Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Spicy buffalo chicken sliders bring together tangy heat creamy cheese and pillowy–soft buns for a party snack that vanishes as soon as it hits the table. This is the recipe I turn to whenever I host a game night or need something crowd–pleasing and bold. Packed with flavor and simple to assemble these sliders are a guaranteed winner for busy weeknights or gatherings.

My friends ask for these sliders at almost every gathering. The first time I made them for a Sunday game day they disappeared before halftime and since then they are my go–to for easy entertaining or a cozy Friday night in.

Gather Your Ingredients

• Slider buns: Fresh soft rolls are best for easy slicing and a fluffy center look for a pack with even tops
• Shredded chicken: Use juicy cooked chicken breast or thighs rotisserie works great for saving time and adding flavor
• Buffalo hot sauce: Franks provides classic tang and robust heat check for a rich orange color and balanced vinegar notes
• Ranch dressing: Brings a cool creamy touch and gentle herbiness use a good–quality bottle or homemade if you have time
• Salt: A tiny pinch balances the heat and perks up all the other flavors
• Ground black pepper: Freshly cracked gives a little earthy bite and aroma
• Shredded cheese: Choose cheddar mozzarella or a melty blend aim for cheese that melts smoothly with a rich taste
• Butter: Helps the tops brown beautifully and adds a subtle richness unsalted lets you control saltiness

How to Make It

Preheat and Prep:

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a nine–inch square baking sheet or casserole dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easy

Create the Chicken Filling:

In a deep mixing bowl add shredded chicken buffalo hot sauce ranch dressing salt and black pepper. Stir thoroughly so every piece of chicken is coated in spicy creamy sauce

Arrange the Buns:

Place the bottom halves of your slider buns on the lined baking sheet. Press down gently so they form an even layer and are snug but not squished together

Fill and Top the Sliders:

Spoon the buffalo chicken mixture evenly onto each bun base making sure to cover edge to edge for consistent flavor. Sprinkle shredded cheese generously over each mound so every bite is gooey

Add the Bun Tops:

Carefully place the tops of the buns on each slider pressing lightly to secure them without flattening

Brush With Butter Topping:

In a small bowl melt the butter until liquid and blend in minced garlic and Italian herbs. Using a pastry brush coat the tops of the buns with this mixture for flavor and a golden finish

Bake Covered and Uncovered:

Cover the baking sheet loosely with foil to help the sliders heat through without drying. Bake for fifteen minutes then remove the foil and return to the oven for five to ten minutes until the tops are nicely golden and the cheese bubbles

Cut and Serve Hot:

Let them rest for a minute then use a sharp knife to cut along each slider. Serve hot straight away for the best melty cheese pull and flavor

Melty cheese is my absolute favorite part of this dish. That golden stretchy layer reminds me of pulling pans out of the oven with my kids racing to see who gets the cheese pull. Making these together has become one of my most treasured kitchen memories.

Flavor Boosters

For the best results always pick fresh buns and use real butter for extra flavor. If you make your own shredded chicken season it well and shred it while warm for best texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve sliders with crisp celery sticks carrot spears or a side salad to balance the heat. They also go well with classic potato chips or oven fries. For parties I like to set out a tray with extra ranch or blue cheese for dipping.

Creative Twists

You can swap shredded rotisserie turkey for the chicken if that is what you have on hand. Try blue cheese dressing instead of ranch for a tangy swap. For extra richness Monterey Jack cheese melts beautifully and gives a slightly milder flavor.

These sliders always bring smiles at my table. Make a double batch—they go faster than you expect!

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ What type of chicken is best for these sliders?

Shredded cooked chicken works best, whether from rotisserie, boiled, or roasted chicken breasts for tender, flavorful filling.

→ Can I adjust the spice level in the buffalo sauce?

Yes, you can reduce the amount of hot sauce or mix with more ranch dressing to mellow the heat to your preference.

→ What cheese pairs well with buffalo chicken sliders?

Shredded cheddar or a mild cheese blend melts well and complements the spicy flavors perfectly.

→ How should I store leftover sliders?

Keep leftovers refrigerated in an airtight container and reheat in the oven to maintain crispness and flavor.

→ Can these sliders be prepared ahead of time?

You can assemble them in advance and bake just before serving to keep them fresh and warm.