Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese: Easy and Spicy Sandwich Recipe
When you’re craving a spicy, cheesy, and satisfying meal that comes together in no time, there’s nothing quite like a Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese. This hearty sandwich combines tender shredded chicken tossed in spicy buffalo sauce with gooey melted cheese, all crisped to perfection between two slices of golden-brown bread. Whether you’re looking for the best sandwich recipes to upgrade your lunch, searching for a fun way to use leftover chicken, or needing a quick health dinner recipe, this Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese is exactly what you need.
This recipe is perfect for busy families, college students, or anyone who loves comfort food with a kick. Not only is it easy to customize with different cheeses and breads, but it’s also quick enough for a weekday meal yet special enough for a weekend treat. Ready to find out why this sandwich will become your new favorite?
Why You’ll Love This Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese
There are so many reasons to fall head over heels for this Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese. First and foremost, it is incredibly flavorful — combining the spicy tang of buffalo sauce with the rich, creamy goodness of melted cheese. Plus, it’s a great way to repurpose leftover chicken, saving time and reducing waste.
Moreover, this sandwich is super versatile. You can tweak the spice level to suit your taste, swap in your favorite cheeses, or even add extras like ranch dressing or avocado for an extra flavor punch. Because it’s cooked quickly in a skillet, you’ll have a piping-hot sandwich ready in under 20 minutes. Whether for lunch, dinner, or a filling afternoon snack, it hits the spot every time.
Ingredients for Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese
Here’s what you’ll need to create this mouthwatering sandwich:
- 2 slices of hearty bread (like sourdough or rustic white)
- 1/2 cup cooked shredded chicken (about 75 grams)
- 2 tablespoons buffalo sauce (plus more if desired)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (about 56 grams)
- 2 tablespoons shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter, softened
- Optional extras: ranch dressing, sliced green onions, blue cheese crumbles
Fresh, good-quality ingredients truly make a difference, so use your favorite buffalo sauce and a nice sharp cheddar for maximum flavor.
Essential Kitchen Equipment
To prepare this delicious Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese, you’ll need just a few basic tools:
- Non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan
- Spatula
- Small bowl (for mixing chicken and buffalo sauce)
- Cheese grater (if shredding cheese fresh)
- Butter knife
- Cutting board
Having everything ready beforehand will make the cooking process even smoother and faster.
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese: Step-by-Step
First, begin by mixing the shredded chicken with the buffalo sauce in a small bowl until the chicken is evenly coated. Adjust the amount of sauce to match your preferred spice level.
Next, butter one side of each slice of bread. Place one slice, butter side down, in a preheated non-stick skillet over medium heat. Then, layer half of the cheddar cheese onto the bread, top with the buffalo chicken mixture, sprinkle the mozzarella cheese, and add the remaining cheddar cheese. Finish by placing the second slice of bread on top, butter side up.
Cook the sandwich for 3–4 minutes on one side until the bread is golden brown and crispy. Carefully flip using a spatula and cook for another 3–4 minutes, pressing down gently to ensure even melting and crispness.
Once the cheese is melted and the bread is perfectly toasted, remove the sandwich from the skillet. Let it sit for 1–2 minutes before slicing, which helps the cheese set slightly and makes slicing neater. Serve immediately, with extra buffalo sauce or ranch dressing if desired!
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
While making a grilled cheese sandwich seems simple, there are a few common mistakes that could hinder your results. Firstly, avoid using too high of a heat, as it will burn the bread before the cheese has a chance to melt. Medium heat is your best friend here.
Secondly, don’t overload the sandwich. While it’s tempting to stuff it full, too much filling can make the sandwich difficult to cook evenly. Also, remember to butter the bread evenly — dry spots can lead to uneven browning.
Finally, resist the urge to move the sandwich around too much while it cooks. Letting it sit helps develop that perfect, golden crust.
Tips for the Perfect Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese
For the absolute best Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese experience, keep these tips in mind. First, use a sturdy bread that can hold up to the moist chicken and melty cheese without falling apart. Sourdough or thick white bread works wonderfully.
Next, don’t skimp on the butter. It’s key to getting that perfectly crisped, golden exterior. Pressing the sandwich gently with your spatula as it cooks will help the cheese melt evenly and the fillings stay cohesive.
If you want to get extra fancy, sprinkle a little bit of grated parmesan cheese on the outside of the bread before grilling for a savory, cheesy crust.
Delicious Variations and Swaps
This Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese is already packed with flavor, but you can easily switch things up to suit your tastes! Here are some fun variations:
- Add Veggies: Toss in thinly sliced celery or spinach for a little crunch and freshness.
- Extra Heat: Mix a few dashes of hot sauce into the buffalo chicken for a spicier kick.
- Creamier Version: Spread a thin layer of ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing on the inside of the bread before adding fillings.
- Different Cheeses: Try provolone, gouda, or pepper jack cheese for a fun twist.
Because the possibilities are endless, you can create a new version every time you make it!
Serving and Presentation Ideas for Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese
Presentation is half the fun, even with something as humble as a grilled cheese. For a casual meal, simply slice the sandwich in half and stack the halves slightly overlapping on a plate.
If you’re serving a crowd, consider slicing the sandwiches into quarters for easy sharing. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped green onions or serve alongside a small bowl of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
For a more elegant presentation, pair the sandwich with a small mixed green salad and a lemon vinaigrette. Even a simple sandwich can look gourmet with a little care!
How to Store and Reheat Leftover Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese
If you have leftovers — though it’s unlikely — you can easily store and reheat them. Wrap the cooled sandwich tightly in foil or place it in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 2 days.
When ready to enjoy, reheat the sandwich in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through and the bread crisps back up. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bread soggy. If you must use a microwave, wrap the sandwich in a paper towel to absorb moisture.
For best flavor and texture, enjoy the sandwich freshly made whenever possible.
What to Serve with Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese
This spicy, cheesy sandwich pairs beautifully with a variety of sides! Here are some perfect, family-friendly options:
- Crisp celery sticks with ranch dip
- Tomato basil soup or creamy potato soup
- Fresh fruit salad
- Sweet potato fries or regular baked fries
- Cucumber and cherry tomato salad
As for drinks, opt for lemonade, iced tea, or sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon to balance the spicy buffalo flavor.
Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese FAQs
Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?
Yes! Shredded rotisserie chicken works perfectly for this recipe and adds a wonderful roasted flavor.
How spicy is this sandwich?
It depends on the buffalo sauce you use. Choose a mild buffalo sauce if you prefer less heat, or add hot sauce for extra spiciness.
Can I bake the sandwich instead of pan-frying?
You can! Assemble the sandwich, brush the outside with melted butter, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 8 minutes, flipping halfway through.
What bread is best for grilled cheese sandwiches?
A sturdy bread like sourdough, Texas toast, or a hearty white loaf is ideal because it crisps nicely without becoming soggy.
Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?
You can prepare the buffalo chicken filling ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble and cook the sandwich fresh to maintain the perfect texture.
Conclusion
The Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese sandwich is everything you could want in comfort food: cheesy, spicy, crispy, and satisfying. It’s quick enough for a busy weeknight yet indulgent enough for a weekend treat. Plus, it’s flexible enough to customize with your favorite cheeses and toppings, making it one of the best sandwich recipes you’ll ever add to your collection.
We hope you try making this delicious sandwich soon! Don’t forget to share your creations and tag us online. If you loved this recipe, make sure to subscribe to our blog for even more incredible meals, tips, and food inspiration!
PrintBuffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese: Easy and Spicy Sandwich Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 sandwich 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese is spicy, cheesy, and quick to make! A perfect way to transform leftover chicken into a comforting, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
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2 slices hearty bread (sourdough or rustic white)
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1/2 cup cooked shredded chicken
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2 tablespoons buffalo sauce
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1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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2 tablespoons shredded mozzarella cheese
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1 tablespoon butter, softened
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Optional: ranch dressing, green onions, blue cheese crumbles
Instructions
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Prepare the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix the shredded chicken with buffalo sauce until evenly coated. -
Assemble the Sandwich:
Butter one side of each bread slice. Place one slice, butter side down, in a preheated skillet. Layer half of the cheddar cheese, the buffalo chicken, mozzarella, then the remaining cheddar cheese. Top with the second slice of bread, butter side up. -
Cook the Sandwich:
Grill over medium heat for 3–4 minutes until golden brown. Flip carefully and cook another 3–4 minutes, pressing lightly with a spatula.
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Serve:
Remove from heat, let cool 1–2 minutes, then slice and serve with ranch dressing or extra buffalo sauce if desired.
Notes
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Use sturdy bread to avoid sogginess.
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For a creamier sandwich, add a layer of ranch or blue cheese dressing inside.
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Lightly pressing the sandwich while grilling helps melt the cheese evenly.