Crazy Good Buffalo Chicken Sliders
When it comes to crowd-pleasing appetizers or quick weeknight meals, few recipes can match the irresistible appeal of Crazy Good Buffalo Chicken Sliders. These sliders are a delicious twist on the classic Buffalo chicken flavor, delivering juicy, spicy, and savory goodness in every bite-sized sandwich.
Inspired by the bold flavors of Buffalo, New York, where Buffalo wings originated in the 1960s, this recipe pays homage to the iconic combination of hot sauce, tender chicken, and creamy dressing but transforms it into a convenient and delectable slider format.
Whether you're hosting a game day gathering, a family dinner, or looking to add some excitement to your meal rotation, Crazy Good Buffalo Chicken Sliders promise to steal the show.
The key to their popularity lies in their layers of flavor: shredded chicken is tossed in a tangy, buttery Buffalo sauce, topped with gooey melted cheese, and sandwiched between soft slider buns. You can customize the toppings to suit your preferences, making them as spicy or mild as you like.
These sliders are not only flavorful but also easy to prepare, making them perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.
For those interested in the history and versatility of Buffalo chicken, you may enjoy reading more about the origins of Buffalo sauce at Food Network's story on Buffalo wings (https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/packages/comfort-foods/buffalo-wings-history). By following this detailed recipe, you'll master the art of creating Crazy Good Buffalo Chicken Sliders that are sure to delight your family and friends.
Ingredients for Crazy Good Buffalo Chicken Sliders
- 3 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast (rotisserie or poached)
- 3/4 cup Buffalo wing sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 12 slider buns or Hawaiian rolls
- 8 slices provolone or mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup blue cheese or ranch dressing
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced celery
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing buns)
- 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional, for garnish)
Instructions for Making Crazy Good Buffalo Chicken Sliders
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet or a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, Buffalo wing sauce, melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder. Toss to coat the chicken thoroughly.
- Slice the slider buns in half horizontally, keeping the bottom halves together. Arrange the bottom halves on the prepared baking dish.
- Evenly spread the Buffalo chicken mixture over the bottom buns. Top with the slices of provolone or mozzarella cheese, ensuring full coverage.
- Replace the top halves of the slider buns over the chicken and cheese.
- Brush the tops of the buns lightly with olive oil for a golden finish.
- Bake the sliders in the oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the buns are toasty.
- Remove the sliders from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Open the top buns and drizzle with blue cheese or ranch dressing. Add shredded lettuce, sliced celery, and sprinkle with chopped chives and crumbled blue cheese if desired.
- Close the sliders, slice into individual portions, and serve warm.
Nutritional Information
Crazy Good Buffalo Chicken Sliders are as satisfying as they are flavorful. Each slider (assuming a batch of 12) contains approximately 240-270 calories, depending on your choice of buns and cheese.
The breakdown per slider is about 13 grams of protein, 12 grams of fat, and 20 grams of carbohydrates, making them a balanced choice for a fun meal or party snack. The chicken provides a lean source of protein, while the Buffalo sauce and cheese contribute both flavor and richness.
Including lettuce and celery adds a bit of fiber and crunch, which helps to balance the richness of the sauce. While Buffalo sauce does contain sodium, you can control the amount by choosing lower-sodium versions or making your own.
For more detailed nutritional breakdowns and tips on making healthy choices with chicken-based recipes, visit the USDA’s FoodData Central (https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/). If you're mindful of calories, consider using low-fat cheese and light dressings or serving with extra veggies to lighten things up.
These sliders are perfect as part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation and paired with fresh sides.
Wine/Beverage Pairings With Crazy Good Buffalo Chicken Sliders
The spicy, tangy profile of Crazy Good Buffalo Chicken Sliders pairs well with crisp, refreshing beverages. For beer lovers, a cold lager or pilsner helps balance the heat and cleanse the palate.
If you prefer wine, go for a slightly off-dry Riesling or a sparkling wine like Prosecco to complement the spice and cut through the richness. For non-alcoholic options, classic lemonade, ginger ale, or a cucumber-mint sparkling water offer cooling relief and enhance the meal’s flavors.
If you want a themed twist, try a homemade blue cheese Bloody Mary or a Buffalo-inspired Michelada.
Cooking Tips and Variations
To achieve the juiciest, most flavorful Crazy Good Buffalo Chicken Sliders, opt for freshly cooked or rotisserie chicken, as this will shred easily and absorb the sauce well. If you need a quicker option, canned chicken can work in a pinch, though the texture will be slightly different.
For extra flavor depth, try smoking your chicken or grilling before shredding. When mixing the Buffalo sauce, adjust the heat level by adding more or less hot sauce, or incorporate a few dashes of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky note.
If you prefer a creamier filling, stir in a few tablespoons of cream cheese to the chicken mix before assembling. For variations, swap out the provolone for cheddar, pepper jack, or Monterey Jack cheese.
If you’re serving a crowd with varied dietary needs, offer both blue cheese and ranch dressings on the side. To make ahead, assemble the sliders up to the baking step and refrigerate covered; bake just before serving. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free slider buns.
For a lighter version, use grilled chicken breast, reduced-fat cheese, and a yogurt-based ranch dressing. Explore different toppings such as pickled jalapeños, sliced avocado, or even crispy fried onions for extra crunch and flavor. For more creative slider ideas, check out Serious Eats' slider recipes (https://www.seriouseats.com/slider-recipes).
Serving Suggestions
Crazy Good Buffalo Chicken Sliders are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways to suit any occasion. For a casual party or game day, arrange the sliders on a large platter and sprinkle with extra chives and blue cheese crumbles for a beautiful presentation.
Accompany them with bowls of carrot and celery sticks and a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. For a more substantial meal, serve the sliders alongside a crisp green salad, coleslaw, or oven-baked sweet potato fries.
If you're hosting a buffet, add other finger foods like jalapeño poppers, mozzarella sticks, or loaded nachos to create a festive spread. These sliders also make a fantastic lunchbox addition—simply wrap them individually in parchment paper for easy grab-and-go meals.
For family dinners, pair the sliders with roasted vegetables or a quinoa salad for a balanced plate. If you’re serving children, consider offering the Buffalo sauce on the side so everyone can customize their spice level.
Whether enjoyed hot from the oven or at room temperature, Crazy Good Buffalo Chicken Sliders deliver bold flavors and satisfying texture, making them a hit with guests of all ages.
Crazy Good Buffalo Chicken Sliders Health Benefits
Crazy Good Buffalo Chicken Sliders offer a satisfying way to enjoy the flavors of Buffalo chicken in a manageable portion size, making them a great option for both indulgence and balance.
Chicken breast is a lean protein that supports muscle health, and using lettuce and celery as toppings adds fiber, vitamins, and minerals. While Buffalo sauce and cheese do add sodium and fat, these sliders can be easily tailored to suit a healthier diet.
Opt for whole wheat slider buns and low-fat cheese to increase nutritional value, and consider serving with extra veggies or a green salad on the side. Using homemade Buffalo sauce lets you control the sodium and fat content further.
Ranch and blue cheese dressings, while rich, can be substituted with Greek yogurt-based versions for fewer calories and more protein. Enjoying these sliders in moderation, alongside a nutrient-dense side, contributes to a balanced diet. For more ideas on making comfort foods healthier, visit the Mayo Clinic’s healthy recipes section (https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/recipes).
FAQs About Crazy Good Buffalo Chicken Sliders
Can I make Crazy Good Buffalo Chicken Sliders ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the sliders up to the baking step and refrigerate them covered for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
What’s the best type of chicken to use for these sliders?
Rotisserie chicken is convenient and flavorful, but you can also use freshly cooked, shredded chicken breast or thighs for homemade sliders.
How can I make these sliders less spicy?
Reduce the amount of Buffalo sauce or mix it with extra melted butter. You can also serve the sauce on the side so guests can control the heat level to their liking.
Are there gluten-free options for this recipe?
Absolutely! Substitute the regular slider buns with gluten-free buns, and double-check that your sauces and dressings are gluten-free as well.
Can I freeze Crazy Good Buffalo Chicken Sliders?
It’s best to freeze the assembled but unbaked sliders. Wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking as directed.
Crazy Good Buffalo Chicken Sliders are the ultimate solution for anyone craving bold, spicy flavors in a fun, handheld format. Their versatility makes them perfect for parties, family gatherings, and quick dinners alike. With easy customization to suit different tastes and dietary needs, these sliders are sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Next time you’re looking for an appetizer or main dish that will delight a crowd, give Crazy Good Buffalo Chicken Sliders a try—they’re guaranteed to deliver satisfaction and spice to any occasion.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
- 8 slider buns
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
-
1Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
-
2In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken with buffalo wing sauce until evenly coated.
-
3Slice the slider buns in half horizontally and place the bottom halves in the prepared baking dish.
-
4Spread the buffalo chicken mixture evenly over the buns. Drizzle ranch dressing over the chicken, then sprinkle with mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
-
5Place the top halves of the buns over the cheese. Brush the tops with melted butter.
-
6Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tops are golden brown. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
Did you make this recipe?
Please consider Pinning it!!
