If there’s one thing that screams crowd-pleaser, it’s a plate of mini sliders. And when they’re packed with tender chicken coated in a tangy buffalo sauce, topped with creamy blue cheese and crisp lettuce? Game over. These Buffalo Chicken Sliders are a flavor-packed, no-fuss recipe that’s as perfect for a game day party as it is for a lazy Friday night dinner. What makes this recipe even better? It takes just 15 minutes to throw together. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, these sliders are foolproof, delicious, and sure to become a favorite in your household.
I first made these for a last-minute get-together with friends. I had a rotisserie chicken in the fridge, some leftover buffalo sauce, and slider buns I’d picked up on a whim. The result? A tray of sliders that disappeared in minutes, and a recipe I’ve been asked to share countless times since. They’ve become a go-to when I need something easy, quick, and downright irresistible.
Why You’ll Love This Buffalo Chicken Sliders Recipe
There are so many reasons to fall in love with these sliders, starting with how ridiculously simple they are to make. You’ll use store-bought buffalo sauce and a rotisserie chicken, which means minimal prep and maximum flavor. The sauce is buttery, spicy, and tangy, creating the perfect base for the juicy chicken. Meanwhile, the crunch of fresh celery and the creaminess of blue cheese balance the heat beautifully.
They’re also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with your favorite toppings or even adjust the spice level to suit your crowd. Plus, they’re ideal for entertaining. Whether you’re serving them as part of a buffet or making them the star of the show, they’re always a hit. Not to mention, they’re bite-sized, which means less mess and more fun.
And let’s talk about texture for a moment. The soft, slightly sweet slider buns hold everything together, while the lettuce adds a fresh crunch, and the blue cheese crumbles melt slightly from the warmth of the chicken. Every bite is a perfect blend of flavors and textures that’ll keep you coming back for more.
Preparation Time and Servings
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: Makes 6 sliders (serves 3 as a meal or 6 as a snack)
Nutrition per serving: Approximately 320 calories per slider, with 18g protein, 22g carbs, and 15g fat.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious sliders:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: This adds richness and mellows out the spice of the buffalo sauce.
- ¾ cup buffalo sauce: Choose your favorite brand, or make your own for an extra-special touch.
- 1 rotisserie chicken, shredded: Saves time and adds loads of flavor with minimal effort.
- 2 celery stalks, thinly sliced: Adds a refreshing crunch that complements the spicy chicken.
- ¾ cup blue cheese, crumbled: Creamy, tangy, and perfect for balancing the heat of the buffalo sauce.
- 6 butter lettuce leaves: Light, crisp, and the perfect addition to these sliders.
- 6 slider buns: Soft and slightly sweet buns work best for this recipe.
Step-by-Step Instructions to make this Buffalo Chicken Sliders
Prepare the Buffalo Sauce
Start by melting the butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the buffalo sauce until well combined. Remove the skillet from the heat and set it aside. This simple step creates a rich, tangy sauce that coats the chicken beautifully.
Shred the Chicken and Mix the Filling
While the sauce cools slightly, shred the rotisserie chicken into bite-sized pieces. Place the chicken in a large mixing bowl along with the sliced celery. Pour the buffalo sauce over the top and toss everything together until the chicken is evenly coated.
Assemble the Sliders
Now comes the fun part—assembling the sliders! Start by placing the bottom half of each slider bun on a serving tray. Add a generous scoop of the buffalo chicken mixture, making sure each bite is packed with flavor. Sprinkle the crumbled blue cheese over the chicken, then top it with a piece of butter lettuce. Finish by placing the top half of the bun over the lettuce.
Serve and Enjoy
Your sliders are ready to go! Serve them immediately while the chicken is still warm, and watch as they disappear in no time.
How to Serve this Buffalo Chicken Sliders
These sliders are versatile and can be served in so many ways:
- Pair them with a side of crispy fries or sweet potato wedges for a hearty meal.
- Add a platter of fresh veggies and ranch dressing for dipping, creating the perfect party spread.
- Serve them alongside a simple green salad for a lighter option.
If you’re making these for a crowd, consider doubling the recipe and setting up a DIY slider bar. Lay out the buns, chicken mixture, and toppings, and let everyone build their sliders just the way they like them.
Additional Tips
- Drain Your Chicken Well: If your rotisserie chicken is extra juicy, pat it dry with paper towels before shredding. This helps the sauce stick better.
- Toast the Buns: For an extra layer of texture, toast the buns lightly before assembling. It adds a subtle crunch and keeps them from getting soggy.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you’re serving kids or those who prefer milder flavors, use a mild buffalo sauce or mix it with a little extra butter.
- Make Ahead for Convenience: The chicken mixture can be prepared a day in advance. Store it in the fridge, then warm it up before assembling the sliders.
- Keep Them Warm: If you’re serving these at a party, keep the assembled sliders warm in a low oven (around 200°F) until ready to serve.
Recipe Variations
These Buffalo Chicken Sliders are amazing as-is, but here are some fun ways to switch things up:
- Cheese Swap: Not a fan of blue cheese? Use shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or even feta for a different flavor.
- Make It Spicier: Add a few dashes of hot sauce to the buffalo sauce for an extra kick.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free buns to make this recipe gluten-friendly.
- Ranch Upgrade: Drizzle ranch dressing over the chicken for an extra creamy touch.
- Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for crispy cauliflower bites or chickpeas for a plant-based option.
Storing and Freezing
If you have leftovers (though that’s unlikely!), here’s how to store and reheat them:
- In the Fridge: Store any leftover chicken mixture in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the buns separate to prevent them from getting soggy.
- In the Freezer: Freeze the buffalo chicken mixture in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop or microwave.
- Reheating: Warm the chicken mixture in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of buffalo sauce if needed to keep it moist.
Special Equipment for this Buffalo Chicken Sliders
You don’t need any fancy gadgets to make these sliders, but here are a few tools that can make the process even easier:
- Mixing Bowl: A large bowl is perfect for tossing the chicken with the sauce.
- Small Skillet: Ideal for melting butter and preparing the buffalo sauce.
- Serving Tray: Use a nice tray or platter to serve the sliders, making them look as impressive as they taste.
FAQ
Can I use homemade buffalo sauce?
Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade recipe, go for it. It’ll add an extra personal touch.
Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
You can prep the chicken mixture in advance, but it’s best to assemble the sliders right before serving to keep the buns fresh.
What can I use instead of blue cheese?
Cheddar, feta, or even ranch dressing are great substitutes if you’re not a fan of blue cheese.
Can I use regular buns instead of slider buns?
Definitely! You can use regular-sized buns and serve these as full-size sandwiches if you prefer.
How can I make these dairy-free?
Swap the butter for a plant-based alternative and omit the blue cheese. Add a dairy-free dressing for extra flavor.
Are these sliders spicy?
They have a mild kick, but you can easily adjust the spice level by using a milder or hotter buffalo sauce.
Conclusion
There’s nothing quite like a platter of Buffalo Chicken Sliders to bring people together. They’re quick, easy, and bursting with flavor—what’s not to love? Whether you’re whipping them up for a party or making them for a cozy night in, these sliders are guaranteed to be a hit.
So grab some buns, a rotisserie chicken, and your favorite buffalo sauce, and give this recipe a try. Don’t forget to snap a picture and tag me on social media—I’d love to see how your sliders turn out!
Print
15-Minute Buffalo Chicken Sliders Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 sliders 1x
- Diet: Halal
Description
These Buffalo Chicken Sliders are a fast and flavorful snack or meal made with shredded rotisserie chicken, buffalo sauce, and crisp toppings. Perfect for entertaining or weeknight dinners, they’re ready in just 15 minutes and packed with bold, zesty flavors!
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ¾ cup buffalo sauce
- 1 rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 2 celery stalks, thinly sliced
- ¾ cup blue cheese, crumbled
- 6 butter lettuce leaves
- 6 slider buns
Instructions
- Melt butter in a small skillet and mix in buffalo sauce. Set aside.
- In a bowl, combine shredded chicken, celery, and buffalo sauce. Mix well.
- Layer chicken mixture, blue cheese, and lettuce onto slider buns.
- Top with bun lids, serve immediately, and enjoy!
Notes
- Use gluten-free buns for a gluten-friendly option.
- Swap blue cheese with cheddar if preferred.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Dish, Snack
- Method: Assemble and Heat
- Cuisine: American