There is something truly magical about a sandwich that combines the spicy kick of buffalo chicken with the gooey, melty comfort of a grilled cheese. This Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe is my absolute favorite when I crave a meal that’s bursting with flavor yet ridiculously easy to make. The tender shredded chicken tossed in buffalo sauce blends perfectly with creamy ranch and two types of cheese, all hugged by golden, buttery bread. If you’re ready to elevate your ordinary grilled cheese to something spectacularly delicious, this recipe is exactly what you need.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this sandwich lies in its straightforward ingredients, each chosen for the perfect balance of flavor and texture. From the spicy buffalo sauce that adds a punch, to the creamy ranch that cools things down, every component plays a vital role in making this sandwich unforgettable.
- 1 ½ cups cooked shredded chicken breast: A lean and protein-packed base that soaks up all those spicy flavors.
- ¼ cup buffalo wing sauce: This brings the iconic fiery zest that makes the sandwich exciting.
- 2 tablespoons ranch dressing: Adds a smooth, tangy contrast that balances the heat perfectly.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened: Essential for that golden, crispy bread with a rich buttery taste.
- 8 slices sourdough or white sandwich bread: Your canvas—the sturdiness of sourdough or softness of white bread provides a great texture contrast.
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese: The mild melting champion that creates a lovely stretch with every bite.
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Contributes a deeper, tangy flavor to complement the mozzarella and chicken mix.
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Buffalo Chicken Mixture
Start by gently mixing the shredded chicken with the buffalo wing sauce and ranch dressing in a medium bowl until everything is combined evenly. This combo is the heart of the sandwich—the spicy and creamy filling that brings all the flavor magic to life.
Step 2: Butter the Bread Slices
Take each slice of bread and spread a thin layer of softened butter on one side. This step is crucial because it ensures the bread crisps up beautifully and becomes a golden brown masterpiece when cooked.
Step 3: Assemble Your Sandwiches
Place four slices of bread on a clean surface, buttered side down. Evenly layer each slice with shredded mozzarella cheese first, then a generous scoop of the buffalo chicken mixture, and finally, top it with sharp cheddar cheese. Finish by placing the remaining slices of bread on top, buttered side facing up. This layering balances moisture and cheese melt to perfection.
Step 4: Cook the Sandwiches
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Carefully place the sandwiches into the pan. Cook each side for about 3 to 4 minutes, gently pressing down with a spatula to ensure even cooking and that satisfying golden crust. Flip and repeat until the bread is toasted and the cheese inside is beautifully melted. This part is always a rewarding moment because the kitchen fills with the most inviting aroma.
How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or green onions on top adds a fresh, vibrant note and a pop of color that makes the sandwich feel a little extra special. You can also offer blue cheese crumbles for those who adore that tangy contrast.
Side Dishes
This sandwich pairs wonderfully with crisp celery sticks or carrot sticks to echo traditional buffalo wing sides, balancing out the richness. A crunchy pickle or a handful of kettle-cooked chips also works perfectly for added texture and zest.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider cutting the sandwich into manageable triangles for a fun finger-food vibe at parties. Or, serve it alongside a small bowl of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping the edges into melty, creamy goodness. For a bold twist, pair it with a light side salad featuring crisp greens and a tangy vinaigrette.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, wrap the sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store them in the refrigerator. They’re best enjoyed within 2 days to keep the bread from becoming soggy and the flavors vibrant.
Freezing
You can freeze assembled but uncooked sandwiches by wrapping them well in plastic wrap and foil to protect from freezer burn. When you’re ready, thaw them overnight in the fridge before cooking them fresh on the skillet for optimal texture and taste.
Reheating
To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat to crisp the bread back up while melting the cheese again—avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the bread chewy. Covering the sandwich loosely with foil after the bread crisps will help melt the cheese evenly.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella and cheddar offer a great balance of melt and flavor, feel free to experiment with pepper jack for extra spice or provolone for a smoky touch. Just choose cheeses that melt well to keep your grilled cheese gooey.
Is this recipe very spicy?
The spice level depends on your buffalo wing sauce choice. Most store-bought sauces have a moderate heat, which is nicely balanced by ranch dressing, but you can adjust the heat by choosing a milder or hotter sauce or adding extra hot sauce if you really love the burn.
Can I make this sandwich vegetarian?
You can swap the shredded chicken for a plant-based chicken alternative or even spicy roasted cauliflower for a veggie version that keeps the spirit of the buffalo flavors alive!
What bread works best for this recipe?
Sourdough is my top pick because it crisps up beautifully and holds the filling without getting soggy quickly. White sandwich bread is a lighter option and also works well for a softer crust.
Can I prepare the buffalo chicken ahead of time?
Definitely! The buffalo chicken mixture can be made in advance and refrigerated for up to 2 days. This makes assembly quick and easy, especially if you’re planning to serve these sandwiches for a gathering or busy weeknight dinner.
Final Thoughts
This Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe is a joyful mashup of spicy, creamy, and cheesy goodness that’s guaranteed to brighten up your mealtime. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll become a cherished go-to whenever you want comfort food with a little kick. So grab those ingredients, get cooking, and prepare for a taste sensation that’s all about bold flavors and simple, satisfying pleasure!
Print
Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A deliciously spicy and cheesy Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese sandwich combining tender shredded chicken tossed in buffalo wing sauce and ranch dressing, layered with mozzarella and sharp cheddar cheeses on buttery toasted sourdough bread. Perfect as a hearty lunch or dinner with a kick of heat and creamy textures.
Ingredients
Chicken Mixture
- 1 ½ cups cooked shredded chicken breast
- ¼ cup buffalo wing sauce
- 2 tablespoons ranch dressing
Sandwich
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 8 slices sourdough or white sandwich bread
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Mixture: In a medium bowl, thoroughly combine the cooked shredded chicken breast with buffalo wing sauce and ranch dressing until the chicken is evenly coated with the sauce mixture, giving the sandwich its characteristic spicy and tangy flavor.
- Butter the Bread: Spread softened unsalted butter evenly on one side of each slice of bread, which will help create a golden, crispy exterior when cooked.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Place 4 slices of bread buttered side down on a clean work surface. Evenly distribute the shredded mozzarella cheese over each slice, then layer the buffalo chicken mixture on top of the cheese. Sprinkle shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the chicken, and finally top with the remaining bread slices, buttered side up to seal the sandwich.
- Cook the Sandwiches: Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the assembled sandwiches onto the hot surface. Cook for 3–4 minutes on each side, pressing gently with a spatula to help meld the ingredients and ensure even toasting. The goal is to achieve a golden brown crust on the bread and fully melted cheeses inside.
- Serve Warm: Once cooked, carefully remove the sandwiches from the skillet, slice in half if desired, and serve immediately to enjoy the warm, gooey, and spicy flavors at their best.
Notes
- Add extra heat by mixing in a few dashes of hot sauce to the chicken mixture before assembling the sandwiches.
- For a bolder flavor profile, substitute blue cheese dressing in place of ranch dressing.
