If you love bold flavors with a comforting twist, you are going to adore this Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe. It perfectly combines the rich, melty goodness of sharp cheddar cheese with spicy, tangy buffalo chicken in a crispy, buttery bread hug. This sandwich is like a party in your mouth that brings warmth, zest, and a splash of creamy ranch all in one handheld delight. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight supper or something to impress friends without fuss, this recipe hits every note just right.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients that each bring something unique to the table. From the spicy buffalo sauce that ignites the flavor to the savory sharp cheddar that melts perfectly, every item plays an essential role in creating that irresistible taste and satisfying texture.
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken: Rotisserie chicken works perfectly for tender, juicy meat without extra effort.
- ¼ cup buffalo wing sauce: The star of the show, providing that signature spicy kick.
- 2 tablespoons ranch dressing: Adds creamy coolness to balance the heat, blue cheese dressing can be a great substitute.
- 8 slices hearty bread: Sourdough or Texas toast offers the perfect sturdy and crispy base.
- 8 slices sharp cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a bold, tangy flavor to the sandwich.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened: Ensures the bread crisps up golden and buttery.
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened (optional): Adds a luscious, creamy texture that blends the filling even better.
- Optional add-ins: Crumbled blue cheese for more tang, sliced green onions for freshness, jalapeño slices for extra heat, or crisp romaine lettuce for crunch.
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe
Step 1: Make Buffalo Chicken Filling
Start by mixing your shredded chicken with buffalo wing sauce and ranch dressing in a bowl for that bold, zesty flavor combination. If you like your filling extra creamy, fold in softened cream cheese here; it helps everything bind together and adds an indulgent texture that’s hard to beat.
Step 2: Assemble the Sandwiches
Butter one side of each bread slice generously to get that golden crisp when grilled. On the unbuttered side, layer cheddar cheese first, then the buffalo chicken filling, followed by another layer of cheddar. The double cheese on both sides keeps the filling perfectly sealed and beautifully melty. Top with a second slice of bread, buttered side facing out.
Step 3: Grill the Sandwiches
Heat a skillet over medium heat and carefully place your sandwiches on the hot pan. Grill them for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until the bread turns golden brown and crispy and the cheese inside melts to gooey perfection. Press gently with a spatula during cooking to encourage even melting and a satisfying sandwich compactness.
Step 4: Slice and Serve Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe
Let your sandwiches rest for a minute after grilling to keep all the cheesy goodness contained when cut. Slice them in half and serve immediately with extra ranch dressing or buffalo sauce on the side for dipping. This finishing touch elevates the experience, making every bite just right.
How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of crumbled blue cheese or sliced green onions on top adds a pop of flavor and color, turning your sandwich into a truly irresistible treat. A few jalapeño slices also do wonders if you want to amplify the heat, while some crisp lettuce brings a refreshing crunch that balances the sandwich’s richness.
Side Dishes
Pair your Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich with simple sides like crunchy celery sticks or carrot sticks to keep the buffalo wing vibe going. A crisp green salad or tangy coleslaw also works beautifully to lighten the plate while complementing the sandwich’s flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your sandwiches cut diagonally with a small bowl of ranch or buffalo dip on the side for a fun, casual touch. For a party twist, make mini sliders using slider buns and hold everything together with colorful toothpicks. Presentation can be as simple or as festive as you like, and this recipe caters to both.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich tightly in foil or plastic wrap and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This way, you preserve the flavors and prevent the bread from drying out.
Freezing
You can freeze assembled but ungrilled sandwiches by wrapping each one well in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight before grilling as usual.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat to re-crisp the bread and melt the cheese fresh again. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make the bread soggy and chewy instead of crisp and delicious.
FAQs
What kind of chicken works best for this recipe?
Rotisserie chicken is ideal for its convenience and tenderness, but you can also use leftover cooked chicken breast or thighs shredded finely. The key is to have the chicken warm and juicy to soak up the buffalo sauce perfectly.
Can I adjust the spice level?
Absolutely! If you prefer it milder, simply reduce the amount of buffalo wing sauce or swap for a mild sauce. You can always add hot sauce on the side for anyone wanting extra heat.
Is there a dairy-free or vegan version?
You can create a dairy-free variant by using vegan cheese slices and a non-dairy cream cheese substitute, along with a dairy-free ranch dressing. For the chicken, plant-based shredded chicken alternatives work well too.
What’s the best bread for this sandwich?
A sturdy bread like sourdough or Texas toast is best since it holds up well to grilling and the juicy filling. It crisps beautifully without falling apart, giving the perfect crunch with every bite.
Can I add extra veggies to the sandwich?
Yes! Adding sliced jalapeños, green onions, or even some crispy lettuce gives fresh crunch and balances the creamy, spicy filling. Just be careful not to overload it, or the sandwich might become difficult to handle.
Final Thoughts
Trying the Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe will quickly turn it into one of your go-to comfort dishes. The effortless mix of spicy, creamy, and crispy elements creates a truly unforgettable sandwich experience. So gather your ingredients, fire up the skillet, and get ready to indulge in a melty masterpiece that’s sure to brighten any meal.
Print
Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 sandwiches
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese recipe combines spicy buffalo chicken with creamy ranch and melty sharp cheddar cheese, all sandwiched between buttery toasted bread. Perfect for a comforting lunch or dinner, it offers a flavorful twist on classic grilled cheese with a delicious buffalo chicken filling.
Ingredients
Buffalo Chicken Filling
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie works great)
- ¼ cup buffalo wing sauce
- 2 tablespoons ranch dressing (or blue cheese dressing)
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened (optional)
Sandwich
- 8 slices hearty bread (sourdough or Texas toast)
- 8 slices sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
Optional Add-Ins
- Crumbled blue cheese
- Sliced green onions
- Jalapeño slices
- Crisp romaine lettuce leaves
Instructions
- Make Buffalo Chicken Filling: In a medium bowl, combine shredded cooked chicken, buffalo wing sauce, and ranch dressing. If desired, add softened cream cheese and stir until the mixture is well blended and creamy.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Butter one side of each bread slice evenly. On the unbuttered side, layer one slice of cheddar cheese, then a generous amount of the buffalo chicken filling, and then another slice of cheddar cheese. Top with a second bread slice, making sure the buttered side is facing outward.
- Grill the Sandwiches: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Slice and Serve: Remove sandwiches from the skillet and let them rest for 1 minute. Slice each sandwich in half and serve immediately, optionally with extra ranch or buffalo sauce for dipping.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for quick preparation or cook and shred your own chicken breast.
- Feel free to add optional ingredients like jalapeños or blue cheese for extra flavor.
- Butter the bread evenly to ensure a crispy, golden crust during grilling.
- If you prefer a spicier sandwich, increase the amount of buffalo wing sauce in the filling.
- Serve with extra ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side as a dip.
