When the sun dips low and the weekend vibes kick in, I find myself craving something that strikes the perfect balance between comfort and excitement. Enter the Sheet Pan Buffalo Chicken Sliders—a delicious creation that brings fiery flavor without the fuss. Just the sight of those golden, cheesy rolls bubbling away in the oven has a way of turning an ordinary evening into a mini celebration.
As the rich aroma wafts through my kitchen, memories of laid-back gatherings with family and friends flood back. These sliders effortlessly transform any occasion, whether it’s a casual game night or a cozy dinner with loved ones. With tender shredded chicken enveloped in a spicy buffalo sauce and ranch dressing, each bite delivers a punch of flavor that would rival any fast-food option. Plus, they’re oh-so-simple to whip up, meaning you can enjoy more of the moments that matter, instead of being tethered to the stove. Gather your ingredients, and let’s elevate your next meal with these easy-to-make sliders!
Why are Sheet Pan Buffalo Chicken Sliders so special?
Ultimate convenience: This recipe allows you to throw everything onto one sheet pan, making cleanup a breeze.
Flavor explosion: The combination of spicy buffalo sauce and creamy ranch creates an unforgettable taste that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Effortless assembly: With simple steps, you won’t be stressed preparing these sliders, freeing you to enjoy your time with guests.
Versatile snacking: Perfect for game days, parties, or even a cozy night in—these sliders fit any occasion!
Cheesy goodness: Freshly grated mozzarella and Parmesan elevate the flavors, giving every bite a delightfully melty texture.
Experience the magic of these sliders and explore more delicious options like my favorite slow cooker meals.
Sheet Pan Buffalo Chicken Sliders Ingredients
Prepare to savor an explosion of flavor with these Sheet Pan Buffalo Chicken Sliders that are as easy to make as they are delicious!
For the Chicken Mixture
- Shredded chicken – 3 1/2 cups of tender chicken, perfect for soaking up all the buffalo goodness.
- Buffalo sauce – 1/2 cup to give that fiery kick every slider deserves.
- Ranch dressing – 1/2 cup to add creaminess and balance out the heat.
- Honey – 2 Tbsp. for a touch of sweetness that enhances the flavor.
- Garlic – 3 cloves, minced for an aromatic depth that ties the flavors together.
- Black pepper – A pinch to season the mix just right.
For the Cheesy Topping
- Low moisture mozzarella cheese – 2 cups, freshly grated for ultimate meltiness in your sliders.
- Parmesan cheese – 1/2 cup for a sharp bite and extra richness.
For the Sliders
- King’s Hawaiian Rolls – A 12 count pack, providing a soft and sweet base for the tasty toppings.
- Butter – 4 Tbsp., melted to brush on the rolls for a golden, crispy finish.
- Italian seasoning – 1 tsp. to sprinkle in a herby flavor that complements the dish.
- Garlic salt – 1 tsp. for an extra punch of flavor on top!
With these ingredients on hand, you’re all set to create a crowd-pleasing dish that redefines comfort food!
How to Make Sheet Pan Buffalo Chicken Sliders
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the perfect temperature for baking your sliders to golden perfection.
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Combine the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, honey, minced garlic, and black pepper in a large bowl. Mix until everything is beautifully coated; the vibrant colors are a hint of the deliciousness to come.
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Add the freshly grated mozzarella and Parmesan cheese to the chicken mixture. Stir gently; you want every piece of chicken to be enveloped in cheesy goodness.
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Slice the King’s Hawaiian Rolls in half and arrange the bottom halves in a greased baking dish. These rolls are the trusty foundation for your tasty sliders.
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Spread the chicken mixture evenly over the bottom halves of the rolls. Make sure it’s generously layered—every bite should be filled with flavor!
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Top the sliders by placing the top halves of the rolls back on the chicken mixture. A simple yet satisfying step that completes your assembly!
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Mix the melted butter, Italian seasoning, and garlic salt in a separate bowl. Then, brush this buttery mixture over the tops of the rolls to ensure they bake up scrumptiously golden.
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Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the tops are beautifully golden brown and crispy.
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Cool for a few minutes before serving. This gives the sliders time to set, making them easier to handle and oh-so-deliciously inviting.
Optional: Serve with extra ranch dressing for dipping!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Tips for the Best Sheet Pan Buffalo Chicken Sliders
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Use Rotisserie Chicken: This saves time and enhances flavor. Just ensure it’s well-shredded to blend perfectly with the buffalo sauce.
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Don’t Overmix: When combining the chicken and sauce, mix until just combined. Overmixing can make the chicken tough.
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Watch the Bake Time: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on the sliders during the final minutes. You want them golden, not burnt!
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Fresh Ingredients: Opt for freshly grated cheese and quality ranch dressing. It makes a noticeable difference in the ultimate flavor of your sliders.
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Customize the Heat: Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to suit your taste. If you’re sensitive to spicy foods, start with a little and add more gradually.
These tips will help you create the best Sheet Pan Buffalo Chicken Sliders, ensuring that they turn out perfectly every time!
Sheet Pan Buffalo Chicken Sliders Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Sheet Pan Buffalo Chicken Sliders and make them uniquely yours!
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Spicy Kick: Add extra hot sauce to the chicken mixture for those who crave more heat. A little goes a long way in elevating the flavor profile!
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Cheddar Love: Swap in sharp cheddar cheese for the mozzarella. The tangy flavor pairs perfectly with the buffalo sauce, adding a bold twist to each bite.
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Vegetarian Delight: Substitute shredded jackfruit or roasted cauliflower for shredded chicken. Both options soak up the buffalo sauce well while creating a hearty, plant-based version.
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Sweet BBQ: Replace buffalo sauce with sweet barbecue sauce for a milder, sweeter profile. This variation is fantastic for those who prefer less heat but still want a tasty slider.
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Crunch Factor: Toss in some chopped celery or carrots into the chicken mixture for a delightful crunch and added freshness. It adds texture while keeping the iconic buffalo flavor.
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Herby Freshness: Mix in fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley to the chicken mixture. This adds a burst of fresh flavor that complements the richness of the cheeses.
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Italian Twist: Use Italian seasoning in the chicken mixture for a flavor twist. Add Italian cheeses like fontina or provolone for an irresistible Mediterranean flair.
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Mini Sliders: For smaller portions, use mini slider rolls or cut the King’s Hawaiian Rolls into quarters for bite-sized delights. They make perfect finger food for parties or gatherings!
What to Serve with Sheet Pan Buffalo Chicken Sliders?
Elevate your meal with complementary dishes that balance the spicy goodness of sliders for a well-rounded feast.
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Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness and crunchy texture provide a delightful contrast to the fiery sliders.
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Creamy Coleslaw: This crunchy side adds a touch of tang and creaminess, balancing the heat while refreshing your palate.
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Spicy Pickles: Their briny crunch will cut through the richness of the sliders, delivering an exciting burst of flavor with every bite.
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Brewed Iced Tea: A refreshing sipper that cools the taste buds, perfect alongside the bold flavors of buffalo chicken.
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Vegetable Platter with Ranch Dip: Fresh veggies provide a crunchy counterpart and pair perfectly with a creamy ranch for dipping.
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Mini Mac and Cheese Bites: Cheesy comfort food complements the sliders, adding richness and a familiar taste everyone loves.
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Zesty Corn Salad: The bright flavors of corn and lime create a refreshing side that contrasts beautifully with the sliders’ heat.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: A sweet finish to your meal, these warm cookies will satisfy any sweet tooth after those spicy flavors.
Combining these options with your Sheet Pan Buffalo Chicken Sliders will round out the experience beautifully for every guest!
How to Store and Freeze Sheet Pan Buffalo Chicken Sliders
Fridge: Store leftover sliders in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results, keeping them covered to prevent drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the assembled sliders before baking, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Reheating: To reheat cooked sliders, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This will revive that crisp top and melty cheese!
Room Temperature: If you’re serving these sliders at a gathering, they can sit out for up to 2 hours. However, for optimal flavor and safety, consume them within that time frame.
Make Ahead Options
These Sheet Pan Buffalo Chicken Sliders are a fantastic option for meal prep! You can prepare the chicken mixture (shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, honey, garlic, and black pepper) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For optimal flavor, assemble the sliders by spreading the chicken mixture over the bottom halves of the rolls, then cover and refrigerate them together. When you’re ready to serve, brush the melted butter mixture over the tops and bake straight from the fridge; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. This way, you’ll have delicious sliders ready with minimal last-minute effort!
Sheet Pan Buffalo Chicken Sliders Recipe FAQs
What kind of chicken is best for these sliders?
Absolutely! Using shredded rotisserie chicken is a perfect option for this recipe, as it saves time and adds great flavor. Just be sure to shred it nicely before mixing it with the buffalo sauce and other ingredients.
How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?
Very! Leftover sliders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven while covered with foil to prevent them from drying out.
Can I freeze the assembled sliders?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the assembled but unbaked sliders tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, where they can last for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, just thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and follow the regular baking instructions.
What if my sliders come out soggy?
Soggy sliders can be disappointing! To avoid this, ensure the chicken mixture isn’t overly wet. Additionally, letting them cool for a few minutes after baking helps the flavors meld and keeps them from being too mushy.
Are these sliders safe for kids or those with allergies?
Definitely! However, it’s best to check for any allergies to the ingredients, especially the cheese and ranch dressing. For kids, adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to make them milder. You can also experiment with buffalo sauce alternatives or omit it altogether for a more family-friendly flavor!
How can I add more cheese to my sliders?
The more the merrier! If you want to amp up the cheesy goodness, sprinkle extra mozzarella on top before baking. You could also mix different cheeses like cheddar for added flavor or a fun twist!
Savory Sheet Pan Buffalo Chicken Sliders for Easy Game Day Magic
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, honey, minced garlic, and black pepper in a large bowl.
- Add mozzarella and Parmesan cheese to the chicken mixture and stir gently.
- Slice the King's Hawaiian Rolls in half and arrange the bottom halves in a greased baking dish.
- Spread the chicken mixture evenly over the bottom halves of the rolls.
- Top the sliders by placing the top halves of the rolls back on the chicken mixture.
- Mix melted butter, Italian seasoning, and garlic salt; brush over the tops of the rolls.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes.
- Cool for a few minutes before serving.