Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sandwich Recipe

Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sandwich Recipe

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Buffalo Chicken Sandwich Recipe

Ingredients (4 Servings)

  • 4 (5 ounce) skinless, boneless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup bottled Buffalo wing sauce
  • Salt and ground black pepper, to taste
  • cup olive oil
  • 4 Ball Park Golden Hamburger Buns
  • 4 leaves Bibb lettuce
  • 4 slices beefsteak tomato
  • cup blue cheese salad dressing

Directions

Step 1: Preheat an outdoor grill to medium heat and lightly oil the grate.

Step 2: Brush the chicken breasts with the Buffalo wing sauce and season with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Grill the chicken breasts on the preheated grill. Baste with additional wing sauce while grilling, cooking until the chicken is no longer pink in the center, and the juices run clear. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach at least 165F (74C).

Step 4: Drizzle each hamburger bun with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Place the buns on the grill and cook until golden brown.

Step 5: Assemble the sandwiches: on the bottom half of each grilled bun, place a leaf of lettuce, followed by a slice of tomato. Add a grilled chicken breast on top, drizzle with 1 tablespoon of blue cheese dressing, and top with the other half of the bun.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories 569
Total Fat 29g
Saturated Fat 4g
Cholesterol 83mg
Sodium 2180mg
Total Carbohydrate 40g
Dietary Fiber 1g
Total Sugars 1g
Protein 38g
Vitamin C 4mg
Calcium 32mg
Iron 1mg
Potassium 330mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note: Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sandwich

The Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sandwich is an American culinary delight that combines the rich, bold flavors of Buffalo wings with the comfort of a classic chicken sandwich. The chicken is marinated in a tangy, spicy Buffalo wing sauce, grilled to perfection, and served with a creamy blue cheese dressing, crispy lettuce, and a slice of juicy tomato, all sandwiched between a golden, toasted bun. This dish is a favorite for those who love a bit of heat in their meals, offering the ideal balance of spice and coolness in every bite.

History of the Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sandwich

The Buffalo Chicken Sandwich has its roots in Buffalo, New York, where the iconic Buffalo wings were first created in 1964. The original recipe, created at the Anchor Bar by Teressa Bellissimo, quickly became a staple in American cuisine. The idea of pairing chicken with spicy sauce on a sandwich emerged later as a way to offer a similar bold flavor in a more portable and filling form. Over time, the sandwich gained popularity across the country and became a beloved item in both restaurants and home kitchens. While Buffalo wings remain the traditional dish, the sandwich adaptation has solidified its place in the hearts of food lovers everywhere.

Regional Variations

While the Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sandwich is beloved across the United States, its preparation and accompaniments can vary depending on the region. In the Northeastern parts of the U.S., where Buffalo wings originated, the sandwich is often paired with blue cheese dressing, reflecting the traditional sauce pairing for wings. However, in other parts of the country, ranch dressing might be used as an alternative. In some regions, the sandwich is made with fried chicken instead of grilled, adding a crispy texture to complement the spicy sauce. Additionally, in areas with a Southern influence, the sandwich might be served with pickles or spicy slaw for an extra layer of flavor.

Differences from Similar Dishes

What sets the Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sandwich apart from other chicken sandwiches, such as the classic fried chicken sandwich or the chicken Caesar sandwich, is the use of Buffalo wing sauce. This sauce, typically made from hot sauce, butter, and spices, provides a distinctive tangy heat that is not found in traditional chicken sandwiches. While other sandwiches might feature mayo or mustard as the condiment, the Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sandwich often uses blue cheese or ranch dressing to balance the heat, making it a more flavorful and fiery option. This contrast in flavor and the use of the Buffalo wing sauce makes the sandwich an exciting and spicy alternative to milder chicken sandwiches.

Where It Is Usually Served

The Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sandwich is a common menu item at many American diners, pubs, and casual dining restaurants. It is especially popular in establishments that specialize in wings, as it offers a sandwich version of the iconic dish. Many fast-casual restaurants and food trucks also feature this sandwich, often with a creative twist. It is a favorite among those who enjoy spicy food and is frequently served alongside classic side dishes like French fries, onion rings, or a side of celery sticks to cool down the heat.

Interesting Facts

  • While Buffalo wings were originally made with chicken wings, the Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sandwich uses chicken breasts, making it a heartier option for those who prefer breast meat over wings.
  • Buffalo wings were initially created as a late-night snack for a group of hungry patrons. Today, they are one of the most popular appetizers in the U.S.
  • The Buffalo Chicken Sandwich has become a common offering in fast food chains, often as a limited-time special or promotional item.
  • Many chefs experiment with different heat levels in the Buffalo wing sauce, from mild to extra spicy, catering to various tastes and spice tolerances.

FAQ about Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sandwich Recipe

Leftover buffalo chicken sandwiches can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It is best to separate the chicken from the buns to prevent the bread from becoming soggy. Reheat the chicken in the oven or microwave, and toast the buns separately if desired.

Yes, you can substitute buffalo wing sauce with another hot sauce or your preferred flavor of wing sauce. You can also use a mild barbecue sauce or teriyaki sauce for a different taste. Adjust the seasoning to match your preferred spice level.

Yes, you can cook the chicken breasts in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken and assemble the sandwiches. This makes for a convenient meal prep option.

Yes, you can freeze the grilled buffalo chicken breasts. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat.

If you don't like blue cheese, you can substitute with ranch dressing or a homemade yogurt-based dressing. You could also use a creamy Caesar dressing for a different flavor profile.

To make this sandwich healthier, consider using grilled chicken breast without the sauce or a low-fat version of blue cheese dressing. You can also opt for a whole-grain bun or a lettuce wrap instead of regular hamburger buns.

Yes, you can grill the buns on a stovetop. Simply heat a skillet over medium heat and toast the buns, drizzling them with olive oil just as you would on an outdoor grill. Toasting them in a pan will give them a nice crispiness.

Buffalo chicken sandwiches pair well with a side of crispy fries, coleslaw, or a simple salad. For a lighter option, you can serve them with carrot and celery sticks, or even a side of roasted vegetables.

Yes, you can use other types of lettuce, such as iceberg or romaine, as a substitute for Bibb lettuce. Just make sure the leaves are large enough to hold the chicken and toppings.

To make the sandwich spicier, you can add extra hot sauce to the buffalo wing sauce, or use a hotter variety of hot sauce. Additionally, you can sprinkle some cayenne pepper or sliced jalapeños onto the sandwich for an extra kick.

Comments

Barbara Carter

11/05/2023 08:44:18 PM

I flipped the rolls inside out, stuffed them with pepper jack cheese, and grilled to perfection.

Janet Collins

02/06/2023 05:14:51 PM

The sandwich was decent, but we actually enjoyed the dip more than the sandwich itself. I opted for iceberg lettuce instead of Bibb lettuce.