Hey there, my friend 👋. If you love juicy, spicy, and cheesy sliders that practically melt in your mouth, you’re in the right place. These crockpot buffalo chicken sliders are the easiest game-day, party, or weeknight dinner idea. You just toss everything into the slow cooker, let it do its thing, and boom—shredded buffalo chicken goodness.
And oh, I’ve got a secret trick that makes the chicken extra tender and full of flavor. Stick around, I’ll tell you all about it.
Utensils You Need
These are the utensils and/or equipment you need to make this recipe:
- Crockpot (slow cooker)
- Mixing bowl
- Forks (for shredding the chicken)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spoon or spatula
- Baking sheet (if toasting buns)
- Knife (for slicing buns)
Important Info
- Servings: Makes about 12 sliders
- Estimated Cost: Around $12-$15 depending on your location
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours (on low) or 2 hours (on high)
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Calories Per Serving: About 230 per slider
- Cook Method: Slow Cooker
- Season: All-year-round
- Courses: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snack
- Cuisine: American-inspired
- Diets: LowLactoseDiet (if you skip the cheese)
How to Make Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Sliders
Now I am going to tell you what ingredients you need to make this delicacy and how to make it.
Ingredients You Need
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup buffalo sauce
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing (or blue cheese dressing)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 12 slider buns
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup coleslaw (optional, for topping)
Alternative Ingredients
If you do not have the ingredients I listed above, do not worry. You can swap them out for the alternatives below.
| Ingredient | Alternative |
|---|---|
| Chicken breasts | Chicken thighs |
| Buffalo sauce | Hot sauce + melted butter |
| Ranch dressing | Blue cheese dressing |
| Shredded cheese | Sliced cheese |
| Slider buns | Hawaiian rolls, dinner rolls |
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot.
- Pour in the buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything to coat the chicken.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours until the chicken is fork-tender.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks. Stir well to make sure it soaks up all the buffalo sauce.
- If you want extra cheesy sliders, sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of the chicken while it’s still in the crockpot. Let it melt for a few minutes.
- Toast the slider buns lightly on a baking sheet if you like a crispy texture.
- Scoop the buffalo chicken onto the buns and top with coleslaw (if using).
- Serve warm and enjoy.
Helpful Tips
- If you want less heat, use half the buffalo sauce and add more ranch.
- Toasting the buns keeps them from getting soggy.
- For extra creaminess, mix in some softened cream cheese before serving.
- You can make this ahead and reheat when needed.
- Hawaiian rolls add a slightly sweet contrast to the spicy chicken.
What to Serve with Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Sliders
These sliders are perfect on their own, but if you want a full meal, here are some great sides:
- French fries or sweet potato fries
- Celery sticks with ranch or blue cheese dressing
- A side salad for a fresh touch
- Mac and cheese for extra indulgence
How Do You Serve the Recipe?
I love serving these on a big platter with extra buffalo sauce and ranch on the side. If you want a fancy touch, sprinkle some chopped green onions on top.
Where Do You Serve This Recipe the Most?
This is a party favorite. Whether it’s a Super Bowl party, backyard barbecue, or family game night, these sliders disappear fast. They’re also great for picnics because they hold up well and don’t need utensils.
Storage
Short-Term Storage (Room Temperature)
- If you have leftover sliders, keep them covered for up to 2 hours at room temperature. Any longer, and they should be refrigerated.
Refrigeration
- Store the shredded buffalo chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Keep the buns separate so they don’t get soggy.
Freezing
- To freeze, place the shredded buffalo chicken in a freezer-safe container.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the microwave or on the stove.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead?
Yes, but since it’s already cooked, just mix it with the buffalo sauce and warm it up in the crockpot for 30 minutes on low.
Can I make this in advance?
Yes, you can cook the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just reheat before serving.
What can I use if I don’t have a crockpot?
You can cook the chicken in a pot on the stove over low heat for about 45 minutes, then shred it.
Can I make it less spicy?
Yes, reduce the buffalo sauce and add more ranch dressing or a little honey to balance the heat.
Are these sliders kid-friendly?
If your kids like a little spice, yes. If not, you can use barbecue sauce instead of buffalo sauce for a milder flavor.
