Buffalo Chicken Sliders with Blue Cheese
Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Meals
I absolutely love making Buffalo Chicken Sliders with Blue Cheese for game day or any casual gathering. These sliders are a hit every time, combining the spicy kick of Buffalo sauce with the creamy richness of blue cheese. The flavors meld perfectly, and the sliders are easy to assemble, making them a fantastic option for entertaining. Whether you serve them as an appetizer or a main course, everyone will be craving more of these delicious bites. It's hard not to fall in love with this perfect blend of spice and comfort!
When I first tried making Buffalo Chicken Sliders at home, I was worried about replicating the perfect balance of spicy and creamy. I experimented with different sauces and cheeses, but the key was to find that ideal blue cheese that complements the heat without overpowering it. After some trial and error, I nailed down this delicious version that my friends and family now ask for regularly.
The secret ingredient that elevated my sliders was a generous drizzle of homemade ranch dressing on top, which not only adds a cooling element but also ties all the flavors together beautifully. Trust me, this simple addition makes a world of difference!
Why You'll Love These Sliders
- Spicy Buffalo flavor that packs a punch
- Creamy blue cheese adds a rich depth
- Perfect for parties, casual get-togethers, or game day
Choosing the Right Chicken
While you can use any cooked chicken for this recipe, I recommend rotisserie chicken for ease and flavor. The pre-cooked meat is tender and packed with spices, saving you time on preparation. For those looking to control the ingredients, you can poach or grill chicken breasts and shred them for a fresher option. Just make sure not to overcook the chicken if you're using raw meat; aim for an internal temperature of 165°F to keep the meat juicy.
If you're short on time, another great shortcut is using frozen shredded chicken. It takes just a few minutes to thaw in the microwave. After thawing, mix it with the Buffalo sauce thoroughly. Remember that the sauce is key in transforming the chicken into the flavorful filling, so don’t be shy when adding it!
Dressing and Toppings
Blue cheese crumbles are traditionally used, but if you're not a fan of their strong flavor, feel free to substitute with feta or even a mild goat cheese. These alternatives still provide a creamy texture and richness without overwhelming the palate. If you prefer a spicy kick, consider experimenting with pepper jack cheese, which melts beautifully and adds a zesty flavor to the sliders.
Lettuce is essential not just for crunch but also to provide a barrier that helps soak up the sauce without making the buns soggy. Romaine or iceberg are great choices, but you could also try arugula for a peppery twist. Layering the toppings correctly is crucial; always place the lettuce first, then chicken, to avoid slippage when serving.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to make the sliders:
For the Sliders
- 1 lb shredded cooked chicken
- 1/2 cup Buffalo sauce
- 12 slider buns
- 1/2 cup blue cheese crumbles
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- Lettuce leaves
- Sliced tomatoes
Make sure you have everything ready!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your sliders:
Prepare the Chicken
In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with Buffalo sauce until well-coated. Adjust the spice level according to your preference by adding more or less sauce.
Assemble the Sliders
On the bottom half of each slider bun, place a layer of lettuce, followed by a generous amount of the Buffalo chicken mixture. Top with blue cheese crumbles and a slice of tomato.
Finish Up
Drizzle ranch dressing over the sliders, then place the top half of the buns on. For a touch of crispiness, you can grill the assembled sliders for a minute or two before serving.
Enjoy your sliders with your favorite sides!
Pro Tips
- For an extra kick, add pickled jalapeños on top before serving. They add that perfect zing and heat.
Make-Ahead Tips
If you're planning a party, prepping the Buffalo chicken in advance can save valuable time. You can mix the chicken with the sauce a day earlier and store it in the refrigerator. This not only allows the flavors to meld more deeply but also makes your assembly process a breeze on the day of the event. Just remember to give it a quick stir before using it to mix in any accumulated sauce.
For freezing, place the unassembled chicken and sauce in an airtight container. It will last up to three months in the freezer. To use, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then heat it gently on the stove until warm, adding extra sauce as needed to keep it moist.
Serving Ideas
These Buffalo Chicken Sliders are perfect on their own but pair wonderfully with sides like celery sticks and carrot sticks for that classic Buffalo experience. Serve with extra ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. You can also offer a variety of sauces for guests to customize their sliders—think chipotle mayo or a sweet chili sauce for something different.
To elevate your serving presentation, consider using mini toothpicks to hold the sliders together, making it easier for guests to grab and go. If you want to make it a complete meal, set up a DIY slider bar where guests can build their own with assorted toppings, such as pickled jalapeños, avocado slices, or spicy slaw.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds flavor to the sliders.
→ What can I substitute for blue cheese?
You can use feta cheese or goat cheese if you're not a fan of blue cheese.
→ How spicy are these sliders?
The spice level depends on how much Buffalo sauce you mix in. Start with a little and adjust to your taste.
→ Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken mixture and assemble the sliders just before serving to keep them fresh!
Buffalo Chicken Sliders with Blue Cheese
I absolutely love making Buffalo Chicken Sliders with Blue Cheese for game day or any casual gathering. These sliders are a hit every time, combining the spicy kick of Buffalo sauce with the creamy richness of blue cheese. The flavors meld perfectly, and the sliders are easy to assemble, making them a fantastic option for entertaining. Whether you serve them as an appetizer or a main course, everyone will be craving more of these delicious bites. It's hard not to fall in love with this perfect blend of spice and comfort!
What You'll Need
For the Sliders
- 1 lb shredded cooked chicken
- 1/2 cup Buffalo sauce
- 12 slider buns
- 1/2 cup blue cheese crumbles
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- Lettuce leaves
- Sliced tomatoes
How-To Steps
In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with Buffalo sauce until well-coated. Adjust the spice level according to your preference by adding more or less sauce.
On the bottom half of each slider bun, place a layer of lettuce, followed by a generous amount of the Buffalo chicken mixture. Top with blue cheese crumbles and a slice of tomato.
Drizzle ranch dressing over the sliders, then place the top half of the buns on. For a touch of crispiness, you can grill the assembled sliders for a minute or two before serving.
Extra Tips
- For an extra kick, add pickled jalapeños on top before serving. They add that perfect zing and heat.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 28g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 20g