Delicious Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sandwich Recipe

Craving a dinner that packs a punch? Look no further than these mouthwatering Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches. Picture this: juicy grilled chicken breasts slathered in a bold buffalo glaze, topped with gooey melty cheese, and nestled on buttery brioche buns. That first messy bite is pure bliss!

I stumbled upon this recipe while planning a summer birthday BBQ and it quickly became a family favorite. The combination of flavors and textures – from the zesty buffalo sauce to the crisp slaw – is simply irresistible. And let’s not forget the race to build the perfect sandwich at family cookouts – it’s all part of the fun!

Whether you’re hosting a backyard cookout or simply looking to spice up your weeknight dinner, these Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches are sure to impress. With a few simple ingredients and a grill, you can enjoy the taste of Buffalo, NY right in your own backyard. So fire up the grill, gather your loved ones, and get ready to savor every flavorful bite of these delicious sandwiches.

Quick Benefits

  • Bold and Exciting Flavor: The buffalo glaze adds a kick to the juicy grilled chicken, creating a satisfying and flavorful sandwich experience.
  • Versatile Ingredients: Easily customize spice levels with cayenne pepper and buffalo sauce, and substitute cheeses or buns based on preferences or what’s available.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Marinate chicken for up to 48 hours, prep slaw in advance, and freeze raw chicken or buns for quick assembly later, making this recipe perfect for busy schedules or meal prepping.

Why You’ll Love This Delicious Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sandwich Recipe Recipe

  • Bold Buffalo Flavors: The combination of juicy grilled chicken with a bold buffalo glaze provides the perfect kick for those craving exciting flavors.
  • Melty Cheese Bliss: Gooey Havarti or Pepperjack cheese piled onto buttery brioche buns adds a rich and comforting element to the sandwich.
  • Family Favorite: This recipe is a crowd-pleaser and a hit at backyard cookouts, family reunions, and potlucks, appealing to both kids and adults alike.
  • Customizable Heat Levels: Easily adjust the cayenne pepper and buffalo sauce amounts to suit your spice preference, making it enjoyable for all taste buds.
  • Make-Ahead Tips: With the option to marinate the chicken up to 48 hours in advance and freeze raw marinated chicken for later use, this recipe is convenient for busy schedules.
  • Versatile Ingredients: Ingredient substitutions like different cheese types or bun options allow you to personalize the sandwich based on what you have on hand.
  • Seasonal Variations: From adding fresh corn in summer to using heirloom tomatoes or shredded cabbage in winter, this recipe can be adapted to seasonal produce for optimal freshness.
  • Satisfying and Messy: The first messy bite of this sandwich brings a satisfying experience, making it a fun and enjoyable meal for casual gatherings or game day feasts.

Ingredients for Delicious Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sandwich Recipe

Chicken

  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1/3 cup buffalo wing sauce
  • 2 teaspoons paprika
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts

Grinder Slaw

  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/3 cup mayonnaise
  • Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 6 pepperoncini, sliced
  • 4 cups shredded iceberg lettuce
  • 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried dill

Assembly

  • 1 tomato, sliced
  • Cheese slices, Havarti or Pepperjack
  • 4 brioche buns

Pro Tips for Delicious Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sandwich Recipe

To ensure maximum flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, but for an even tastier result, let it marinate for up to 48 hours in the fridge. Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before marinating to promote even grilling and juiciness. Adjust the cayenne pepper and buffalo sauce amounts based on your spice preference to control the heat level of your sandwiches. When assembling the sandwiches, let the chicken sit for a few minutes after grilling to ensure each bite is juicy and packed with bold buffalo flavor. For the best melty cheese experience, serve the sandwiches hot just after assembling.

The slaw can be made a few hours ahead and refrigerated to save time. Don’t have brioche buns? No problem! Substitute with potato buns or sturdy sourdough rolls. Havarti or Pepperjack cheese melt beautifully, but feel free to swap them with your preferred cheese such as cheddar, mozzarella, or provolone. If you don’t have access to an outdoor grill, achieve similar smoky results by using a grill pan or cast iron skillet on the stovetop. Freeze any leftover buns for later use, just warm them in the oven or on the grill before serving.

How to Make Delicious Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sandwich Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Chicken

Flatten chicken breasts to even thickness. If large, halve for portion control.

Step 2: Marinate Chicken

Combine olive oil, kosher salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, buffalo wing sauce, and honey in a large bowl. Thoroughly coat chicken with marinade, cover, and refrigerate for 1 to 48 hours.

Step 3: Prepare Grinder Slaw

Mix shredded iceberg lettuce, thinly sliced red onion, sliced pepperoncini, mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, dried dill, garlic powder, dried oregano, kosher salt, and black pepper until evenly coated. Refrigerate until needed.

Step 4: Grill Chicken

Preheat grill to medium-high heat and oil grates. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, brushing with buffalo wing sauce. Top each piece with cheese in the final minutes to melt.

Step 5: Toast Buns

Toast brioche buns until golden on the grill or in a toaster.

Step 6: Assemble Sandwiches

Assemble the grilled buffalo chicken, grinder slaw, and fresh tomato slices on the toasted brioche buns. Serve promptly.

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Storage Tips

After enjoying your delicious Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches, it’s important to store any leftovers properly to maintain their freshness. Wrap leftover grilled chicken in foil or store it in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. This helps preserve the flavor and juiciness of the chicken until you’re ready to enjoy it again. If you’ve made extra slaw, it can be stored separately and made one day ahead to keep the lettuce crisp. When batch prepping for the week, assemble the sandwiches fresh to prevent them from getting soggy, ensuring each bite stays satisfying.

For those looking to make ahead or freeze components of the dish, consider freezing raw marinated chicken in a resealable bag. Thaw it in the fridge before grilling for a convenient meal prep option. The buns also freeze well, so feel free to store them and warm them in the oven or on the grill when you’re ready to use them. Remember to make the slaw fresh when you’re ready to eat for the best texture and flavor. By storing your ingredients properly, you can enjoy your Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches even on busy days with minimal effort.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer a milder version of the sandwich, you can reduce the amount of cayenne pepper in the marinade or choose a mild buffalo sauce. Additionally, if you don’t have brioche buns on hand, you can opt for a potato bun or a sturdy sourdough roll as a substitute. These alternatives will still provide a delicious base for your grilled buffalo chicken sandwiches.

For the cheese, while Havarti or Pepperjack are recommended for their melting properties, you can easily swap them out with other cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or provolone based on your personal taste preferences. These cheeses will also add a gooey texture to your sandwich, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Feel free to experiment with different cheese varieties to find your favorite combination for this dish.

Serving Suggestions

For a delightful twist, try serving these Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches open-faced on a toasted brioche bun. Layer the grilled chicken, melty cheese, and tangy slaw on one side of the bun, leaving the other half exposed for a beautiful presentation. Top with a drizzle of extra buffalo sauce and a sprinkle of fresh dill for an elevated sandwich experience that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious.

Another fun serving suggestion is to turn these Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches into sliders for a crowd-pleasing appetizer at your next gathering. Use mini brioche buns or slider rolls to create individual-sized sandwiches that are perfect for snacking. Serve them on a large platter garnished with toothpicks and a side of extra buffalo sauce for dipping, allowing guests to enjoy a bite-sized burst of flavor with each slider they pick up.

FAQs for Delicious Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sandwich Recipe

Can I make the slaw ahead of time?

Yes, the slaw can be made a few hours ahead and refrigerated. Assemble sandwiches just before serving for the best texture.

What cheese can I use in the sandwiches?

Havarti or Pepperjack melt beautifully, but feel free to substitute with cheddar, mozzarella, or provolone if preferred.

How spicy are these sandwiches?

The cayenne pepper and buffalo sauce provide moderate heat. Adjust cayenne and sauce amounts based on your spice preference.

Can I grill the chicken indoors if I don’t have an outdoor grill?

If an outdoor grill isn’t available, use a grill pan or cast iron skillet on the stovetop for similar smoky results.

Conclusion

When it comes to putting a flavorful twist on your grilling nights, these Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches are a surefire hit. The combination of juicy chicken, zesty buffalo glaze, and melty cheese, all sandwiched between buttery brioche buns, is a recipe for pure delight. Whether it’s a summer BBQ or a cozy winter dinner, these sandwiches are versatile and always a crowd-pleaser.

Remember, the key to a successful dish lies in making it your own. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, spice levels, or even seasonal variations to suit your taste preferences. With a little creativity and a lot of love, these Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches can become a staple in your household, just as they have in mine. So fire up the grill, gather your loved ones, and enjoy the deliciousness that these sandwiches bring to your table. Happy grilling!

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Delicious Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sandwich Recipe

Delicious Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sandwich Recipe

Bold buffalo-glazed grilled chicken sandwiches with zesty slaw, melty cheese, and buttery brioche buns – a perfect blend of spice and comfort.
Prep Time25 min
Cook Time15 min
Total Time40 min
CuisineAmerican
Skill LevelEasy
Servings4 Servings (4 sandwiches)

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1/3 cup buffalo wing sauce
  • 2 teaspoons paprika
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts

Grinder Slaw

  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/3 cup mayonnaise
  • Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 6 pepperoncini, sliced
  • 4 cups shredded iceberg lettuce
  • 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried dill

Assembly

  • 1 tomato, sliced
  • Cheese slices, Havarti or Pepperjack
  • 4 brioche buns

Instructions

  1. Prepare Chicken: Flatten chicken breasts to even thickness. If large, halve for portion control.
  2. Marinate Chicken: Combine olive oil, kosher salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, buffalo wing sauce, and honey in a large bowl. Thoroughly coat chicken with marinade, cover, and refrigerate for 1 to 48 hours.
  3. Prepare Grinder Slaw: Mix shredded iceberg lettuce, thinly sliced red onion, sliced pepperoncini, mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, dried dill, garlic powder, dried oregano, kosher salt, and black pepper until evenly coated. Refrigerate until needed.
  4. Grill Chicken: Preheat grill to medium-high heat and oil grates. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, brushing with buffalo wing sauce. Top each piece with cheese in the final minutes to melt.
  5. Toast Buns: Toast brioche buns until golden on the grill or in a toaster.
  6. Assemble Sandwiches: Assemble the grilled buffalo chicken, grinder slaw, and fresh tomato slices on the toasted brioche buns. Serve promptly.