Buffalo Chicken Pastry Sliders Recipe
Buffalo Chicken Puff Pastry Sliders
This savory recipe combines flaky puff pastry with a rich buffalo chicken dip filling, topped with mozzarella, celery, and blue cheese. These sliders make for the perfect appetizer or snack, bursting with bold flavors!
Ingredients
- 1 (17.3 oz package) frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 1 1/2 cups buffalo chicken dip
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Hot sauce, to taste (such as Franks Buffalo Sauce or Franks Hot Sauce)
- 1/4 cup finely diced celery
- 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
- Blue cheese dressing for dipping (optional)
Directions
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400F (200C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cut each sheet of puff pastry into 6 rectangles. You should get 12 rectangles in total, depending on how you slice them.
Step 3: In a medium-sized bowl, mix the buffalo chicken dip with the shredded mozzarella cheese until fully combined.
Step 4: Take about 2 tablespoons of the buffalo chicken mixture and place a generous dollop in the center of each pastry rectangle. Leave the edges exposed, so you have a border of pastry around the filling.
Step 5: Arrange the filled pastries on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure theres space between each pastry for even puffing.
Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the pastries are puffed up and golden brown.
Step 7: Remove the pastries from the oven. Drizzle each one with a little hot sauce to add an extra kick.
Step 8: Sprinkle finely diced celery and crumbled blue cheese on top of each pastry slider.
Step 9: Serve immediately with blue cheese dressing on the side, if desired. Enjoy!
Cook's Notes
- You can substitute the mozzarella cheese with shredded Monterey Jack or Cheddar cheese for a different twist.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
| Nutrition Component | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 353 |
| Total Fat | 26g |
| Saturated Fat | 7g |
| Cholesterol | 28mg |
| Sodium | 308mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 22g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Total Sugars | 1g |
| Protein | 9g |
| Vitamin C | 1mg |
| Calcium | 115mg |
| Iron | 1mg |
| Potassium | 97mg |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
The Story Behind Buffalo Chicken Pastry Sliders
Buffalo Chicken Pastry Sliders are a creative twist on the classic Buffalo chicken flavor, which originated in Buffalo, New York, in the 1960s. The original Buffalo chicken wings were created at the Anchor Bar, where chicken wings were deep-fried and coated in a tangy hot sauce made with cayenne pepper and butter. Over time, the fiery flavor of Buffalo sauce inspired countless adaptations, from dips to sandwiches, and eventually to these bite-sized pastry sliders. They combine the indulgent, flaky texture of puff pastry with the spicy, tangy notes of Buffalo chicken, making them a modern comfort food favorite.
Regional Variations
While Buffalo-style dishes are rooted in upstate New York, this particular slider has spread across the United States with regional tweaks. In the Midwest, it is common to add cheddar cheese or even a hint of smoked paprika to enrich the flavor. In the South, sliders might feature a spicier sauce or a drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing for balance. West Coast versions sometimes incorporate avocado or pickled vegetables to add freshness, creating a lighter, more modern interpretation. These regional touches highlight the versatility of the dish and how it can be adapted to local tastes.
Distinguishing Features
Buffalo Chicken Pastry Sliders stand out from similar dishes like traditional chicken wings, chicken sliders, or even puff pastry appetizers. Unlike standard wings, the sliders are baked inside a puff pastry shell, which adds a rich, buttery crunch. Compared to typical sliders with buns, the pastry provides a delicate flakiness and makes them easy to serve as finger food at parties. Additionally, the combination of Buffalo chicken dip, celery, and blue cheese creates a unique flavor balance that sets these apart from simpler chicken or cheese-filled pastries.
Where They Are Usually Served
These sliders are most commonly served as appetizers at parties, game-day gatherings, and casual celebrations. Their small size makes them ideal for buffets and hors doeuvres tables. They are also popular in pubs or sports bars, where the Buffalo chicken flavor ties in perfectly with a menu of shareable snacks. For home cooks, they are a favorite for entertaining because they are easy to prepare in batches and can be paired with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping, enhancing the interactive eating experience.
Interesting Facts
- The combination of puff pastry and Buffalo chicken dip is a modern innovation; traditional Buffalo wings never included pastry.
- Buffalo chicken dip, often used in these sliders, became a party staple in the 1980s and 1990s, especially in the Midwest.
- Despite their rich flavor, sliders are customizable: you can adjust the heat level of the sauce or swap cheeses to suit different tastes.
- These sliders demonstrate a culinary trend of transforming classic regional dishes into portable, bite-sized snacks, reflecting modern food culture.
- The dish pairs exceptionally well with cold beer or a crisp soft drink, making it a favorite at social gatherings and tailgate parties.