Name: Buffalo Chicken Sliders
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 9 sliders
Ingredients: 9-pack slider buns; 1 1/2 cups shredded chicken; 1/2 cup Frank's buffalo hot sauce; 2 Tbsp ranch dressing; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp ground black pepper; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/4 tsp paprika; 1 cup shredded cheese; 2 Tbsp butter; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/4 tsp Italian seasoning

Buffalo Chicken Sliders are more than just a snack; they’re a miniature explosion of flavor that consistently steals the show at any gathering. From casual game days to elegant potlucks, these delightful bites effortlessly capture hearts and taste buds. I’ve seen firsthand how their irresistible combination of tender, shredded chicken, coated in that iconic spicy, tangy Buffalo sauce, nestled within a soft, toasted bun, sparks joy and lively conversation.

The Irresistible Allure of Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Born from the legendary Buffalo wing tradition originating in upstate New York, I find that these sliders ingeniously transform that beloved pub classic into a convenient, handheld treat. People absolutely adore them for their perfect balance of fiery heat and savory richness, often beautifully mellowed by a cool ranch or creamy blue cheese dressing. They are incredibly addictive, offering all the robust flavor of wings without the mess, making them an ideal choice for entertaining. Whether you’re aiming to impress guests or simply craving a satisfying, fun meal, these Buffalo Chicken Sliders are your ultimate culinary MVP. They represent comfort food perfected for sharing, making every bite a memorable experience.

Ingredients:

For the Shredded Buffalo Chicken:
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded (about 1.5 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs before cooking, or one large rotisserie chicken) – I find a mix of dark and white meat gives the best flavor for Buffalo Chicken Sliders.
- ½ cup Frank’s RedHot Original Buffalo Wing Sauce (or your favorite brand of buffalo sauce) – This is the heart and soul of our Buffalo Chicken Sliders!
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (adds a lovely tang and balances the richness)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Sliders Assembly:
- 12-pack Hawaiian sweet rolls (or any soft, savory slider buns) – The slight sweetness of Hawaiian rolls perfectly complements the spicy buffalo chicken.
- 8 slices provolone cheese, or a blend of mozzarella and Monterey Jack (about 1.5 cups shredded) – I love how provolone melts so smoothly.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted (for brushing the tops)
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes (for garnish and a touch of color)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (for the butter topping, extra flavor never hurt anyone!)
For Serving (Optional but Highly Recommended):
- Blue cheese dressing or ranch dressing – essential for cooling down the heat and adding a creamy counterpoint to our Buffalo Chicken Sliders.
- Celery sticks and carrot sticks – classic accompaniments.
- Fresh chopped green onions or chives – for a pop of freshness and color.

Preparing the Shredded Buffalo Chicken:

First, let’s get our chicken ready. If you’re starting with raw chicken, you have a few excellent options to prepare it for shredding. You can boil two large chicken breasts in lightly salted water for about 15-20 minutes until they are cooked through and no longer pink inside. Another fantastic method is to bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes. If you’re looking for ultimate convenience and flavor, a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken works wonders here! Simply remove the skin and bones, then shred the meat. For maximum tenderness and efficiency, I often use my Instant Pot: add about 1 cup of chicken broth to the pot, place two chicken breasts on a trivet, and cook on high pressure for 8-10 minutes with a natural release for 5 minutes before quick releasing the rest.
Shredding the chicken is next. Once your chicken is cooked and slightly cooled, it’s time to shred it. My favorite trick is to use a stand mixer with the paddle attachment; simply place the cooked chicken breasts in the bowl and turn it on low speed for about 30-60 seconds. You’ll be amazed at how quickly and effortlessly the chicken transforms into perfectly shredded pieces, ideal for absorbing all that delicious buffalo sauce. If you don’t have a stand mixer, two forks also work perfectly well – just pull the meat apart against the grain until it’s all nicely shredded. Aim for consistent, bite-sized strands so every single Buffalo Chicken Slider is packed with flavor.
Now, let’s craft that irresistible buffalo sauce mixture. In a large saucepan or a microwave-safe bowl, combine the ½ cup of Frank’s RedHot Original Buffalo Wing Sauce, ¼ cup of melted unsalted butter, 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, ½ teaspoon of onion powder, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Whisk all these ingredients together thoroughly until they are well combined and smooth. The melted butter creates a richer, smoother sauce and helps temper the heat slightly, while the apple cider vinegar adds that much-needed zesty kick that truly elevates the flavor profile of our Buffalo Chicken Sliders. Heat this mixture over medium-low heat on the stovetop for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, just until it’s gently simmering and fragrant. This brief heating process really helps to meld all the flavors together beautifully.
Combine the shredded chicken with our glorious buffalo sauce. Add all your perfectly shredded chicken to the saucepan with the hot buffalo sauce mixture. Stir everything together meticulously, making sure every single strand of chicken is thoroughly coated in the vibrant, spicy, and tangy sauce. You want that rich, red color to be consistent throughout the chicken. Continue to cook on low heat, stirring frequently, for about 5-7 minutes. This step is crucial because it allows the chicken to truly absorb all the incredible flavors of the buffalo sauce, ensuring that each bite of your Buffalo Chicken Sliders is bursting with savory goodness. Keep it warm until you’re ready to assemble your sliders. This delicious Buffalo chicken mixture is the star of the show!

Assembling the Buffalo Chicken Sliders:

Prepare your slider buns. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take your 12-pack of Hawaiian sweet rolls and, using a large serrated knife, carefully slice the entire block of rolls in half horizontally, keeping all the tops attached and all the bottoms attached. You want to create two large halves, like a giant sandwich bun. Place the bottom half of the rolls into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Make sure they fit snugly; this helps keep the sliders together during baking.
Layer on the first round of cheese. Arrange half of your provolone cheese slices (or half of your shredded cheese, about ¾ cup) evenly over the bottom layer of rolls. The cheese acts as a delicious barrier, preventing the rolls from getting too soggy from the chicken mixture and adding a wonderful gooey texture right from the start. If you’re using shredded cheese, spread it out in an even layer. This foundational cheese layer is a non-negotiable step for truly magnificent Buffalo Chicken Sliders.
Add the star of the show: the buffalo chicken! Spoon all of your warm, saucy shredded buffalo chicken mixture evenly over the cheese-covered bottom rolls. Use a spatula to spread it out from edge to edge, ensuring every single Buffalo Chicken Slider will have a generous filling. Don’t be shy here; we want these sliders to be satisfyingly meaty and full of that classic buffalo flavor. The vibrant red chicken against the white cheese already looks incredibly appetizing!
Top with the remaining cheese. Now, gently place the remaining half of your provolone cheese slices (or the rest of your shredded cheese) over the buffalo chicken layer. This top layer of cheese will melt down, creating a beautiful, gooey blanket over the chicken and helping to “glue” the top buns in place. It’s an essential part of getting that perfect cheese pull when you separate your Buffalo Chicken Sliders.
Cap it off with the top buns. Carefully place the top half of the Hawaiian rolls back over the cheese and chicken layers. Give it a gentle press to ensure everything is somewhat compacted and ready for its cheesy, buttery topping.
Prepare the irresistible butter topping. In a small bowl, melt ¼ cup of unsalted butter. To this melted butter, add 1 teaspoon of dried parsley flakes and ½ teaspoon of garlic powder. Whisk these ingredients together until well combined. This isn’t just for appearance; this savory butter mixture is going to soak into the tops of the rolls, creating an incredibly flavorful, golden-brown crust. It truly sets these Buffalo Chicken Sliders apart!
Brush on the glorious butter mixture. Using a pastry brush, generously brush the entire top surface of the rolls with the prepared garlic-parsley butter mixture. Make sure to get into all the nooks and crannies between the individual rolls. This buttery coating is what will give your Buffalo Chicken Sliders that coveted golden-brown, slightly crispy top layer and infuse them with even more delicious flavor as they bake.

Baking the Buffalo Chicken Sliders to Perfection:

Cover and bake to melt the cheese. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This step is important because it traps the steam and heat, allowing the cheese to melt beautifully and the flavors to meld together without the rolls getting too crispy too quickly. Place the covered dish into your preheated 350°F (175°C) oven and bake for 20 minutes. During this initial baking phase, all that wonderful cheese beneath the top layer will become perfectly gooey and melted, embracing the spicy buffalo chicken. You’ll notice the rolls will start to soften and become infused with the delicious aromas of the filling.
Uncover and bake to achieve golden-brown perfection. After 20 minutes, carefully remove the foil from the baking dish. Return the uncovered Buffalo Chicken Sliders to the oven and continue baking for another 5-10 minutes, or until the tops of the rolls are gloriously golden brown and slightly crispy. Keep a close eye on them during this phase, as ovens can vary, and you want that perfect toasted finish without burning the tops. The garlic butter will transform into an irresistible, savory crust. This final uncovered bake creates a delightful textural contrast with the soft, cheesy interior. Achieving that beautiful golden-brown top is key for both visual appeal and a delightful crunch!
Let them rest briefly. Once they’re out of the oven, don’t rush to cut into them! Let the Buffalo Chicken Sliders rest in the baking dish for about 5 minutes. This brief resting period allows the cheese to set slightly, making them easier to cut, and ensures that all the delicious juices and flavors have a moment to redistribute. It’s a small step that makes a big difference in the final enjoyment.

Serving Your Delicious Buffalo Chicken Sliders:

Slice and serve immediately. Use that same large serrated knife to carefully cut through the individual sliders, following the lines of the rolls. Since they were baked as a single unit, they should be easier to separate now. You can serve them directly from the baking dish, or transfer them to a platter for a more elegant presentation. Each one should be a perfectly portioned, cheesy, spicy, and utterly satisfying mini sandwich.
Garnish and offer accompaniments. Sprinkle a generous amount of fresh chopped green onions or chives over the top of your warm Buffalo Chicken Sliders right before serving. This adds a fantastic burst of freshness, a lovely color contrast, and a mild oniony bite that complements the richness of the sliders. Arrange your platters with small bowls of creamy blue cheese dressing and cool ranch dressing on the side for dipping. These are absolute must-haves for balancing the spicy buffalo flavor! And don’t forget to include some crisp celery sticks and crunchy carrot sticks – they provide a refreshing crunch and are a classic pairing with anything buffalo-flavored. These Buffalo Chicken Sliders are truly a crowd-pleaser and perfect for game days, parties, or just a delicious weeknight meal! I promise, these will disappear quickly!

Conclusion:

And there you have it, friends! We’ve journeyed through what I genuinely believe is one of the most exciting and utterly delicious recipes you can add to your culinary arsenal. This isn’t just another dish; it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, a game-day MVP, and honestly, an effortless weeknight hero all rolled into one delightful package. Why is this recipe for Buffalo Chicken Sliders a definite must-try? Because it perfectly marries the fiery kick of classic buffalo sauce with tender, juicy chicken, all nestled within soft, buttery buns. It’s an explosion of flavor and texture that hits all the right notes – savory, a little spicy, and undeniably comforting. The ease of preparation means you’re not slaving away in the kitchen for hours, but instead, you’re enjoying the company of your guests or simply relaxing with a fantastic meal in record time. I promise you, once you take that first bite, you’ll understand exactly why I’m so enthusiastic about these incredible morsels.

But the joy doesn’t stop with the basic recipe; part of the fun of cooking is making it your own, and these sliders are incredibly versatile. For serving suggestions, think beyond just the plate. Imagine a vibrant platter featuring these savory sliders alongside crisp celery and carrot sticks, offering a refreshing counterpoint to the rich flavors. A creamy blue cheese or ranch dip served on the side is practically mandatory for that authentic buffalo experience. If you’re making them for a more substantial meal, consider pairing them with a light, refreshing coleslaw or a simple green salad to balance the richness. For a heartier side, sweet potato fries or a classic potato salad would make an excellent companion. Don’t be afraid to experiment with your favorite crunchy snacks too!

When it comes to variations, the possibilities are truly endless, limited only by your imagination. Want to dial up the heat? A dash of ghost pepper sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne into your buffalo mix will certainly do the trick. Prefer it milder? Use less hot sauce or opt for a milder variety, and consider adding a touch more honey or brown sugar to the sauce for a sweeter, gentler heat. You could also experiment with different cheeses – a sharp cheddar, a creamy provolone, or even a Monterey Jack with jalapeños would all bring their unique character to the party. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits for an extra layer of smoky flavor and crunch, or a few thin slices of pickled red onion for a tangy bite. Some folks even like to add a touch of fresh cilantro or green onions right before serving for a burst of freshness. For a richer bun experience, swap out the regular slider buns for brioche rolls, or for a touch of sweetness, Hawaiian sweet rolls are an absolute dream. You can even turn this into a larger sandwich by using full-sized burger buns, transforming your sliders into substantial buffalo chicken sandwiches.

My hope is that you’re now feeling inspired, your taste buds tingling, and you’re ready to dive into making these phenomenal sliders. Seriously, give this recipe a try this week! I am confident that these Buffalo Chicken Sliders will quickly become a cherished favorite in your home, just as they are in mine. Once you’ve whipped up your batch of these delightful bites, please don’t keep the experience to yourself! I absolutely love hearing from you and seeing your culinary creations. Share your photos on social media, tag me, or drop a comment below this article telling me how they turned out. Did you try a unique variation? What did your family and friends think? Your feedback and shared experiences not only make my day but also inspire others in our community to try new things and add their own spin. So, grab your ingredients, turn on your favorite cooking playlist, and get ready to create something truly delicious. Happy cooking!