Name: Easy Buffalo Chicken Sliders
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken; 1/3 cup buffalo hot sauce; 12 count brioche slider buns (or brioche dinner rolls, sliced in half); 8 ounces shredded Monterey Jack cheese; 1 container (12 oz) Heluva Good! Buttermilk Ranch Dip (divided); 3 tablespoons unsalted butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons finely chopped flat-leaf parsley; 1 cup shredded cabbage; 1/2 cup shredded carrots; 1/2 cup shredded celery

Introduction to Easy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Buffalo chicken sliders are an irresistible treat that has the amazing ability to bring people together, making them a go-to choice for parties, game days, or cozy weeknight dinners. The combination of tender, shredded chicken coated in spicy buffalo sauce, gooey cheese, and warm, pillowy brioche buns creates a flavor explosion that delights the taste buds. Plus, they’re incredibly simple to whip up—perfect for even the busiest young professionals!

What makes these easy buffalo chicken sliders a true crowd-pleaser? For one, their versatility allows you to cater to different tastes. Whether you prefer a mild kick or an intense heat, you can easily adjust the buffalo sauce to suit everyone’s preferences. Additionally, the inclusion of ranch dip adds a creamy element that helps tone down the spice, making it accessible for those who may shy away from traditional buffalo dishes.

These sliders are not just about flavor; they’re also about fun! Serving them creates a communal vibe where everyone can dig in, share stories, and savor each bite. If you’re looking for an easy way to elevate your next gathering, look no further than these delightful buffalo chicken sliders. Check out more about the history of buffalo sauce here.

Ingredients for Easy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

When hosting a gathering or just craving something delicious and straightforward, easy buffalo chicken sliders fit the bill perfectly! Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients you’ll need to whip up this flavorful dish.

Key Components

Cooked, Shredded Chicken: 2 cups. Feel free to use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
Buffalo Hot Sauce: ⅓ cup. Adjust to your spice preference; go milder or hotter as desired!
Brioche Slider Buns: A pack of 12. These sweet, soft buns are perfect for soaking up the buffalo goodness.
Monterey Jack Cheese: 8 ounces. Creamy cheese really complements the kick of the buffalo sauce.
Heluva Good! Buttermilk Ranch Dip: 12 ounces, divided. A tangy ranch dip will balance the heat beautifully.
Unsalted Butter: 3 tablespoons. Melted, this adds richness to the tops of your sliders.
Garlic: 3 cloves, minced. Adds a delicious aroma and depth of flavor.
Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, finely chopped. A pop of color and freshness!
Shredded Cabbage: 1 cup. This adds a crunchy component to your sliders.
Shredded Carrots and Celery: ½ cup each for that essential crunch and texture.

For tips on selecting fresh ingredients, check out this guide on meal prep essentials. Ready to mix and match these ingredients for your own mouthwatering sliders? Let’s dive into the cooking instructions!

Step-by-Step Preparation for Easy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Making easy buffalo chicken sliders is a perfect way to impress your friends or indulge in a cozy night at home. Follow these straightforward steps to create scrumptious sliders that everyone will rave about!

Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Chicken

First things first, you'll want to preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). This allows it to reach the perfect temperature for baking your sliders. While that's heating up, grab a large bowl and toss your 2 cups of cooked, shredded chicken with ⅓ cup of buffalo hot sauce. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated for that delightful kick!

Assemble the Slider Buns

Next, take your 12 brioche slider buns and place the bottom halves in a small baking dish or on a baking sheet. Spread a thin layer of Heluva Good! Buttermilk Ranch Dip over the bottom buns to infuse them with flavor. Then sprinkle 8 ounces of shredded Monterey Jack cheese generously over the dip. Finally, layer your buffalo chicken evenly on top. Once you're happy with it, cover it with the top halves of the buns!

Melt the Butter and Prepare the Garlic Mixture

Here’s where the magic starts. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Stir in 3 cloves of minced garlic and 2 tablespoons of finely chopped flat-leaf parsley. This garlic-butter blend will add fantastic flavor to your sliders. Brush this mixture generously over the top buns, allowing that buttery goodness to seep in.

Bake Until Golden and Cheesy

Now that your sliders are beautifully assembled, transfer them to the preheated oven. Bake them for about 12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the buns start to turn golden brown. You’ll know they're ready when your kitchen smells heavenly!

Prepare the Slaw Mixture

While your sliders bake, take a moment to prepare a fresh slaw. In a medium-sized bowl, combine 1 cup of shredded cabbage, ½ cup of shredded carrots, and ½ cup of shredded celery. For added creaminess, mix in more of the buttermilk ranch dip to coat the veggies as much as you like. This slaw will add a crunchy contrast to your warm buffalo chicken filling.

Final Assembly and Serving

Once your sliders are baked and the cheese is perfectly gooey, it’s time for the final touch. Carefully remove the top buns and spread the slaw mixture generously over the chicken. Place the tops back on, slice them up, and get ready to serve warm. These sliders are perfect for game day or a casual gathering. Enjoy!

If you're looking for more unique slaw ideas or dips, check out this link for inspiration—it’s always fun to mix and match flavors!

Variations on Easy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

For those who crave an extra kick, consider making spicy Buffalo chicken sliders. Simply mix in some finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper with the shredded chicken and buffalo sauce. This added heat creates an irresistible explosion of flavor that’s perfect for game day or any lively gathering. You can also experiment by swapping in different hot sauces, like a smoky chipotle variety, to tailor the spice level to your liking.

Vegetarian Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Looking for a meatless alternative? Try vegetarian Buffalo chicken sliders. Substitute the shredded chicken with jackfruit or cauliflower, both of which soak up buffalo sauce beautifully. You can also add some plant-based cheese for that melty goodness. These sliders offer a deliciously guilt-free option while still delivering on the flavor. Don’t forget to top them with a fresh slaw or avocado for added creaminess!

For more inspiration, check out these vegetarian recipes.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Easy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Elevate your easy buffalo chicken sliders with these simple tips!

Chicken Prep: Always opt for high-quality, shredded rotisserie chicken for ease and flavor. If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought shredded chicken.
Flavor Balance: Adjust the buffalo sauce according to your heat preference. Mix a little ranch dressing with the sauce for a milder kick.
Bun Choices: Brioche is soft and delicious, but feel free to explore whole wheat or gluten-free options for a healthier twist.
Slaw Options: For added crunch and flavor, toss in some radishes or green onions to your slaw.

Enjoy whipping up these sliders for your next game day or casual get-together! For more ideas, check out this article on slider variations.

Serving Suggestions for Easy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Elevate your easy buffalo chicken sliders by pairing them with delicious sides and beverages. Consider serving them with:

Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness complements the spicy kick of the sliders.
Veggie Platter with Ranch Dip: Freshness from raw vegetables contrasts nicely with the rich flavors.
Classic Cole Slaw: A tangy slaw adds crunch and balances the dish's heat.

For drinks, try refreshing iced tea or homemade lemonade. If you want a twist, a fruity mocktail could be the perfect non-alcoholic option to round out your gathering. Visit Serious Eats for more side ideas! These suggestions not only enhance your meal but also impress your guests!

Time Breakdown for Easy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Preparation Time

Getting ready for these easy buffalo chicken sliders is a breeze! You’ll spend approximately 15 minutes gathering your ingredients and prepping the chicken and slaw.

Cooking Time

Once you’ve prepped, the cooking will only take around 12 minutes to get the sliders perfect and golden brown in the oven.

Total Time

In total, you’re looking at about 45 minutes from start to finish, making it easy to serve up delicious sliders for game day or any casual get-together. These will be a hit, guaranteed!

For helpful tips on ingredient selection or slider variations, check out this resource on cooking with chicken.

Nutritional Facts for Easy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

When you're whipping up a batch of these easy buffalo chicken sliders, it's good to know what you're putting on the table. Here’s a quick look at the nutritional breakdown to help you enjoy every bite guilt-free.

Calories

Each slider packs about 300 calories, making them a satisfying choice for lunch or a game-day snack!

Protein

You’ll get a hearty dose of protein with approximately 18 grams per slider, thanks to the shredded chicken and Monterey Jack cheese. Perfect for refueling after a workout!

Sodium

Keep in mind that each slider contains around 700 mg of sodium. If you're watching your intake, consider moderating the buffalo sauce or using low-sodium options.

Enjoy these sliders as a fun and hearty meal that fits into your busy lifestyle! For more details on healthy eating, check out this guide from the USDA.

FAQs about Easy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Can I use rotisserie chicken for buffalo chicken sliders?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver and gives your easy buffalo chicken sliders a delicious flavor. Simply shred the chicken and mix it with the buffalo sauce, and you’re good to go! It’s perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something quick yet satisfying.

How do I make them less spicy?
If you're looking to dial down the heat, there are a couple of simple methods. Choose a milder hot sauce or reduce the amount in the recipe. You could also mix in some additional ranch dip to tone it down—after all, creamy flavors can balance out the spiciness beautifully.

Can I prepare sliders in advance?
Certainly! You can prep the sliders a day ahead by assembling everything except for the baking. Just cover them tightly and store in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, pop them in the oven for a quick bake, and enjoy your delicious sliders fresh and warm! For more tips on meal prep, check out this helpful guide.

Conclusion on Easy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

In summary, easy buffalo chicken sliders are a delicious and hassle-free option for any gathering. With minimal preparation and bold flavors, these sliders are sure to impress your friends and family. Don't forget to experiment with toppings and sauces to make this dish your own! Enjoy!