As the sun sets on a warm evening, the sizzling sound of chicken on the grill fills the air, and a rush of anticipation tingles through me. These Smoky Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches bring back memories of backyard BBQs and carefree summer nights. Juicy grilled chicken, doused in a tangy buffalo sauce, is perfectly complemented by a creamy, crunchy slaw, making this dish the ultimate comfort food. Not only is this recipe quick to prep and cook, but the customizable toppings mean everyone can create their perfect sandwich to suit their taste buds. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a casual weeknight dinner or hosting a weekend get-together, this recipe promises not only to satisfy but also to impress. Ready to find out how to make this mouthwatering delight? Let’s dive in!

Why are these sandwiches so irresistible?

Juicy, Flavorful Chicken: The grilled chicken, marinated in zesty buffalo sauce, offers a burst of flavor that’s hard to resist. Customizable Toppings: With options like creamy slaw and fresh veggies, each bite can be tailored to you and your guests’ preferences. Simple to Make: Quick preparation means you can have dinner on the table in no time. Perfect for Gatherings: Ideal for summer BBQs or cozy weeknight meals, these sandwiches are sure to impress. Pair with a side of crispy fries or a fresh salad for a complete meal!

Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sandwich Ingredients

For the Chicken

Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – The hearty base for your sandwiches; using thighs enhances flavor.
Olive Oil – Adds moisture during grilling; avocado oil works as a great substitute.
Kosher Salt – Enhances the chicken’s flavor; feel free to use sea salt or table salt instead.
Paprika – Gives color and depth; try smoked paprika for an extra layer of flavor.
Garlic Powder – Infuses savory notes; fresh garlic can elevate the flavor profile even more.
Onion Powder – Adds sweetness and taste; fresh onions can be used in the slaw for extra crunch.
Cayenne Pepper – Delivers heat; adjust according to your spice tolerance or swap for milder chili powder.
Buffalo Wing Sauce – The star ingredient for bold flavor; substitute with homemade hot sauce for a different kick.
Honey – Balances the spiciness; maple syrup is a great vegan alternative.

For the Sandwich

Brioche Buns – A soft, buttery base for your delicious creation; gluten-free or sourdough options are also available.
Tomato (sliced) – Adds freshness and juiciness; consider using avocados for a creamy texture.
Cheese Slices (Havarti or Pepperjack) – Contributes creaminess; blue cheese or cheddar can be excellent alternatives.

For the Crunchy Grinder Slaw

Shredded Iceberg Lettuce – Provides a refreshing crunch; romaine adds more flavor if desired.
Red Onion (thinly sliced) – Injects sharpness into your slaw; switch to green onions for a milder taste.
Pepperoncini (sliced) – Introduces a tangy heat; jalapeños can raise the spice level, or omit for a milder dish.
Mayonnaise – Offers creaminess to the slaw dressing; Greek yogurt is a lighter option.
Red Wine Vinegar – Cuts through the richness; apple cider vinegar makes a good substitute.
Dried Dill, Garlic Powder, Dried Oregano – Enhance the flavor composition; fresh herbs provide a vibrant touch.

Now you have everything you need to create those delightful Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches! Each ingredient plays a crucial role in delivering the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Let’s get cooking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by placing the boneless skinless chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet, pound the chicken to an even thickness of about ½ inch, ensuring uniform cooking. If the breasts are particularly large, cut them in half for more manageable pieces. This step guarantees juicy Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches that cook evenly on the grill.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, buffalo wing sauce, and honey until smooth. Coat the pounded chicken breasts in the marinade, ensuring they are fully covered. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, but up to 48 hours for maximum flavor infusion. This marinating stage elevates the taste profile of your sandwiches.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill
While the chicken marinates, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, approximately 400°F (205°C). Once the temperature is reached, carefully oil the grill grates with a paper towel dipped in oil to prevent sticking. This step is vital for achieving those beautiful grill marks and ensuring a perfect cook for your Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Place the marinated chicken breasts on the hot grill. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on one side, until the undersides are a rich golden brown and grill marks appear. Flip the chicken and grill for an additional 5-6 minutes on the other side. To create a flavorful glaze, brush the chicken with extra buffalo sauce during the last minute of cooking.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Toast Buns
If you’re adding cheese to your sandwiches, place the slices on the chicken during the last minute of grilling. Close the grill lid to help melt the cheese perfectly. After removing the chicken, place the brioche buns on the grill to toast for about 1-2 minutes until golden brown. This ensures that the Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches have a deliciously crispy base.

Step 6: Assemble the Sandwiches
Once everything is grilled to perfection, it’s time to assemble your sandwiches. Start by placing a generous piece of the grilled buffalo chicken on the bottom of each toasted brioche bun. Top with a handful of the crunchy grinder slaw, then add slices of fresh tomato. Finish with the top bun, squeezing it gently to hold it all together and creating the perfect Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sandwich.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your delicious Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches immediately while they’re warm. Pair them with crispy fries or a fresh salad for a complete meal. The combination of smoky chicken, creamy slaw, and fresh toppings will ensure each bite is bursting with flavor and enjoyment.

What to Serve with Smoky Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches

As the flavors of these sandwiches dance on your palate, pairing the right sides will elevate your meal experience to new heights.

Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness complements the spicy buffalo chicken perfectly, adding a delightful crunch.
Creamy Coleslaw: A classic side that enhances the delightful crunch of the grinder slaw while keeping your meal light and refreshing.
Fresh Cucumber Salad: The coolness of this salad balances the heat of the chicken, adding a refreshing contrast with every bite.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: The smoky sweetness from the grill mirrors the flavors of the sandwich, making it a perfect summer companion.
Homemade Potato Chips: Their crunch adds texture and a hint of saltiness that pairs beautifully with the creamy slaw and spicy chicken.
Light Beer or Hard Seltzer: Refreshing drinks with a hint of sweetness cut through the richness of the buffalo sauces, enhancing your overall experience.
Fruit Salad: Sweet and juicy, a mix of seasonal fruits provides a bright, tart flavor that invigorates the palate between bites.
Classic Deviled Eggs: Creamy and savory, they offer additional richness that complements the spicy kick, balancing your palate just right.
Pasta Salad: A light and zesty pasta salad can offer a refreshing contrast to the bold flavors of the buffalo chicken sandwiches, creating a complete meal experience.

Expert Tips for Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches

Even Thickness: Ensure chicken is evenly pounded to avoid overcooking thinner parts, which can dry out the chicken in your grilled buffalo chicken sandwiches.
Marinating Matters: Marinate for a full 48 hours if possible; this enhances the flavor and tenderness of the chicken.
Use a Thermometer: Employ a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F for safe consumption.
Don’t Overcook: Be cautious not to overgrill the chicken; it can lead to dryness. Aim for a nice char without sacrificing juiciness.
Toast the Buns: Lightly toasting your brioche buns enhances their flavor and adds an enjoyable crunch to your grilled buffalo chicken sandwiches.

How to Store and Freeze Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches

Fridge: Store leftover sandwiches in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To keep the bread from getting soggy, you may want to separate the chicken and slaw from the buns and reassemble when ready to eat.
Freezer: Wrap individual sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil or place in freezer bags. They can be frozen for up to 2 months, maintaining quality for future enjoyment.
Reheating: Thaw sandwiches overnight in the fridge before reheating. Use the microwave for quick warming, but for the best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain crispiness.
Marinated Chicken Storage: For extra convenience, marinate your chicken a day ahead and keep it in the fridge for up to 48 hours before grilling. Enjoy the fantastic flavor of your Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches without the last-minute rush!

Make Ahead Options

These Smoky Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches are perfect for busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken up to 48 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deeply infuse for deliciously tender meat. Just coat the chicken in the marinade, cover, and refrigerate. You can also prepare the crunchy grinder slaw up to 3 days ahead; simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge to keep it fresh and crisp. When you’re ready to serve, grill the chicken and toast the brioche buns, then assemble your sandwiches. This meal prep strategy ensures your family enjoys restaurant-quality sandwiches with minimal fuss!

Variations & Substitutions for Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches

Feel free to get creative and make these sandwiches your own with customized flavors and textures!

Gluten-Free Buns:
Swap brioche buns for gluten-free options to cater to dietary needs without sacrificing taste. It’s effortless and still delicious!
Extra Spicy Chicken:
Add more cayenne pepper or use a spicy buffalo sauce for a fiery kick. This twist will ignite your taste buds and deliver bold flavors.
Teriyaki Chicken Twist:
Replace buffalo sauce with teriyaki sauce for a sweet and savory alternative. This dynamic change creates a whole new experience that’s equally delightful.
Creamy Avocado:
Top the sandwich with sliced avocado for a buttery texture. It not only enhances the flavor but also adds a creamy element to the mix.
Crunchy Veggie Boost:
Incorporate sliced cucumbers or radishes into the grinder slaw for an extra crunch. This refreshing addition enhances each bite with a delightful texture.
Smoked Cheese:
Try using smoked gouda or mozzarella instead of Havarti for a rich, smoky flavor. It pairs perfectly with the buffalo sauce and adds depth to the sandwich.
Herb-Infused Slaw:
Mix in fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley into the slaw for vibrant notes. This simple swap uplifts the sandwich to a new flavor dimension.
Side Pairings:
Serve alongside crispy sweet potato fries or a light cucumber yogurt salad. Each will elevate your meal and make it even more satisfying. Consider a side of Garlic Butter Chicken for a complete feast!

So go ahead, get inspired, and make this Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sandwich your very own delicious masterpiece!

Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe ingredients for my sandwiches?
Absolutely! When choosing tomatoes, look for ones that are firm but slightly soft when you give them a gentle squeeze, as this usually indicates they are ripe and juicy. For lettuce, opt for crisp and vibrant green leaves; avoid any that show dark spots or wilting. This little attention to detail will elevate the freshness of your Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches.

What is the best way to store leftover sandwiches?
I recommend storing leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To avoid a soggy bun, it’s best to separate the grilled chicken and slaw from the brioche buns. You can reassemble them just before you’re ready to enjoy them again, preserving their original deliciousness!

Can I freeze Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches for later?
Very! To freeze, wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap, and then in aluminum foil, or place them in freezer bags. They can be safely stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to savor them again, thaw overnight in the fridge, and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for around 10-15 minutes for the best texture.

What if my chicken turns out dry after grilling?
Oh no, that can happen! If your chicken goes dry, ensure it is pounded to an even thickness to promote even cooking. Always marinate for at least 1 hour (or up to 48 hours) to keep it juicy, and cooking with a meat thermometer can help—remove it once it reaches 165°F! If drying happens, try serving it with your favorite sauce to add moisture back in.

Are there any dietary considerations for my Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches?
Absolutely! If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, make sure to check all sauces and seasonings for potential allergens like gluten or dairy. You can also easily make the sandwiches dairy-free by swapping cheese for a plant-based alternative, and try using gluten-free buns if needed. Everyone should enjoy the flavors of your grilled creation!