A Buffalo Chicken Sandwich is the perfect combination of crispy fried chicken, spicy Buffalo sauce, and creamy toppings, all served on a buttery toasted bun. It delivers just the right amount of heat, crunch, and flavor, making it a must-try for spicy food lovers and sandwich enthusiasts alike.
Unlike traditional chicken sandwiches, the Buffalo version is tossed in a zesty, buttery hot sauce that gives it its signature tangy heat. Whether you’re making it fried, grilled, or air-fried, this sandwich is juicy, crispy, and packed with bold flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Buffalo Chicken Sandwich
✔️ Crispy, Spicy, & Flavorful – Perfect balance of crunch and heat.
✔️ Customizable – Choose your bun, cheese, and toppings to make it your own.
✔️ Restaurant-Quality at Home – Skip the takeout and make a better version in your own kitchen.
✔️ Perfect for Any Occasion – Serve it for game days, family dinners, or weekend cravings.
For more spicy chicken inspiration, check out Garlic Parmesan Sauce as a delicious dipping option or Southern Cornbread Recipe for a perfect side dish!
What is a Buffalo Chicken Sandwich?
A Buffalo Chicken Sandwich is a crispy fried or grilled chicken breast coated in spicy Buffalo sauce, served on a soft bun with toppings like lettuce, pickles, cheese, and a creamy dressing to balance the heat. It’s a spicy, tangy, and satisfying alternative to a traditional chicken sandwich.
Buffalo Chicken vs. Nashville Hot Chicken
| Feature | Buffalo Chicken | Nashville Hot Chicken |
|---|---|---|
| Heat Level | Spicy, but buttery & tangy | Very spicy, oil-based heat |
| Cooking Style | Tossed in Buffalo sauce | Fried & brushed with hot oil & spices |
| Sauce Base | Butter & hot sauce | Cayenne-infused hot oil |
| Flavor Profile | Tangy, spicy, slightly creamy | Smoky, fiery, and bold |
| Typical Toppings | Ranch, blue cheese, lettuce | Pickles, white bread |
Buffalo chicken is less oily, more tangy, and pairs well with creamy sauces like ranch or blue cheese dressing.
Why Buffalo Sauce Works So Well on Sandwiches
✔️ The vinegar in the sauce cuts through richness, making every bite balanced.
✔️ The buttery texture of the sauce sticks perfectly to crispy fried chicken.
✔️ The spice level is just right, creating an addictive kick of heat without overpowering.
Now that you know what makes a Buffalo Chicken Sandwich special, let’s go over the essential ingredients needed to make the perfect one!
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Buffalo Chicken Sandwich
Creating the ultimate Buffalo Chicken Sandwich requires a crispy, juicy chicken fillet, the perfect Buffalo sauce, and fresh toppings. Here’s everything you’ll need to make a restaurant-quality sandwich at home.
Key Ingredients for the Chicken
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Chicken Breasts or Thighs | The main protein—breasts for leaner meat, thighs for extra juiciness. |
| Buttermilk | Tenderizes the chicken and helps the coating stick. |
| Flour & Cornstarch | Creates a light, crispy breading. |
| Eggs | Helps bind the breading to the chicken. |
| Buffalo Sauce | The star of the sandwich—spicy, buttery, and tangy. |
| Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder | Enhances the flavor of the breading. |
| Oil for Frying | Ensures a golden, crispy exterior. |
Buffalo Sauce Ingredients
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Hot Sauce (Frank’s RedHot preferred) | The base of Buffalo sauce, provides heat and tang. |
| Butter | Adds richness and helps coat the chicken evenly. |
| Garlic Powder | Enhances depth of flavor. |
| Worcestershire Sauce | Adds umami and complexity. |
| Honey (optional) | Balances the spice with a touch of sweetness. |
Best Buns for a Buffalo Chicken Sandwich
| Bun Type | Texture & Best For |
|---|---|
| Brioche Bun | Soft, slightly sweet, enhances richness. |
| Potato Bun | Light, fluffy, holds up to sauce well. |
| Ciabatta Roll | Crisp crust, chewy inside—great for extra texture. |
| Sesame Seed Bun | Classic fast-food-style sandwich bun. |
Best Cheese for a Buffalo Chicken Sandwich
| Cheese Type | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|
| Blue Cheese | Tangy, creamy, classic Buffalo pairing. |
| Pepper Jack | Spicy, melty, enhances heat. |
| Cheddar Cheese | Sharp, rich, adds depth. |
| Swiss Cheese | Mild, creamy, complements spice. |
Toppings & Extras
| Topping | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Lettuce | Adds a fresh, cooling crunch. |
| Pickles | Tangy contrast to spicy sauce. |
| Coleslaw | Creamy, balances heat with sweetness. |
| Onions | Sharp, crisp bite for texture. |
Now that you have the perfect ingredients lined up, let’s move on to how to cook the best Buffalo Chicken Sandwich step by step!
Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Buffalo Chicken Sandwich
Follow this easy step-by-step process to create a crispy, spicy, and juicy Buffalo Chicken Sandwich at home. Whether you fry, bake, or air fry your chicken, this method ensures the perfect sandwich every time.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Pound the Chicken – If using chicken breasts, pound them to an even thickness (about ½ inch thick) to ensure even cooking.
- Marinate in Buttermilk – In a bowl, combine:
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Let the chicken soak for at least 30 minutes (or up to 12 hours for extra tenderness).
Step 2: Make the Breading
In a shallow dish, mix:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra spice)
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
- Remove chicken from buttermilk, letting excess drip off.
- Dredge in the flour mixture, pressing firmly to create a thick, even coating.
- Let the breaded chicken rest for 10 minutes—this helps the breading stick.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
| Cooking Method | Instructions | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Deep Frying | Heat oil to 350°F (175°C), fry for 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown. | Crispiest texture |
| Air Frying | Spray with oil, air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway. | Healthier option |
| Baking | Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway. | Crispy, but lighter texture |
Step 5: Make the Buffalo Sauce
While the chicken is cooking, melt in a saucepan:
- ½ cup Frank’s RedHot Sauce (or preferred hot sauce)
- ¼ cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for a slight sweetness)
Whisk together and keep warm.
Step 6: Toss & Assemble the Sandwich
- Coat the cooked chicken in Buffalo sauce—dip or brush it on for even coverage.
- Toast the buns in butter for extra flavor.
- Assemble the sandwich:
- Place lettuce or coleslaw on the bottom bun.
- Add the Buffalo chicken on top.
- Layer with blue cheese, ranch, or pickles.
- Cover with the top bun and serve immediately.
Now that your Buffalo Chicken Sandwich is ready, let’s move on to the best buns and cheeses to pair with it!
Best Buns for a Buffalo Chicken Sandwich
The right bun is crucial for a great Buffalo Chicken Sandwich. It should be soft enough to bite into easily but sturdy enough to hold up to the crispy chicken and Buffalo sauce without falling apart.
Top Bun Choices for Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches
| Bun Type | Texture & Best For |
|---|---|
| Brioche Bun | Buttery, slightly sweet, soft yet sturdy. Perfect for balancing the heat of Buffalo sauce. |
| Potato Bun | Light, fluffy, and great at soaking up sauce without getting soggy. |
| Ciabatta Roll | Crisp crust, chewy inside. Ideal for those who love a firmer sandwich bite. |
| Sesame Seed Bun | Classic fast-food-style bun. Holds up well and adds slight crunch. |
| Pretzel Bun | Dense, slightly salty, and great for a gourmet touch. |
Pro Tips for Choosing the Perfect Bun
✔️ For extra flavor, toast the bun with butter or garlic butter before assembling the sandwich.
✔️ For added crunch, lightly grill the bun instead of toasting it in a pan.
✔️ For a lower-carb option, try a lettuce wrap instead of a bun.
Now that we’ve picked the perfect bun, let’s talk about the best cheeses to pair with a Buffalo Chicken Sandwich!
Best Cheese and Toppings for a Buffalo Chicken Sandwich
Adding cheese and toppings to your Buffalo Chicken Sandwich can take it from great to next-level delicious. The right combination of creamy, crunchy, and tangy elements balances the heat and enhances the overall flavor.
Best Cheese for a Buffalo Chicken Sandwich
| Cheese Type | Flavor Profile & Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Blue Cheese | Classic pairing with Buffalo sauce; tangy, bold, and creamy. |
| Pepper Jack | Adds an extra spicy kick to complement the Buffalo sauce. |
| Cheddar Cheese | Sharp, rich, and melts well for a gooey texture. |
| Swiss Cheese | Mild, creamy, and slightly nutty—pairs well with pickles. |
| Mozzarella | Melty and mild, adds a smooth, creamy texture. |
Best Toppings for a Buffalo Chicken Sandwich
| Topping | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Lettuce | Adds a fresh, cooling crunch. |
| Tomato Slices | Juicy and slightly sweet, balances the spice. |
| Pickles | Tangy and crisp, cuts through the richness. |
| Coleslaw | Creamy, slightly sweet, and helps mellow out the heat. |
| Sliced Red Onions | Adds a sharp, crisp bite for contrast. |
| Avocado Slices | Creamy texture that balances the spiciness. |
Best Condiments for a Buffalo Chicken Sandwich
| Condiment | Flavor & Pairing |
|---|---|
| Ranch Dressing | Creamy, cools down the heat, a classic pairing. |
| Blue Cheese Dressing | Tangy and rich, balances Buffalo sauce. |
| Honey Mustard | Sweet and tangy contrast to the spice. |
| Garlic Aioli | Adds a smooth, garlicky richness. |
Pro Tips for Assembling the Perfect Buffalo Chicken Sandwich
✔️ For extra crunch, add crispy fried onions or an extra layer of shredded lettuce.
✔️ For a creamy balance, drizzle ranch or blue cheese dressing over the chicken.
✔️ For a unique twist, swap pickles for pickled jalapeños to add even more heat!
Now that we’ve perfected the bun, cheese, and toppings, let’s move on to the best side dishes to serve with a Buffalo Chicken Sandwich!
Side Dishes That Pair Well with a Buffalo Chicken Sandwich
A Buffalo Chicken Sandwich is packed with spicy, crispy, and tangy flavors, so choosing the right side dish can enhance the meal while balancing the heat. Whether you prefer classic comfort foods or lighter, refreshing options, here are some perfect pairings for your sandwich.
Best Classic Side Dishes
| Side Dish | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| French Fries | A crispy, salty contrast to the spicy Buffalo sauce. |
| Sweet Potato Fries | Slightly sweet, which helps balance the heat. |
| Onion Rings | Crunchy, crispy, and slightly sweet. |
| Tater Tots | Small, crispy bites that complement the sandwich. |
| Mac and Cheese | Creamy, cheesy, and balances out the spiciness. |
Lighter & Refreshing Side Options
| Side Dish | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Coleslaw | Creamy and slightly sweet, which cools down the spice. |
| Side Salad | A fresh, crisp salad with a light dressing balances the sandwich’s richness. |
| Grilled Vegetables | Smoky and slightly charred, a great contrast to the fried chicken. |
| Cucumber Salad | Refreshing and crunchy, ideal for cutting through the heat. |
| Pickle Spears | Tangy and acidic, helps cleanse the palate. |
Best Dipping Sauces for a Buffalo Chicken Sandwich
| Sauce | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|
| Ranch Dressing | Creamy, cooling, and classic with Buffalo sauce. |
| Blue Cheese Dressing | Tangy and bold, a traditional Buffalo pairing. |
| Honey Mustard | Sweet and tangy, balances out the heat. |
| Chipotle Mayo | Smoky and spicy, great for extra flavor. |
| Garlic Parmesan Sauce | Rich, creamy, and adds extra depth. |
Pro Tips for Serving the Best Buffalo Chicken Sandwich Meal
✔️ For a restaurant-style meal, serve the sandwich with crispy fries and ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side.
✔️ For a lighter meal, pair it with coleslaw, a cucumber salad, or fresh veggies.
✔️ For extra crunch, add a side of fried pickles or onion rings.
Now that your Buffalo Chicken Sandwich meal is complete, let’s go over how to store and reheat leftovers so they stay crispy and delicious!
How to Store and Reheat a Buffalo Chicken Sandwich
If you have leftover Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches, storing and reheating them properly will keep them crispy and delicious without getting soggy. Follow these tips to maintain the crunch and flavor.
How to Store a Buffalo Chicken Sandwich
| Storage Method | Best For | How Long? | Storage Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Leftover sandwich | 2–3 days | Store chicken and bun separately to prevent sogginess. |
| Freezer | Fried chicken only | Up to 2 months | Freeze chicken before tossing in Buffalo sauce for best texture. |
How to Reheat a Buffalo Chicken Sandwich
| Reheating Method | Steps | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Oven | Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place chicken on a baking sheet, heat for 10–15 minutes. | Restores crispiness and keeps the chicken juicy. |
| Air Fryer | Heat at 375°F (190°C) for 5–7 minutes. | Best for maintaining crunch. |
| Skillet | Heat on medium-low with a bit of butter or oil for 3–5 minutes per side. | Adds crispiness without drying out. |
| Microwave | Heat in 30-second intervals, but chicken may become soft. | Quickest option, best if you re-toast the bun separately. |
Pro Tips for Storing & Reheating
✔️ For best texture, store chicken, bun, and toppings separately and assemble fresh.
✔️ Never reheat fried chicken in the microwave alone—it will lose its crispiness.
✔️ Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results to bring back the crunch.
Now that you know how to store and reheat your Buffalo Chicken Sandwich, let’s go over common FAQs to answer any last-minute questions!
FAQs About Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches
Is a Buffalo Chicken Sandwich healthy?
It depends on how it’s prepared! A fried Buffalo Chicken Sandwich is higher in calories due to the breading and frying process. However, a grilled version with a whole wheat bun and lighter toppings can be a healthier option while still keeping the bold flavor.
Is Buffalo sauce good on sandwiches?
Yes! Buffalo sauce adds a perfect balance of heat, tanginess, and buttery richness that complements crispy or grilled chicken. It also pairs well with cooling toppings like ranch, blue cheese, lettuce, or coleslaw.
What pairs well with Buffalo chicken?
✔️ Crispy sides like French fries, onion rings, or sweet potato fries
✔️ Creamy sides like mac & cheese or coleslaw to balance the spice
✔️ Dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese dressing for cooling contrast
✔️ Refreshing drinks like iced tea or a cold beer
Is Buffalo sauce OK for weight loss?
Buffalo sauce itself is low in calories, but when combined with fried chicken and heavy toppings, it can be high in fat. If you’re watching your calories, try a grilled Buffalo chicken sandwich with a lighter dressing like Greek yogurt ranch.
Is Buffalo a good meat or bad for you?
This Buffalo Chicken Sandwich is made with chicken, not buffalo meat! However, buffalo (bison) meat is actually leaner than beef and high in protein, making it a great choice for a healthy diet.
Now that your Buffalo Chicken Sandwich questions are answered, let’s wrap up with why you’ll love this recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
A Buffalo Chicken Sandwich is the perfect combination of crispy, spicy, and creamy flavors, making it an irresistible meal for any occasion. Whether you prefer fried or grilled chicken, this sandwich is easy to make at home and can be customized with different buns, cheeses, and toppings to suit your taste.
✔️ Crispy & Spicy – Perfectly fried (or grilled) chicken coated in zesty Buffalo sauce.
✔️ Completely Customizable – Choose your bun, cheese, and toppings to make it your own.
✔️ Great for Any Occasion – Ideal for game day, family dinners, or weekend cravings.
✔️ Pairs Well with Classic Sides – Enjoy it with fries, onion rings, or coleslaw for a complete meal.
Now it’s time to grab your favorite Buffalo sauce, toppings, and buns and make the best Buffalo Chicken Sandwich ever!
For more spicy and flavorful recipes, check out:
- Garlic Parmesan Sauce – A delicious dipping option for your sandwich.
- Southern Cornbread Recipe – A perfect side dish for any meal.
- Crispy Rice Salad – A fresh and crunchy salad to balance the spice.
Buffalo Chicken Sandwich
Equipment
- Large mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Shallow dish for breading
- Tongs
- Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed skillet
- Air fryer or oven (alternative cooking methods)
- Wire rack (for draining fried chicken)
- Saucepan (for Buffalo sauce)
- Spatula or butter knife (for toasting buns)
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for extra juiciness)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch for extra crispiness
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for extra spice
- 1 large egg beaten
- Oil for frying vegetable or peanut oil
- For the Buffalo Sauce:
- ½ cup Frank’s RedHot Sauce or preferred hot sauce
- ¼ cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon honey optional, for a slight sweetness
Instructions
- If using chicken breasts, pound them to an even thickness (about ½ inch thick).
- In a bowl, mix buttermilk, salt, garlic powder, black pepper, and paprika.
- Marinate the chicken in this mixture for at least 30 minutes (or up to 12 hours for extra tenderness).
- In a shallow dish, combine flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
- In a separate bowl, beat the egg.
- Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, letting the excess drip off.
- Dredge the chicken in the flour mixture, dip it in the beaten egg, then coat it again in the flour mixture for a thick, crispy coating.
- Let the breaded chicken rest for 10 minutes to help the breading stick.
- Deep Frying: Heat oil to 350°F (175°C), fry for 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Air Frying: Spray with oil, air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Baking: Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway
- In a saucepan, melt butter over low heat.
- Stir in hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and honey.
- Keep warm for coating the chicken.
- Toss the cooked chicken in the warm Buffalo sauce.
- Toast the buns in butter for extra flavor.
- Layer the bottom bun with lettuce or coleslaw.
- Place the Buffalo chicken on top, followed by cheese and pickles.
- Drizzle with ranch or blue cheese dressing.
- Cover with the top bun and serve immediately.
Notes
Adjust the spice level by adding more or less cayenne pepper to the breading.
Try different cheeses like Swiss, cheddar, or mozzarella for unique flavor twists.
Serve with classic sides like French fries, onion rings, or a side salad.
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