If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a fun meal, buffalo chicken sliders are the answer! These bite-sized sandwiches are packed with flavor and are sure to satisfy both spicy food lovers and those looking for a delicious twist on a classic dish. Perfect for game day or any gathering, this recipe is simple yet incredibly delicious. Let’s dive into the details!
Ingredients
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup buffalo sauce
– 12 slider buns
– 1 cup shredded lettuce
– 1/2 cup ranch dressing
– 1/2 cup blue cheese crumbles (optional)
– Celery sticks (for serving)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
– Fresh cilantro for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes approximately 12 sliders. Preparation time is around 15 minutes, with a cooking time of about 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 slider) contains approximately 220 calories, 15g protein, 10g carbohydrates, 2g fiber, and 15g fat. This is based on one slider without additional toppings.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until cooked through.
- Remove chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Shred the chicken using two forks.
- In a bowl, combine shredded chicken with buffalo sauce, mixing well.
- Slice the slider buns in half and place them on a baking sheet.
- Layer shredded lettuce on the bottom half of each bun.
- Top with buffalo chicken mixture and drizzle ranch dressing on top.
- Sprinkle with blue cheese crumbles, if desired.
- Cover with the top half of the buns and bake for 5-7 minutes until heated through.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute chicken with shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker option. For a vegetarian version, try using cauliflower tossed in buffalo sauce. Different sauces like BBQ can also be used for a unique flavor twist.
Serving and Pairings
Buffalo chicken sliders pair perfectly with celery sticks and carrot sticks. Consider serving them with a side of potato chips or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. They can also be frozen, but it’s best to freeze the chicken and buns separately for optimal texture.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the chicken can lead to dryness; use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
- Using too much buffalo sauce can overpower the dish; start with a little and adjust to taste.
- Not letting the chicken rest can make it tough; give it a few minutes before shredding.
- Forgetting to toast the buns can result in a soggy slider; toast them for a better texture.
- Neglecting to season the chicken can lead to bland sliders; seasoning is key!
Helpful Tips
- Use a slow cooker to make buffalo chicken for an effortless option.
- Prepare the buffalo chicken in advance and assemble sliders before serving.
- Experiment with different types of buns, such as whole grain or pretzel buns.
- Garnish with fresh herbs for added flavor and presentation.
FAQs
Can I make buffalo chicken sliders ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the buffalo chicken in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble the sliders just before serving to keep the buns fresh.
What can I serve with buffalo chicken sliders?
Buffalo chicken sliders pair well with veggie sticks, chips, or a light salad. You can also serve with dips like ranch or blue cheese.
Is there a gluten-free option for the buns?
Absolutely! You can find gluten-free slider buns at most grocery stores or use lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
How spicy are these sliders?
The spice level can vary based on the buffalo sauce used. You can adjust the spiciness by choosing milder sauces or reducing the amount used.
Can I freeze buffalo chicken sliders?
Yes, you can freeze the buffalo chicken mixture separately from the buns. Just reheat the chicken and assemble the sliders when ready to serve.
Conclusion
Buffalo chicken sliders are a fantastic option for any occasion, combining flavor, ease of preparation, and versatility. Whether it’s game day or a casual dinner, these sliders are bound to impress and satisfy your cravings for something spicy and delicious!
Buffalo Chicken Sliders Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup buffalo sauce
- 12 slider buns
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1/2 cup blue cheese crumbles optional
- Celery sticks for serving
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until cooked through.
- Remove chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Shred the chicken using two forks.
- In a bowl, combine shredded chicken with buffalo sauce, mixing well.
- Slice the slider buns in half and place them on a baking sheet.
- Layer shredded lettuce on the bottom half of each bun.
- Top with buffalo chicken mixture and drizzle ranch dressing on top.
- Cover with the top half of the buns and bake for 5-7 minutes until heated through.
