Delicious Shredded Buffalo Chicken Sliders with Colorful Rainbow Slaw

When game day or casual gatherings call for a crowd-pleasing snack, these shredded buffalo chicken sliders with rainbow slaw deliver every time. They combine spicy, tangy buffalo chicken with a crunchy, vibrant slaw, all tucked inside soft Hawaiian rolls. The creamy ranch or blue cheese dressing cools down the heat, while fresh celery adds a satisfying crunch. These sliders are messy in the best way and disappear fast, making them a perfect choice for parties or family dinners.

Shredded Buffalo Chicken Sliders with Rainbow Slaw

Why These Sliders Are a Game Day Favorite

Buffalo chicken is a classic flavor that many love for its bold, spicy kick. When shredded and mixed with buffalo sauce and butter, the chicken becomes juicy and flavorful. Pairing it with a crunchy slaw adds texture and freshness, balancing the heat with a tangy, slightly sweet crunch. The rainbow slaw, made with purple cabbage, carrots, and green cabbage, not only adds color but also a variety of nutrients and flavors.

Using Hawaiian rolls makes these sliders soft and slightly sweet, which complements the spicy chicken perfectly. Adding ranch or blue cheese dressing brings creaminess that cools the palate, while crumbled blue cheese adds an extra layer of flavor for those who enjoy it. The celery topping adds a fresh, crisp bite that rounds out the experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Buffalo Chicken

• 3 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)

• 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (Frank’s or your favorite brand)

• 2 tablespoons melted butter

  
  

For the Sliders

• 1 pack Hawaiian rolls (12-count)

• 1/2 cup ranch or blue cheese dressing

• 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional, if using ranch)

• 1/2 cup finely chopped celery

  
  

For the Rainbow Slaw

• 2 cups purple cabbage, shredded

• 1 cup shredded carrots

• 1/2 cup green cabbage (optional, adds more color)

• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon honey

• Salt and pepper to taste

  
  

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Buffalo Chicken

Mix the shredded chicken with buffalo sauce and melted butter until well coated. Keep the mixture warm while you prepare the other components.

2. Make the Rainbow Slaw

In a large bowl, toss together the purple cabbage, carrots, and green cabbage. Add apple cider vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine. The vinegar and honey give the slaw a nice balance of tang and sweetness.

3. Assemble the Sliders

Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, keeping the rolls connected so they stay together while baking. Spread ranch or blue cheese dressing evenly on the bottom half of the rolls.

4. Layer the Ingredients

Add a generous layer of buffalo chicken on top of the dressing. Then, pile on the rainbow slaw. If you’re using crumbled blue cheese, sprinkle it over the slaw. Finish with a sprinkle of finely chopped celery for crunch.

5. Add the Top Rolls and Bake

Place the top half of the rolls back on. For extra flavor, brush the tops with melted butter mixed with a pinch of garlic powder. Bake the sliders at 350°F for 10 to 12 minutes until warm and the tops are golden.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Slice the baked rolls into individual sliders and serve immediately while warm. These sliders are perfect for sharing and sure to be a hit.

Tips for Perfect Buffalo Chicken Sliders

• Use rotisserie chicken to save time and add flavor. It’s already cooked and shredded, making prep quick.

• Adjust the buffalo sauce to your heat preference. Add more for extra spice or less if you want a milder flavor.

• Make the slaw ahead of time. The flavors meld nicely if it sits for an hour or two in the fridge.

• Try different dressings. Ranch and blue cheese both work well, but you can experiment with other creamy dressings if you prefer.

• Add extra crunch by topping with thinly sliced celery or even pickled jalapeños for a tangy twist.

  
  

Why Rainbow Slaw Works So Well

The rainbow slaw is more than just a colorful addition. The purple cabbage provides antioxidants, carrots add sweetness and crunch, and green cabbage brings a mild flavor that balances the mix. The apple cider vinegar and honey dressing brightens the slaw, making it a refreshing contrast to the rich buffalo chicken.

This slaw also adds a satisfying texture contrast. The creamy dressing on the rolls and the tender chicken are complemented by the crisp, fresh vegetables. This balance of flavors and textures is what makes these sliders stand out.

Perfect Occasions for These Sliders

These shredded buffalo chicken sliders with rainbow slaw are ideal for:

• Game day parties

• Casual family dinners

• Potlucks and picnics

• Weekend gatherings with friends

• Quick and tasty lunch or dinner options

  
  

They are easy to make in large batches and can be customized to suit different tastes, making them a versatile choice for many occasions.