There’s nothing quite like the joyful rush of game day, where excitement fills the air, and friends gather to cheer on their favorite teams. When my friends come over, I want a snack that not only pleases the crowd but also dazzles the taste buds. Enter my Spicy Buffalo Chicken Dip Sliders! These little flavor bombs are a delightful twist on the classic buffalo dip, transforming it into a fun, finger-friendly slider that’s perfect for sharing.
Imagine the spicy, cheesy goodness nestled between soft dinner rolls, each bite taking you on a delicious journey complemented by a buttery topping that adds an indulgent touch. Whether you’re using rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken, this recipe offers a comforting warmth that everyone will rave about. So, why settle for bland fast food when you can whip up these easy-to-make sliders? Let’s dive into the deliciousness that awaits!
Why are Spicy Buffalo Chicken Dip Sliders irresistible?
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: These sliders are sure to wow your guests with their delicious blend of flavors and textures. Quick and Easy: With minimal prep, you can have these tasty bites ready in no time—ideal for those busy game days. Customizable Options: Use any leftover chicken or even different sauces for a unique spin on the classic. Mouthwatering Melty Goodness: Each bite delivers a gooey, cheesy center that simply melts away, making them hard to resist. Perfect for Sharing: Served warm, these sliders make for a fun, shareable dish that elevates any gathering and keeps the excitement alive!
Spicy Buffalo Chicken Dip Sliders Ingredients
For the Filling
Shredded Chicken – Main protein; use rotisserie chicken for convenience or leftover cooked chicken.
Buffalo Sauce – Adds heat and flavor; classic choice is Frank’s RedHot, but feel free to swap with your favorite wing sauce for different spice levels.
Cream Cheese – Provides a creamy texture that binds the filling together; softened for easy mixing. For a lighter version, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt.
Cilantro – Fresh herb flavor; can be omitted or replaced with parsley to suit your taste.
Scallions – Adds a nice crunch and mild onion flavor; substitute with finely chopped onions if needed.
Onion Powder – Enhances the savory flavor profile; use fresh onion in smaller quantities if preferred.
For Assembly
Dinner Rolls – The perfect vessel for sliders; King Arthur Savory Bread Flour is recommended for optimal texture. Gluten-free rolls can also be used if necessary.
Ranch Dressing – This dressing provides a cool contrast to the spice; substitute with blue cheese dressing for an added punch if desired.
Cheddar Cheese & Pepper Jack Cheese – Offers melting creaminess and a little kick; feel free to use other cheeses like Monterey Jack for varied flavors.
Pickled Jalapeños – Adds a tangy note and extra heat; substitute fresh jalapeños for a milder option or omit if you prefer less spice.
For the Buttery Topping
Butter – Creates a rich, buttery glaze; can be substituted with margarine for a dairy-free option.
Hot Sauce – Adds another layer of spice; adjust to your personal taste.
Worcestershire Sauce – Enhances overall flavor depth; use sparingly.
Garlic – Provides aromatic richness; minced garlic is recommended.
Smoked Paprika – Adds depth of flavor and a hint of smokiness; regular paprika can be used if preferred.
Poppy Seeds – Sprinkled on top for visual appeal; optional but a nice touch!
With this perfectly crafted ingredients list for Spicy Buffalo Chicken Dip Sliders, you’re now ready to embark on a culinary adventure that promises to delight both your taste buds and those of your guests. Enjoy the cooking process!
How to Make Spicy Buffalo Chicken Dip Sliders
Prepare Filling: In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, softened cream cheese, onion powder, minced garlic, cilantro, and scallions. Mix thoroughly until well-blended and adjust the heat level to your preference.
Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to get it nice and hot while you assemble the sliders.
Assemble Rolls: Carefully cut the dinner rolls in half. Layer the bottom halves with cheddar cheese, a generous swirl of ranch dressing, the buffalo chicken filling, followed by pepper jack cheese, and jalapeños if you’re using them. Place the top halves of the rolls back on.
Make Garlic Butter: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Whisk in the hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika until the mixture is smooth. Brush this flavorful concoction over the assembled sliders and sprinkle with poppy seeds for a lovely finish.
Bake: Cover the sliders loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 10 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and the tops are golden brown.
Rest & Serve: Allow the sliders to cool for 2-3 minutes before slicing into individual servings. Enjoy them warm for maximum cheesy goodness!
Optional: Garnish with extra cilantro for a pop of freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Spicy Buffalo Chicken Dip Sliders
Foil Cover Essential: Don’t skip covering the sliders with foil during the first bake; it helps steam the rolls, ensuring they stay moist and fluffy.
Drain Chicken Well: Make sure to thoroughly drain the shredded chicken before mixing to avoid soggy sliders that lack structural integrity.
Monitor Baking Time: Keep a close eye on the sliders during the last few minutes of baking to prevent the poppy seeds from burning while the cheese melts beautifully.
Cool Slightly Before Slicing: Allow the sliders to rest for 2-3 minutes after baking; this helps to set the filling and makes for cleaner cutting without oozing.
Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to customize the heat of your Spicy Buffalo Chicken Dip Sliders by adjusting the amount of buffalo sauce and jalapeños to suit your crowd’s preference.
Storage Tips for Spicy Buffalo Chicken Dip Sliders
Fridge: Store leftover sliders in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure they have cooled completely to maintain their freshness.
Freezer: These sliders freeze well either before or after baking. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, then store for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating: To reheat, unwrap the sliders and place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, covering them with foil to prevent drying out.
Serving: Let frozen sliders thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for best results. Enjoy the comforting flavors of Spicy Buffalo Chicken Dip Sliders once again!
Make Ahead Options
These Spicy Buffalo Chicken Dip Sliders are a fantastic option for meal prep, saving you time when entertaining or on busy weeknights! You can prepare the buffalo chicken filling and assemble the sliders up to 24 hours in advance. Simply combine the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, cream cheese, and spices as directed, then layer everything between the rolls. Cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. To maintain that golden, melty goodness, be sure to brush the butter mixture on right before baking. When you’re ready to serve, pop them in the oven and bake until nice and hot—easy as pie, and just as delicious!
What to Serve with Spicy Buffalo Chicken Dip Sliders?
Elevate your slider experience with vibrant sides and drinks that complement their flavor-packed essence.
Celery and Carrot Sticks: Fresh and crunchy, these vegetables provide a refreshing contrast to the sliders’ rich, spicy filling.
Extra Ranch Dressing: Serve this cooling companion alongside the sliders for a creamy dip that balances the heat perfectly.
Crispy Potato Wedges: Golden and crispy, these savory sides add a satisfying crunch, perfect for soaking up any extra buffalo sauce.
Coleslaw: This tangy and crunchy salad introduces a bright element that cuts through the richness of the sliders, enhancing the entire meal.
Guacamole and Tortilla Chips: The creamy avocado with crispy chips brings a delightful twist, offering a creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with spicy flavors.
Sparkling Lemonade: This zesty beverage adds a refreshing citrus note that invigorates the palate and enhances the flavors of the sliders.
Beer or Cider: A chilled lager or crisp cider complements the bold spice and adds to the game day atmosphere.
Brownie Bites: For dessert, rich and fudgy brownie bites provide a sweet finish to a delightful meal, balancing savory flavors with a touch of indulgence.
Spicy Buffalo Chicken Dip Sliders Variations
Feel free to get creative and make these sliders your own with delightful twists and substitutions!
- Dairy-Free: Swap cream cheese with cashew cream or vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free option that remains just as creamy.
- Veggie Boost: Toss in some finely diced bell peppers or spinach to the filling for added nutrition and a pop of color.
- Smoky Flavor: Add a touch of smoked gouda cheese for an extra layer of smokiness that complements the buffalo sauce beautifully.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free dinner rolls to make these sliders suitable for those with gluten sensitivities while keeping all the deliciousness intact.
- Heat it Up: Increase spice by adding diced serrano peppers or a splash of your favorite hot sauce into the filling mix.
- Herb Variation: Replace cilantro with fresh dill or basil for a refreshing flavor twist that’s equally aromatic and tasty.
- Salsa Style: Mix in a spoonful of your favorite salsa into the chicken filling for a tangy kick and a vibrant texture—perfect for adding zest!
- Sweet & Spicy: Try a hint of honey or maple syrup in your buffalo sauce for a sweet flavor contrast that pairs wonderfully with the spiciness.
With these variations, step into your kitchen and enjoy the magic of customization in every flavorful bite!
Spicy Buffalo Chicken Dip Sliders Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for Spicy Buffalo Chicken Dip Sliders?
Absolutely! I recommend using rotisserie chicken for its convenience and flavor, but leftover cooked chicken works just as well. If you prefer a fresh option, you can poach chicken breasts in seasoned water until cooked through, then shred them for your sliders.
How long can I store leftover sliders?
Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. It’s important to let the sliders cool completely before sealing to maintain their freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat them.
Can I freeze Spicy Buffalo Chicken Dip Sliders?
Very! You can freeze these sliders either before baking or after. To freeze unbaked sliders, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, or place them in an airtight container for up to 2 months. If frozen after baking, follow the same wrapping method for the best quality.
What should I do if my sliders come out soggy?
If your sliders turn out soggy, it might be due to excess moisture in the chicken or ingredients. To avoid this, ensure you drain your shredded chicken well and avoid adding too much buffalo sauce. Baking them with the foil on during the first half creates steam, but if they’re too wet, consider reducing baking time and checking them frequently.
Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
Definitely! For a lighter version, you can substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt. If you or your guests have allergies, be cautious about the ranch dressing and any cheese varieties used—make sure to opt for dairy alternatives if needed. Also, if you’re serving to pets, avoid giving them any sliders due to the spicy ingredients!
How can I enhance the flavor or texture of my sliders?
There are several delicious ways to customize these sliders! You can incorporate vegetables like diced bell peppers or spinach into the filling for added nutrition. Alternatively, using different cheeses, like gouda or mozzarella, can bring a new flavor profile. For those who enjoy spice, consider adjusting the amount of hot sauce in the garlic butter topping. Embrace creativity—the more the merrier!
Savory Spicy Buffalo Chicken Dip Sliders for Game Day Fun
Equipment
- - Large bowl
- Small saucepan
- - Baking tray
- - Aluminum foil
- - Knife
- Whisk
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 2 cups Shredded Chicken Use rotisserie or leftover cooked chicken.
- 1/2 cup Buffalo Sauce Frank's RedHot is a classic choice.
- 8 oz Cream Cheese Softened for easy mixing.
- 1/4 cup Cilantro Can be omitted or replaced.
- 1/4 cup Scallions Substitute with finely chopped onions if needed.
- 1 tsp Onion Powder Use fresh onion if preferred.
For Assembly
- 12 rolls Dinner Rolls King Arthur Savory Bread Flour recommended.
- 1/2 cup Ranch Dressing Substitute with blue cheese dressing if desired.
- 1 cup Cheddar Cheese Offers melting creaminess.
- 1 cup Pepper Jack Cheese Feel free to use other cheeses.
- 1/4 cup Pickled Jalapeños Substitute with fresh or omit if desired.
For the Buttery Topping
- 1/4 cup Butter Can be substituted with margarine.
- 1 tbsp Hot Sauce Adjust to personal taste.
- 1 tsp Worcestershire Sauce Use sparingly.
- 2 cloves Garlic Minced.
- 1 tsp Smoked Paprika Substitute with regular paprika if preferred.
- 1 tbsp Poppy Seeds Optional but adds visual appeal.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, softened cream cheese, onion powder, minced garlic, cilantro, and scallions. Mix thoroughly until well-blended and adjust the heat level to your preference.
- Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to get it nice and hot while you assemble the sliders.
- Carefully cut the dinner rolls in half. Layer the bottom halves with cheddar cheese, a generous swirl of ranch dressing, the buffalo chicken filling, followed by pepper jack cheese, and jalapeños if you're using them. Place the top halves of the rolls back on.
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Whisk in the hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika until the mixture is smooth. Brush this flavorful concoction over the assembled sliders and sprinkle with poppy seeds for a lovely finish.
- Cover the sliders loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 10 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and the tops are golden brown.
- Allow the sliders to cool for 2-3 minutes before slicing into individual servings. Enjoy them warm for maximum cheesy goodness!