Introduction

Slow Cooker Honey Buffalo Chicken Sliders are a delightful and easy-to-make dish perfect for gatherings, game days, or simply enjoying a cozy evening at home. The combination of sweet and spicy flavors creates a unique taste that is sure to satisfy. Using a slow cooker allows the chicken to become tender and soak up the delicious honey buffalo sauce, creating a mouth-watering filling for sliders.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Chicken breast – 1.5 lbs
Honey – 1/3 cup
Buffalo sauce – 1/2 cup
Soy sauce – 2 tbsp
Apple cider vinegar – 1 tbsp
Garlic powder – 1 tsp
Onion powder – 1 tsp
Slider buns – 12
Coleslaw mix – 2 cups
Ranch dressing – 1/2 cup
Fresh parsley (optional) – for garnish

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time – 6 hours (on low)
Total Time – 6 hours 15 minutes
Yield – 12 sliders

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts into the slow cooker. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

In a bowl, combine honey, buffalo sauce, and garlic powder. Stir until well mixed.

Step 3: Add Sauce to Chicken

Pour the honey buffalo sauce over the chicken in the slow cooker, ensuring that the chicken is well coated.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.

Step 5: Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and mix it with the sauce.

Step 6: Prepare the Sliders

Slice the slider buns in half. If desired, toast the buns lightly in the oven.

Step 7: Assemble the Sliders

Place a generous portion of the shredded honey buffalo chicken onto the bottom half of each slider bun. Add toppings such as coleslaw or pickles if desired.

Step 8: Serve

Cover each slider with the top half of the bun and serve warm.

Notes

Note 1: Chicken Thighs Option

You can substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs for a richer flavor.

Note 2: Sauce Level

Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce according to your desired spice level.

Note 3: Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Note 4: Freezing

The shredded chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Cook techniques

Slow Cooking

Slow cooking is an efficient method that allows flavors to meld together over an extended period. Using a slow cooker, you can set your ingredients to cook at a low temperature, resulting in tender, flavorful dishes.

Shredding Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked and tender, shredding it with two forks is a great technique to ensure even distribution of flavors in your sliders. This method creates a texture that absorbs sauces well.

Making Sauce

Combining honey and buffalo sauce creates a sweet and spicy blend that elevates the dish. Mixing these components thoroughly ensures that the chicken is evenly coated for maximum flavor.

Serving Sliders

For serving, choose soft slider buns that complement the chicken. Toasting the buns slightly can add an extra layer of texture and flavor, making the sliders more enjoyable.

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken in the slow cooker. Just be sure to extend the cooking time as needed until fully cooked.

What can I use instead of buffalo sauce?

If you prefer a milder flavor, you can substitute buffalo sauce with a barbecue sauce or a mixture of hot sauce and ketchup for a different taste.

How long can the leftovers be stored?

Leftover honey buffalo chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before consuming.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and store them separately. When ready to serve, simply heat them up and assemble your sliders.

What sides pair well with these sliders?

These sliders go well with sides like coleslaw, potato chips, or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal experience.

Conclusion

The Slow Cooker Honey Buffalo Chicken Sliders are a delicious and easy meal option that combines the sweet and spicy flavors of honey and buffalo sauce. Perfect for game days, gatherings, or a casual family dinner, these sliders are sure to please everyone. The slow-cooked chicken becomes tender and flavorful, making for a delightful sandwich experience that is both satisfying and convenient.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Honey Garlic Chicken

Combine honey and garlic for a sweet and savory chicken dish that can be served over rice or with roasted vegetables.

Buffalo Cauliflower Bites

For a vegetarian twist, use the buffalo sauce on roasted cauliflower bites for a spicy, healthy appetizer.

BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders

Substitute the chicken with pulled pork and a tangy barbecue sauce for another crowd-pleasing slider option.

Sweet and Spicy Meatballs

Make meatballs coated in a similar honey buffalo sauce for a delightful appetizer or party snack.

Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders

Try a variation by using honey mustard for marinating chicken tenders, then bake or grill for a quick and tasty meal.