There are certain recipes that instantly signal celebration, comfort, and togetherness, and Buffalo chicken sliders are firmly at the top of that list. Whether it’s game day, a birthday gathering, a casual family get-together, or a last-minute potluck invitation, these sliders fit right in. Warm, spicy, cheesy, and satisfying, they are the kind of food people hover around, grabbing “just one more” before the tray is empty.
This recipe was inspired by the classic Buffalo chicken flavors many of us grew up loving, but simplified into an easy, shareable form. Instead of wings and messy plates, these sliders deliver all that bold flavor in a soft bun with minimal effort. They are approachable, crowd-pleasing, and endlessly adaptable, making them perfect for both seasoned hosts and first-time party planners looking for a reliable win.
Why Buffalo Chicken Sliders Are Always a Hit
Buffalo chicken sliders combine familiar flavors with a fun, handheld format. The balance of heat from the Buffalo sauce, creaminess from the cheese, and softness of the rolls makes them appealing to a wide range of tastes. You can easily control the spice level, making them suitable for mixed crowds, and their compact size encourages sharing without feeling heavy.
Another reason these sliders shine is their efficiency. One baking dish can feed a roomful of guests, and they can be assembled ahead of time, baked just before serving, and enjoyed hot and fresh. For hosts, that means less stress and more time to actually enjoy the party.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these Easy Buffalo Chicken Sliders, you’ll need simple, accessible ingredients that come together quickly.
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Cooked chicken breast, shredded – 3 cups (about 450 g)
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Buffalo-style hot sauce – ½ cup (120 ml)
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Unsalted butter, melted – 3 tablespoons (45 g)
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Garlic powder – 1 teaspoon
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Onion powder – ½ teaspoon
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Soft slider rolls (12-count pack) – 12 rolls
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Shredded mozzarella cheese – 1½ cups (170 g)
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Shredded sharp cheddar cheese – ½ cup (55 g)
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Cream cheese, softened – 4 ounces (113 g)
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Ranch-style dressing – ¼ cup (60 ml)
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Green onions, finely sliced – 2 tablespoons
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Sesame seeds (optional, for topping) – 1 teaspoon
These ingredients work together to create a creamy, spicy filling balanced by gooey melted cheese and pillowy rolls.
How to Make Easy Buffalo Chicken Sliders
Making Easy Buffalo Chicken Sliders is a straightforward process, but each step plays an important role in building layers of flavor and ensuring the sliders turn out perfectly soft, cheesy, and satisfying. By taking a little care during preparation and assembly, you’ll end up with sliders that are evenly seasoned, beautifully baked, and easy to serve at any gathering.
Step 1: Prepare the Buffalo Chicken Filling
The foundation of these sliders is the Buffalo chicken filling, and this step is all about flavor balance and texture. Start by placing 3 cups (about 450 g) of shredded cooked chicken breast into a large mixing bowl. Using chicken that is finely shredded rather than chunky helps the sauce coat every piece evenly, ensuring consistent flavor in every bite.
Add ½ cup (120 ml) of Buffalo-style hot sauce, followed by 3 tablespoons (45 g) of melted unsalted butter, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon onion powder. Stir the mixture thoroughly until the chicken is evenly coated and glossy. At this stage, the chicken should look vibrant and well-seasoned, with no dry spots remaining.
Next, add 4 ounces (113 g) of softened cream cheese and ¼ cup (60 ml) of ranch-style dressing. These ingredients mellow the heat of the Buffalo sauce and create a creamy, cohesive filling. Mix patiently, pressing the cream cheese into the chicken until it blends smoothly. The final mixture should be rich, creamy, and easy to spread, without being overly runny. This balance is key to keeping the sliders moist without making the buns soggy.
Step 2: Assemble the Sliders
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) so it’s ready once the sliders are assembled. While the oven heats, prepare the rolls. Using a serrated knife, slice a 12-count pack of soft slider rolls in half horizontally, keeping the rolls connected if possible. This makes assembly quicker and helps keep everything aligned during baking.
Lightly grease a baking dish, then place the bottom halves of the rolls inside, cut side up. Spread the Buffalo chicken mixture evenly across the rolls, using a spatula to reach all corners. An even layer ensures that every slider has the same amount of filling and flavor.
Sprinkle 1½ cups (170 g) of shredded mozzarella cheese and ½ cup (55 g) of shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the chicken. The mozzarella provides stretch and creaminess, while the cheddar adds depth and a slight sharpness that complements the Buffalo sauce.
Place the top halves of the rolls gently over the filling. If you have any remaining melted butter, brush a light layer over the tops to encourage browning and softness. For extra texture and visual appeal, sprinkle 1 teaspoon of sesame seeds on top if desired.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Cover the baking dish loosely with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 15 minutes, allowing the sliders to heat through and the cheese to melt fully. Covering the dish at first prevents the tops from browning too quickly while the inside warms evenly.
After 15 minutes, remove the foil and return the dish to the oven for an additional 5–7 minutes. This uncovered baking time allows the tops of the rolls to turn lightly golden and slightly crisp, creating a pleasant contrast to the soft interior.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Once baked, remove the sliders from the oven and immediately sprinkle 2 tablespoons of sliced green onions over the top. The fresh garnish adds color and a mild bite that brightens the rich flavors.
Let the sliders rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This brief resting period helps the cheese set slightly, making the sliders easier to cut and serve without falling apart. Slice along the roll seams and serve warm for the best flavor, texture, and overall experience.
Tips for the Best Buffalo Chicken Sliders
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Use freshly shredded chicken for the best texture. Rotisserie-style cooked chicken breast works beautifully.
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Adjust the heat by adding more or less Buffalo sauce depending on your preference.
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Don’t skip resting time after baking. This helps the sliders hold together when sliced.
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Double the batch easily by using a larger baking dish for bigger gatherings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Buffalo chicken sliders ahead of time?
Yes, these sliders are ideal for making ahead. You can assemble the sliders completely, cover them tightly, and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to serve, simply bake as directed, adding an extra 5 minutes if they are cold from the fridge. This makes them perfect for stress-free party planning and entertaining.
What type of chicken works best for this recipe?
Cooked chicken breast is the most popular choice because it absorbs the sauce well and stays tender. You can bake, poach, or pan-cook the chicken yourself, or use pre-cooked shredded chicken to save time. The key is making sure the chicken is finely shredded so every bite is evenly coated with sauce and cheese.
How spicy are Buffalo chicken sliders?
The spice level depends largely on the Buffalo sauce you use and how much you add. This recipe offers a balanced heat that most people enjoy, but it can easily be adjusted. For milder sliders, reduce the Buffalo sauce to ⅓ cup (80 ml) and increase the cream cheese slightly. For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or an additional 1–2 tablespoons of sauce.
Can I customize the sliders with extra toppings?
Absolutely. Buffalo chicken sliders are very versatile. You can add sliced jalapeños for heat, diced bell peppers for crunch, or even a layer of coleslaw after baking for a fresh contrast. Just be mindful not to overload the sliders, as too many toppings can make them difficult to hold together.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
These sliders pair well with simple side dishes that balance the bold flavors. Consider serving them with a crisp green salad, baked potato wedges, or fresh vegetable sticks. Offering a small bowl of extra ranch-style dressing on the side allows guests to customize each bite.
For parties, arrange the sliders on a large platter and keep them warm in the oven at a low temperature until ready to serve. They also work beautifully as part of a larger spread alongside other finger foods.
Final Thoughts
Easy Buffalo Chicken Sliders are more than just a party snack; they are a dependable go-to recipe that delivers comfort, flavor, and crowd appeal every single time. What makes them especially special is their balance of boldness and simplicity. The familiar Buffalo chicken flavor feels exciting, yet the preparation remains approachable, even for busy cooks or last-minute hosts.
This recipe invites creativity without demanding complexity. You can adjust the spice, swap cheeses, or add your favorite toppings while still relying on a solid, proven base. That flexibility is what turns a good recipe into a staple one you come back to again and again. Whether you’re hosting a lively celebration or preparing a casual family meal, these sliders adapt effortlessly to the occasion.
Perhaps most importantly, Buffalo chicken sliders bring people together. They encourage sharing, conversation, and that sense of warmth that comes from gathering around food everyone enjoys. The aroma alone is enough to draw guests into the kitchen, and the first bite usually seals the deal. Once you try this recipe, it’s likely to earn a permanent spot in your party rotation, ready to make any gathering feel a little more special.
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Easy Buffalo Chicken Sliders for Any Party
- Total Time: 37 minutes
- Yield: 12 sliders
Description
These Easy Buffalo Chicken Sliders are spicy, creamy, and perfectly cheesy, making them an ideal choice for parties, game days, or casual gatherings. Simple ingredients and straightforward steps ensure reliable, crowd-pleasing results.
Ingredients
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Cooked chicken breast, shredded – 3 cups (about 450 g)
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Buffalo-style hot sauce – ½ cup (120 ml)
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Unsalted butter, melted – 3 tablespoons (45 g)
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Garlic powder – 1 teaspoon
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Onion powder – ½ teaspoon
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Soft slider rolls – 12 rolls
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Shredded mozzarella cheese – 1½ cups (170 g)
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Shredded sharp cheddar cheese – ½ cup (55 g)
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Cream cheese, softened – 4 ounces (113 g)
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Ranch-style dressing – ¼ cup (60 ml)
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Green onions, sliced – 2 tablespoons
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Sesame seeds (optional) – 1 teaspoon
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F) and lightly grease a baking dish.
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In a bowl, mix shredded chicken, Buffalo sauce, melted butter, garlic powder, and onion powder.
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Stir in cream cheese and ranch-style dressing until smooth.
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Place bottom halves of rolls in the baking dish and spread chicken mixture evenly over them.
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Sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar cheese on top.
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Add the top halves of the rolls and brush lightly with remaining butter.
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Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes.
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Remove foil and bake an additional 5–7 minutes until golden.
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Garnish with green onions, slice, and serve warm.
Notes
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Adjust the spice level by reducing or increasing the Buffalo sauce.
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Sliders can be assembled ahead of time and baked just before serving.
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Best enjoyed warm and fresh from the oven.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
