There’s something exhilarating about the crunch of a perfectly toasted slider, especially when it’s filled with rich, spicy goodness. As the game day approaches, I often find myself searching for a recipe that strikes the perfect balance between flavor and ease. Enter these Spicy Buffalo Chicken Dip Sliders—a fabulous twist on the beloved buffalo chicken dip, transformed into a handheld delight.
The aromatic blend of creamy cheeses, zesty buffalo sauce, and savory chicken melds together to create mouthwatering bites that are not just crowd-pleasers but also a breeze to prepare. They’re the kind of snack that can elevate any gathering, whether it’s an intense game night or a simple weekend get-together. Plus, you can make them ahead of time and pop them in the oven when the hunger pangs strike. Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that is sure to have everyone reaching for seconds!
Why are Spicy Buffalo Chicken Dip Sliders a must-try?
Irresistible Flavor Explosion: These sliders are packed with a delightful blend of creamy cheeses and tangy buffalo sauce, creating an unforgettable taste.
Effortlessly Easy: Whip them up quickly with minimal prep—perfect for busy hosts.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: No one can resist these savory bites, making them a guaranteed hit at any gathering.
Versatile Options: Tailor the recipe to your flavor preferences by swapping in different meats or cheese varieties for unique options.
Make-Ahead Convenience: Assemble them ahead of time and simply pop them in the oven to satisfy your hungry guests with ease!
For more tasty ideas, don’t forget to check out my game day snacks section for other crowd-pleasers to impress your friends!
Spicy Buffalo Chicken Dip Sliders Ingredients
For the Filling
• Chicken – 1 cup, shredded into 1/2-inch pieces for better distribution. Rotisserie chicken is a great timesaver.
• Buffalo Sauce – 3/4 cup (Frank’s RedHot preferred), provides the spicy kick. Adjust the quantity for desired heat.
• Cream Cheese – 3 oz, softened to room temperature for easier mixing. Essential for creamy texture.
• Cilantro – 1/2 cup, adds freshness and flavor. Optional if not preferred.
• Scallions – 1/4 cup, for a mild onion flavor. Green onions may be used as a substitute.
• Onion Powder – 1 tsp, adds depth. Can adjust or substitute with fresh onion for a stronger flavor.
• Ranch Dressing – 1/2 cup, adds creaminess and balanced flavor. May substitute with blue cheese dressing for a stronger taste.
• Pickled Jalapeños – 1/3 cup, provides extra heat and tang. Use fresh jalapeños if preferred.
• Garlic Cloves – 2, minced for essential aroma and kick. Use garlic powder in a pinch.
For the Slider Assembly
• Dinner Rolls – 1 package, provides the structure for sliders. King Arthur Savory Bread Flour preferred for homemade.
• Cheddar Cheese – 1.25 cups, freshly shredded for a better melt. Use a different cheese blend if desired.
• Pepper Jack Cheese – 1.25 cups, adds creaminess and a bit of spice. Substitute with mozzarella for milder flavor.
For the Glaze
• Butter – 5 tbsp (Kerrygold unsalted preferred), for richness in the glaze. Try olive oil for a lighter option.
• Hot Sauce – 2 tbsp, enhances flavor complexity. Adjust based on spice tolerance.
• Worcestershire Sauce – 2 tsp, for umami depth. Malt vinegar can be a substitute.
• Smoked Paprika – 1/4 tsp, adds a subtle smokiness. Regular paprika can be used instead.
• Poppy Seeds – 2 tbsp, for visual appeal and nutty flavor. Sesame seeds can be used if unavailable.
How to Make Spicy Buffalo Chicken Dip Sliders
Mix the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, cream cheese, onion powder, and minced garlic. Stir well until everything is blended and creamy. Add cilantro and scallions, adjusting the spice level to your liking.
Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Prepare Dinner Rolls: Carefully slice the dinner rolls in half horizontally and lay the bottom halves on your lined baking sheet. This will create the base for your delicious sliders.
Layer it Up: Start layering by adding a generous amount of cheddar cheese on each bottom half. Follow with a dollop of ranch dressing, then layer on your buffalo chicken filling, and finally sprinkle with pepper jack cheese and jalapeño slices for an extra kick.
Top Off the Sliders: Place the tops of the rolls back on each slider. In a small saucepan, melt the butter and stir in the hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika. Brush this tangy mixture over the tops of the sliders and sprinkle with poppy seeds for that delightful crunch!
Bake with Care: Cover the sliders with foil and bake in your preheated oven for 10 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is fully melted, and the tops are golden brown and inviting.
Serve and Enjoy: After baking, allow the sliders to rest for 2-3 minutes. This way, they’ll be easier to cut and serve. Slice, and watch them disappear at your gathering!
Optional: Serve with celery and carrot sticks for a refreshing crunch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Spicy Buffalo Chicken Dip Sliders?
Imagine biting into a warm, cheesy slider filled with zesty flavors, perfect for your next gathering. These sliders are a hit on their own, but pairing them with the right sides elevates the entire experience!
Crunchy Celery Sticks: A cool, crisp companion to counter the sliders’ heat—perfect for dipping in ranch or blue cheese dressing!
Carrot Sticks: These subtly sweet, crunchy sticks add a refreshing contrast and are another excellent option for dipping.
Creamy Coleslaw: The creamy dressing and crunchy cabbage provide a cooling balance that offsets the sliders’ spicy kick, adding texture to your plate.
Tortilla Chips: A crunchy side that’s perfect for scooping up any remaining buffalo chicken dip. They bring a satisfying crunch that complements the softness of the sliders!
Pineapple Salsa: The tangy sweetness of pineapple salsa harmonizes beautifully with the spiciness of the sliders. It’s a bright, fresh addition that elevates the flavor profile.
Iced Tea or Lemonade: These refreshing drinks help cleanse the palate and cool down the heat from the buffalo sauce. Perfect for keeping everyone hydrated!
Chocolate Chip Cookies: End on a sweet note with warm, gooey cookies that balance out the savory sliders. They’re always a crowd favorite!
Your gathering is bound to be a hit with these delightful pairings!
How to Store and Freeze Spicy Buffalo Chicken Dip Sliders
- Fridge: Store leftover sliders in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps retain their flavor and texture for a quicker snack or meal option.
- Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the sliders tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake at 350°F until heated through, approximately 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave if you’re short on time.
- Assembly Tip: If you prefer, you can assemble the sliders ahead of time, refrigerate them, and bake right before serving. This makes your game day prep a breeze!
Expert Tips for Spicy Buffalo Chicken Dip Sliders
- Moisture Control: Keep the chicken moisture-free, as excess liquid can lead to soggy sliders. Drain rotisserie or canned chicken thoroughly.
- Cheese Melting Magic: For perfectly melted cheese, cover with foil during the first part of baking—this traps steam and helps it melt evenly.
- Watch the Browning: Keep a close eye on the sliders in the final baking minutes. If they brown too quickly, tent with foil to avoid burning.
- Cool Before Cutting: Let the sliders rest for 5 minutes after baking to help maintain the integrity of the filling while slicing.
- Spice Adjustment: Adjust the buffalo sauce according to personal taste. Remember, you can always add more heat, but it’s hard to take it out!
Enjoy these Spicy Buffalo Chicken Dip Sliders at your next gathering—they’re sure to be a hit!
Make Ahead Options
These Spicy Buffalo Chicken Dip Sliders are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy game days! You can prepare the filling (shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, cream cheese, scallions, and spices) up to 24 hours in advance—just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can assemble the sliders (without the glaze) and refrigerate for up to 3 days before baking. When you’re ready to serve, brush the prepared sliders with the butter and hot sauce mixture, cover with foil, and bake as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy the same delicious flavor and the perfect gooey texture without the last-minute rush!
Spicy Buffalo Chicken Dip Sliders Variations
Feel free to get creative and put your own spin on these delicious sliders with these fun suggestions!
Dairy-Free: Use vegan cream cheese and substitute dairy-free cheese for a plant-based delight.
Kick it Up: Add extra minced jalapeños or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the chicken filling for more spice.
Meat Swap: Swap out shredded chicken for diced cooked turkey or pulled pork for a different flavor profile.
Veggie Lovers: For a vegetarian twist, use shredded jackfruit mixed with buffalo sauce—just as satisfying and flavorful!
Cheesy Goodness: Mix in varying cheeses like Gouda or pepper jack for a unique flavor combination that’s still creamy.
Crunchy Toppings: Sprinkle crushed tortilla chips or crispy fried onions on top before baking for added texture.
Sweet and Spicy: Add a touch of honey or brown sugar to the buffalo sauce for a balanced sweet and spicy profile.
Whole Grain Goodness: Use whole-wheat dinner rolls for a heartier, more wholesome option that boosts fiber content.
Spicy Buffalo Chicken Dip Sliders Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for the sliders?
You can use any cooked chicken for this recipe, but shredded rotisserie chicken is a great option for convenience and flavor. Just ensure it’s shredded into 1/2-inch pieces to allow for even distribution throughout the filling.
How long can I store the leftovers?
Leftover sliders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes for the best texture.
Can I freeze these sliders?
Absolutely! You can freeze these sliders either before baking or after. To freeze, tightly wrap them in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They can be enjoyed up to 3 months later! When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and follow the original baking instructions for reheating.
What if my sliders turn out soggy?
To avoid soggy sliders, drain excess moisture from the shredded chicken before mixing it with the other ingredients. Also, cover the sliders with foil during the first part of baking to maintain moisture without making them soggy, and keep an eye on them in the last few minutes to ensure they don’t brown too quickly.
Are there any dietary substitutions I can make?
Yes! For a vegetarian version, substitute shredded jackfruit for the chicken and adjust the sauce’s spiciness accordingly. You can also switch up the cheeses, using options like Gouda or Gruyère for unique flavors if you’re looking for variety. Additionally, be cautious with allergens; you can use gluten-free rolls if needed.
How can I adjust the spice levels?
If you prefer milder flavors, reduce the amount of buffalo sauce and substitute with additional ranch dressing. Alternatively, you can swap out the pepper jack cheese for mozzarella to lessen the heat. Always taste as you mix and make adjustments based on your preference.
Irresistibly Cheesy Spicy Buffalo Chicken Dip Sliders
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, cream cheese, onion powder, and minced garlic. Stir well until blended and creamy. Add cilantro and scallions, adjusting the spice level as desired.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Slice the dinner rolls in half horizontally and lay the bottom halves on the lined baking sheet.
- Layer on cheddar cheese, followed by ranch dressing, buffalo chicken filling, pepper jack cheese, and jalapeño slices.
- Replace the tops of the rolls. In a small saucepan, melt butter and mix in hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika. Brush this over the slider tops and sprinkle with poppy seeds.
- Cover with foil and bake for 10 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and tops are golden brown.
- Allow sliders to rest for 2-3 minutes before slicing, then serve.