Crock Pot Buffalo Chicken Sliders with Cream Cheese Recipe

If you’re looking for a game-day crowd-pleaser or a super cozy weeknight treat, this Crock Pot Buffalo Chicken Sliders with Cream Cheese Recipe is one you need to try. I absolutely love how these sliders combine the spicy kick of buffalo sauce with the creamy tang of cream cheese—it’s comfort food with a fun twist that’s incredibly easy to pull off.

What makes this recipe stand out, for me, is how hands-off it is. You toss everything into the crock pot, and then it basically takes care of itself. Plus, the sliders come out juicy and flavorful every time, which means you can focus on your guests or relax instead of fussing in the kitchen.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

All the ingredients in this Crock Pot Buffalo Chicken Sliders with Cream Cheese Recipe work together to create that creamy, spicy, and savory flavor profile we’re after. I’ll share a few tips for each so you’re set up for success before you start.

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Opt for fresh or thawed breasts; they shred beautifully after slow cooking without drying out.
• Buffalo sauce: Choose your favorite brand or homemade version—mild, medium, or hot—depending on your spice preference.
• Butter (melted): Adds richness and helps mellow the heat of the buffalo sauce for a well-rounded flavor.
• Ground black pepper: Gives a subtle depth, but don’t overdo it; remember, the buffalo sauce has plenty of kick.
• Onion powder: A little goes a long way in boosting savory notes without overpowering.
• Ranch seasoning mix: This is my secret weapon for that classic cool ranch flavor that pairs perfectly with buffalo heat.
• Cheddar cheese (shredded): I recommend sharp cheddar for a nice tang, but any good melting cheese will do.
• Cream cheese (cut into cubes): Makes the chicken extra creamy and luscious—don’t skip it!
• Ranch dressing (for serving): Drizzled on top, it adds another layer of ranch goodness and cools down the spice.
• Slider buns: Soft, fresh buns hold the juicy filling without getting soggy right away. Toast them lightly if you like a bit of crunch.

Variations

One of the best things about the Crock Pot Buffalo Chicken Sliders with Cream Cheese Recipe is how easily you can make it your own. I’ve tried several tweaks over time, so here are some ideas to inspire you to put your own spin on this classic.

• Mild Version: When I have kids around, I reduce the buffalo sauce and add extra cream cheese to keep things creamy without too much heat.
• Spicy Kick-Up: Add a few dashes of hot sauce or cayenne powder if you want your sliders with an extra punch – just be sure to adjust the ranch to balance the heat.
• Cheese Swap: Sometimes I swap cheddar for pepper jack or mozzarella for a different texture and flavor experience.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free slider buns or lettuce wraps to make this recipe suitable for gluten sensitivities.
• Extra Veggies: Add finely chopped celery or carrots into the mix for added crunch and freshness, especially if you want to stretch the recipe a bit.

How to Make Crock Pot Buffalo Chicken Sliders with Cream Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Layer the Basics in Your Crock Pot

Start by placing your boneless skinless chicken breasts directly into the bottom of your slow cooker. This keeps them nice and even for cooking. Then, in a medium bowl, whisk together your buffalo sauce, melted butter, black pepper, onion powder, and ranch seasoning mix until everything is well combined. Pour this fiery, flavorful sauce all over the chicken, making sure every piece is coated. This is where your Crock Pot Buffalo Chicken Sliders with Cream Cheese Recipe really starts to develop its signature flavor.

Step 2: Cheese Time – Add That Creamy Layer

Next, sprinkle the shredded cheddar evenly over the buffalo-coated chicken. Follow this by tucking in little cubes of cream cheese right on top. As the chicken cooks low and slow, these cheeses melt into a creamy, dreamy sauce that pulls the whole dish together. This layering step is crucial – it gives that luscious texture that everyone raves about.

Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover your crock pot and cook on high for about 3½ hours, or for a more hands-off day, switch to low for 6-7 hours. I like the low and slow method because it lets the flavors meld beautifully, and the chicken turns out extra tender. Resist the temptation to lift the lid frequently – keeping it closed traps the heat and moisture so your sliders get that perfect juicy texture.

Step 4: Shred and Stir

When your timer goes off, carefully remove the chicken to a plate or bowl and shred it with two forks. I find that shredding while the chicken is still warm is way easier. Then, toss the shredded chicken back into the crock pot and stir everything to make sure that creamy buffalo sauce and melted cheese get evenly distributed. This is the stage where your Crock Pot Buffalo Chicken Sliders with Cream Cheese Recipe really becomes irresistible.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Finally, pile that melty, spicy buffalo chicken onto your slider buns and finish with a drizzle of ranch dressing on top. I like to toast my buns lightly to add a little crunch and prevent sogginess, but that’s totally optional. Get ready to enjoy some seriously delicious slider bites that your family or guests will go crazy for.

How to Serve Crock Pot Buffalo Chicken Sliders with Cream Cheese Recipe

Garnishes

I love topping these sliders with a little extra ranch dressing drizzled on top, but if you want to get fancy, chopped green onions or fresh celery sticks on the side add a refreshing crunch that balances all the bold flavors. Sometimes I even throw on a few chopped cilantro leaves just for a pop of color and herbaceous brightness.

Side Dishes

When serving these Crock Pot Buffalo Chicken Sliders with Cream Cheese Recipe, I often pair them with classic sides like crispy sweet potato fries, a simple mixed green salad, or crunchy coleslaw. If it’s a casual game day, baked potato wedges and some pickles never fail to complement the spicy creaminess perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, I like to arrange these sliders on a large platter with little toothpicks to keep them neat and make grabbing easy. You could also create a slider bar with different toppings like sautéed mushrooms, extra cheese slices, or blue cheese crumbles so guests can customize their own. It’s always a crowd-pleaser and sparks some fun conversation!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover buffalo chicken is fantastic because it keeps really well in the fridge. I store mine in an airtight container and usually enjoy it within 3-4 days. Just make sure the chicken has cooled to room temperature before sealing to prevent extra moisture buildup.

Freezing

I’ve frozen the shredded buffalo chicken mixture often and can tell you it defrosts beautifully without losing texture. Portion it out into freezer-safe bags, flatten for easier storage, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. This way, you have a quick meal base ready whenever you need it!

Reheating

To reheat, I recommend warming the chicken gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwaving in short bursts with a wet paper towel cover to keep it moist. If needed, add a splash of ranch dressing or a bit of water to keep the saucy texture intact. Then, pile it back on warm slider buns and enjoy like it’s freshly made.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Crock Pot Buffalo Chicken Sliders with Cream Cheese Recipe has become one of my go-to dishes when I want something flavorful, easy, and totally satisfying. I love how the crock pot does nearly all the work for me, and the sliders come out juicy and cheesy every single time. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving some spicy comfort food, I promise you’ll enjoy making and sharing this recipe just as much as I do.

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