There’s something magical about the perfect balance of tender, juicy chicken coated in tangy buffalo sauce nestled between two slices of toasted bread. This shredded buffalo chicken sandwich has become my go-to comfort food recipe, transforming ordinary weeknight dinners into something extraordinary. The combination of spicy buffalo flavor with creamy cheese and crisp vegetables creates a symphony of textures and tastes that never fails to satisfy.
What makes this recipe truly special is its incredible versatility and ease of preparation. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, hosting game day festivities, or simply craving a delicious dinner sandwich recipe, this buffalo chicken creation delivers every time. The slow-cooked chicken becomes incredibly tender and absorbs all those bold buffalo flavors, making it perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or even as a standalone dish served over rice or salad.
Recipe Information
Difficulty: Easy
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 4-6 hours (slow cooker) or 25 minutes (stovetop)
Total Time: 4 hours 40 minutes
Servings: 6-8 sandwiches
Cost: Affordable
Ingredients for Shredded Buffalo Chicken Sandwich
For the Buffalo Chicken:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembly:
- 8 sandwich buns or sub rolls (for buffalo chicken sub variation)
- 8 slices of your favorite cheese (cheddar, provolone, or Swiss)
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 2 medium tomatoes, sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise or ranch dressing
- Additional buffalo sauce for serving
Equipment Required
- Slow cooker or large skillet
- Two forks for shredding
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Large mixing bowl
- Skillet or griddle for toasting buns
Recipe Preparation: Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in your slow cooker. If using the stovetop method, place them in a large skillet. Season both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This foundation of seasoning ensures every bite is flavorful.
Step 2: Create the Buffalo Sauce Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the buffalo wing sauce, melted butter, softened cream cheese, ranch seasoning packet, and chicken broth. Whisk until the cream cheese is fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth. This creamy buffalo base is what makes this easy buffalo chicken sandwich so incredibly delicious.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken (Slow Cooker Method)
Pour the buffalo sauce mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork. The low and slow cooking method ensures maximum flavor absorption.
Step 3 Alternative: Stovetop Method
If using the stovetop, pour the sauce mixture over the chicken in your skillet. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes, turning the chicken halfway through. Add more chicken broth if needed to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Remove the cooked chicken from the slow cooker or skillet and place on a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the cooking vessel and mix with the remaining sauce. The chicken should be moist and well-coated with the buffalo mixture.
Step 5: Prepare the Sandwich Components
While the chicken finishes cooking, prepare your vegetables. Wash and shred the lettuce, slice the tomatoes and red onion, and have your cheese slices ready. Toast the sandwich buns lightly in a dry skillet or toaster until golden brown.
Step 6: Assemble Your Buffalo Chicken Sandwich
Spread mayonnaise or ranch dressing on both sides of each toasted bun. Layer the bottom bun with lettuce, followed by a generous portion of the shredded buffalo chicken. Add a slice of cheese, tomato, and red onion. Top with the other half of the bun.
Step 7: Final Touch (Optional)
For an extra indulgent buffalo chicken melt sandwich, place the assembled sandwich in a skillet over medium heat and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until the cheese melts and the bread is golden and crispy, similar to a buffalo grilled cheese.
Chef’s Tips and Variations
Pro Tips for Success:
- Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness and flavor. They’re more forgiving than breasts and won’t dry out as easily.
- Adjust the heat level by using mild, medium, or hot buffalo sauce according to your preference.
- Don’t skip the cream cheese – it creates a creamy texture that balances the spicy buffalo sauce perfectly.
- Toast your buns to prevent them from getting soggy from the chicken mixture.
Delicious Variations:
Buffalo Chicken Sub: Use a sub roll instead of regular sandwich buns and add pickles and banana peppers for an authentic sub shop experience.
Cheesy Chicken Sandwich Upgrade: Try different cheese combinations like pepper jack for extra heat, or swiss for a milder flavor that complements the buffalo sauce.
Buffalo Chicken Melt Sandwiches: Grill the assembled sandwich in butter until the cheese melts and the bread is golden, creating a warm, gooey chicken and cheese sandwich experience.
Meal Prep Version: Make a large batch and store the buffalo chicken mixture in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It’s perfect for quick chicken sandwich recipes shredded throughout the week.
Serving Suggestions:
This versatile buffalo chicken pairs beautifully with classic sides like coleslaw, potato salad, or sweet potato fries. For a lighter option, serve it over a bed of greens as a salad, or stuff it into bell peppers for a low-carb alternative.
Storage and Freezing:
Store leftover buffalo chicken mixture in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in an airtight container. It freezes beautifully for up to 3 months – simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the microwave or stovetop with a splash of chicken broth if needed.
Nutrition Information (Per Sandwich)
- Calories: 445
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 890mg
Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Why This Buffalo Chicken Sandwich Recipe Works
This recipe succeeds because it combines convenience with incredible flavor. The slow cooking method ensures the chicken becomes incredibly tender while absorbing all the bold buffalo flavors. The addition of cream cheese creates a creamy, restaurant-quality sauce that clings beautifully to the shredded chicken.
What sets this apart from other chicken sandwich recipes shredded is the perfect balance of heat, creaminess, and texture. The buffalo sauce provides the signature tangy kick, while the cream cheese mellows the heat and adds richness. The ranch seasoning brings depth and complements the buffalo flavor profile perfectly.
This recipe also offers incredible flexibility. Whether you’re making cheesy chicken sandwiches for a crowd, preparing dinner sandwiches recipes for meal prep, or creating a special buffalo grilled cheese variation, this base recipe adapts beautifully to your needs.
The beauty of this dish lies in its ability to transform simple ingredients into something extraordinary. It’s proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated to be absolutely delicious.
FAQ
Q: Can I make this buffalo chicken sandwich in an Instant Pot? A: Absolutely! Add all ingredients to your Instant Pot, cook on high pressure for 15 minutes with natural release for 10 minutes, then shred and serve. This method is perfect when you want the slow-cooked flavor in less time.
Q: What’s the best way to make a buffalo chicken sub? A: For the perfect buffalo chicken sub, use a sturdy sub roll, add pickles and banana peppers, and consider using provolone cheese. Toast the sub roll and don’t overfill it to prevent soggy bread.
Q: How can I make buffalo chicken melt sandwiches? A: To create delicious buffalo chicken melt sandwiches, assemble your sandwich with cheese, then grill it in a buttered skillet for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and the cheese melts completely.
Q: Can I make this recipe spicier? A: Yes! Add extra hot sauce, incorporate some cayenne pepper into the mixture, or use a spicier buffalo sauce. You can also add diced jalapeños to the chicken mixture for extra heat and texture.
Q: What makes this different from other easy buffalo chicken sandwich recipes? A: This easy buffalo chicken sandwich recipe stands out because of the cream cheese addition, which creates a restaurant-quality creamy buffalo sauce. The slow cooking method also ensures incredibly tender, flavor-packed chicken that’s better than most restaurant versions.
Have you tried this ultimate shredded buffalo chicken sandwich recipe? I’d love to hear about your experience! Please leave a comment below sharing your results, any modifications you made, or questions you might have. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family – it’s perfect for game day gatherings, family dinners, or any time you’re craving serious comfort food.
If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also love our other sandwich recipes on the blog. Check out our collection of comfort food favorites and discover your next culinary adventure!
