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These buffalo chicken sliders bring the perfect combination of spicy, cheesy goodness straight from the oven. The shredded chicken is coated in a rich buffalo sauce enhanced with honey for depth of flavor, then layered with two complementary melted cheeses. Golden-brown slider buns hold this saucy creation together, making them ideal for gatherings or casual dinners.
The secret to these exceptional sliders was discovered during recipe testing when honey was accidentally added to the buffalo sauce mixture. This fortunate mistake led to the perfect balance of heat and sweetness that makes these sliders consistently popular at gatherings.
Key Ingredients
- Chicken: Rotisserie or home-cooked chicken, shredded while warm for maximum flavor absorption
- Buffalo sauce: Frank's RedHot provides authentic flavor - can be adjusted with butter for milder heat
- Ranch dressing: Select a high-quality buttermilk ranch for optimal creaminess
- Honey: Pure honey adds crucial sweetness balance
- Mozzarella: Fresh-grated cheese for superior melting
- Parmesan: Aged Parmigiano-Reggiano adds depth
- Slider buns: Hawaiian rolls provide ideal sweetness and texture
Preparation Method
- Initial Steps:
- Mix warm shredded chicken with buffalo sauce, honey, and ranch dressing until well combined. Season with fresh garlic and black pepper for depth.
- Assembly:
- Arrange connected slider buns in a greased pan. Layer the sauced chicken mixture evenly, ensuring complete coverage.
- Cheese Layer:
- Top with freshly grated mozzarella and Parmesan for optimal melt and flavor.
Finishing Steps
- Final Preparation:
- Top with bun layers and brush with seasoned melted butter mixture for a golden finish.
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The brief resting period was discovered by chance but proved essential for achieving the perfect slider consistency.
Serving Suggestions
Serve alongside fresh celery and carrot sticks with extra buffalo sauce. A crisp coleslaw makes an excellent side dish. Cold beer or ale pairs particularly well.
Recipe Variations
Experiment with different cheese combinations like sharp cheddar or pepper jack. Add crumbled blue cheese or crispy bacon for extra flavor. Pickled jalapeños provide additional heat if desired.
Storage Instructions
Prepare up to 24 hours ahead without butter topping. Store covered in refrigerator. Add butter mixture just before baking.
These sliders have become a staple at gatherings, bringing people together over good food and creating lasting memories.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can these be made in advance?
- You can prepare the chicken mixture early but bake them fresh for the best taste.
- → Why choose freshly grated cheese?
- Freshly grated cheese melts better since pre-shredded has added anti-clumping stuff.
- → Is the spice level adjustable?
- Of course! Go for a mild buffalo sauce or tweak the buffalo-to-ranch ratio to suit your taste.
- → Can I use different bread?
- Sure! While Hawaiian rolls are ideal, any slider buns will do the trick.
- → How do I keep the bottoms from getting soggy?
- Don’t make the chicken mixture too wet, and assemble just before baking.