These Slow Cooker BBQ Buffalo Chicken Sliders are a game-changer! Tender, spicy chicken cooked to perfection, mixed with tangy BBQ sauce, and served on fluffy sliders. Yum!
Honestly, who doesn’t love sliders? They’re great for game day or any gathering. I usually whip up a big batch, and they disappear so fast—it’s like magic! ✨
Making these is super easy. Just toss the ingredients in the slow cooker, let it work its magic, and you have tasty sliders ready to enjoy—all without much fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe since they become tender in the slow cooker. If you’re looking for a different protein, you could try boneless thighs or even shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
BBQ Sauce: The type of BBQ sauce you use adds a unique flavor. I love a sweet Kansas City-style sauce, but you can use anything from tangy vinegar-based to smoky sauces based on your taste.
Buffalo Sauce: Frank’s RedHot is a classic choice for buffalo flavor. However, if you want it milder, just reduce the amount or try a milder hot sauce. You could also make your own with hot sauce and melted butter for a fresh twist.
Coleslaw Mix: While this adds a crunchy texture, you can skip it if you prefer a less messy slider. Alternatively, try a cabbage salad or even shredded carrots for a different crunch.
Ranch Dressing: Ranch dressing complements the flavors well. If you’re avoiding dairy, try a dairy-free ranch or a simple vinaigrette instead.
How Do I Properly Shred Chicken After Cooking?
Shredding chicken can seem tricky, but it’s pretty straightforward once you know what to do! Here’s a quick guide:
- After cooking, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and place it on a large plate or bowl.
- Using two forks, pull the chicken apart by holding one fork in each hand and gently pulling the meat apart in opposite directions.
- Continue shredding until all the chicken is in bite-sized pieces.
- Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and mix it with the sauce to keep it juicy.
Taking the time to shred your chicken well will make your sliders extra delicious!
How to Make Slow Cooker BBQ Buffalo Chicken Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your choice)
- 1 cup buffalo sauce (e.g., Frank’s RedHot)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sliders:
- 1 cup coleslaw mix (optional)
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 12 slider buns
- Blue cheese crumbles (optional)
- Pickles for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then requires 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the slow cooker. After that, just a few minutes to assemble the sliders, and you’re ready to enjoy a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Season them with garlic powder, onion powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste. This will give the chicken a lovely flavor as it cooks.
2. Add the Sauces:
Pour the BBQ sauce and buffalo sauce over the chicken. Make sure the chicken is well coated in the sauces. This is where all the flavor comes from!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The chicken is done when it’s tender and easy to shred with a fork. The longer you cook it, the more delicious it will be.
4. Shred the Chicken:
Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and mix it with the remaining sauce.
5. Assemble the Sliders:
To put your sliders together, take the slider buns and place a generous portion of the shredded buffalo chicken on the bottom half of each bun. This is where the fun begins!
6. Add the Toppings:
Top the chicken with a sprinkle of coleslaw mix for added crunch, and drizzle some ranch dressing over it. If you love blue cheese, this is the perfect time to sprinkle some crumbles on top.
7. Serve It Up:
Now, add the top half of the slider bun over your tasty filling. Serve the sliders immediately, and consider garnishing them with pickles if you like a little extra flavor. Enjoy your deliciously messy and flavorful Buffalo Chicken Sliders!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just be sure to cook it on the high setting for 5-6 hours instead of low, as it will take longer to reach a safe temperature. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches at least 165°F (75°C).
What If I Don’t Have Buffalo Sauce?
No problem! If you don’t have buffalo sauce, you can substitute it with a mixture of hot sauce (like Louisiana hot sauce) and melted butter to achieve a similar flavor. Adjust the ratio to your preferred spice level!
How Should I Store Leftover Sliders?
Store any leftover shredded chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For optimal freshness, store the chicken separately from the buns and toppings. To reheat, just warm the chicken in the microwave or on the stove before assembling your sliders again!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken in the slow cooker ahead of time and keep it in the fridge for a day after it’s cooked. Just reheat before serving. The flavors will intensify, making it even tastier!
