If you’re planning a game day or a casual get-together, these Easy Buffalo Chicken Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls bring all the wing flavors you love into a convenient slider form. Ready in under an hour, they’re a hit with their spicy buffalo sauce, savory chicken, and melty cheese on soft Hawaiian rolls.
- Cuisine: American
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 6-8
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to make, perfect for entertaining or busy weeknights.
- The combination of buffalo and ranch offers a flavorful twist on classic sliders.
- Sheet pan preparation minimizes cleanup, leaving you more time to enjoy.
- Customizable with your choice of cheese and spice level.
Ingredients
- 4 cups shredded cooked chicken, (rotisserie, canned, or see recipe below (525 grams)): Provides a protein backbone; rotisserie chicken adds convenience.
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (like Frank’s (120 milliliters)): The signature spicy sauce; adjust for heat preference.
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing ((120 milliliters)): Adds cool, creamy balance to the spiciness.
- 1 Tablespoon brown sugar, (packed (14 grams)): Introduces a subtle sweetness to round out the flavors.
- 1 package savory butter Hawaiian rolls ((12 ounces/340 grams)): Soft, sweet rolls that complement the spicy filling.
- 2 cups freshly-shredded pepper jack cheese ((200 grams)): Adds meltiness and optional spice; substitute with cheddar for less spice.
- 1/3 cup freshly-crumbled blue cheese ((35 grams)): Offers creamy tang; omit if blue cheese isn’t your favorite.
- 2 Tablespoons salted butter, (melted (28 grams)): Brushed on top for added richness.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, (plus more to taste): Provides seasoning balance.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances savory depth.
- 1 Tablespoon freshly-snipped chives, (for serving (4 grams)): Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor for garnish.
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs ((680 grams)): Used if preparing chicken from scratch.
- Kosher salt and black pepper, (to taste): Seasoning for balancing the flavor of the chicken.
- 1 Tablespoon avocado oil ((15 milliliters)): For cooking chicken if starting from raw.
- 2 Tablespoons homemade ranch seasoning (or store-bought (16 grams)): Adds herby flavor to the chicken.
- 3/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth ((180 milliliters)): Keeps the chicken moist while cooking.
- 3/4 cup water ((180 milliliters)): Complements broth to provide cooking liquid for the chicken.
How to Make It
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
If starting with raw chicken, season with salt, black pepper, and ranch seasoning. Heat avocado oil in a skillet over medium heat, add chicken, and sear until browned on both sides. Pour in chicken broth and water, cover, and simmer until cooked through, about 15 minutes. Shred with two forks once cooled slightly.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, and brown sugar. Mix until well coated. This mixture is the heart of your sliders, providing the flavor and juiciness.
Step 3: Assemble the Sliders
Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally without separating them individually. Place bottom halves on a baking sheet and layer with chicken mixture, pepper jack cheese, and blue cheese. Top with the roll tops.
Step 4: Toast the Sliders
Brush melted butter over the tops of the rolls, then sprinkle with garlic powder and black pepper. Bake in the oven until cheese is melted, and the tops are golden brown, about 15-20 minutes.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes. Cut into individual sliders, top with freshly snipped chives, and serve them warm. They’re best enjoyed immediately while the cheese is gooey.
Recipe FAQs
Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
You can prepare the chicken mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble and bake the sliders just before serving to ensure freshness.
What if I don’t like blue cheese?
If blue cheese isn’t to your taste, you can skip it or substitute it with more pepper jack or Monterey Jack cheese for creaminess without the tang.
How can I adjust the spice level?
Control the heat by using less buffalo sauce or selecting a milder sauce. Adding more ranch dressing will also help tone down the spice.
