If you're craving a crowd-pleasing, flavor-packed snack or a quick family meal, this Buffalo Chicken Sliders with Hawaiian Sweet Rolls and Melty Cheese Recipe is an absolute must-try. It combines tender shredded chicken doused in tangy, spicy Buffalo sauce with the delightful sweetness of Hawaiian rolls, all topped with gooey Monterey Jack cheese that melts to perfection. Every bite bursts with a blend of creamy, spicy, and sweet elements that keep you coming back for more. Whether it's game day, a casual get-together, or just a fun dinner idea, these sliders bring warmth and excitement to your plate in the best way possible.
Ingredients You'll Need
This recipe relies on straightforward but essential ingredients that work harmoniously to create a balance of flavors and textures. Each component plays its part, from the soft, sweet rolls to the spicy, savory chicken filling and the rich, melty cheese topping.
- Cooking spray: A quick way to prevent the rolls from sticking and to ensure a crisp bottom crust.
- Hawaiian sweet dinner rolls (12-ounce package): Their softness and subtle sweetness perfectly complement the spicy Buffalo chicken.
- Monterey Jack cheese, shredded (6 ounces), divided: Melts beautifully to create that irresistible cheesy layer everyone loves.
- Finely shredded cooked chicken breast (3 cups), warmed: Provides a tender, lean protein base that soaks up the Buffalo sauce.
- Cayenne pepper hot sauce (¼ cup): Kicks up the heat and lends that signature Buffalo flavor.
- Ranch dressing (¼ cup): Adds creamy coolness to balance the spiciness.
- Ranch dressing mix (1-ounce envelope), divided: Enhances the ranch flavor and adds seasoning to both chicken and rolls.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons), melted: Brushed on top to give the rolls a golden, buttery finish.
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Sliders with Hawaiian Sweet Rolls and Melty Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). It’s important to have everything ready and at hand before you dive into assembling. Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly coat it with cooking spray. This ensures easy clean-up and keeps the rolls from sticking.
Step 2: Slice the Rolls
Using a serrated bread knife, carefully slice the package of Hawaiian rolls horizontally, keeping all the tops together and all the bottoms together – this makes layering a breeze later on. Place the bottom halves cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet. This step sets the stage for building those delicious sliders into neat, bite-sized perfection.
Step 3: Layer the First Cheese
Sprinkle ¾ cup of the shredded Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the bottom halves of the rolls. This layer melts into a flavorful, gooey base that holds the saucy chicken in place while adding that creamy, cheesy goodness in every bite.
Step 4: Mix the Buffalo Chicken
In a large bowl, combine the warmed shredded chicken with the cayenne pepper hot sauce, ranch dressing, and 3 tablespoons of the ranch dressing mix. Stir until every strand of chicken is coated in that irresistible spicy-creamy sauce. This mixture defines the bold flavors that’ll make these sliders a household favorite.
Step 5: Assemble the Sliders
Spread the Buffalo chicken mixture evenly over the cheese-layered roll bottoms. Then sprinkle the remaining ¾ cup of shredded cheese on top of the saucy chicken, adding an extra layer of melty richness. Place the top halves of the rolls over everything.
Step 6: Add the Finishing Touches and Bake
Brush the melted butter generously over the tops and sides of the rolls. This will give a golden-brown, buttery crisp as they bake. Sprinkle the last ½ tablespoon of ranch dressing mix on top for an added punch of seasoning. Bake in your preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is perfectly melted, the tops turn a lovely golden brown, and the chicken mixture is heated through.
Step 7: Slice, Serve, and Enjoy
Once baked, remove from the oven and carefully cut into 12 individual sliders. Serve them immediately for the best gooey, melty, and flavorful experience. These sliders are guaranteed to be a hit whether you’re feeding a hungry family or a lively crowd.
How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Sliders with Hawaiian Sweet Rolls and Melty Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your sliders with crisp garnishes like shredded lettuce, thinly sliced red onions, or chopped fresh celery for a nice crunch that balances the spicy creaminess. A dollop of extra ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side also elevates their flavor, giving you those cool, tangy bites in between.
Side Dishes
Pair these sliders with classic sides such as crunchy carrot sticks, celery sticks, or even crispy baked fries. A fresh coleslaw or a simple green salad can add a vibrant contrast in texture and help mellow out the heat, making your meal feel complete and well-rounded.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving your Buffalo Chicken Sliders family-style on a large wooden board with small bowls of dips, allowing everyone to pile on their favorites and customize their experience. You could also turn them into a fun buffet option at parties, adding various toppings like sliced jalapeños, pickles, or diced tomatoes for everyone to make sliders their own.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, simply cover the tray of sliders tightly with foil or transfer them to an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes for a fantastic next-day snack or quick lunch that’s almost as good as fresh.
Freezing
To freeze, assemble the sliders but stop before baking. Wrap the tray tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil or place sliders in a freezer-safe container. They can last up to 2 months frozen. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.
Reheating
Reheat refrigerated or thawed sliders in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 8-10 minutes until warmed through and cheese is melty again. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the buns from getting soggy and maintain that delightful golden crust.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Monterey Jack melts beautifully, but you can substitute with cheddar, mozzarella, or a spicy pepper jack for an extra kick. Each cheese will give the sliders a slightly different flavor profile but remain delicious.
How spicy are these sliders?
These have a noticeable but manageable heat, thanks to the cayenne pepper hot sauce. If you prefer milder flavors, reduce the hot sauce or add more ranch dressing to even out the spice.
Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?
Yes! Cook and shred your chicken in advance, and mix it with the sauce just before assembly. This recipe is perfect for meal prep or hosting a party when you want to spread out the work.
What if I don't have Hawaiian rolls?
While Hawaiian rolls are ideal for their sweetness and softness, you can use slider buns or small dinner rolls you have on hand. Just keep in mind this will slightly change the flavor and texture experience.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The original recipe uses Hawaiian rolls that are not typically gluten-free. For a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free slider buns, and double-check your hot sauce and dressing ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs.
Final Thoughts
These Buffalo Chicken Sliders with Hawaiian Sweet Rolls and Melty Cheese Recipe are a true crowd-pleaser that bring together the best of spicy, sweet, and cheesy flavors in one handheld bite. Whether you’re feeding family, friends, or just treating yourself, these sliders are a guaranteed way to add excitement to any meal. Trust me, once you make them, you’ll want to keep them in your regular rotation!
Print
Buffalo Chicken Sliders with Hawaiian Sweet Rolls and Melty Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Total Time: 25 mins
- Yield: 12 sliders
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Buffalo chicken sliders feature shredded chicken tossed in a spicy Buffalo sauce, layered with melted Monterey Jack cheese on sweet Hawaiian rolls. Baked until golden and gooey, they make a perfect appetizer or quick family meal that's packed with flavor and ideal for game day gatherings.
Ingredients
Rolls and Cheese
- 1 (12 ounce) package Hawaiian sweet dinner rolls
- 6 ounces Monterey Jack cheese, shredded, divided
- Cooking spray
Buffalo Chicken Mixture
- 3 cups finely shredded cooked chicken breast, warmed
- ¼ cup cayenne pepper hot sauce
- ¼ cup ranch dressing
- 1 (1 ounce) envelope ranch dressing mix, divided
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Prepare Oven and Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Line a large-rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly coat with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Slice Rolls: Using a serrated bread knife, carefully cut the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, keeping the top and bottom halves intact. Place the bottom halves cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet.
- Add Cheese to Bottom Rolls: Sprinkle ¾ cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the bottom halves of the rolls to create a cheesy base layer.
- Mix Chicken Filling: In a large bowl, combine the warmed shredded chicken breast, cayenne pepper hot sauce, ranch dressing, and 3 tablespoons of ranch dressing mix. Stir thoroughly until the chicken is evenly coated with the sauce mixture.
- Assemble Sliders: Evenly distribute the buffalo chicken mixture over the cheese on the bottom halves of the rolls. Then sprinkle the remaining ¾ cup of shredded cheese on top of the chicken layer.
- Top and Butter Rolls: Place the top halves of the rolls over the cheese. Brush the tops and sides with melted unsalted butter, then sprinkle the remaining ½ tablespoon of ranch dressing mix evenly over the roll tops for added flavor.
- Bake Sliders: Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted, the tops of the rolls turn golden brown, and the chicken mixture is heated through.
- Serve: Remove the sliders from the oven, cut into 12 individual sliders, and serve immediately while warm and gooey.
Notes
- Ensure the cooked chicken is finely shredded for better texture and even mixing with the sauce.
- Adjust the amount of hot sauce to control the spiciness to your preference.
- Use a serrated knife for cleanly slicing the sweet rolls without squishing them.
- These sliders can be made ahead and reheated in the oven for convenience.
- Substitute Monterey Jack cheese with cheddar for a sharper flavor if desired.
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