Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches

These Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches combine the best of spicy, tender chicken and a creamy, tangy slaw for an irresistible flavor explosion. The juicy pulled chicken is perfectly cooked in a slow cooker, absorbing the zesty buffalo sauce and ranch seasoning.

What makes this dish even better is its simplicity and versatility. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, need a quick family dinner, or want to prep meals for the week, these sandwiches are the perfect choice. Customize them with your favorite toppings like pickles or lettuce, and watch them disappear off the plate!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup buffalo sauce
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 packet ranch dressing mix
• 4 hamburger buns
• 1 cup coleslaw mix
• 1/2 cup ranch dressing
• Optional toppings: sliced pickles, shredded lettuce

Directions:

1. Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
2. In a bowl, mix buffalo sauce, chicken broth, and ranch dressing mix. Pour over the chicken.
3. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easy to shred.
4. Remove chicken from the slow cooker, shred it with two forks, and return it to the sauce. Stir well to coat.
5. In a small bowl, combine coleslaw mix and ranch dressing to make a creamy slaw.
6. Assemble the sandwiches by placing shredded buffalo chicken on the bottom bun, topping it with creamy ranch slaw, and adding any optional toppings. Cover with the top bun and serve warm.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 6 hours (low) or 3 hours (high)
Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes (low) or 3 hours 10 minutes (high)
Kcal: 320 kcal per serving | Servings: 4

History and Origin of Buffalo Chicken

The flavor profile of buffalo chicken originated in Buffalo, New York, in the 1960s. It’s traditionally associated with buffalo wings, which combine tangy, spicy hot sauce and buttery richness. Over time, this flavor combination became wildly popular, inspiring countless variations like wraps, pizzas, dips, and sandwiches. Buffalo chicken sandwiches provide all the bold flavor of the classic dish in a portable and family-friendly format.

Why Use a Slow Cooker for This Recipe?

The slow cooker is a game-changer for this recipe because it allows the chicken to simmer gently, soaking up the spicy buffalo sauce while remaining moist and tender. It’s a hands-off cooking method, perfect for busy days or meal prep. Plus, the chicken can be kept warm in the slow cooker until you’re ready to assemble the sandwiches, making it ideal for gatherings and parties.

Customizations and Variations

1. Bread Choices: Swap hamburger buns for brioche, pretzel buns, or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
2. Toppings: Add sliced avocado, crumbled blue cheese, or jalapeño slices for extra flavor.
3. Slaw Options: While ranch slaw is classic, you can substitute with blue cheese slaw or a simple vinegar-based coleslaw for a tangier kick.
4. Heat Level: Adjust the spice by using mild, medium, or hot buffalo sauce. Add a splash of sriracha or cayenne for those who love heat!
5. Cheese Lovers: Top the shredded chicken with melted mozzarella, cheddar, or Monterey Jack.

Health Benefits of Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches

1. Protein-Packed: Chicken breast is lean and high in protein, making this a satisfying meal.
2. Customizable Nutrition: By using low-fat ranch dressing or whole-grain buns, you can tailor the recipe to be healthier without sacrificing flavor.
3. Veggie Boost: Adding coleslaw increases your fiber and vitamin intake, especially if you include fresh, colorful vegetables.

Serving Suggestions

Buffalo chicken sandwiches are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of sides:

• Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: The sweetness balances the spicy chicken.
• Vegetable Sticks with Ranch or Blue Cheese Dip: A nod to the classic wing pairing.
• Potato Salad or Macaroni Salad: Perfect for potlucks or casual gatherings.
• Simple Green Salad: Lightens up the meal for a healthier option.

Pro Tips for Perfect Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches

1. Don’t Skip the Broth: It ensures the chicken stays moist and creates a flavorful sauce.
2. Toast Your Buns: Lightly toasting the buns adds texture and helps prevent them from getting soggy.
3. Prep in Advance: Shred the chicken ahead of time and store it in the sauce. Reheat on low in the slow cooker before serving.

Cooking Tips and Techniques

1. Shredding the Chicken: For perfectly shredded chicken, use two forks to pull the meat apart. Alternatively, use a hand mixer on low speed for faster shredding.
2. Sauce Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove some of the liquid from the slow cooker and simmer it in a small saucepan until it reduces.
3. Layering the Sandwich: Always start with the shredded chicken on the bottom bun, followed by the creamy slaw and any additional toppings. This ensures a balanced bite with every sandwich.

Make-Ahead and Storage Options

1. Make-Ahead: Prepare the chicken in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the slow cooker or a saucepan over low heat with a splash of water or extra buffalo sauce.
2. Freezing: Shredded buffalo chicken freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers and store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
3. Leftover Ideas: Use leftover shredded chicken for wraps, salads, tacos, or even as a pizza topping.

Serving Suggestions and Meal Pairing

These sandwiches are great for casual meals, parties, or game-day gatherings. Here are some pairing ideas:

1. Classic Sides: Pair with fries, onion rings, or potato wedges.
2. Healthier Options: Serve alongside roasted vegetables, a quinoa salad, or a fresh garden salad.
3. Drinks: Complement the spiciness of the sandwich with refreshing drinks like iced tea, lemonade, or a light beer.
4. Desserts: Finish the meal with something cool and sweet, like ice cream or a fruit sorbet.

Common Questions

1. Can I make this recipe spicier?
Absolutely! Use a hotter buffalo sauce or add cayenne pepper, chili flakes, or hot sauce for an extra kick.

2. What’s the best way to prevent soggy buns?
Toasting the buns lightly adds a barrier and prevents them from getting soggy. You can also serve the slaw on the side for guests to add themselves.

3. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to adjust the cooking time in the slow cooker. Add 1-2 hours for frozen chicken breasts.

Fun Facts About Buffalo Sauce

1. Buffalo sauce is named after Buffalo, New York, where it was invented in 1964 at the Anchor Bar.
2. The original recipe for buffalo sauce uses just three ingredients: hot sauce, butter, and garlic.
3. Buffalo flavor has expanded far beyond wings, inspiring recipes for everything from dips to pizzas and now sandwiches!

Customization for Dietary Preferences

1. Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free buns and check that your buffalo sauce and ranch dressing are gluten-free.
2. Low-Carb/Keto Option: Serve the buffalo chicken in lettuce wraps or on low-carb tortillas.
3. Dairy-Free Option: Use a vegan ranch dressing and ensure your buffalo sauce doesn’t contain butter.

Presentation Tips

1. Colorful Garnishes: Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or sliced green onions for a pop of color.
2. Serving Platter: Arrange the sandwiches on a wooden board with small bowls of extra ranch and buffalo sauce for dipping.
3. Slaw Perfection: Pile the slaw high for a visually appealing and crunchy topping.