There’s nothing quite like sinking your teeth into a perfectly grilled buffalo chicken sandwich on a warm summer evening. This irresistible combination of tender, juicy chicken breast glazed with tangy buffalo sauce and nestled between toasted buns creates the ultimate comfort food experience. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, looking for a quick weeknight dinner, or craving that restaurant-quality flavor at home, this recipe delivers every single time.
What makes this grilled buffalo chicken sandwich truly special is the perfect balance of heat, flavor, and texture. The secret lies in our easy homemade buffalo sauce that coats the chicken breast beautifully while grilling, creating those coveted caramelized edges that burst with flavor. Unlike traditional fried buffalo chicken sandwiches, this grilled version offers all the bold taste you love with a healthier twist that doesn’t compromise on satisfaction.
Recipe Information
Difficulty: Easy
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 sandwiches
Cost: Affordable
Ingredients for Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sandwich
For the Buffalo Chicken Breast:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6-8 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
For the Easy Homemade Buffalo Sauce:
- 1/2 cup hot sauce (Frank’s RedHot recommended)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Pinch of salt
For Assembly:
- 4 brioche hamburger buns
- 1/2 cup ranch or blue cheese dressing
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
- 2 large tomatoes, sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- 4 slices of provolone or pepper jack cheese (optional)
Equipment Required
- Gas or charcoal grill
- Meat thermometer
- Small saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Tongs
- Basting brush
- Small mixing bowl
Recipe Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 3/4 inch using a meat mallet or rolling pin. This ensures even cooking and prevents dry spots. Pat the chicken completely dry with paper towels, then rub both sides with olive oil. Season generously with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using.
Step 2: Make the Easy Homemade Buffalo Sauce
In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the butter completely. Add the hot sauce, white vinegar, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, and a pinch of salt. Whisk continuously until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Remove from heat and set aside. This homemade buffalo sauce is the key to authentic buffalo chicken sandwiches and tastes infinitely better than store-bought versions.
Step 3: Preheat and Prepare the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400-425°F). Clean the grill grates thoroughly and lightly oil them to prevent sticking. If using a charcoal grill, ensure the coals are evenly distributed for consistent heat.
Step 4: Grill the Buffalo Chicken Breast
Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the preheated grill. Cook for 5-6 minutes without moving them to develop beautiful grill marks. Flip the chicken and immediately brush the cooked side with half of the buffalo sauce. Continue grilling for another 5-6 minutes, then flip once more and brush the other side with the remaining buffalo sauce.
Step 5: Check for Doneness
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F. The buffalo chicken breast should be golden brown with slight charring and the juices should run clear. If adding cheese, place it on top during the last minute of cooking and close the grill lid to melt.
Step 6: Rest the Grilled Buffalo Chicken
Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 3-5 minutes on a cutting board. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each bite of your buffalo chicken sandwich is incredibly moist and flavorful.
Step 7: Prepare the Buns and Toppings
While the chicken rests, lightly toast the brioche buns on the grill for 1-2 minutes until golden brown. Prepare your toppings by washing and drying the lettuce, slicing the tomatoes, and preparing the onions if using.
Step 8: Assemble Your Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches
Spread ranch or blue cheese dressing on both halves of each toasted bun. Place the grilled buffalo chicken on the bottom bun, then layer with lettuce, tomato slices, and red onion if desired. Top with the other half of the bun and serve immediately while the chicken is still warm.
Chef’s Tips and Variations
Pro Tips for Perfect Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches:
Marinate for extra flavor: For even more intense taste, marinate the chicken breasts in half of the buffalo sauce for 2-4 hours before grilling. This creates incredibly flavorful buffalo chicken that’s seasoned throughout.
Don’t skip the resting time: Always let your grilled buffalo chicken rest after cooking. This simple step makes the difference between good and exceptional chicken sandwich recipes.
Double-sauce technique: Reserve some fresh buffalo sauce for drizzling on the assembled sandwich. This adds an extra punch of flavor that buffalo sauce lovers will appreciate.
Delicious Variations:
Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sandwich: Add sliced jalapeños or increase the cayenne pepper in the seasoning mix for those who prefer extra heat in their grilled sandwiches recipes.
Cool Ranch Buffalo Chicken: Mix ranch seasoning powder into your homemade buffalo sauce for a unique twist on the classic buffalo chicken breast preparation.
Loaded Buffalo Chicken Sandwich: Add crispy bacon, avocado slices, or pickles to create the ultimate indulgent chicken breast sandwich.
Side Dish Suggestions:
These grilled buffalo chicken sandwiches pair beautifully with classic picnic sides like coleslaw, potato salad, corn on the cob, or sweet potato fries. For a lighter option, serve with a fresh garden salad or grilled vegetables.
Storage and Reheating:
Leftover buffalo chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes. The buffalo sauce helps keep the chicken moist during reheating.
Freezing option: The cooked buffalo chicken breast can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as directed above.
Nutritional Information
Per Sandwich (approximate):
- Calories: 485
- Protein: 42g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 1,240mg
Nutritional values may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes used.
Why This Grilled Buffalo Chicken Recipe Works
The beauty of this grilled buffalo chicken sandwich lies in its simplicity and bold flavors. Unlike complicated chicken sandwich recipes that require extensive preparation, this version delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. The key is using high-quality ingredients and proper grilling techniques.
The homemade buffalo sauce is what truly sets these buffalo chicken sandwiches apart from store-bought alternatives. By making your own sauce, you control the heat level and ensure the perfect balance of tangy, spicy, and buttery flavors that make buffalo chicken irresistible.
Grilling the chicken instead of frying creates a healthier version that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. The high heat of the grill caramelizes the buffalo sauce, creating a beautiful glaze that locks in moisture while adding incredible depth of flavor to every bite.
Perfect for Any Occasion
These grilled sandwiches recipes are incredibly versatile and perfect for various occasions. Whether you’re planning a casual family dinner, hosting friends for game day, or looking for an impressive yet easy meal for guests, this buffalo chicken breast recipe delivers every time.
The recipe scales easily, making it perfect for feeding a crowd. Simply multiply the ingredients and fire up the grill for a memorable meal that everyone will love. The combination of grilled buffalo chicken with fresh toppings creates a satisfying meal that appeals to both adults and children.
Mastering the Grill
Success with this grilled buffalo chicken sandwich recipe comes down to proper grill management. Maintaining consistent medium-high heat ensures the chicken cooks evenly while developing those coveted grill marks. The buffalo sauce applied during cooking creates a beautiful caramelized exterior that’s packed with flavor.
Don’t be tempted to press down on the chicken while grilling, as this squeezes out precious juices. Instead, let the heat do the work and trust the process. The result will be incredibly juicy buffalo chicken that’s perfectly seasoned throughout.
Conclusion
This best grilled buffalo chicken sandwich recipe proves that exceptional flavor doesn’t require complicated techniques or exotic ingredients. With tender, perfectly seasoned chicken breast, tangy homemade buffalo sauce, and fresh toppings, you’ll create restaurant-quality sandwiches that satisfy every craving.
The combination of smoky grilled flavors with classic buffalo taste makes these chicken sandwich recipes a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re a grilling novice or a seasoned pro, this foolproof recipe delivers consistent, delicious results every single time.
Have you tried this grilled buffalo chicken sandwich recipe? We’d love to hear about your experience! Leave a comment below sharing your favorite variations or tips. Don’t forget to share photos of your creations on social media – we love seeing your delicious results!
Looking for more amazing grilled sandwiches recipes? Check out our other popular chicken breast sandwich variations and discover new ways to enjoy perfectly grilled chicken all season long.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make the buffalo sauce ahead of time? A: Absolutely! The easy homemade buffalo sauce can be made up to a week in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Simply reheat gently before using on your grilled buffalo chicken.
Q: What’s the best way to prevent the chicken from drying out on the grill? A: The key to juicy buffalo chicken breast is not overcooking it. Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F internal temperature, and always let the chicken rest after grilling to retain moisture.
Q: Can I use this recipe for buffalo chicken sandwiches in the oven? A: Yes! Bake the seasoned chicken at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, basting with buffalo sauce halfway through cooking. While the flavor will be slightly different from grilled buffalo chicken, it’s still delicious.
Q: How spicy are these grilled buffalo chicken sandwiches? A: The heat level is moderate and customizable. Using Frank’s RedHot creates a tangy, mildly spicy flavor. Adjust the cayenne pepper and hot sauce quantity to match your preferred spice level.
Q: What other toppings work well with buffalo chicken sandwiches? A: Popular additions include crispy bacon, pickles, avocado, different cheese varieties, or coleslaw. These grilled sandwiches recipes are very versatile and accommodate many flavor preferences.
Try this amazing grilled buffalo chicken sandwich recipe today and experience the perfect combination of smoky, spicy, and satisfying flavors that will make it your new go-to chicken breast sandwich recipe!
