Buffalo Chicken Sliders with Blue Cheese
I love making Buffalo Chicken Sliders with Blue Cheese for game day or casual gatherings. They are packed with flavor and are incredibly easy to assemble. The heat from the buffalo sauce is perfectly balanced by the creamy blue cheese, creating a delightful contrast that keeps everyone coming back for more. Plus, the sliders are manageable for guests to eat while mingling, making them an ideal choice for entertaining. Trust me, once you serve these, they'll become your go-to for any occasion.
When I first made these Buffalo Chicken Sliders, I was amazed at how quickly they disappeared. Everyone raved about the flavor, and I realized the combination of spicy chicken and tangy blue cheese is a match made in heaven. I recommend using rotisserie chicken to save time and ensure the meat stays tender and juicy.
To take these sliders to the next level, I like to toast the slider buns before assembling. This extra step adds a delightful crunch that perfectly complements the creamy filling. Believe me, it makes a noticeable difference!
Why You'll Love These Sliders
- Spicy kick from the buffalo sauce pairs well with creamy blue cheese
- Quick and easy to make, perfect for gatherings
- Great finger food that everyone can enjoy
The Role of Buffalo Sauce
Buffalo sauce is the star ingredient in these sliders, providing the quintessential spicy kick. When choosing a buffalo sauce, look for one that has a balanced flavor profile—enough heat but also a hint of tanginess. A popular choice is Frank's RedHot sauce, which has the ideal consistency and flavor. The amount of buffalo sauce can easily be adjusted according to your preference; just remember that more sauce means spicier sliders, so start with 1/2 cup and taste before adding more.
The method of mixing the shredded chicken with the buffalo sauce should be done carefully. Ensure that all the chicken is evenly coated, which not only enhances the flavor but also prevents the chicken from drying out during baking. If you prefer a milder flavor, consider mixing in more mayonnaise or a bit of honey to balance the heat, creating your own signature version.
Choosing the Right Blue Cheese
Blue cheese adds a creamy richness that perfectly complements the spice of buffalo sauce. When selecting blue cheese, note that there are various types—some are crumbly and strong, while others are milder and creamier. Gorgonzola or Maytag blue cheese are excellent choices for this recipe as they blend beautifully with mayonnaise, creating a smooth spread. If blue cheese isn't your favorite, a mix of goat cheese and cream cheese can serve as a mild alternative that still delivers creaminess without overpowering.
For the blue cheese spread, combining it with mayonnaise achieves the desired creamy texture, but if you are watching your calories, Greek yogurt can be a great substitute. Using Greek yogurt will still provide that creamy essence while being lower in fat. Be sure to adjust the seasoning if you do, as yogurt can be tart compared to mayonnaise.
Assembling and Baking Tips
When assembling your sliders, ensure that the bottom halves of the buns are well-coated with the blue cheese spread; not only does it enhance the flavor, but it also acts as a moisture barrier, keeping the buns from getting soggy. A trick to prevent the tops from burning is to keep them covered with foil for the first 15 minutes of baking and then remove it for the final 5. This allows the tops to brown while keeping the filling warm and moist.
If you're preparing for a larger crowd, this recipe can easily be scaled. Just double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish. Make sure all ingredients are evenly distributed in the dish to ensure consistent baking. Leftover sliders can be stored in the fridge for up to three days, making them excellent for meal prep or leftovers!
Ingredients
For the Sliders
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 12 slider buns
- 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
- Sliced pickles (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken and buffalo sauce, mixing until the chicken is well coated.
Make the Blue Cheese Spread
In a separate bowl, mix the crumbled blue cheese and mayonnaise until creamy. Set aside.
Assemble the Sliders
Slice the slider buns in half and place the bottom halves in a baking dish. Spread the blue cheese mixture generously on each bun, then heap on the buffalo chicken mixture. Top with shredded lettuce and pickles if desired, then place the top half of the buns.
Bake the Sliders
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 5 minutes until the tops are golden.
Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, remove from the oven, slice the sliders and serve warm. Enjoy the delicious, tangy combination of flavors!
Pro Tips
- Experiment with different levels of buffalo sauce based on your desired spice intensity. Also, feel free to add toppings like diced celery or carrots for extra crunch.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Buffalo Chicken Sliders, consider offering a variety of dipping sauces on the side, such as ranch dressing, extra blue cheese dressing, or even a cool cucumber yogurt dip. These dips not only provide additional flavor but also help mellow out the heat for those who may find the buffalo sauce a bit too spicy. Serve them with crunchy veggies like carrot sticks and celery for a well-rounded game day spread.
Another fun idea is to turn these sliders into a mini buffet by offering different toppings. Guests can customize their sliders with avocado slices, diced tomatoes, or even jalapeños for an added crunch. Not only does this encourage interaction, but it also allows for everyone to personalize their experience, making the gathering more enjoyable.
Make-Ahead Tips
These sliders can be made ahead, making them perfect for stress-free entertaining. Prepare the chicken mixture and the blue cheese spread the day before, storing each in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake, just assemble the sliders and pop them in the oven. This can save you precious time on the day of your gathering, allowing you to focus on your guests.
Freezing the sliders is also an option if you're planning to make a large batch. Assemble the sliders without baking, wrap them securely, and freeze for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. Freshly baked sliders with that delicious buffalo chicken flavor are always a winning choice!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken mixture and blue cheese spread in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Assemble and bake just before serving.
→ What can I substitute for blue cheese?
If you're not a fan of blue cheese, you can use ranch dressing or feta cheese instead for a different flavor profile.
→ How spicy are these sliders?
The spice level depends primarily on the buffalo sauce you use. For milder sliders, opt for a mild buffalo sauce or mix it with some ranch dressing.
→ Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to cook and shred the chicken beforehand. Rotisserie chicken is recommended for ease and flavor.
Buffalo Chicken Sliders with Blue Cheese
I love making Buffalo Chicken Sliders with Blue Cheese for game day or casual gatherings. They are packed with flavor and are incredibly easy to assemble. The heat from the buffalo sauce is perfectly balanced by the creamy blue cheese, creating a delightful contrast that keeps everyone coming back for more. Plus, the sliders are manageable for guests to eat while mingling, making them an ideal choice for entertaining. Trust me, once you serve these, they'll become your go-to for any occasion.
What You'll Need
For the Sliders
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 12 slider buns
- 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
- Sliced pickles (optional)
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken and buffalo sauce, mixing until the chicken is well coated.
In a separate bowl, mix the crumbled blue cheese and mayonnaise until creamy. Set aside.
Slice the slider buns in half and place the bottom halves in a baking dish. Spread the blue cheese mixture generously on each bun, then heap on the buffalo chicken mixture. Top with shredded lettuce and pickles if desired, then place the top half of the buns.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 5 minutes until the tops are golden.
Once baked, remove from the oven, slice the sliders and serve warm. Enjoy the delicious, tangy combination of flavors!
Extra Tips
- Experiment with different levels of buffalo sauce based on your desired spice intensity. Also, feel free to add toppings like diced celery or carrots for extra crunch.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 330 kcal
- Total Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
- Sodium: 830mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 23g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 20g