Buffalo Chicken Sliders Recipe Easy Heart-Shaped Party Appetizer

There’s just something about the aroma of spicy Buffalo chicken mixed with creamy cheese that sets my kitchen humming with excitement. The first time I pulled a tray of these heart-shaped Buffalo chicken sliders from my oven, the golden, bubbly cheese was calling my name, and the tangy scent of hot sauce practically danced in the air. The little hearts were so cute, I had to pause—just to appreciate how something this playful could make me (and my kitchen) feel so warm and happy. It was the kind of moment where you take a deep breath, grin, and realize you’ve stumbled upon your new go-to party appetizer.

Honestly, these Buffalo chicken sliders began as a fun experiment one rainy weekend when I was knee-high to a grasshopper. I’d watched my grandma shape biscuits by hand, and I thought, “Why not sliders?” Years later, I finally put the idea to work, determined to create a snack that’s both eye-catching and crowd-pleasing. Let’s face it: heart-shaped food just makes any occasion feel extra special—whether it’s a Valentine’s Day date night, a Super Bowl bash, or a Sunday family lunch.

My family can’t resist sneaking these sliders off the baking tray before they even hit the platter (I see you, Mom!). They disappear fast, especially when served with extra ranch or blue cheese for dipping. These sliders are dangerously easy to make, but they deliver pure, nostalgic comfort with every bite. You know what? I wish I’d come up with this Buffalo chicken sliders recipe years ago—it would’ve saved me from many last-minute party panics! After testing these beauties more times than I care to admit (all in the name of research, of course), I can honestly say they’re a staple for gatherings, gifting, and yes, picnics in the backyard. They’re like a warm hug, and you’re going to want to bookmark this one for all your special moments.

Why You’ll Love This Buffalo Chicken Sliders Recipe

After years of recipe testing (and plenty of taste-testing by my always-hungry friends), I’ve picked up a few things about what makes a killer party snack. These heart-shaped Buffalo chicken sliders are the result of lots of kitchen experiments—so you’re getting my best, most flavorful version. Here’s why you’ll be hooked after just one bite:

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 40 minutes, which means you can whip these up, even for last-minute guests (or that surprise date night!).
• Simple Ingredients: Nothing fancy—just everyday staples like cooked chicken, hot sauce, cheese, and slider buns (plus your favorite Buffalo sauce, of course).
• Perfect for Any Occasion: These heart-shaped sliders are a hit at parties, tailgates, romantic dinners, or even as a fun lunchbox treat for the kids.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Both kids and adults can’t resist the spicy, cheesy filling tucked into soft, golden buns. I get requests for these at every family gathering!
• Showstopping Presentation: The heart shape adds a touch of whimsy and love to your table—people love snapping photos for Pinterest and Instagram (and honestly, so do I).
• Unbelievably Delicious: The combo of tangy Buffalo sauce, melty cheese, and shredded chicken is pure comfort food—plus, the buttery buns soak up all that flavor.

What sets my Buffalo chicken sliders recipe apart? I blend just the right amount of cream cheese into the chicken filling for a creamy texture that holds together beautifully (no messy drips!). The heart-shaped buns aren’t just cute—they bake up with crispy edges and fluffy middles, perfect for soaking up all that spicy sauce. Honestly, it’s the kind of snack that makes you close your eyes after the first bite.

This isn’t just another party appetizer—it’s the one that gets recipe requests, the one you’ll make “just because,” and the one that makes every occasion a little more special. Comfort food, but cuter. Whether you’re impressing guests or just treating yourself, these sliders are a little love note from my kitchen to yours.

What Ingredients You Will Need for Heart-Shaped Buffalo Chicken Sliders

This Buffalo chicken sliders recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that pack a serious punch of flavor. Most of these are probably hanging out in your fridge and pantry already. Here’s what you’ll need (and how each ingredient works its magic):

• For the Buffalo Chicken Filling:
  • Cooked chicken breast or rotisserie chicken, shredded (about 2 cups / 280g) – Use leftovers, or grab a rotisserie chicken for speed.
  • Cream cheese, softened (4 oz / 115g) – Adds that creamy, luscious texture; I love Philadelphia brand for consistency.
  • Buffalo hot sauce (1/2 cup / 120ml) – Frank’s RedHot is my go-to, but use your favorite brand for the right amount of heat.
  • Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (1 cup / 100g) – Gives that melty, tangy bite. Pre-shredded works, but fresh is best for meltiness.
  • Green onions, thinly sliced (2–3 stalks) – For a fresh, zippy kick.
  • Garlic powder (1/2 tsp / 2g) – Adds depth (fresh minced garlic works too if you’re feeling fancy).
  • Salt and black pepper to taste – Adjust as needed, especially if your hot sauce is salty.
• For the Heart-Shaped Buns:
  • Refrigerated crescent roll dough or pizza dough (2 cans / about 16 oz / 450g) – So easy, and it bakes up golden and fluffy. You can make homemade dough if you’re feeling ambitious!
  • Melted butter (2 tbsp / 28g) – For brushing on top, giving everything a golden sheen.
  • Sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional) – For a bakery finish. Totally optional but looks cute for photos.
• For Serving:
  • Ranch or blue cheese dressing – For dipping (or drizzling—no judgment here!).
  • Celery sticks and carrot sticks – Keeps things classic and adds a refreshing crunch.

Ingredient Tips:

• For gluten-free sliders, use your favorite gluten-free pizza dough.
• You can swap in Greek yogurt for cream cheese if you want a lighter filling (I’ve tried it—still delicious!).
• For less heat, use a mild Buffalo or wing sauce.
• Don’t have green onions? Try chives or a pinch of dried onion flakes.
• Vegan? Use plant-based chicken, vegan cream cheese, and dairy-free cheese. The results are surprisingly good!

Keep it simple, use what you have, and don’t stress—this Buffalo chicken sliders recipe is all about fun and flavor!

Equipment Needed

You don’t need a fancy kitchen to make these heart-shaped Buffalo chicken sliders. Here’s what I use (plus a few budget-friendly alternatives):

• Heart-shaped cookie cutter (about 3-inch / 7.5cm): The star of the show! If you don’t have one, cut out hearts with a knife (or use a round cutter for classic sliders).
• Large baking sheet: A rimmed sheet pan keeps everything contained. If yours is old like mine, line it with parchment for easy cleanup.
• Mixing bowls: For combining the chicken filling and mixing the dough scraps if needed.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accuracy—especially with the hot sauce!
• Pastry brush: For brushing melted butter on top. If you don’t have one, use a spoon or your (clean) fingers.
• Cheese grater: For shredding cheese fresh (way better melt).
• Cooling rack (optional): Helps keep the sliders crisp after baking, but a plate works in a pinch.

Personal Tip: I’ve used everything from a mason jar lid to a kid’s plastic cup as an improvised cutter. Get creative—these sliders are very forgiving! Just keep the dough thick enough so your hearts hold their shape. And a little parchment paper makes cleanup a breeze (especially when cheese bubbles over).

How to Make Heart-Shaped Buffalo Chicken Sliders (Step-by-Step)

1. Preheat your oven:
   
   Set to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Make the Buffalo chicken filling:
   
   In a medium bowl, mix 2 cups (280g) shredded chicken, 4 oz (115g) softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup (120ml) Buffalo hot sauce, 1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar, 2–3 sliced green onions, 1/2 tsp (2g) garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy. (Tip: If your filling feels too thick, add a spoonful of ranch or a splash of milk.)
3. Roll out the dough:
   
   Unroll 2 cans (450g) of crescent roll or pizza dough onto a lightly floured surface. Gently roll to about 1/4 inch (0.6cm) thick—too thin and your hearts will break apart!
4. Cut out heart shapes:
   
   Use a 3-inch (7.5cm) heart-shaped cutter to punch out as many hearts as possible. Gather dough scraps, re-roll, and cut more hearts. You should get about 24 hearts (for 12 sliders).
5. Fill and assemble the sliders:
   
   Place half of the hearts on your baking sheet. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of Buffalo chicken filling onto the center of each. Top with a second heart-shaped dough piece and gently pinch the edges to seal. (If the dough is sticky, dust your fingers with flour.)
6. Brush and sprinkle:
   
   Brush tops with 2 tbsp (28g) melted butter. Sprinkle with sesame or poppy seeds if you like.
7. Bake:
   
   Bake for 15–18 minutes until golden brown and puffed. The cheese might bubble at the edges (that’s the best part!). If the tops brown too quickly, loosely cover with foil for the last few minutes.
8. Cool a bit and serve:
   
   Let sliders cool on a rack for 5 minutes—this helps the filling set and prevents burns. Serve warm with ranch or blue cheese for dipping.

Troubleshooting:

• If the dough rips, patch with a dough scrap—nobody will notice after baking.
• Too spicy? Swirl in extra cream cheese or a spoonful of sour cream to the filling.
• Sliders spreading? Chill the filled sliders for 10 minutes before baking for perfect shapes.

Honestly, the hardest part is not eating them straight off the tray. These Buffalo chicken sliders are best fresh, but they reheat beautifully, too.

Cooking Tips & Techniques for Perfect Sliders

Making Buffalo chicken sliders sounds simple (and it is), but a few tricks make these heart-shaped bites truly outstanding:

• Don’t Overfill: I’ve made the mistake of getting a little too generous with the filling, which leads to oozy, messy sliders. Two tablespoons is the sweet spot—just enough for cheesy goodness without leaks.
• Seal Edges Well: Pinch the dough edges firmly (even use a fork, like pie crust) to keep the filling tucked inside. If you skip this, the cheese will escape—and yes, I’ve done it more than once!
• Chill Before Baking: If your kitchen is warm or your dough feels sticky, pop the unbaked sliders in the fridge for 10–15 minutes. This helps the hearts hold their shape and bake up perfectly puffy.
• Watch the Cheese: If you use pre-shredded cheese, it sometimes melts differently. Freshly shredded cheese melts into the filling, giving you those perfect cheese pulls.
• Multitasking: While the sliders bake, chop celery and carrots, or whip up a quick homemade ranch for dipping. It keeps things efficient and gets everything on the table at the same time.
• Get Creative with Toppings: For extra flair, brush the baked sliders with more melted butter and sprinkle with parsley. Looks great and adds a hint of freshness.
• Test for Doneness: The sliders should be golden on top and sound hollow when tapped. If they look pale, bake a couple minutes longer—but keep a close eye, as crescent dough browns quickly.

I’ve had my fair share of dough mishaps—like forgetting to seal a few edges or pulling them out too soon. But honestly, even the “ugly” ones get devoured. These tips help you get consistent, party-ready results every time!

Variations & Adaptations

One of the best things about this Buffalo chicken sliders recipe is how easy it is to tweak for your taste, dietary needs, or what’s in the fridge. Here are my favorite variations:

• Low-Carb/Keto: Swap the crescent dough for low-carb fathead dough or use almond flour-based dough. You can even use mini lettuce cups for a fresh, crunchy bite!
• Vegetarian: Substitute shredded jackfruit or canned chickpeas for chicken. Use the same Buffalo sauce and cheese combo for a plant-based twist (and vegan cheese for dairy-free).
• Spicy BBQ: Mix half Buffalo sauce and half smoky BBQ sauce for a tangy, sweet-spicy filling. Top with a little coleslaw for crunch.
• Breakfast Version: Swap the chicken for scrambled eggs and cooked bacon, and use a mild Buffalo sauce. It’s like a spicy breakfast sandwich in a heart shape!
• Gluten-Free: Use your favorite gluten-free pizza dough or biscuit dough. I’ve tried King Arthur’s blend with great results.

For a personal twist, I sometimes stir in a handful of chopped pickled jalapeños or roasted red peppers to the filling—adds a little zing and color. And if you want to bake these as mini round sliders, just use a standard 2-inch biscuit cutter instead of hearts. No matter how you vary them, these Buffalo chicken sliders are always a hit!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These heart-shaped Buffalo chicken sliders are best served warm, right from the oven. Arrange them on a platter with a bowl of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping, and garnish with a sprinkle of green onions or parsley for a fresh look. They’re just as fun for a romantic date night as they are for a rowdy game-day party.

Serving Ideas:

• Pair with crunchy celery and carrot sticks for that classic Buffalo wing combo.
• Serve with potato chips, coleslaw, or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
• For a Pinterest-worthy display, stack the sliders in a heart shape or arrange in a circle with dip in the middle.

Storage:

• Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, freeze baked sliders in a single layer, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8–10 minutes, or microwave in 20-second bursts (though the oven keeps them crispier).
• Honestly, the flavors deepen overnight—slightly spicier, a little richer, and still just as delicious!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s a rough estimate per slider (based on a batch of 12):

• Calories: 180
• Protein: 9g
• Carbs: 15g
• Fat: 9g
• Sugar: 2g

Key Benefits: The shredded chicken gives a solid protein boost, and using reduced-fat cream cheese or cheese can lighten things up. For a gluten-free or low-carb version, use alternative doughs or lettuce wraps. Allergens to watch: gluten (in dough), dairy (cheese/cream cheese), and possible traces of nuts in some buffalo sauces.

From a wellness standpoint, these sliders are a more balanced way to enjoy that Buffalo chicken flavor—especially if you serve with lots of crunchy veggies. I love that you can make them lighter or spicier to fit your needs, and they’re so satisfying you won’t miss the fryer!

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a fun, flavorful, and just plain cute party appetizer, these heart-shaped Buffalo chicken sliders are your answer. They’re quick, easy, and endlessly customizable—guaranteed to earn you “wow”s from guests and family alike. I love making them because they’re a little bite of comfort, with a spicy twist and a side of nostalgia (plus, they always look adorable on my serving tray).

Don’t be afraid to play around with the filling, try different shapes, or make them your own. I hope these Buffalo chicken sliders become a favorite in your kitchen too—just like they have in mine. If you give them a try, leave a comment, share a photo, or tell me your favorite twist. Happy snacking, and here’s to more heart-shaped moments!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these Buffalo chicken sliders ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the sliders, place them on a baking sheet, and refrigerate (covered) for up to 1 day before baking. Or bake, cool, and reheat in the oven for 8–10 minutes at 350°F (175°C).

What’s the best way to shred chicken for this recipe?

Use two forks, your hands, or even a stand mixer with the paddle attachment. Leftover rotisserie chicken works great and saves time.

Can I use store-bought slider buns instead of making heart shapes?

Absolutely! Just spoon the Buffalo chicken filling onto slider buns, top with cheese, and bake open-faced until bubbly. Not as cute, but just as tasty.

Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?

Yes—use dairy-free cream cheese and shredded cheese. Most crescent roll doughs are dairy-free, but check labels to be sure.

How can I make these less spicy for kids?

Use mild Buffalo sauce or cut the hot sauce with ranch dressing. You can also reduce the amount of hot sauce and add extra cream cheese for a milder flavor.

Print