Easy Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Sliders

by
Print Recipe

Introduction

Easy Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Sliders are a mouthwatering blend of spicy, tangy buffalo flavors with tender, shredded chicken served on soft slider buns. This simple, crowd-pleasing recipe is perfect for game day, family gatherings, or an effortless dinner. Every bite delivers the perfect combination of heat and savory richness, balanced by a creamy topping like ranch or blue cheese dressing.

What makes this recipe a standout is how easy it is to prepare. Using a crockpot does all the heavy lifting, letting the chicken slowly absorb all the delicious flavors without constant attention. I first discovered this recipe while searching for an easy meal for a game-night get-together—it was a total hit, and I’ve been making it ever since.

Whether you top these sliders with crunchy coleslaw for extra texture or enjoy them as-is, they’re a guaranteed favorite. Plus, you can customize the spice level by adjusting the buffalo sauce to suit your taste. Serve them up with some chips or veggie sticks, and you’ve got an irresistible, no-fuss meal that everyone will love.

Perfect For

These sliders are perfect for game days, potlucks, or any occasion that calls for a hearty, crowd-pleasing dish. They’re also great for meal prepping and quick lunches during a busy week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Effortless: The crockpot does most of the work, making this recipe stress-free.
  • Flavorful: Combines the bold heat of Buffalo sauce with the cool creaminess of coleslaw.
  • Customizable: Easily adjust the spice level and toppings to suit your taste.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: A hit at parties and gatherings, loved by adults and kids alike.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 4-6 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
  • Total Time: 4.5-6.5 hours
  • Servings: 10 sliders
  • Calories Per Serving: Approximately 230 calories
  • Key Nutrients Per Serving:
    • Protein: 18g
    • Carbohydrates: 22g
    • Fat: 8g
    • Fiber: 1g
    • Sodium: 580mg

Ingredients

Chicken:

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup Buffalo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 tbsp ranch seasoning mix
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter

Coleslaw:

  • 2 cups shredded coleslaw mix
  • ¼ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Assembly:

  • 10 slider buns
  • Optional toppings: sliced pickles, shredded cheese, or diced green onions

Ingredient Highlights

  • Chicken Breasts: Lean and tender, perfect for soaking up the bold flavors of Buffalo sauce.
  • Buffalo Sauce: The star of the recipe, providing a tangy, spicy kick.
  • Coleslaw: Balances the heat of the chicken with a creamy, refreshing crunch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Chicken:

  1. Place chicken breasts in the crockpot. Pour Buffalo sauce over the chicken, sprinkle with ranch seasoning, and top with butter.
  2. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shreddable.
  3. Shred the chicken using two forks and mix it with the sauce in the crockpot to ensure it’s fully coated.

Make the Coleslaw:

  1. In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.
  2. Add the shredded coleslaw mix and toss until evenly coated. Refrigerate until ready to use.

Assemble the Sliders:

  1. Toast the slider buns lightly, if desired.
  2. Spoon the Buffalo chicken onto the bottom bun, top with a generous amount of coleslaw, and add any additional toppings like pickles or cheese.
  3. Place the top bun on and serve immediately.

How to Serve

Serve these sliders warm with a side of potato chips, fries, or a crisp salad. You can also pair them with celery sticks and ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.

Additional Tips

  • Adjust the Heat: Use mild Buffalo sauce or reduce the amount to make the sliders less spicy.
  • Crispier Buns: Brush the buns with butter and toast them for an added layer of flavor and crunch.
  • Extra Creamy Coleslaw: Add a tablespoon of sour cream for an even creamier texture.

Recipe Variations

  • BBQ Twist:
    • For a tangy and smoky variation, swap out the traditional Buffalo sauce for your favorite barbecue sauce. Whether you prefer a sweet, tangy, or smoky barbecue flavor, this easy substitution adds a whole new layer to the dish. The BBQ sauce can be mixed with the chicken, creating a rich, sweet contrast to the spicy notes of the Buffalo style, while maintaining the same crispy, flavorful texture on the sliders. This version pairs perfectly with slaw or pickled onions to add even more dimension.
  • Low-Carb Option:
    • For a lighter, low-carb version of the dish, instead of using slider buns, serve the buffalo chicken filling in crunchy lettuce wraps. Iceberg, romaine, or butter lettuce makes excellent substitutes, providing a crisp, refreshing base to hold all the delicious buffalo chicken fillings. This swap cuts down on carbs while still offering a satisfying and fresh bite, making it a great option for those following keto or low-carb diets. You can top the lettuce wraps with avocado, cucumber, or a drizzle of ranch dressing to complement the heat.
  • Dairy-Free:
    • To make this recipe dairy-free, simply substitute the usual ranch seasoning mix with a dairy-free version made from plant-based ingredients. Skip the butter entirely, or opt for a dairy-free butter alternative such as vegan margarine or olive oil. You can also use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative in place of traditional ranch dressing for a creamy yet dairy-free finish. The result is a spicy, zesty dish that’s safe for those with dairy sensitivities or following a vegan diet, without compromising on flavor.

Freezing and Storage

  • Storage:
    • To maintain freshness, store the cooked Buffalo chicken and coleslaw separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The chicken will stay flavorful and safe to eat for up to 3 days, while the coleslaw retains its crispness. For the best texture, keep the buns in a sealed bag at room temperature and assemble the sliders just before serving.
  • Reheating:
    • To reheat the Buffalo chicken, use the microwave on medium heat for 1–2 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming. Alternatively, you can reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to maintain the sauce’s consistency. Avoid reheating the coleslaw as it is best enjoyed chilled.
  • Freezing:
    • Buffalo chicken is freezer-friendly and great for meal prep. Allow the chicken to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Be sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label the container with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw the chicken overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a bit of Buffalo sauce or broth if needed to refresh the flavor.
  • Additional Tips:
    • Freeze the chicken in portion-sized containers for easy reheating and assembling of single sliders.
    • Avoid freezing the coleslaw, as the mayonnaise-based dressing can separate when thawed. Prepare a fresh batch when you’re ready to serve the sliders.
    • If freezing the slider buns, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore freshness.

Special Equipment

  • Crockpot or Slow Cooker:
    • A crockpot or slow cooker is the star piece of equipment for this recipe, ensuring hands-off cooking that develops deep, rich flavors in the Buffalo chicken. The slow, consistent heat allows the sauce to penetrate the chicken, keeping it tender and juicy. Use a 4-quart or larger size to accommodate the recipe comfortably, and don’t forget the lid to trap in heat and moisture.
  • Mixing Bowls:
    • Mixing bowls are essential for preparing components like the coleslaw or tossing the chicken with extra sauce post-cooking. Opt for a medium-sized bowl for mixing the coleslaw ingredients, and a small bowl for combining any dressings or toppings. If you like, use a larger bowl for shredding and tossing the chicken to ensure it’s evenly coated in Buffalo sauce after being removed from the crockpot.
  • Optional Additional Equipment:
  • Tongs: Perfect for removing the chicken from the crockpot and shredding it easily.
  • Shredder or Hand Mixer: A hand mixer can quickly shred cooked chicken right in the slow cooker, saving time and effort.
  • Pastry Brush: Use this to spread additional sauce over slider buns before serving or to brush melted butter over them for extra flavor.
  • Serving Tray: A large serving tray can neatly display the assembled sliders for parties or gatherings.
  • Silicone Spatula: Handy for scraping every bit of the delicious sauce from the crockpot or mixing bowls without leaving waste behind.

FAQ Section

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes, chicken thighs work well and may even be juicier. Adjust the cooking time if necessary.

Q: What can I substitute for ranch seasoning?
A: Use a blend of garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, and dried dill for a homemade alternative.

Q: Can I make this recipe spicier?
A: Add a few dashes of hot sauce or sprinkle cayenne pepper into the Buffalo sauce.

Conclusion

Easy Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Sliders are a flavor-packed, hassle-free treat that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender chicken, zesty buffalo sauce, and gooey melted cheese, all tucked into slider buns, makes them a crowd-pleasing favorite. Whether for a game day snack or a casual gathering, these sliders will be a hit with both spice lovers and those looking for a quick, satisfying meal.

This recipe is not only simple but also adaptable. You can adjust the heat of the buffalo sauce to suit your taste or swap out the toppings for something more adventurous—think crispy bacon, jalapenos, or creamy ranch. Perfectly portable, these sliders are ideal for parties or meal prepping for a busy week.

Serve these mouth-watering buffalo chicken sliders at your next gathering, and watch them disappear in no time. Capture the moment and share it on Instagram—be sure to tag me so I can see your delicious creation! Enjoy the perfect bite of spicy, savory goodness!

Leave a Comment