Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches Recipe

Chicken breasts: The main protein for the dish, providing a tender and juicy base for the buffalo sauce.

Buffalo sauce: A tangy and spicy sauce that gives the chicken its signature flavor.

Ranch seasoning mix: Adds a creamy and herby flavor that complements the buffalo sauce perfectly.

Sandwich buns: The vessel for your delicious buffalo chicken, providing a soft and slightly sweet contrast.

Coleslaw: Optional, but adds a refreshing crunch and balances the heat of the buffalo sauce.

To ensure the chicken breasts absorb maximum flavor, consider marinating them in the buffalo sauce and ranch seasoning mix for a few hours before placing them in the slow cooker. This allows the spices to penetrate the meat more deeply, resulting in a more flavorful and tender buffalo chicken.

• chicken breasts - Substitute with turkey breasts: Turkey breasts have a similar texture and can absorb flavors well, making them a good alternative to chicken breasts.

• chicken breasts - Substitute with tofu: For a vegetarian option, tofu can be used as it absorbs the buffalo sauce well and provides a similar protein content.

• buffalo sauce - Substitute with sriracha mixed with melted butter: This combination can mimic the spicy and buttery flavor profile of buffalo sauce.

• buffalo sauce - Substitute with barbecue sauce: For a different flavor profile, barbecue sauce can be used, though it will be sweeter and less spicy.

• ranch seasoning mix - Substitute with Italian seasoning mix: Italian seasoning can provide a different but complementary flavor to the dish.

• ranch seasoning mix - Substitute with garlic powder, onion powder, and dried dill: This combination can replicate the herby and savory notes of ranch seasoning.

• sandwich buns - Substitute with lettuce wraps: For a low-carb option, lettuce wraps can be used to hold the buffalo chicken.

• sandwich buns - Substitute with whole wheat buns: Whole wheat buns offer a healthier alternative with more fiber and nutrients.

• coleslaw - Substitute with sliced avocado: Avocado provides a creamy texture and healthy fats, making it a good alternative to coleslaw.

• coleslaw - Substitute with pickled vegetables: Pickled vegetables add a tangy crunch that complements the spicy buffalo chicken.

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can lead to soggy sandwich buns.
• Transfer the shredded buffalo chicken into an airtight container. Make sure to include some of the buffalo sauce to keep the chicken moist.
• Store the container in the refrigerator if you plan to consume the sandwiches within 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, place the buffalo chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label it with the date to keep track of freshness.
• When ready to use, thaw the buffalo chicken in the refrigerator overnight.
• Reheat the chicken in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of buffalo sauce if needed to maintain moisture.
• Toast the sandwich buns lightly before assembling to add a bit of crunch and prevent sogginess.
• If using coleslaw, store it separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Add it to the sandwiches just before serving to keep it crisp and fresh.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the buffalo chicken in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. This method helps retain moisture and keeps the chicken tender.

• For a quick reheat, use the microwave. Place the buffalo chicken in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes. Stir halfway through to ensure even heating.

• If you have a stovetop, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the buffalo chicken and a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it moist. Stir occasionally and heat until the chicken is thoroughly warmed.

• For a crispy texture, reheat the buffalo chicken in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F, place the chicken in the basket, and heat for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

• To reheat the sandwich buns, wrap them in foil and place them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. Alternatively, you can lightly toast them in a skillet or toaster for a few minutes until they are warm and slightly crispy.

• If you have leftover coleslaw, keep it chilled and add it to the sandwich just before serving to maintain its crunch and freshness.

• Slow cooker: A countertop electrical cooking appliance used to simmer at a lower temperature than other cooking methods, perfect for making tender chicken.

• Measuring cup: Used to measure the buffalo sauce accurately.

• Mixing bowl: Useful for combining the buffalo sauce and ranch seasoning mix before pouring over the chicken.

• Forks: Essential for shredding the cooked chicken into fine pieces.

• Tongs: Handy for placing the shredded chicken onto the sandwich buns.

• Sandwich buns: The base for serving the buffalo chicken, providing a soft and sturdy structure.

• Coleslaw: An optional topping that adds a crunchy texture and a refreshing contrast to the spicy chicken.

• Serving platter: Ideal for arranging the prepared sandwiches for serving.

Use pre-cooked chicken: Save time by using pre-cooked chicken breasts from the store. Just shred and mix with buffalo sauce and ranch seasoning mix.

Instant pot option: If you have an Instant Pot, cook the chicken on high pressure for 15 minutes instead of using a slow cooker.

Pre-made coleslaw: Buy pre-made coleslaw from the deli section to save time on preparation.

Buffalo sauce shortcut: Use a buffalo sauce that already includes ranch flavor to skip the step of adding ranch seasoning mix.

Meal prep: Shred and mix the chicken in advance, then store it in the fridge. Just reheat and assemble the sandwiches when ready to eat.