There’s nothing quite like the tantalizing aroma of spicy buffalo sauce wafting through your kitchen, and today, I’m thrilled to share a recipe that transforms that classic flavor into a crowd-pleasing delight: Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Sliders! Imagine sinking your teeth into a soft slider bun, filled with tender, juicy chicken smothered in rich hot sauce, all perfectly complemented by a cool, creamy ranch slaw. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or just looking for a quick, indulgent weeknight dinner, these sliders are a foolproof way to please your guests and family alike.
I can still picture the last potluck I attended; as soon as I walked in, the spicy aroma hit me, drawing me toward the buffet. When I discovered those sliders, they disappeared in moments—everyone couldn’t get enough! And the best part? This recipe requires minimal effort, thanks to the Instant Pot. With just a few steps, you can have a delicious dish ready to impress. So, let’s dive into this flavorful adventure that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
Why are Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Sliders irresistible?
Easy Preparation: With the Instant Pot, you can whip up these sliders in no time, minimizing kitchen stress.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavors: The spicy buffalo sauce meets creamy ranch slaw for a combination that delights every palate.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s game day or a family dinner, these sliders are sure to impress.
Versatile Options: Try different proteins or sauces to cater to varied tastes—fun variations are endless!
Comfort in Every Bite: Each slider encapsulates comfort food vibes, making meal time feel special and indulgent.
Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Sliders Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to create these mouthwatering sliders!
For the Chicken
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – Your main protein; substitute with chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
- Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor; adjust to taste preference.
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Adds spice; use white pepper for a subtler taste.
- Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – Used for sautéing; can be replaced with avocado oil.
- Low-Sodium Chicken Broth – Provides moisture and depth; vegetable broth can be a vegetarian alternative.
- Ranch Seasoning – Seasoning mix for flavor; optionally replace with a blend of fresh herbs (dill, parsley) if unavailable.
- Hot Sauce – Adds heat; adjust the amount to your spice preference.
- Melted Butter – Enriches the sauce; can substitute with olive oil for a lighter version.
For the Slaw
- Coleslaw Mix – Provides crunch and texture; can replace with shredded cabbage and carrot mix.
- Ranch Dressing – Dressing for the slaw; swap with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
For Serving
- Slider Buns – Essential for serving; any soft roll can be used as a substitute.
- Crumbled Blue Cheese – Adds creaminess and flavor; optional, or try feta cheese for a different taste.
Get ready to indulge in the delightful combination of flavors in these Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Sliders—a perfect addition to your recipe repertoire!
How to Make Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Sliders
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Prepare Chicken: Begin by seasoning your boneless, skinless chicken breasts with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. In your Instant Pot, sauté the seasoned chicken in extra-virgin olive oil until nicely browned, about 3-4 minutes on each side.
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Cook Chicken: Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth, then sprinkle the ranch seasoning and add your hot sauce. Secure the lid and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, letting those flavors meld together.
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Shred Chicken: Once cooking is complete, carefully release the pressure and remove the chicken. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces; it should be tender and easy to pull apart.
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Combine Sauce: Stir in the melted butter, giving the shredded chicken a rich and creamy texture. Taste and adjust with more hot sauce if you’re feeling bold!
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Prepare Slaw: In a separate bowl, toss your coleslaw mix with ranch dressing until thoroughly combined. This crunchy, creamy slaw will add a refreshing contrast to the sliders.
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Assemble Sliders: Toast your slider buns until golden brown for the perfect texture. Layer each bun with a generous portion of the shredded chicken, a scoop of the ranch slaw, and sprinkle with crumbled blue cheese for an extra touch of flavor. Serve warm and enjoy!
Optional: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Sliders are perfect for meal prep, saving you time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the shredded chicken up to 3 days in advance. Simply cook the chicken as directed, let it cool, and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The ranch slaw can also be mixed and prepared 24 hours ahead to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the chicken gently and assemble the sliders on toasted buns, adding the slaw and blue cheese just before serving. This ensures every bite is just as delicious and fresh as if you made it that day!
Storage Tips for Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Sliders
- Fridge: Store leftover sliders in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Be sure to separate the chicken and slaw if you want to maintain their textures.
- Freezer: If you want to save some for later, freeze the shredded buffalo chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat the chicken in the microwave or stovetop until it’s piping hot, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep it moist.
- Slider Buns: For the best texture, assemble the sliders right before serving. Toast the buns lightly after thawing if they’ve been frozen. Enjoy your Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Sliders!
Expert Tips for Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Sliders
- Check Temperature: Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F; this guarantees it’s cooked through and safe to eat.
- Adjust the Heat: Vary the amount of hot sauce based on your spice preference. Remember, you can always add more, but taking it out is tricky!
- Toast the Buns: Lightly toast your slider buns for the best texture; this keeps them from getting soggy and enhances their flavor.
- Flavor Variations: Don’t hesitate to tweak the ranch seasoning or add more herbs to customize your Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Sliders to your taste!
- Storage Solutions: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days—reheat thoroughly before serving!
What to Serve with Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Sliders?
There’s no better way to elevate your meal than with thoughtful pairings that bring balance and enjoyment to your spicy sliders.
- Sweet Potato Fries: The sweet and crunchy texture complements the spicy chicken while providing a wholesome side. Perfect for dipping into ranch!
- Crispy Side Salad: A fresh mix of greens with a zesty vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the sliders, adding a refreshing crunch.
- Cola or Cream Soda: The fizz and sweetness from these sodas balance the heat in the sliders, making every bite delightful.
- Pickle Chips: Their salty, tangy flavor enhances the spicy and creamy combo of the sliders, offering a satisfying contrast.
- Creamy Mac and Cheese: Rich and cheesy, this classic comfort food harmonizes beautifully with the sliders for a heartwarming feast.
- Mini Cornbread Muffins: Light and subtly sweet, these little delights add a delightful twist to the meal with their soft texture.
- Garlic Parmesan Roasted Vegetables: Roasted veggies provide a savory and slightly sweet touch, completing the meal with added wellness.
- Beer (IPA or Lager): The hoppy notes of an IPA cut through the richness, while a lager’s crispness refreshingly complements the flavors.
Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Sliders Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize these delightful sliders with a twist that excites your taste buds!
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Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free ranch or tahini dressing for a delicious creamy slaw without the cream.
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Spice Level: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the chicken for an extra kick of heat.
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Tangy Twist: Incorporate a splash of apple cider vinegar into the slaw for a refreshing zing.
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BBQ Bliss: Swap the buffalo sauce for your favorite barbecue sauce for a sweet and smoky flavor profile.
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Savory Cheddar: Mix shredded cheddar cheese into the warm chicken before assembling sliders for an indulgent cheesy touch.
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Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option, serve the buffalo chicken in large crisp lettuce leaves instead of buns for a crunchy alternative.
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Mediterranean Style: Replace the ranch with tzatziki sauce and add sliced cucumbers and tomatoes for a Mediterranean-inspired slider.
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Flavor Infusion: Marinate the chicken in a mixture of lime juice and cumin before cooking for a zesty flavor base.
Enjoy experimenting with these variations, and make the recipe uniquely yours!
Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Sliders Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ripe chicken breasts?
Absolutely! When choosing boneless skinless chicken breasts, look for ones that are firm to the touch and have a pinkish hue with no dark spots. Avoid any pieces that have a slimy texture or an off smell, as this could indicate spoilage. Fresh chicken should have minimal visible fat and a fresh aroma.
How should I store leftover buffalo chicken sliders?
You can store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the textures separate, I recommend storing the shredded chicken and the coleslaw mix in different containers if possible. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat the chicken thoroughly in the microwave or stovetop before assembling your sliders.
Can I freeze the shredded buffalo chicken?
Definitely! To freeze your shredded buffalo chicken, place it in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag and store it for up to 3 months. Be sure to remove as much air as possible from the bags to avoid freezer burn. When ready to use, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until hot.
What should I do if my chicken is too spicy?
If you find that your buffalo chicken is too spicy, don’t worry! You can balance the heat by mixing in a little more melted butter or olive oil, which helps to mellow the flavors. Additionally, serving it with extra ranch dressing or coleslaw can help cool down the overall spice level. Remember, adjusting the hot sauce to your own taste when preparing is key!
Are there any dietary considerations to keep in mind?
Certainly! If you’re serving these sliders to friends or family with dietary restrictions, you can easily adapt the recipe. For gluten-free options, use gluten-free slider buns. If someone is lactose intolerant, consider omitting the blue cheese and using a dairy-free ranch dressing. Always check for allergies with hot sauce and ranch seasoning, as some may contain common allergens like gluten or dairy.
How do I prevent my slider buns from getting soggy?
To keep your slider buns from becoming soggy, toast them lightly before adding the chicken and slaw assembly. You can also place a small piece of lettuce on the bun before adding the filling; this acts as a barrier and maintains the bun’s integrity. Enjoy your sliders with the perfect mix of crunchy and soft textures!
Savory Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Sliders for Quick Comfort
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season chicken breasts with kosher salt and pepper. Sauté in olive oil until browned, about 3-4 minutes each side.
- Pour in chicken broth, add ranch seasoning and hot sauce. Lock lid and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
- Release pressure after cooking, remove chicken and shred it with two forks.
- Stir in melted butter into the shredded chicken for a creamy texture.
- In a bowl, mix coleslaw with ranch dressing.
- Toast slider buns and assemble with shredded chicken, ranch slaw, and blue cheese.