Introduction
Buffalo chicken sliders are a perfect blend of creamy and spicy flavors, encased in soft Hawaiian rolls. This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, making it ideal for parties, game days, or a casual family dinner. With a creamy buffalo sauce mixture and melty mozzarella, these sliders are sure to be a hit!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 16 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
– 1 cup buffalo sauce
– 1½ cups grilled chicken, shredded or diced
– 12-count Hawaiian rolls
– 1¼ cups mozzarella cheese, freshly shredded
– 2 tablespoons salted butter, melted
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
– Cook Time: 20 minutes
– Total Time: 35 minutes
– Yield: 12 sliders
Enjoy these delectable buffalo chicken sliders as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a satisfying meal!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot when you’re ready to bake.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese
In a large mixing bowl, whip the cream cheese until it reaches a smooth and creamy consistency.
Step 3: Mix in Flavorings
Add the buffalo sauce and the shredded or diced grilled chicken to the cream cheese. Stir the mixture until the chicken is evenly distributed.
Step 4: Slice the Rolls
Without separating the rolls, slice them horizontally to create one large sheet that consists of both the top and bottom halves.
Step 5: Assemble the Base
Place the bottom half of the sliced rolls into a baking dish. Spread the prepared chicken mixture evenly over this layer.
Step 6: Add Cheese
Sprinkle the freshly shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the chicken mixture, ensuring an even coverage.
Step 7: Complete the Sandwich
Carefully place the top half of the rolls over the cheese layer to complete the sandwich assembly.
Step 8: Brush with Butter
Using a brush, coat the tops of the rolls with the melted butter for added flavor and a golden finish.
Step 9: Cover the Dish
Cover the baking dish securely with aluminum foil to keep the moisture in during baking.
Step 10: Bake the Dish
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Step 11: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the dish from the oven. Cut into individual servings and enjoy your delicious Buffalo Chicken Sliders!
Notes
Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Heating
To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
Variations
Feel free to customize the recipe by adding ingredients like diced celery, blue cheese, or using different types of cheese according to your preference.
Serving Suggestions
These sliders pair well with veggie sticks, celery, and ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
Cook techniques
Mixing
Incorporate all the ingredients thoroughly to ensure a creamy and flavorful filling. Use a hand mixer or whisk to whip the cream cheese until smooth before adding other components.
Slicing Rolls
Carefully slice the Hawaiian rolls horizontally without separating them. This technique helps to create a cohesive base and top for the sandwich-like dish.
Layering
Layering the chicken mixture and mozzarella cheese between the rolls ensures that each bite is filled with flavor and richness while maintaining consistency.
Brushing
Brushing melted butter over the tops of the rolls adds a lovely richness and helps achieve a golden brown, crispy texture during baking.
Covering while Baking
Covering the baking dish with aluminum foil during the initial baking phase helps to retain moisture, ensuring the chicken filling heats through while preventing the tops from burning.
Checking for Doneness
Monitor the rolls for color and texture. Bake until they are golden brown and slightly crisp on top to achieve the best results.
FAQ
Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Yes, leftover grilled chicken works perfectly in this recipe, making it a great way to repurpose dinner remnants.
What kind of buffalo sauce should I use?
You can use your favorite brand of buffalo sauce, whether it’s mild, medium, or hot, depending on your spice preference.
Can I substitute the cream cheese?
For a different flavor, you can use a soft cheese like ricotta or a dairy-free alternative, but the texture and creaminess may vary.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the prepared rolls before baking. Just ensure they are tightly wrapped, and bake them directly from frozen, adding extra time if needed.
Conclusion
This creamy buffalo chicken sandwich is a crowd-pleaser that combines the rich flavors of cream cheese and spicy buffalo sauce with tender shredded chicken. The melted mozzarella adds a gooey texture, while the buttery Hawaiian rolls elevate the dish to a delightful comfort food experience. Perfect for parties or family gatherings, these sliders are sure to be a hit.
More recipes suggestions and combination
BBQ Chicken Sliders
Substitute the buffalo sauce with your favorite BBQ sauce and add some pickles for a tangy twist.
Spinach and Artichoke Sliders
Mix in some chopped spinach and artichoke hearts with cream cheese and mozzarella for a deliciously creamy alternative.
Buffalo Cauliflower Sliders
For a vegetarian option, replace chicken with roasted cauliflower tossed in buffalo sauce.
Cheesy Chicken Parmesan Sliders
Use marinara sauce and add parmesan cheese along with mozzarella for an Italian-inspired version.
Turkey and Cranberry Sliders
Combine shredded turkey with cream cheese and cranberry sauce for a festive flavor, perfect for holiday gatherings.
