Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese: The Ultimate Spicy Comfort Food

Buffalo chicken grilled cheese: prepare to meet your new favorite comfort food! Imagine the tangy, spicy kick of buffalo chicken melded with the gooey, melty goodness of a perfectly grilled cheese sandwich. It’s a flavor explosion that will leave you craving more. Forget boring lunches or predictable dinners; this recipe is a game-changer.

While the exact origins of the buffalo chicken grilled cheese are shrouded in mystery (unlike its buffalo wing and grilled cheese sandwich predecessors!), it’s a delicious fusion of two American classics. Buffalo wings, born in Buffalo, New York, are a symbol of casual, spicy indulgence. The grilled cheese, a humble yet beloved staple, represents simple, comforting satisfaction. Combining these two iconic dishes creates something truly special.

What makes this buffalo chicken grilled cheese so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The creamy cheese contrasts beautifully with the spicy chicken, while the crispy bread adds a satisfying crunch. It’s also incredibly easy and quick to make, perfect for a weeknight meal or a weekend treat. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable – you can adjust the spice level, add different cheeses, or even throw in some veggies. Get ready to experience a grilled cheese like never before!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (I prefer Frank’s RedHot)
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 slices of your favorite bread (I love sourdough or Texas toast)
• 4 tablespoons butter, softened
• 8 ounces cheddar cheese, shredded
• 4 ounces blue cheese, crumbled (optional, but highly recommended!)
• 2 tablespoons ranch dressing (optional, for dipping)
• 2 tablespoons celery, finely diced (optional, for serving)

Preparing the Buffalo Chicken:

1. First, let’s get that chicken ready! Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the buffalo wing sauce, melted butter, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This is going to be our flavorful marinade.
3. Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and toss to coat them evenly in the buffalo sauce mixture. Make sure every piece is covered!
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it will be. I usually aim for at least an hour.
5. Now, it’s time to cook the chicken. You can grill it, bake it, or pan-fry it. I prefer grilling for that smoky flavor, but I’ll give you instructions for all three methods.

Grilling Instructions:

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
2. Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade and discard the marinade.
3. Grill the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to be sure!
4. Once cooked through, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before shredding.

Baking Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade and discard the marinade.
4. Place the chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Once cooked through, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before shredding.

Pan-Frying Instructions:

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade and discard the marinade.
3. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. Once cooked through, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes before shredding.

6. After the chicken has rested, shred it using two forks. It should pull apart easily.
7. Place the shredded chicken back into the bowl with any remaining buffalo sauce from the marinade (or add a little extra if you like it extra saucy!). Toss to coat.

Assembling the Grilled Cheese:

1. Now for the fun part! Spread softened butter on one side of each slice of bread. This will be the outside of your grilled cheese.
2. Place four slices of bread, butter-side down, on a clean work surface.
3. Top each slice of bread with a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese. Don’t be shy!
4. Next, add a layer of the shredded buffalo chicken on top of the cheddar cheese.
5. If you’re using blue cheese, sprinkle it over the chicken. The blue cheese adds a fantastic tang that complements the buffalo sauce perfectly.
6. Top with another layer of cheddar cheese. This will help hold everything together.
7. Place the remaining four slices of bread on top, butter-side up.

Cooking the Grilled Cheese:

1. Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. This is important! You want the cheese to melt completely without burning the bread.
2. Carefully place the sandwiches in the skillet. Don’t overcrowd the pan; you may need to cook them in batches.
3. Cook for about 3-5 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and gooey. You can gently press down on the sandwiches with a spatula to help them cook evenly.
4. If the bread is browning too quickly but the cheese isn’t fully melted, you can reduce the heat slightly or cover the skillet with a lid for a minute or two to help the cheese melt.
5. Once the grilled cheese sandwiches are cooked to perfection, remove them from the skillet and place them on a cutting board.
6. Let them cool for a minute or two before slicing in half. This will prevent the cheese from oozing out everywhere.

Serving and Enjoying:

1. Slice the grilled cheese sandwiches in half diagonally.
2. Serve immediately.
3. If you like, you can serve the grilled cheese with a side of ranch dressing for dipping. It’s a classic combination!
4. For an extra touch, sprinkle some finely diced celery over the top of the sandwiches. The celery adds a nice crunch and a refreshing flavor.
5. Enjoy your delicious and easy Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese! This is one of my favorite comfort food recipes, and I hope you love it as much as I do.

Tips and Variations:

• Spice it up: If you like your buffalo chicken extra spicy, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the buffalo sauce mixture.
• Different cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even provolone would be delicious in this grilled cheese.
• Add veggies: You can add some sliced tomatoes, onions, or bell peppers to the grilled cheese for extra flavor and nutrients.
• Make it a wrap: Instead of using bread, you can use tortillas to make buffalo chicken wraps. Just fill the tortillas with the buffalo chicken and cheese, then grill or pan-fry them until golden brown.
• Air Fryer Grilled Cheese: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Assemble the grilled cheese as directed. Place the sandwiches in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overlapping. Cook for 4-6 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
• Crock Pot Buffalo Chicken: For an even easier preparation, you can cook the chicken in a slow cooker. Place the chicken breasts in the crock pot, pour the buffalo sauce mixture over them, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Shred the chicken and use it in the grilled cheese as directed.
• Make it ahead: You can prepare the buffalo chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes it easy to whip up a quick and delicious grilled cheese whenever you’re in the mood for it.

Storage Instructions:

Leftover Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, you can pan-fry it in a skillet over medium-low heat until heated through and the bread is crispy. You can also reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Microwaving is not recommended, as it can make the bread soggy.

Conclusion:

So, there you have it! This Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese isn’t just another sandwich; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try because it takes the comfort of a classic grilled cheese and kicks it up several notches with the spicy, tangy goodness of buffalo chicken. It’s the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and zesty, all nestled between two slices of perfectly toasted bread. What’s not to love?

But the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. I used a combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack for that ultimate melt, but provolone, pepper jack, or even a little blue cheese would be fantastic additions, each bringing its own unique character to the party.

Looking for serving suggestions? I personally love pairing this Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese with a side of cool, crisp celery sticks and a creamy blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping. It helps balance the heat and adds a refreshing element to the meal. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette would also be a great choice. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with a bowl of tomato soup – the acidity of the soup cuts through the richness of the sandwich beautifully.

And don’t be afraid to get creative with variations! If you’re not a fan of grilled cheese (though I can’t imagine why!), you could use the buffalo chicken filling in quesadillas, sliders, or even as a topping for nachos. For a lighter option, try stuffing it into bell peppers and baking them. The possibilities are truly endless!

Spice Level Adjustments

If you’re sensitive to spice, you can easily adjust the amount of buffalo wing sauce to your liking. Start with a smaller amount and taste as you go, adding more until you reach your desired level of heat. Conversely, if you’re a spice fanatic like me, feel free to crank it up! A dash of cayenne pepper or a few drops of your favorite hot sauce will definitely do the trick.

Bread Choices

Don’t underestimate the importance of the bread! While I used sourdough for its tangy flavor and sturdy texture, you can use any bread you prefer. Texas toast, brioche, or even a hearty multigrain bread would all work well. Just make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold all that delicious filling.

Vegetarian Option

For a vegetarian twist, substitute the chicken with cauliflower florets. Toss the cauliflower in the buffalo wing sauce and roast them until tender before adding them to the grilled cheese. You’ll be surprised at how delicious and satisfying this vegetarian version is!

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! I truly believe it will become a new favorite in your household. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor – perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.

So, go ahead, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience the ultimate Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese. And please, don’t be shy! I’d love to hear about your experience. Share your photos, your variations, and your thoughts in the comments below. Let me know what you think, what you changed, and how you made it your own. Happy cooking! I can’t wait to see what you create!