Buffalo Chicken Sliders Ranch

The first time I made these sliders was during a Sunday football game that I wasn't even particularly invested in. My friend showed up with a rotisserie chicken and a bottle of hot sauce, and suddenly we were improvising. Those messy, spicy little sandwiches disappeared faster than anything else on the table, and I've been making them for every gathering since.

I made these for my daughters birthday party last month and my brother in law ate four of them before anyone else even got to the table. He kept claiming he was just taste testing, then grabbed a fifth when he thought nobody was looking. Now he texts me every time there's a game on, just casually checking if I happen to be making anything.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded: I usually grab a rotisserie chicken on busy weeks, but leftover grilled or poached chicken works perfectly too
• 1/3 cup hot sauce: Franks RedHot is my go to for that classic buffalo flavor without overwhelming heat
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: This mellows the hot sauce and gives the chicken that restaurant style coating
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds depth that you notice without realizing why
• 8 slider buns: Soft brioche or Hawaiian rolls make these feel extra special
• 1 cup shredded lettuce: Iceberg or green leaf lettuce adds the perfect cool crunch against the spicy chicken
• 4 slices cheddar cheese, halved: Sharp cheddar stands up to the bold flavors, but mild works if you prefer
• 1/3 cup ranch dressing: Homemade is wonderful, but store bought is totally acceptable here
• 2 tablespoons chopped chives: These little green pieces make everything look more intentional
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion: Adds a sharp bite that cuts through the richness
• 1/2 cup thinly sliced celery: Traditional buffalo flavor that adds texture and freshness

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C):

This step always catches me off guard, so turn it on first and thank yourself later

Mix the buffalo sauce:

Combine hot sauce, melted butter, and garlic powder in a bowl, then toss in your shredded chicken until every piece is coated

Prep the buns:

Slice your slider buns in half and arrange the bottom halves on a baking sheet like little edible soldiers

Assemble the sliders:

Pile that saucy chicken onto each bun, then top with half a slice of cheddar cheese like you're tucking it in

Bake until bubbly:

Slide the tray into the oven for 5 to 7 minutes, just until the cheese melts and everything is warm and fragrant

Add the fresh toppings:

Pull them from the oven, add lettuce, red onion, and celery, then drizzle with ranch and sprinkle with chives

Top and serve:

Place the bun tops on like little hats and get them to the table before someone sneaks a sample

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These became a regular thing at our house after my son declared them better than restaurant wings. Now they show up at movie nights, potlucks, and sometimes just a random Tuesday when the craving hits. The whole family has started requesting them instead of ordering takeout.

Making Them Ahead

You can mix the buffalo chicken up to two days in advance and keep it in the refrigerator. The flavors actually develop nicely as they sit together. Just warm it slightly before assembling so it melts the cheese properly in the oven.

Customizing the Heat

My family spans from cant handle anything spicy to bring on the fire. I usually make the sauce as written and serve extra hot sauce on the side. You can also swap in half mild sauce for the kids and keep the full strength version for the heat seekers.

Serving Suggestions

These sliders work alongside pretty much anything, but I love them with simple baked fries or a crisp cucumber salad. The cool crunch helps balance all that rich spicy goodness.

• Set up a toppings bar and let guests build their own perfect slider
• Cut them in half to double your servings for lighter appetizers
• Have napkins ready because these are gloriously messy

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There's something about watching people reach for seconds that makes these totally worth the slightly messy preparation. Hope they become a hit at your table too.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of chicken works best for these sliders?

Shredded cooked chicken breast is ideal, but rotisserie chicken can save time and add extra flavor.

→ Can I adjust the spiciness level?

Yes, adding more or less hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne can tailor the heat to your preference.

→ What alternatives can I use for ranch dressing?

Blue cheese dressing is a great substitute if you want a richer, tangier topping.

→ How should I serve the sliders to keep them fresh?

Serve immediately after assembly and baking to enjoy warm, melty cheese and crisp veggies.

→ Are the slider buns easy to find?

Slider buns are commonly available at most grocery stores; regular small buns can be substituted if needed.