These Fiery Buffalo Chicken Sliders Bake are a fun twist on classic sliders! Loaded with spicy buffalo chicken and topped with creamy cheese, they’re perfect for any gathering.
Once you try them, you might want to keep a batch in the fridge for late-night snacks. Who can resist that cheesy, spicy goodness? I certainly can’t! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shredded Chicken: You can use rotisserie chicken to make this dish quicker. If you’re vegetarian, try using shredded jackfruit or a meat substitute. Both options can hold the sauce well.
Buffalo Wing Sauce: For the hottest kick, go with your favorite hot sauce mixed with melted butter. If you want it milder, use a lesser amount of sauce or try a BBQ sauce mixed with a bit of hot sauce.
Slider Buns: The classic choice is Hawaiian rolls for their sweetness. You can also use whole wheat or gluten-free buns if needed. Just ensure they’re soft enough to hold the filling!
Cheese: Cheddar gives a nice sharpness. Pepper Jack is a delightful substitute if you want extra heat! Feel free to mix different types of cheese for a flavor boost.
How Do You Get the Right Texture and Flavor for Sliders?
To create the best texture, focus on the baking process. Covering with foil keeps moisture in while the sliders heat up, ensuring the chicken stays juicy. When you uncover them for the last few minutes, it lets the tops become golden and slightly crispy. It’s a small but impactful technique!
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for an optimal baking environment.
- Ensure your filling is mixed thoroughly so every bite is packed with flavor and that chicken gets coated with sauce.
- Let them bake covered to remain moist, but take the foil off near the end to crisp up the tops. It makes all the difference!
Fiery Buffalo Chicken Sliders Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Filling:
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (hot sauce of your choice mixed with melted butter)
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup ranch or blue cheese dressing
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)
For the Sliders:
- 8 dinner slider buns
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Optional:
- Celery sticks for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 25-30 minutes to bake, including toasting the sliders. In no time, you’ll have a tasty appetizer or party snack ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it will be just right when you pop in the sliders!
2. Prepare the Chicken Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine your shredded chicken with the buffalo wing sauce, softened cream cheese, ranch or blue cheese dressing, and chopped parsley. Stir it all together until everything is nicely mixed and the chicken is coated in the creamy, spicy sauce.
3. Slice the Buns:
Take your slider buns and slice them horizontally. Try not to cut all the way through; keep the top and bottom connected. This will help hold all that delicious filling!
4. Fill the Buns:
Spread half of your buffalo chicken mixture evenly over the bottom half of all the buns. Make sure to cover them well so every bite is flavorful!
5. Add Cheese:
Now sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the chicken mixture. Everyone loves cheesy sliders!
6. Assemble the Sliders:
Place the top half of the buns back on top of the filled bottom halves. They should look like little sandwiches.
7. Bake the Sliders:
Carefully place your assembled sliders in a baking dish and cover them loosely with aluminum foil. This keeps the moisture in while they bake. Then, bake for about 15-20 minutes, until the cheese has melted and the sliders are heated through.
8. Toast the Tops:
After the initial baking time, remove the foil and let them bake for an additional 5 minutes. This will give the tops a nice golden brown toastiness that you’ll love!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re done baking, take them out of the oven and garnish with some extra chopped parsley for color. Serve hot with celery sticks and extra ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side for dipping. Enjoy your spicy, cheesy sliders!
Perfect for game day or any gathering!
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken can save you time and add extra flavor. Just shred it and mix it with the buffalo sauce and other ingredients as you normally would.
How Can I Make This Recipe Less Spicy?
If you prefer a milder flavor, simply reduce the amount of buffalo wing sauce. You can also mix in some extra cream cheese or ranch dressing to temper the spice level.
Can I Prepare These Sliders Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the sliders and refrigerate them covered for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they go into the oven cold!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Sliders?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a quick warming or place in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Enjoy!
