Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Sliders Recipe

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:

  1. Crockpot (slow cooker)
  2. Mixing bowl
  3. Forks (for shredding the chicken)
  4. Measuring cups and spoons
  5. Spoon or spatula
  6. Baking sheet (if toasting buns)
  7. 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.

IngredientAlternative
Chicken breastsChicken thighs
Buffalo sauceHot sauce + melted butter
Ranch dressingBlue cheese dressing
Shredded cheeseSliced cheese
Slider bunsHawaiian rolls, dinner rolls

Instructions

  1. Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot.
  2. Pour in the buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything to coat the chicken.
  3. Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours until the chicken is fork-tender.
  4. Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks. Stir well to make sure it soaks up all the buffalo sauce.
  5. 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.
  6. Toast the slider buns lightly on a baking sheet if you like a crispy texture.
  7. Scoop the buffalo chicken onto the buns and top with coleslaw (if using).
  8. Serve warm and enjoy.

Helpful Tips

  1. If you want less heat, use half the buffalo sauce and add more ranch.
  2. Toasting the buns keeps them from getting soggy.
  3. For extra creaminess, mix in some softened cream cheese before serving.
  4. You can make this ahead and reheat when needed.
  5. 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.