They require so little effort for such a impressive payoff. I hope this easy recipe becomes a staple in your home just like it is in mine. If you are a fan of flavorful chicken sandwiches, you might also enjoy our Crispy Chicken Caesar Sandwich for another fantastic meal option.
I would love to hear how your sliders turned out! Leave a comment below and tell me about your game day spread. Do not forget to share your creations and tag @Harmonymeal on Pinterest.
FAQs about Buffalo Chicken Sliders
What’s good with buffalo chicken sliders?
Crisp celery and carrot sticks with blue cheese or ranch dip are classic pairings. Other great sides include potato salad, coleslaw, French fries, or a fresh green salad to balance the richness.
How do you keep buffalo chicken sliders from getting soggy?
To prevent sogginess, lightly toast the slider buns before assembly. Avoid over-saucing the chicken, and consider adding a barrier like cheese or lettuce between the chicken and the bun. If making ahead, add the sauce just before serving.
How long are buffalo chicken sliders good for?
When stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, buffalo chicken sliders are generally good for 2-3 days. For optimal taste and texture, it’s recommended to consume them within 24 hours.
What bread is best for buffalo chicken sliders?
Hawaiian sweet rolls are a popular choice due to their slight sweetness and soft texture, which complement the spicy buffalo chicken. Brioche slider buns or mini potato rolls also work well, offering a good balance of flavor and structural integrity.
What do you put on top of buffalo chicken sliders?
Common toppings include a drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing, thinly sliced red onion, pickles, or a sprinkle of fresh chopped chives or parsley. A melted slice of provolone or mozzarella cheese is also a popular addition.
How do you reheat buffalo chicken sliders?
For best results, reheat sliders in an oven or air fryer at 300-325°F (150-160°C) for 8-12 minutes, or until warmed through and the buns are lightly toasted. Loosely tent with foil if concerned about drying out. Microwaving is quicker but can make buns soggy.
Buffalo Chicken Sliders
Buffalo Chicken Sliders are the ultimate game day food that always disappears first from my party platter. These quick appetizers are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings people together with minimal effort from the cook. Whether you are hosting a big game watch or just need a satisfying weeknight dinner, this easy recipe delivers maximum flavor with a surprisingly short ingredient list.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 sliders 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works perfectly)
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing, plus more for serving
- 1 package (12 count) Hawaiian Roll sliders
- 8 ounces Monterey Jack cheese, sliced or shredded
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, and 1/2 cup of ranch dressing. Mix until the chicken is evenly coated.
- Assemble the Sliders: Without separating the individual rolls, slice the entire package of Hawaiian Roll sliders in half horizontally, creating a top and bottom slab. Place the bottom slab in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Layer on the sliced Monterey Jack cheese, then spread the buffalo chicken mixture evenly over the cheese. Place the top slab of rolls back on.
- Add the Butter Topping: In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, garlic powder, and dried parsley. Brush this mixture generously over the top of the rolls, ensuring it seeps down into the cracks.
- Bake to Perfection: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the tops of the rolls are golden brown.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the sliders from the oven and let them rest for 2-3 minutes. Use a sharp knife to cut them into individual sliders. Serve warm with extra ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
Notes
Smart Substitutions: Use canned chicken for convenience, swap ranch for blue cheese dressing, provolone or cheddar instead of Monterey Jack, or any soft dinner rolls if Hawaiian rolls are unavailable. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Can be frozen before baking for up to 2 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider
- Calories: 315
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
💬 Lets Stay Connected!
For daily recipes, kitchen tips, and exclusive content, follow me on:
👉 Facebook for behind-the-scenes & community fun
👉 Pinterest for visual inspiration & meal ideas
👉 X (Twitter) for quick tips & trending recipes
📲 Join the flavor journey, your next favorite recipe is just a follow away!
