I absolutely love sharing this Buffalo Chicken Sliders with Blue Cheese and Ranch Seasoning Recipe because it perfectly combines the tangy, spicy kick of buffalo sauce with that creamy, bold blue cheese flavor, all tucked inside soft, pillowy Hawaiian rolls. Every bite bursts with flavor and texture, making it an instant crowd-pleaser in my kitchen. Whether I’m hosting a casual get-together or craving a cozy, satisfying snack, these sliders never fail to hit the spot.
Why You’ll Love This Buffalo Chicken Sliders with Blue Cheese and Ranch Seasoning Recipe
What makes this recipe really stand out for me is the incredible balance of flavors. The buffalo sauce brings that classic zesty spice I adore, but the blue cheese crumbles add this creamy, tangy dimension that elevates these sliders beyond your usual game-day fare. And don’t even get me started on the ranch seasoning—it ties everything together with just the right herbaceous touch. I find myself craving these sliders anytime I want something flavorful but not overwhelmingly spicy.
Another thing I absolutely appreciate about this Buffalo Chicken Sliders with Blue Cheese and Ranch Seasoning Recipe is how approachable it is. The steps are straightforward, and the ingredients are simple, yet the final product looks and tastes like something from a fancy appetizer platter. They come together quickly, making them perfect for parties, weeknight dinners, or even a fun weekend treat. Honestly, I love how versatile and foolproof these sliders are, always impressing whoever I share them with.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll find that the ingredients for this recipe are simple but essential—they each bring a unique texture, flavor, and richness that transform these sliders from ordinary to unforgettable.
Pro Tip ✨
Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.
- Shredded chicken: I use cooked chicken breast for tender, lean meat that soaks up all the flavors perfectly.
- Buffalo sauce: This adds the signature spicy zest that makes these sliders irresistible.
- Butter: Divided into a few tablespoons, it adds richness and helps meld the flavors together.
- Hawaiian rolls: They’re soft, slightly sweet, and hold the fillings beautifully without overpowering them.
- Mozzarella cheese: Provides a mild, melty texture that complements the boldness of the buffalo and blue cheese.
- Cheddar cheese: Offers a sharp, savory flavor to deepen the cheese profile in every bite.
- Blue cheese crumbles: The star ingredient that gives these sliders their iconic tangy, creamy punch.
- Ranch seasoning: This seasoning mix brings herbal brightness and ties all the flavors together seamlessly.
Directions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a nice even heat to melt the cheeses and warm the sliders perfectly.
Step 2: In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, mix in the buffalo sauce and ranch seasoning until fully combined and fragrant. This sauce will coat the chicken with all the delicious flavors.
Step 3: Toss the shredded chicken in the buffalo-ranch butter sauce mixture until the chicken is thoroughly coated. This step is crucial to getting that bold, spicy flavor infused into every bite.
Step 4: Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, keeping the tops and bottoms intact on a baking dish or sheet. This keeps the sliders together while they bake.
Step 5: Spread the buffalo chicken mixture evenly over the bottom halves of the rolls. Then sprinkle the mozzarella, cheddar, and blue cheese crumbles on top of the chicken layer.
Step 6: Place the top halves of the rolls back onto the sliders, pressing gently to compact everything together.
Step 7: Melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter and brush it evenly over the top of the slider buns. This buttery glaze helps achieve a golden, slightly crispy finish.
Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the tops of the rolls are lightly toasted.
Step 9: Remove from the oven and allow the sliders to rest for 5 minutes so the cheese sets slightly and they’re easier to handle.
Servings and Timing
This recipe makes about 12 sliders, perfect for serving a small gathering or a family meal. The prep time is around 10 minutes, with about 20 minutes for baking, making the total time approximately 30 minutes. There’s a brief 5-minute resting period after baking to let everything settle perfectly before serving.
How to Serve This Buffalo Chicken Sliders with Blue Cheese and Ranch Seasoning Recipe
When it comes to serving, I love pairing these sliders with a crisp, refreshing side like celery sticks or a crunchy coleslaw to balance the rich and spicy flavors. Sweet potato fries or a simple green salad also work beautifully. For dipping, I usually keep extra ranch dressing or blue cheese dip handy—these only make the sliders even more indulgent and delicious.
Presentation-wise, arranging the sliders on a wooden serving board with some fresh parsley sprinkled on top adds a lovely pop of color and freshness. I like to serve them warm, straight out of the oven, so the cheese is gooey and the buns are soft but slightly toasted for that perfect bite every time.
As for drinks, nothing pairs better than a chilled lager or pale ale that can cut through the spicy richness. If you’re looking for something non-alcoholic, a sparkling lemonade or iced tea with lemon are fantastic choices. These sliders shine at casual game nights, family get-togethers, or even a fun snack when friends come over unexpectedly.
Variations
I love customizing this Buffalo Chicken Sliders with Blue Cheese and Ranch Seasoning Recipe to suit different tastes and dietary needs. For example, swapping out shredded chicken for shredded turkey or even pulled pork adds a nice twist without losing the essence of the dish. If you prefer a milder flavor, simply reduce the amount of buffalo sauce or opt for a mild wing sauce instead.
For those with gluten sensitivities, I recommend using gluten-free slider buns, which work just as well with the juicy fillings. If you’re vegan or looking for a plant-based version, try shredded jackfruit tossed in a vegan buffalo sauce, paired with vegan cheese alternatives and dairy-free ranch seasoning—this still delivers plenty of zest and creaminess.
Different cooking methods can add their own charm, too. I sometimes assemble the sliders and finish them under the broiler for a few minutes to get a bubbly, golden cheese crust faster. Alternatively, grilling the assembled sliders wrapped in foil adds a smoky flavor that’s irresistible.
Storage and Reheating
Storing Leftovers
I always store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. They usually stay good for up to 3 days; beyond that, you might notice the bread gets a bit soggy. Using a shallow container helps them cool faster, maintaining the best texture.
Freezing
You can freeze these sliders if you want to prep ahead or save some for later. I wrap each slider individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe zip-top bag or airtight container. They freeze well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, I prefer using an oven or toaster oven set to 325°F (160°C) to slowly warm the sliders until the cheese is melty and the buns regain some crispness—usually about 10-15 minutes. Microwaving is a quick alternative, but it can make the bread soggy, so I suggest placing a paper towel underneath and reheating in short bursts, checking frequently.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken works perfectly here because it’s already cooked and flavorful, saving you prep time. Just shred it well before mixing with the buffalo sauce.
How spicy are these sliders?
The spice level depends on the buffalo sauce you choose. I use a classic medium buffalo sauce which gives a noticeable but manageable kick. If you prefer less heat, use a mild sauce or reduce the buffalo sauce amount.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the sliders a few hours ahead and keep them refrigerated. Just wait to bake them until you’re ready to serve so the buns don’t get soggy. This makes entertaining much easier!
What if I don’t like blue cheese?
You can substitute blue cheese crumbles with extra cheddar or pepper jack cheese for a different but still delicious flavor. Some people also swap it out with goat cheese for a tangy twist.
Are Hawaiian rolls necessary?
I highly recommend Hawaiian rolls because of their soft texture and subtle sweetness, which balances the spicy filling. However, you can use any slider buns you prefer if you can’t find Hawaiian rolls.
Conclusion
I genuinely can’t recommend this Buffalo Chicken Sliders with Blue Cheese and Ranch Seasoning Recipe enough—it’s quickly become one of my go-to dishes for gatherings and special meals alike. The flavors, ease, and versatility make it a total winner in my book. I hope you have as much fun making and eating these sliders as I do sharing them with friends and family!
Print
Buffalo Chicken Sliders with Blue Cheese and Ranch Seasoning Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 sliders
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Buffalo Chicken Sliders are a flavorful and easy-to-make appetizer or snack featuring shredded chicken tossed in spicy buffalo sauce, melted cheeses, and savory ranch seasoning, all layered on soft Hawaiian rolls. Perfect for game day, parties, or a quick meal, these sliders combine tangy, cheesy, and buttery flavors into irresistible mini sandwiches.
Ingredients
Chicken Mixture
- 3 cups shredded chicken
- ¾ cup buffalo sauce
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2.5 tbsp ranch seasoning
- ¼ cup blue cheese crumbles
Cheese
- ½ cup mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup cheddar cheese
Assembly
- 1 pack Hawaiian Rolls (12 count)
- 5 tbsp butter (for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with buffalo sauce, 2 tbsp of melted butter, and ranch seasoning. Mix well until the chicken is evenly coated with the spicy and savory flavors.
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the sliders.
- Slice the Hawaiian rolls: Without separating the rolls completely, slice the entire pack horizontally to create a top and bottom layer for the sliders.
- Assemble the sliders: Spread the buffalo chicken mixture evenly over the bottom half of the rolls. Sprinkle the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses evenly over the chicken, then scatter the blue cheese crumbles on top for a punch of creamy flavor.
- Top the sliders: Place the top half of the Hawaiian rolls back onto the cheese layer to form a sandwich.
- Melt butter for topping: Melt the remaining 5 tbsp of butter and brush it generously over the top of the sandwich roll to ensure a golden, flavorful crust.
- Bake the sliders: Cover the assembled sliders loosely with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes to brown the tops and melt the cheese perfectly.
- Serve and enjoy: Remove the sliders from the oven, slice between the rolls to separate individual sliders, and serve warm for a delicious, cheesy, spicy treat.
Notes
- Use rotisserie or leftover chicken to save time on shredding and cooking the chicken.
- Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce based on your spice preference.
- Serve with extra ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping if desired.
- For an extra crispy top, broil for 1-2 minutes after baking, watching closely to avoid burning.
- These sliders can be made ahead and reheated covered with foil in the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes.