The first time I fried up a batch of crunchy buffalo chicken, it felt like I was unlocking a culinary secret that had been waiting for me. Picture this: the sound of sizzling chicken meeting the fiery embrace of zesty buffalo sauce, followed by the cool crunch of a creamy ranch slaw. This Crispy Buffalo Chicken Sandwich has become my go-to for game days or any day I crave something deliciously satisfying.
Not only is this sandwich a flavor powerhouse, but it’s also remarkably customizable—from taming the heat for family dinners to keeping it gluten-free for your guests. Each bite delivers a delightful balance of spice and crunch that transforms any ordinary meal into a festive occasion. So grab your apron and let’s dive into a recipe that’s destined to become a family favorite!
Why is this Buffalo Chicken Sandwich irresistible?
Bold flavors: The crispy fried chicken coated in zesty buffalo sauce creates a flavor explosion that keeps you coming back for more.
Creamy contrast: Topped with a refreshing ranch slaw, the coolness balances the heat perfectly.
Customizable heat: Easily adjust the spice level to match your taste, making it family-friendly or party-ready.
Quick and easy: With straightforward steps, this recipe is as simple as it is delicious—ideal for busy weeknights!
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for game day, gatherings, or simply treating yourself, it’s bound to impress friends and family alike.
Dive deeper into meal prep ideas to elevate your next gathering with this sandwich!
Buffalo Chicken Sandwich Ingredients
• Get ready to create your mouth-watering buffalo chicken sandwich masterpiece!
For the Chicken
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – Main protein source, tender and juicy when fried.
- Buttermilk – Marinates the chicken, enhancing flavor and moisture; you can substitute with milk and vinegar if unavailable.
- All-Purpose Flour – Creates a crispy coating when dredged; a gluten-free all-purpose blend works as a great alternative.
- Cornstarch – Adds extra crunch to the coating.
- Garlic Powder – Brings savory depth to the batter.
- Onion Powder – Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Paprika – Provides color and a subtle flavor boost.
- Cayenne Pepper – Adds heat; adjust according to your taste or omit for a milder sandwich.
- Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning the chicken.
For the Buffalo Sauce
- Buffalo Sauce – This key flavor element delivers that classic kick; choose mild or hot based on your preference.
For the Slaw
- Green and Purple Cabbage – Offers crunch and freshness in the slaw.
- Carrots – Adds sweetness and vibrant color to the slaw.
- Fresh Parsley and Dill – These herbs enhance the flavor of the ranch slaw beautifully.
- Mayonnaise and Sour Cream – The creamy base for the ranch slaw, low-fat versions can be used as substitutes.
- Lemon Juice and Apple Cider Vinegar – Provide acidity to balance the slaw’s flavors; they are essential for that tangy kick.
For Assembly
- Brioche Buns – Soft and slightly sweet, they are perfect for sandwich assembly and complement the buffalo chicken.
With these ingredients, you are fully equipped to create a delicious and unforgettable buffalo chicken sandwich that your friends and family will rave about!
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Sandwich
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Marinate Chicken: In a bowl, mix together buttermilk, salt, and cayenne. Submerge your chicken breasts in this mixture and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, up to 24 hours for deeper flavor and moisture.
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Make Ranch Slaw: In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, parsley, dill, salt, and pepper until smooth. Fold in the shredded cabbage and carrots, and refrigerate to allow the flavors to meld.
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Prepare Dredge: In a separate bowl, combine all-purpose flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Remove marinated chicken from the fridge, letting excess buttermilk drip off, and dredge in the flour mixture until well coated.
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Fry Chicken: Heat oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken pieces for about 6-8 minutes or until they are golden brown and have reached an internal temperature of 165°F. Place them on a wire rack to keep crisp.
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Sauce Chicken: Toss the fried chicken in your favorite buffalo sauce, ensuring each piece is generously coated. Adjust the amount based on how spicy you want your sandwich to be.
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Assemble Sandwich: Toast brioche buns lightly. Place a piece of buffalo chicken on each bun, generously load it up with ranch slaw, and close the sandwich. Serve while hot!
Optional: Add sliced pickles for a tangy crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Crispy Buffalo Chicken Sandwich?
Imagine the satisfying crunch of a crispy buffalo chicken sandwich paired with delightful sides that enhance your meal’s overall experience.
- Homemade Fries: Crispy, golden fries complement the spicy chicken perfectly, adding a satisfying crunch to each bite.
- Tangy Pickles: Their sharpness cuts through the richness of the sandwich, providing a refreshing contrast with each mouthful.
- Cucumber Salad: A light and tangy salad adds a cool, refreshing element to balance the heat of the buffalo sauce. Perfect for a bright side!
- Corn on the Cob: The sweetness of corn on the cob enhances the sandwich’s bold flavors, while the buttery finish offers a comforting touch.
- Coleslaw: A simple side of classic coleslaw echoes the ranch slaw in the sandwich, creating a textural harmony that your taste buds will love.
- Beer or Lemonade: A cold beer or a refreshing glass of lemonade perfectly complements the zesty flavors, making for an enjoyable meal experience.
These delightful pairings will elevate your crispy buffalo chicken sandwich into a feast that everyone will remember!
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches are a fantastic choice for meal prep! To save time, marinate the chicken in buttermilk and spices up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for deeper flavor. Additionally, you can prepare the ranch slaw 1-2 days ahead. Simply mix the slaw and refrigerate it to maintain its crispness. For the chicken, it’s important to fry it fresh just before serving to keep that delightful crunch. When you’re ready to enjoy your sandwiches, quickly fry the marinated chicken, toss it in buffalo sauce, and assemble with the prepped slaw. This thoughtful prep means delicious, restaurant-quality sandwiches with minimal last-minute effort!
Buffalo Chicken Sandwich Variations
Ready to add your own spin to this flavorful classic? Let your creativity shine as you explore these exciting twists!
- Chicken Thighs: Swap chicken breasts for thighs, yielding a juicier, more flavorful bite that pairs beautifully with buffalo sauce.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve your buffalo chicken without the bun, using lettuce wraps instead for a fresh and healthy twist. You can still enjoy that satisfying crunch!
- Spice Level: Adjust the heat by using a milder buffalo sauce or omitting cayenne pepper for a family-friendly version everyone will enjoy.
- Rainbow Slaw: Mix it up by including colorful slaw veggies like red bell peppers or radishes for extra crunch and vibrancy.
- Cheesy Addition: Top the fried chicken with a slice of pepper jack or cheddar cheese while it’s still hot for a melty, cheesy delight.
- Herb-Infused Ranch: Experiment with different herbs like cilantro or chives in your ranch slaw for unique flavor profiles that tantalize the taste buds.
- Sweet Heat: Use a buffalo sauce infused with honey or maple syrup for a delightful mix of sweet and spicy that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
- Baked Option: For a healthier take, bake the chicken instead of frying for a lighter alternative that still packs a flavor punch.
Feel free to experiment and find the perfect variation that speaks to your taste buds!
How to Store and Freeze Buffalo Chicken Sandwich
Fridge: Store leftover buffalo chicken and ranch slaw separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: You can freeze the fried buffalo chicken pieces for up to 2 months. Make sure they are cooled completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil.
Reheating: To reheat, bake frozen chicken at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes until heated through and crispy. Avoid microwaving to maintain texture.
Assembling Tips: If you want to keep the sandwich fresh, assemble just before serving. Store individual components to enjoy that crispy texture in your delicious buffalo chicken sandwich!
Expert Tips for the Best Buffalo Chicken Sandwich
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Double-Dip for Crispiness: For an extra crispy outer layer, consider double-dipping the chicken in the flour dredge before frying.
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Resting is Key: Always let fried chicken rest on a wire rack, which prevents soggy bottoms and maintains that delightful crunch for your Buffalo Chicken Sandwich.
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Prep Slaw Ahead: Make the ranch slaw 1-2 hours in advance. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste experience.
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Uniform Thickness: Ensure that chicken pieces are evenly thick when frying. This guarantees consistent cooking and helps avoid dry spots or undercooked areas.
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Spice Adjustment: Customize the heat by adjusting the cayenne pepper and buffalo sauce to suit your taste buds or those of your guests.
Crispy Buffalo Chicken Sandwich with Ranch Slaw Recipe FAQs
What type of buttermilk should I use for the marination?
Absolutely! You can use store-bought buttermilk for marinating the chicken, or you can easily make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, and it will curdle slightly, mimicking the tangy flavor and texture of buttermilk.
How should I store leftover buffalo chicken and ranch slaw?
Very simply! Store the leftover fried buffalo chicken and ranch slaw in separate airtight containers. The chicken will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge, while the slaw can last for about 2 to 3 days as well. Make sure to keep them separate to maintain the texture of each component.
Can I freeze the buffalo chicken? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze the buffalo chicken, let it cool completely after frying. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a resealable freezer bag or an airtight container. This way, it can be stored for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, bake the frozen chicken at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes until heated through and crispy.
What if the buffalo chicken turns out soggy?
If you find your buffalo chicken isn’t as crispy as you’d like, there are ways to remedy this. First, ensure that you allow the chicken to drain on a wire rack after frying. If you’re faced with soggy leftovers, simply reheat in the oven (not the microwave) at a high temperature (around 400°F/200°C) for about 10 minutes to regain some of that crunchy texture.
Is this recipe suitable for people with gluten allergies?
Very much so! To make a gluten-free buffalo chicken sandwich, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Always check your buffalo sauce and any additional ingredients for gluten, as some may contain hidden gluten. Enjoy the same mouthwatering flavor without compromising on your dietary needs!
What is the best way to ensure the chicken is properly cooked?
To ensure that your chicken is cooked through and safe to eat, use a meat thermometer. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This not only guarantees safety but also helps you achieve that juicy internal texture while maintaining a crispy exterior.
Crispy Buffalo Chicken Sandwich with Ranch Slaw Magic
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Marinate Chicken: In a bowl, mix together buttermilk, salt, and cayenne. Submerge your chicken breasts in this mixture and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, up to 24 hours for deeper flavor and moisture.
- Make Ranch Slaw: In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, parsley, dill, salt, and pepper until smooth. Fold in the shredded cabbage and carrots, and refrigerate to allow the flavors to meld.
- Prepare Dredge: In a separate bowl, combine all-purpose flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Remove marinated chicken from the fridge, letting excess buttermilk drip off, and dredge in the flour mixture until well coated.
- Fry Chicken: Heat oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken pieces for about 6-8 minutes or until they are golden brown and have reached an internal temperature of 165°F. Place them on a wire rack to keep crisp.
- Sauce Chicken: Toss the fried chicken in your favorite buffalo sauce, ensuring each piece is generously coated. Adjust the amount based on how spicy you want your sandwich to be.
- Assemble Sandwich: Toast brioche buns lightly. Place a piece of buffalo chicken on each bun, generously load it up with ranch slaw, and close the sandwich. Serve while hot!