Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Sliders are a game-changer consist of tender shredded chicken smothered in a tangy, spicy buffalo sauce, all nestled between soft slider buns, perfect for a party or a cozy dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Sliders

• Chicken Breasts (or thighs): Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe. They shred easily after cooking, making them perfect for sliders.
• Buffalo Sauce: The star ingredient, of course! Choose your favorite brand or make your own homemade buffalo sauce to customize the flavor.
• Ranch Dressing: This adds a creamy, cool contrast to the spicy buffalo sauce. If you prefer blue cheese, feel free to swap ranch for blue cheese dressing.
• Garlic Powder and Onion Powder: These will enhance the flavor profile, bringing out the savory richness in the chicken.
• Cheese: Shredded mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend works great for melting over the chicken mixture.
• Slider Buns: Soft, fluffy buns are perfect for this dish, as they soak up the sauce while holding everything together.
• Pickles (Optional): For an added crunch and tang, add some sliced pickles to your sliders.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Buffalo Chicken Sliders

• Shredding the Chicken: After cooking, make sure to shred the chicken with two forks. This helps it absorb all the buffalo sauce and ensures every bite is filled with flavor.
• Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of buffalo sauce or opt for a milder variety. For more heat, add extra hot sauce or include a dash of cayenne pepper.
• Slow Cooker Tips: Ensure your slow cooker is set to low heat for 4-6 hours for optimal results. Cooking the chicken on high can lead to drier, tougher meat.
• Prepare in Advance: You can assemble the chicken mixture in the slow cooker the night before and refrigerate it. Just start cooking it in the morning for an effortless dinner when you come home.
• Toppings Matter: Don’t forget the toppings! Fresh cilantro, crunchy lettuce, creamy ranch or blue cheese dressing, and even crumbled bacon can elevate the sliders.

Variations on Buffalo Chicken Sliders

One of the great things about Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Sliders is their versatility. You can tweak the recipe to suit your tastes or dietary preferences:

• Chicken Thighs: If you prefer dark meat, swap chicken breasts for boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful.
• Keto Version: To make this dish low-carb, swap regular slider buns for lettuce wraps or keto-friendly buns. You can also omit the ranch dressing or use a homemade version with healthier ingredients.
• Add Vegetables: For added crunch and nutrition, throw in some finely chopped celery or carrots. These are classic additions to any buffalo-style dish.
• Spicy Cheddar: For an extra kick, use spicy cheddar cheese or add a sprinkle of chili flakes to your buffalo sauce.

How to Serve Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Serving these sliders can be as simple or as elaborate as you wish. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal:

• Serve with Crispy Fries: Serve your sliders with a side of crispy French fries or sweet potato fries for the perfect comfort food combo.
• Pair with Veggies: Fresh vegetables like celery, carrots, or cucumber sticks are a great way to balance the spiciness of the buffalo sauce.
• Add a Dipping Sauce: A side of ranch or blue cheese dressing makes for a great dipping option, enhancing the creamy element of the dish and cooling down the heat.
• Party Platter: For a party or gathering, arrange the sliders on a platter and serve them alongside other appetizers like chips, dip, and stuffed jalapenos.

How to Store and Reheat Buffalo Chicken Sliders

These sliders are ideal for leftovers and can be stored and reheated easily.

• Storing Leftovers: Place the leftover buffalo chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: You can also freeze the buffalo chicken mixture. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the slow cooker or on the stove.
• Reheating: To reheat the sliders, you can either microwave the individual portions or warm them in the oven. If using the oven, wrap them in foil and bake at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Recipe FAQs About Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe? Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts or thighs in the slow cooker. Just add about 1-2 hours to the cooking time, and make sure the chicken is fully cooked before shredding.

What kind of buffalo sauce should I use? You can use any brand of buffalo sauce you like, but for the best flavor, opt for a high-quality sauce that has the perfect balance of spice and tang. If you prefer, make your own buffalo sauce using hot sauce, butter, vinegar, and seasonings.

How spicy are these sliders? The level of spice depends on the buffalo sauce you use. Most store-bought buffalo sauces range from mild to medium heat. You can always adjust the spice level by adding more or less hot sauce or by including other ingredients like cayenne pepper.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Absolutely! The chicken mixture can be prepared the day before and stored in the refrigerator. Simply cook it in the slow cooker when you’re ready to serve.

Can I use something other than slider buns? Yes, feel free to use any type of bun you prefer—burger buns, Hawaiian rolls, or even gluten-free options work well with this recipe.

Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Sliders are a delicious and convenient meal that combines heat, flavor, and comfort. With minimal effort, you can have a dish that’s sure to satisfy both family and guests alike. Whether you serve them at a party, as a weeknight dinner, or for game day, these sliders will quickly become a favorite go-to recipe!

Other delicious chicken recipes to try:

• Crockpot Parmesan Garlic Chicken
• Crockpot 4-Ingredient Chicken and Dumplings
• Crockpot Olive Garden Chicken Pasta