Introduction to Buffalo Chicken Sliders
Why Buffalo Chicken Sliders are a Game-Changer for Dinner?
When it comes to weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings, Buffalo chicken sliders are an unbeatable choice. They embody the perfect blend of flavor, ease, and fun! Imagine sinking your teeth into a soft, sweet King’s Hawaiian roll packed with tender, spicy chicken, crispy turkey bacon, and gooey cheese—what's not to love?
The beauty of these sliders is their versatility. Not only do they satisfy those spicy cravings, but they can also be customized to suit your taste. Whether you want to dial up the heat with extra buffalo sauce or keep it mild with ranch dressing, you’re in charge of your flavor destiny! Plus, they’re easy to whip up in just about 35 minutes, making them perfect for busy professionals looking to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.
For more inspiring meal ideas, consider checking out sites like Serious Eats or Bon Appétit where you'll find a wealth of recipes to explore. So, why settle for a boring dinner when you can serve up these delightful buffalo chicken sliders that are bound to have everyone asking for seconds? Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!
Ingredients for Buffalo Chicken Sliders
When you're ready to whip up some buffalo chicken sliders, gathering the right ingredients is key to a delicious experience. Let’s break down what you'll need to make these mouthwatering bites.
Essential ingredients you'll need
- 12 count King’s Hawaiian Original Sweet Rolls: The perfect sweet and fluffy base for your sliders.
- Olive oil: For sautéing your chicken and infusing it with flavor.
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into cubes: This is the star of the show—tender chicken that soaks up that spicy buffalo sauce.
- Spices: Don’t forget your ½ teaspoon each of salt and pepper, plus 1 teaspoon each of paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning for that seasoned depth.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Because what’s a slider without melty cheese?
- Buffalo sauce: The essential ingredient for that spicy, tangy kick.
- Ranch dressing: A cool contrast to the heat, plus some creamy goodness.
- Turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled: A lovely crunch to complement the softness of the sliders.
- 2 tablespoon butter: For that golden finish, mixed with garlic powder and dried parsley.
Optional ingredients for a twist
- Chicken ham: Swap this in for a smoky flavor boost.
- Extra toppings: Consider adding sliced jalapeños for additional heat or avocado for creaminess.
- Different cheeses: Experiment with cheddar or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
Feel free to get creative! Your buffalo chicken sliders can be tailored to suit any palate. For more ways to elevate your sliders, check out this guide on slider variations!
Preparing Buffalo Chicken Sliders
Making Buffalo Chicken Sliders is an exciting way to turn a simple gathering into a fantastic feast! Follow these straightforward steps to create sliders that are not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor. Let’s dive in!
Gather and prep your ingredients
Before you start cooking, it’s essential to gather all your ingredients to streamline the process. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 12 count King’s Hawaiian Original Sweet Rolls
- Olive oil
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into cubes
- Seasoning: ½ teaspoon each of salt and pepper, 1 teaspoon each of paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Buffalo sauce (to your liking)
- Ranch dressing (for serving)
- 6 pieces of cooked and crumbled turkey bacon
- 2 tablespoon butter, melted
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder and dried parsley
Make sure to preheat your oven to 350°F before you begin cooking. This allows you to save time later when it's time to bake those sliders to perfection!
Cook the turkey bacon
If you’re using turkey bacon, start by cooking it first. I usually prefer baking it in the oven. Just lay the turkey bacon on a parchment-lined baking sheet and cook at 400°F for about 25 minutes until it’s crispy. Be sure to drain any excess grease afterward and crumble it up for that perfect topping.
Sauté the seasoned chicken
Once your turkey bacon is ready, it’s time to work on your chicken. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and drizzle some olive oil. Add your cubed chicken breast along with all those delicious spices: salt, pepper, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the chicken is golden and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. You’ll know it’s cooked perfectly when it looks juicy and fragrant!
Assemble your sliders
Now the exciting part—putting everything together! Slice your sweet rolls in half and start layering. Begin with a generous amount of mozzarella cheese at the bottom, followed by the seasoned chicken. Drizzle some buffalo sauce and ranch dressing over the chicken, then layer on more mozzarella and your crumbled turkey bacon. Top with the other half of the rolls and get ready to bake!
Bake to perfection
For that golden-brown finish, melt your butter and mix in some garlic powder and dried parsley. Brush this mixture over the top of your sliders. Place your assembled sliders in the preheated oven and let them bake for 10-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should be bubbly and slightly golden when they’re done. Serve with extra ranch on the side, and enjoy your Buffalo Chicken Sliders!
These sliders are not just a meal; they are a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for more! For more delicious slider recipes, check out this resource or this one.
Variations on Buffalo Chicken Sliders
Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders
If you're craving an extra kick, try adding sliced jalapeños or a touch of cayenne pepper to your buffalo chicken sliders. This simple tweak elevates the heat level, making your sliders unforgettable. You can also swap in a spicier buffalo sauce for that additional zing. Trust us, if you like a bit of fire in your food, these sliders will quickly become a weeknight favorite!
Vegetarian Buffalo Chicken Sliders
For a meatless version, consider using shredded jackfruit or cauliflower marinated in buffalo sauce. These alternatives mimic the texture and flavor of chicken beautifully, giving you a satisfying and hearty slider without the meat. Pair with your favorite ranch or even a blue cheese dressing for a creamy addition that complements the buffalo chicken sliders perfectly. Explore more about vegetarian substitutes at Eat This, Not That.
By diversifying your buffalo chicken sliders, you can make every gathering a delightful experience!
Cooking tips and notes for Buffalo Chicken Sliders
How to achieve that perfect crispy top
For those Buffalo Chicken Sliders that are irresistibly crispy on top, the secret lies in the buttery garlic mixture you brush on. Mix melted butter with garlic powder and dried parsley, and be generous! The combination of these ingredients adds a beautiful golden color and texture while sealing in moisture. Remember to raise the oven temperature slightly in the final minutes for that extra crunch!
Tips for easy cleanup and prep
To make your cooking process smoother, line your baking sheet with parchment paper, which keeps the mess contained. Use a large skillet for the chicken, as it reduces spattering and makes cleanup easier. Consider prepping ingredients like turkey bacon and chicken during your downtime or even the night before. This way, when it's time to assemble your sliders, you can whip them up in no time, giving you more moments to enjoy your meal with friends!
Serving suggestions for Buffalo Chicken Sliders
Ideal side dishes to accompany
When serving buffalo chicken sliders, you'll want to complement that spicy, savory flavor with sides that soothe the palate. Here are some great options:
- Celery sticks: A classic accompaniment for buffalo wings, they're crunchy and refreshing.
- Coleslaw: The creamy texture balances the heat and adds a delightful crunch.
- Sweet potato fries: Their natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with the spicy sliders.
- Veggie platter: Carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers provide a fresh and healthy contrast.
Perfect sauces for dipping
Enhance your buffalo chicken sliders experience with delicious dipping sauces. Consider offering:
- Ranch dressing: This goes hand-in-hand with the sliders for that creamy, zesty kick.
- Blue cheese dressing: For a more traditional buffalo flavor, this is a must-try.
- Honey mustard: The sweet tanginess can be a delightful surprise for your guests.
By pairing these delicious side dishes and sauces, you’ll ensure that your buffalo chicken sliders steal the show! For more inspiration on sides, check out this recipe for homemade coleslaw or a guide on mastering sweet potato fries. Enjoy!
Time Breakdown for Buffalo Chicken Sliders
Preparation Time
Get ready to whip up these delicious buffalo chicken sliders in just 10 minutes. This quick prep time means you'll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.
Cooking Time
Once your ingredients are prepped, allow for about 25 minutes of cooking. This includes everything from sautéing the chicken to baking the sliders to cheesy perfection.
Total Time
In just 35 minutes, you can have warm, delectable buffalo chicken sliders ready to serve. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends!
For more tips on timing and meal prep, check out resources from Food Network or America's Test Kitchen.
Nutritional Facts for Buffalo Chicken Sliders
Buffalo chicken sliders are not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Here’s a quick look at what you’re getting in each slider:
Calories
Each slider contains approximately 250 calories, making it a satisfying option for gatherings without overindulging.
Protein
With about 20 grams of protein per slider, this is a great way to fuel your body, especially after a workout or long day at the office.
Sodium
It's essential to be mindful of your sodium intake; these sliders come in at around 750 mg of sodium each. Pair them with fresh veggies to keep it balanced!
For a deeper dive into nutrition, you might want to check out the USDA's FoodData Central. Understanding your food helps you make informed choices!
FAQs about Buffalo Chicken Sliders
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using frozen chicken is a great time-saver. Just make sure to thaw it first to ensure even cooking. You can sauté it directly from frozen, but it may take a bit longer to reach that perfect internal temperature of 165°F.
How can I make these sliders healthier?
If you want to trim some calories, consider these swaps:
- Use whole wheat slider rolls instead of sweet rolls to up the fiber content.
- Substitute regular mozzarella cheese with part-skim mozzarella for a lighter option.
- Replace buffalo sauce with a lower-sodium version or make your own using simple ingredients. Check out this guidance on healthier buffalo sauce options.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
To keep your buffalo chicken sliders fresh, place any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the fridge. They will last about 3-4 days. To reheat, just pop them in the oven for a few minutes until warmed through—this way, the bread stays nice and soft!
Conclusion on Buffalo Chicken Sliders
Why you'll love making these sliders at home
Buffalo chicken sliders are not just easy to whip up; they bring a spicy kick to any meal, perfect for game days or cozy nights in. You'll love the blend of flavors—tender chicken, gooey cheese, and that delightful crunch from crispy turkey bacon. Plus, these sliders are perfect for gatherings, allowing you to impress your friends effortlessly!
So why not give them a try? Your taste buds will thank you, and your friends will keep coming back for more. Happy cooking!
For tips on hosting a fantastic slider bar, check out The Spruce Eats or explore more fun appetizer recipes at BBC Good Food.
Buffalo Chicken Sliders
Equipment
- oven
- Skillet
- Sheet pan
Ingredients
Buns
- 12 count King’s Hawaiian Original Sweet Rolls
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 lb chicken breast cut into cubes
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Cheese and Sauces
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- buffalo sauce
- ranch
Bacon and Butter
- 6 pieces bacon cooked and crumbled
- 2 tablespoon butter
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- If you don't have any bacon leftover from breakfast, start by cooking your bacon. I prefer to bake it in the oven at 400 degrees F on a sheet pan lined with parchment paper for about 25 minutes. Once the bacon is cooked, drain any extra grease, and crumble it.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb of cubed chicken to the skillet with some olive oil. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Stir well and cook until the chicken is fully cooked reaching an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.
- Slice King’s Hawaiian Original Sweet Rolls in half. Add a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese and top with the cooked chicken. Drizzle some buffalo sauce and ranch over the chicken and top with more mozzarella cheese. Sprinkle on some crumbled bacon and place the tops of the rolls on the sliders.
- Mix together 2 tablespoon of melted butter with garlic powder and dried parsley. Brush this over the tops of the sliders. Bake the sliders in the oven at 350 degrees F for 10-15 minutes. Serve with extra ranch dressing on the side. Enjoy!
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