Introduction: Craving Spicy, Sweet Sliders That Are a Game-Day Hit?
Want a crowd-pleasing dish that’s packed with bold, spicy flavor and perfect for sharing? Buffalo Chicken Sliders are the ultimate recipe! These slow-cooker sliders feature tender shredded chicken tossed in a spicy-sweet Buffalo sauce, served on soft Hawaiian rolls. Ideal for game days, parties, or easy weeknight dinners, they’re simple to make and totally customizable. Ready to create a delicious, finger-licking meal that everyone will love? Let’s dive into this tasty recipe!
Overview: Why Buffalo Chicken Sliders Are Special
Buffalo Chicken Sliders are a fun, flavorful twist on classic Buffalo wings, with the convenience of a slow cooker and the handheld appeal of sliders. The sweet Hawaiian rolls balance the heat perfectly. Here’s why they’re so special:
- Time Requirement: About 10 minutes prep, 3-4 hours cooking on Low, plus 10 minutes finishing, for a total of about 3.5-4.5 hours (mostly hands-off).
- Difficulty Level: Easy! Perfect for beginners or anyone wanting a low-effort, high-flavor meal.
- Why It’s Unique: The slow cooker ensures juicy, tender chicken, while the Buffalo sauce—made with Louisiana-style hot sauce, butter, and honey—delivers a spicy-sweet kick. The Hawaiian rolls add a touch of sweetness, and optional toppings like blue cheese or lettuce make these sliders versatile and irresistible.
This recipe is bold, shareable, and perfect for Buffalo sauce fans or slider lovers. Let’s get cooking!
Essential Ingredients
This recipe makes 12 sliders (serves 4-6) and uses simple ingredients for a spicy, flavorful dish. Here’s what you’ll need for the original (1x) recipe:
- For the Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons plus 1/3 cup Louisiana-style hot sauce, divided
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 cup butter, cubed
- 1/4 cup honey
- For Assembly:
- 12 Hawaiian sweet rolls, warmed
- Optional Toppings:
- Lettuce leaves
- Sliced tomato
- Thinly sliced red onion
- Crumbled blue cheese
Why These Ingredients Matter
- Chicken Breasts: Lean protein that shreds easily and soaks up the spicy sauce.
- Louisiana-Style Hot Sauce: Provides the signature Buffalo heat and tang.
- Pepper: Adds a mild kick to season the chicken.
- Butter: Creates a smooth, rich base for the sauce.
- Honey: Balances the heat with a touch of sweetness.
- Hawaiian Sweet Rolls: Soft, sweet rolls that complement the spicy filling.
- Optional Toppings: Lettuce and tomato add freshness, red onion brings crunch, and blue cheese offers a creamy, tangy contrast.
Substitutions and Variations
- Chicken: Swap with boneless chicken thighs for juicier meat or rotisserie chicken (skip slow cooking, just toss with sauce).
- Hot Sauce: Use any vinegar-based hot sauce like Frank’s RedHot or Tabasco; adjust quantity for heat preference.
- Butter: Replace with margarine or olive oil for a lighter option.
- Honey: Substitute with maple syrup or agave nectar for a different sweetness.
- Hawaiian Rolls: Use slider buns, dinner rolls, or brioche buns; gluten-free buns for dietary needs.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free rolls and check hot sauce for additives.
- Lower Heat: Reduce hot sauce to 1/4 cup total or use a mild hot sauce.
- Spicy Boost: Add 1/4 teaspoon cayenne or a sliced jalapeño to the sauce.
- Ranch Twist: Drizzle with ranch dressing or serve with a side for dipping.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making Buffalo Chicken Sliders is quick and easy, with the slow cooker handling the chicken and a simple sauce tying it all together. Follow these steps for perfect sliders every time!
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
- Pat 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
- Measure 2 tablespoons plus 1/3 cup Louisiana-style hot sauce, 1/4 teaspoon pepper, 1/4 cup cubed butter, and 1/4 cup honey.
- Gather 12 Hawaiian sweet rolls and optional toppings: lettuce leaves, sliced tomato, thinly sliced red onion, and crumbled blue cheese.
Tip: Cube butter ahead for easier melting in the saucepan.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Place Chicken: Arrange chicken breasts in a 3-quart slow cooker.
- Season: Toss chicken with 2 tablespoons hot sauce and 1/4 teaspoon pepper to coat.
- Cook: Cover and cook on Low for 3-4 hours, until chicken is tender and reaches 165°F (74°C) internally.
Tip: Check at 3 hours; smaller breasts or hotter slow cookers may cook faster.
Step 3: Shred the Chicken
- Remove Chicken: Transfer chicken to a cutting board and discard the cooking juices from the slow cooker.
- Shred: Shred chicken with two forks into bite-sized pieces.
Tip: Shred finely for easier slider filling or coarsely for chunkier texture.
Step 4: Make the Buffalo Sauce
- Combine Ingredients: In a small saucepan, combine 1/4 cup cubed butter, 1/4 cup honey, and 1/3 cup Louisiana-style hot sauce.
- Cook: Heat over medium heat, stirring, until the butter is melted and the sauce is blended, about 3-5 minutes.
Tip: Stir constantly to prevent the sauce from separating or burning.
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce
- Mix: Add shredded chicken to the saucepan (or pour sauce into a large bowl with chicken). Stir until the chicken is evenly coated and heated through, about 1-2 minutes.
Tip: If the sauce is too thick, add 1-2 tablespoons water or chicken broth to thin it.
Step 6: Assemble the Sliders
- Warm Rolls: Warm 12 Hawaiian sweet rolls in the oven (300°F for 5-7 minutes, wrapped in foil) or microwave (20-30 seconds, wrapped in a damp towel).
- Fill Sliders: Spoon the Buffalo chicken mixture onto the bottom halves of the rolls.
- Add Toppings: Add optional lettuce leaves, sliced tomato, thinly sliced red onion, and crumbled blue cheese, then place the top halves of the rolls.
Tip: Don’t overfill to keep sliders easy to eat; serve extra sauce on the side if desired.
Step 7: Serve
- Serve sliders hot, with extra napkins for the saucy filling. Offer additional toppings or a side of ranch dressing for dipping.
Assembly: Building the Perfect Buffalo Chicken Sliders
Assembling Buffalo Chicken Sliders is all about layering spicy, saucy chicken on sweet rolls with fresh toppings for a balanced, bold bite. Here’s how to put it together:
- Cook Chicken: Slow-cook chicken with hot sauce and pepper for tender results.
- Shred: Break down chicken into shreddable pieces.
- Make Sauce: Blend butter, honey, and hot sauce for a spicy-sweet coating.
- Combine and Fill: Toss chicken in sauce and pile onto warm Hawaiian rolls.
- Top and Serve: Add lettuce, tomato, onion, or blue cheese for extra flavor and crunch.
Presentation Tips:
- Arrange sliders on a platter or wooden board to showcase the vibrant chicken and toppings.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of blue cheese crumbles, chopped parsley, or a drizzle of extra sauce for flair.
- Pair with celery sticks, carrot sticks, or potato chips for a game-day spread.
- Use colorful or rustic plates to highlight the sliders’ bold, Buffalo-inspired vibe.
Serving Suggestions
Buffalo Chicken Sliders are versatile and perfect for a variety of occasions. Here are some ideas to enjoy them:
- Game-Day Spread: Serve with celery sticks, ranch dressing, and cold drinks for a tailgate vibe.
- Party Platter: Make a double batch and set out with multiple topping options for a DIY slider bar.
- With Sides: Pair with coleslaw, sweet potato fries, or a green salad for a complete meal.
- As a Main: Serve 2-3 sliders per person with a hearty side for a filling dinner.
- For Kids: Use less hot sauce and skip spicy toppings for a milder version.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Buffalo Chicken Sliders are great for leftovers or meal prep. Here’s how to keep them fresh:
- Storing Leftovers:
- Store shredded chicken mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Keep rolls and toppings separate.
- Reheating: Reheat chicken in a saucepan over medium heat with a splash of water, about 5-7 minutes, or microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway. Assemble sliders fresh.
- Make-Ahead Tips:
- Chicken: Cook and shred chicken up to 2 days ahead; refrigerate. Reheat, make sauce, and toss before serving.
- Sauce: Prepare the Buffalo sauce up to 1 day ahead; refrigerate and rewarm gently before mixing with chicken.
- Freezing: Freeze shredded chicken (without sauce or toppings) for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge, reheat, and toss with freshly made sauce before serving.
Tip: Add fresh toppings like lettuce and tomato just before serving to keep them crisp.
Recipe Variations
Buffalo Chicken Sliders are versatile and easy to customize. Here are some fun twists to try:
- Milder Version: Reduce hot sauce to 1/4 cup total and add 2 tablespoons extra honey.
- Extra Spicy: Add 1/2 teaspoon cayenne or a few dashes of extra hot sauce to the sauce.
- Cheesy Sliders: Melt a slice of cheddar or pepper jack on the chicken before assembling.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free rolls and check hot sauce for additives.
- Lower Fat: Use half the butter or replace with olive oil, and skip high-fat toppings like blue cheese.
- BBQ Twist: Swap half the hot sauce for barbecue sauce for a smoky-sweet flavor.
- Slow-Cooker Sauce Option: Add butter, honey, and remaining hot sauce to the slow cooker with shredded chicken, cook on Low for 30 minutes, then serve.
Tip: Keep the hot sauce and honey for the signature Buffalo flavor.
Conclusion: Savor Your Buffalo Chicken Sliders!
You’ve just made Buffalo Chicken Sliders—a spicy, sweet, and totally addictive dish that’s perfect for any occasion! This slow-cooker recipe is easy, flavorful, and so versatile you can make it your own. Whether you load them with blue cheese and veggies or keep them simple with just the saucy chicken, they’re sure to be a hit. Grab a slider, enjoy the bold Buffalo kick, and savor the game-day vibes. What’s your favorite slider topping? Share your ideas in the comments, and happy cooking!
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Buffalo Chicken Sliders
Description
Want a crowd-pleasing dish that’s packed with bold, spicy flavor and perfect for sharing? Buffalo Chicken Sliders are the ultimate recipe! These slow-cooker sliders feature tender shredded chicken tossed in a spicy-sweet Buffalo sauce, served on soft Hawaiian rolls.
Ingredients
This recipe makes 12 sliders (serves 4-6) and uses simple ingredients for a spicy, flavorful dish. Here’s what you’ll need for the original (1x) recipe:
- For the Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons plus 1/3 cup Louisiana-style hot sauce, divided
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 cup butter, cubed
- 1/4 cup honey
- For Assembly:
- 12 Hawaiian sweet rolls, warmed
- Optional Toppings:
- Lettuce leaves
- Sliced tomato
- Thinly sliced red onion
- Crumbled blue cheese
Why These Ingredients Matter
- Chicken Breasts: Lean protein that shreds easily and soaks up the spicy sauce.
- Louisiana-Style Hot Sauce: Provides the signature Buffalo heat and tang.
- Pepper: Adds a mild kick to season the chicken.
- Butter: Creates a smooth, rich base for the sauce.
- Honey: Balances the heat with a touch of sweetness.
- Hawaiian Sweet Rolls: Soft, sweet rolls that complement the spicy filling.
- Optional Toppings: Lettuce and tomato add freshness, red onion brings crunch, and blue cheese offers a creamy, tangy contrast.
Substitutions and Variations
- Chicken: Swap with boneless chicken thighs for juicier meat or rotisserie chicken (skip slow cooking, just toss with sauce).
- Hot Sauce: Use any vinegar-based hot sauce like Frank’s RedHot or Tabasco; adjust quantity for heat preference.
- Butter: Replace with margarine or olive oil for a lighter option.
- Honey: Substitute with maple syrup or agave nectar for a different sweetness.
- Hawaiian Rolls: Use slider buns, dinner rolls, or brioche buns; gluten-free buns for dietary needs.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free rolls and check hot sauce for additives.
- Lower Heat: Reduce hot sauce to 1/4 cup total or use a mild hot sauce.
- Spicy Boost: Add 1/4 teaspoon cayenne or a sliced jalapeño to the sauce.
- Ranch Twist: Drizzle with ranch dressing or serve with a side for dipping.
Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
- Pat 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
- Measure 2 tablespoons plus 1/3 cup Louisiana-style hot sauce, 1/4 teaspoon pepper, 1/4 cup cubed butter, and 1/4 cup honey.
- Gather 12 Hawaiian sweet rolls and optional toppings: lettuce leaves, sliced tomato, thinly sliced red onion, and crumbled blue cheese.
Tip: Cube butter ahead for easier melting in the saucepan.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Place Chicken: Arrange chicken breasts in a 3-quart slow cooker.
- Season: Toss chicken with 2 tablespoons hot sauce and 1/4 teaspoon pepper to coat.
- Cook: Cover and cook on Low for 3-4 hours, until chicken is tender and reaches 165°F (74°C) internally.
Tip: Check at 3 hours; smaller breasts or hotter slow cookers may cook faster.
Step 3: Shred the Chicken
- Remove Chicken: Transfer chicken to a cutting board and discard the cooking juices from the slow cooker.
- Shred: Shred chicken with two forks into bite-sized pieces.
Tip: Shred finely for easier slider filling or coarsely for chunkier texture.
Step 4: Make the Buffalo Sauce
- Combine Ingredients: In a small saucepan, combine 1/4 cup cubed butter, 1/4 cup honey, and 1/3 cup Louisiana-style hot sauce.
- Cook: Heat over medium heat, stirring, until the butter is melted and the sauce is blended, about 3-5 minutes.
Tip: Stir constantly to prevent the sauce from separating or burning.
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce
- Mix: Add shredded chicken to the saucepan (or pour sauce into a large bowl with chicken). Stir until the chicken is evenly coated and heated through, about 1-2 minutes.
Tip: If the sauce is too thick, add 1-2 tablespoons water or chicken broth to thin it.
Step 6: Assemble the Sliders
- Warm Rolls: Warm 12 Hawaiian sweet rolls in the oven (300°F for 5-7 minutes, wrapped in foil) or microwave (20-30 seconds, wrapped in a damp towel).
- Fill Sliders: Spoon the Buffalo chicken mixture onto the bottom halves of the rolls.
- Add Toppings: Add optional lettuce leaves, sliced tomato, thinly sliced red onion, and crumbled blue cheese, then place the top halves of the rolls.
Tip: Don’t overfill to keep sliders easy to eat; serve extra sauce on the side if desired.
Step 7: Serve
- Serve sliders hot, with extra napkins for the saucy filling. Offer additional toppings or a side of ranch dressing for dipping.
FAQs
Q: Are Buffalo Chicken Sliders healthy?
A: Chicken breasts are lean and high in protein, but the butter and optional blue cheese add fat. Use less butter, skip high-fat toppings, or opt for gluten-free rolls for a lighter option. Pair with veggie sticks for balance.
Q: Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
A: Yes! Add frozen breasts to the slow cooker and increase cooking time to 4-5 hours on Low, ensuring 165°F (74°C) doneness.
Q: Can I cook this on High?
A: Yes! Cook on High for 1.5-2 hours, checking for 165°F (74°C). Low is preferred for tender results.
Q: Why is my chicken dry?
A: Overcooking can dry out chicken. Check at 3 hours and ensure it doesn’t exceed 165°F. The sauce helps add moisture, so coat thoroughly.
Q: Can I make this without a slow cooker?
A: Yes! Poach chicken in a skillet with 2 tablespoons hot sauce and 1/4 cup water for 15-20 minutes, shred, and toss with the sauce made on the stovetop.
Q: Can I freeze Buffalo Chicken Sliders?
A: Freeze the shredded chicken (without sauce or rolls) for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge, reheat, and toss with freshly made sauce before assembling with fresh rolls and toppings.