Buffalo Chicken Sandwich

This Buffalo Chicken Sandwich is a crowd-pleaser that packs a punch of flavor. Perfect for game days, family gatherings, or a casual weekend treat, this sandwich combines crispy fried chicken coated in spicy buffalo sauce with refreshing toppings. With its balance of heat and coolness from the ranch or blue cheese dressing, it’s an irresistible option for anyone who loves bold flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold Flavors: The combination of spicy buffalo sauce and crunchy toppings creates a taste explosion.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe accessible for all skill levels.
• Versatile: Customize your sandwich with various toppings like tomato slices or pickles to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s game day or a casual dinner, this sandwich fits right in.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the delicious flavors of this buffalo chicken sandwich.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to make everything run smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Deep skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Wire rack or paper towels
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Deep Skillet: Allows for proper frying, ensuring the chicken cooks evenly and becomes crispy.
• Mixing Bowls: Essential for marinating the chicken and mixing the dry ingredients without mess.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness
• 1/2 cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tsp lemon juice)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• Oil, for frying

For the Buffalo Sauce

• 1/3 cup hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional for balance)

For the Sandwich

• 4 brioche or hamburger buns, toasted
• Ranch or blue cheese dressing
• Lettuce leaves
• Tomato slices (optional)
• Pickles (optional)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Buffalo Chicken Sandwich

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts to the mixture. Let them marinate for 20–30 minutes or refrigerate overnight for more flavor.

Step 2: Prep for Frying

In another bowl, mix together flour and cornstarch with a pinch of salt and pepper. Heat oil in a deep skillet until it reaches 350°F (175°C).

Step 3: Coat & Fry

Remove marinated chicken from the bowl. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing firmly to coat. Fry in hot oil for about 3–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Ensure that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Drain the chicken on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate.

Step 4: Make Buffalo Sauce

In a small saucepan over low heat, melt butter. Stir in hot sauce and honey until well combined. Toss the hot fried chicken in buffalo sauce to coat evenly.

Step 5: Assemble Sandwiches

Spread ranch or blue cheese dressing on both sides of each toasted bun. Layer in buffalo chicken followed by lettuce leaves. If desired, add tomato slices and pickles on top.

Step 6: Serve

Serve your delicious buffalo chicken sandwiches hot alongside fries, coleslaw, or your favorite cold drink!

How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Sandwich

Serving a Buffalo Chicken Sandwich can be a delightful experience. There are numerous ways to elevate this spicy, savory delight that will satisfy your hunger and impress your guests.

Pair with Classic Sides

• French Fries: Crispy fries are a perfect match, providing a satisfying crunch that complements the sandwich’s heat.
• Coleslaw: The cool, creamy texture of coleslaw balances the spiciness of the buffalo sauce wonderfully.
• Potato Wedges: Seasoned and baked or fried potato wedges offer a hearty side that’s easy to prepare.

Add Freshness

• Garden Salad: A light garden salad adds freshness and helps cut through the richness of the chicken.
• Pickle Chips: Adding pickle chips on the side enhances the tangy flavor profile of the sandwich.
• Cucumber Slices: Cool cucumber slices can refresh your palate between bites of spicy chicken.

Drink Pairings

• Iced Tea: Sweet iced tea offers a refreshing contrast to the heat of the buffalo sauce.
• Craft Beer: A cold craft beer pairs well and can enhance the flavors of your spicy chicken sandwich.

How to Perfect Buffalo Chicken Sandwich

To create an unforgettable Buffalo Chicken Sandwich, follow these tips for achieving the ideal flavor and texture.

• Marinate Thoroughly: Allowing the chicken to marinate in buttermilk not only tenderizes but also infuses it with flavor.
• Use Quality Hot Sauce: Choose a high-quality hot sauce for authentic taste; Frank’s RedHot is a popular choice among enthusiasts.
• Achieve Crispy Coating: Ensure your oil is at 350°F (175°C) before frying for that perfect golden-brown crispiness.
• Toss in Sauce Immediately: Coat your fried chicken in buffalo sauce right after frying for better adhesion and flavor absorption.
• Customize Your Toppings: Experiment with toppings like jalapeños or avocado for added taste and texture variations.
• Serve Freshly Made: For the best experience, serve your sandwiches hot off the stove for maximum crunch and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Buffalo Chicken Sandwich

Complementing your Buffalo Chicken Sandwich with delicious sides can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Sweet Potato Fries: These provide a sweet contrast to spicy chicken and are packed with nutrients. Bake or fry for best results.
2. Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese adds richness, making it a comforting side next to spicy flavors.
3. Onion Rings: Crispy onion rings deliver an extra crunch that pairs perfectly with the sandwich’s flavors.
4. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn brings sweetness and crunch; add butter and herbs for extra flair.
5. Baked Beans: Smoky baked beans offer a hearty addition that complements both the spiciness and crunchiness of the sandwich.
6. Potato Salad: A chilled potato salad can balance out heat while adding creaminess to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Buffalo Chicken Sandwich can be straightforward, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using the wrong chicken thickness: If the chicken breasts are not pounded to an even thickness, they can cook unevenly. Make sure to pound them evenly to ensure consistent cooking.

• Over-marinating the chicken: While marinating adds flavor and tenderness, too long in buttermilk can make the chicken mushy. Aim for 20–30 minutes or up to overnight in the fridge.

• Not heating oil properly: If the oil isn’t hot enough, the chicken will absorb too much oil and become soggy. Use a thermometer to maintain an oil temperature of 350°F (175°C).

• Skipping the double coating: For extra crunch, don’t skip dredging the marinated chicken in flour and cornstarch. This step is essential for that crispy texture.

• Being generous with sauce: While it’s tempting to drench your sandwich in sauce, too much can make it soggy. Coat evenly instead of pouring on excess buffalo sauce.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover buffalo chicken sandwiches in an airtight container.
• They can last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Buffalo Chicken Sandwich

• Wrap individual sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container; they will keep well for about 2 months.

Reheating Buffalo Chicken Sandwich

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the sandwich on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Place the sandwich on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until warm; be careful not to overheat as this can make it chewy.

• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a little oil or butter, then place the sandwich in the pan. Heat for about 5 minutes per side until warmed through and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Buffalo Chicken Sandwich?

A Buffalo Chicken Sandwich features crispy fried chicken coated in spicy buffalo sauce, served on a bun with toppings like ranch dressing and lettuce.

Can I make this Buffalo Chicken Sandwich ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken and prepare the buffalo sauce ahead of time. Just fry and assemble when you’re ready to serve.

What sides pair well with Buffalo Chicken Sandwich?

This sandwich pairs perfectly with fries, coleslaw, or even a fresh garden salad for balance.

How can I customize my Buffalo Chicken Sandwich?

You can customize your sandwich by adding different toppings such as avocado, jalapeños, or substituting buffalo sauce with barbecue sauce for a milder flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Buffalo Chicken Sandwich is not just delicious but also highly versatile, making it perfect for game days or casual gatherings. You can easily customize it with your favorite toppings or sauces based on your preferences. Give it a try—your taste buds will thank you!