Baked Buffalo Chicken Sliders

This baked buffalo chicken slider recipe has completely transformed our gameday gatherings. The perfect combination of spicy buffalo chicken, cool ranch, and sweet Hawaiian rolls creates an irresistible party snack that disappears within minutes of hitting the table.

I first made these sliders for a last minute Super Bowl party when I needed something impressive without spending hours in the kitchen. They were such a hit that they've become my signature contribution to every potluck and sports gathering since.

Ingredients

• 12 count package Hawaiian sweet rolls: These rolls create the perfect sweet foundation that balances the spicy buffalo sauce
• 3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken: Using store bought rotisserie chicken saves significant prep time while providing juicy flavorful meat
• 1/3 cup buffalo sauce: Choose a mid level heat for balance but adjust to your preference
• 1 1/2 cups plain coleslaw: The crunch and coolness provide essential texture contrast
• 1/4 cup ranch dressing: Select a thick creamy variety for best results
• 1/2 cup butter melted: The butter creates an irresistible golden crust on top
• 4 tsp ranch dips seasoning: This amplifies the ranch flavor throughout the entire slider

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Baking Dish:

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper or apply a thorough coating of nonstick spray. The parchment makes for easier removal and cleanup.

Prepare the Rolls:

Use a large serrated knife to cut the entire slab of Hawaiian rolls horizontally, creating a top and bottom slab. Be careful to keep the rolls connected rather than separating them individually. This creates the perfect base for layering ingredients and allows the flavors to meld.

Create the Buffalo Chicken Layer:

In a medium bowl, thoroughly combine the shredded rotisserie chicken with buffalo sauce, ensuring every piece is coated evenly. Spread this mixture carefully across the bottom slab of rolls, creating an even layer that reaches all edges.

Add the Coleslaw Layer:

Mix the plain coleslaw thoroughly with ranch dressing in a separate bowl until well coated. This provides a cooling element to balance the spicy buffalo chicken. Spread this mixture evenly over the chicken layer, creating a balanced flavor profile in every bite.

Add the Top Layer and Prepare Butter Mixture:

Place the top slab of rolls over the coleslaw layer. In a small measuring cup, combine the melted butter and ranch seasoning, stirring until well incorporated. This creates the magical topping that transforms ordinary rolls into something extraordinary.

Apply the Butter Mixture:

Slowly pour the butter mixture over the top of the rolls, using a pastry brush or spoon to ensure even coverage. Some butter will drip down the sides and pool at the bottom which adds flavor throughout the entire slider.

Rest and Bake:

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and let it rest at room temperature for 5 to 10 minutes. This allows the butter mixture to begin soaking into the rolls. Bake covered for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the tops are golden brown and slightly crisp.

Serve:

Allow the sliders to cool for just a few minutes, then use a sharp knife to cut along the original roll lines, creating individual sliders. Serve immediately while still warm for the best eating experience.

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Ranch seasoning is truly the secret ingredient that elevates these sliders. I accidentally doubled the amount once during a distracted cooking session and discovered it created an even more flavorful crust that my family now requests every time. Sometimes the best cooking discoveries happen by mistake.

Make Ahead Options

These sliders work beautifully as a make ahead dish. You can assemble everything up to 24 hours in advance and keep refrigerated until ready to bake. Just add an extra 5 minutes to the covered baking time if cooking directly from the refrigerator. The flavors actually develop and improve with a little time together making this perfect for busy hosts.

Customization Ideas

While the classic recipe is perfect as is you can easily customize these sliders to suit different tastes or dietary needs. For a blue cheese variation replace the ranch dressing with blue cheese dressing and sprinkle crumbled blue cheese between layers. For a lower carb option serve the buffalo chicken and coleslaw mixture on lettuce cups instead of rolls. You can also swap turkey for chicken during holiday leftover season.

Serving Suggestions

These sliders pair wonderfully with fresh vegetable platters featuring celery carrot sticks and bell peppers. The cool crisp vegetables complement the warm spicy sliders perfectly. For a complete spread add a bowl of extra ranch dressing for dipping and some kettle chips on the side. These are substantial enough to serve as a main course for casual gatherings but also work beautifully as part of a larger buffet.

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These buffalo chicken sliders will become the ultimate hit at any gathering — one tray of these and you'll have everyone asking for the recipe!

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of bread for the sliders?

Yes, you can substitute Hawaiian sweet rolls with your preferred type of dinner rolls or slider buns. However, the slight sweetness of Hawaiian rolls complements the tangy buffalo flavor well.

→ Is there a substitute for buffalo sauce?

If buffalo sauce isn't your favorite, you can use barbecue sauce, honey mustard, or even garlic parmesan sauce for a different taste profile.

→ Can I make these sliders in advance?

You can assemble the sliders up to the point of baking, cover them tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake them just before serving for the best results.

→ What sides pair well with these sliders?

These sliders pair well with a side of potato chips, fries, or a fresh green salad. You can also serve them with extra coleslaw on the side for added crunch.

→ Can I make these sliders spicy or milder?

To make them spicier, use a hotter buffalo sauce or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mix. For a milder version, opt for a mild buffalo sauce or mix in some extra ranch dressing to balance the heat.

→ How do I store leftover sliders?

Leftover sliders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes before serving to restore their texture.