The Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich is a bold, crave-worthy twist on two beloved comfort foods. Spicy shredded chicken tossed in buffalo wing sauce and creamy ranch or blue cheese dressing is layered with melted mozzarella or cheddar, then grilled between buttery slices of golden bread. It’s quick, hearty, and delivers the ultimate gooey, spicy satisfaction in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This sandwich delivers the perfect balance of flavor and texture: crispy, buttery bread on the outside with a hot, cheesy, spicy interior. It’s ideal for lunch, a casual dinner, or game-day fare, and it’s a great way to use leftover chicken. Ready in just 20 minutes, this recipe turns everyday ingredients into an unforgettable comfort food meal that’s both easy and indulgent.
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1/3 cup buffalo wing sauce
- 1/4 cup ranch or blue cheese dressing
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (or a mix)
- 4 tablespoons butter, softened
- 8 slices sourdough or sandwich bread
directions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, buffalo wing sauce, and ranch or blue cheese dressing. Stir until well coated.
- Butter one side of each bread slice. Place 4 slices butter-side-down on a clean surface.
- Add a layer of shredded cheese on each bottom slice, followed by the buffalo chicken mixture, then a bit more cheese to help the sandwich hold together.
- Top each sandwich with a second slice of bread, butter-side-up.
- Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Grill the sandwiches for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted.
- Remove from heat, slice in half, and serve immediately. Serve with extra ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping if desired.
Servings and timing
- Servings: 4 sandwiches
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Calories per Serving: 485 kcal
Variations
- Add Bacon: Crumbled bacon adds a smoky, salty crunch.
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: For quick prep and extra flavor.
- Extra Heat: Mix in hot sauce or sliced jalapeños for more spice.
- Cheese Blend: Use pepper jack, gouda, or provolone for a twist on flavor.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve the filling in lettuce wraps or between grilled cauliflower slices.
storage/reheating
This sandwich is best enjoyed fresh. However, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat to restore crispiness, or in a toaster oven. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bread soggy.
FAQs
Can I use leftover chicken?
Yes, this recipe is perfect for using cooked or leftover rotisserie chicken.
What’s the best bread for grilled cheese?
Sourdough or thick sandwich bread offers the best structure and toasting surface.
Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?
It’s best prepared and cooked fresh, but the buffalo chicken mixture can be made ahead and refrigerated.
What cheese melts best in this recipe?
Mozzarella melts beautifully for a classic stretch, while cheddar adds a sharper flavor. Use both for the best results.
Can I bake these instead of pan-frying?
Yes, place on a baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway, though the texture may be less crispy.
How spicy is this sandwich?
It has a moderate heat. Adjust the buffalo sauce quantity to suit your spice preference.
What dressing works better—ranch or blue cheese?
Both are great. Ranch offers creamy balance, while blue cheese adds tangy depth. Choose based on your flavor preference.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Use plant-based butter, vegan cheese, and a dairy-free ranch or dressing substitute.
Can I freeze the sandwiches?
Freezing is not recommended, as the bread may become soggy upon reheating.
What sides go well with this sandwich?
Serve with fries, a green salad, coleslaw, or celery sticks with extra dressing for dipping.
Conclusion
The Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich is a fast, flavorful comfort food that brings spicy, creamy, cheesy goodness to the table in under 30 minutes. With its satisfying textures and bold taste, it’s sure to become a favorite for lunches, casual dinners, or anytime you crave a warm, indulgent meal. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a solo treat, this sandwich delivers classic comfort with a spicy kick.
Print
Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 sandwiches
Description
This Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich combines spicy shredded buffalo chicken, creamy dressing, and melty cheese between two slices of golden, buttery bread. It’s the perfect fusion of heat, crunch, and ooey-gooey comfort, ideal for lunch, dinner, or game day snacking.
Ingredients
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2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
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1/3 cup buffalo wing sauce
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1/4 cup ranch or blue cheese dressing
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1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (or a mix)
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4 tbsp butter, softened
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8 slices sourdough or sandwich bread
Instructions
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In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with buffalo sauce and ranch or blue cheese dressing until well combined.
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Butter one side of each bread slice. Place 4 slices butter-side-down on a clean surface.
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Layer each with cheese, a generous scoop of the buffalo chicken mixture, and a little more cheese on top to help bind the sandwich.
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Top with the remaining bread slices, butter-side-up.
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Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Grill each sandwich for 3–4 minutes per side until bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
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Slice in half and serve hot. Optional: Serve with extra ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
Notes
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Use leftover rotisserie chicken for a faster prep.
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Add sliced jalapeños or red onion for an extra kick.
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For crispier bread, press sandwiches gently with a spatula while grilling.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course / Sandwich
- Method: Grilled
- Cuisine: American
