Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe

This Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for lunch or a quick dinner. In under 20 minutes, you can whip up a delicious sandwich that combines the spicy kick of buffalo chicken with the creamy goodness of cheese. It’s an excellent way to use leftover chicken, making it both practical and delicious. Whether you’re hosting friends or just satisfying your cravings, this recipe stands out for its bold flavors and ease of preparation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This dish comes together in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weekdays.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of buffalo sauce and creamy ranch dressing creates a mouthwatering taste experience.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use rotisserie chicken or your preferred cooked chicken to customize the recipe.
• Cheesy Goodness: With layers of melty cheese, every bite is a cheesy delight.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s game day or a casual lunch, this sandwich fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this tasty recipe, gather your tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Spatula
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick skillet: Prevents sticking and ensures even cooking for perfectly crispy sandwiches.
• Mixing bowls: Handy for easily combining ingredients without mess.
• Spatula: Ideal for flipping sandwiches without damaging them.

Ingredients

Here’s what you need for this Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe:

Bread and Chicken

• 8 Slices Sandwich Bread
• 2 Cups Cooked Chicken Breasts (I like using Rotisserie Chicken)

Seasonings and Sauces

• 2 Tsp Minced Garlic
• 1/4 Tsp Cayenne Pepper (Optional)
• 1 Tsp Ground Black Pepper
• 1/2 Tsp Paprika
• 1/2 Cup Franks Hot Sauce
• 1/2 Cup Homemade Ranch Dressing (Or your favorite store bought brand)

Cheeses and Spreads

• 4 Oz Cream Cheese
• 4 Tbsp Butter
• 4-8 Slices Muenster Cheese
• 4 Tbsp Crumbled Blue Cheese

How to Make Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a small bowl, combine softened cream cheese, crumbled blue cheese, paprika, ground black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Mash and stir until well combined. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Mixture

In another bowl, mix cooked shredded chicken with hot sauce, ranch dressing, and minced garlic. Stir until the chicken is fully coated with the sauce.

Step 3: Assemble the Sandwiches

Take your slices of bread and spread butter on one side of each slice. Flip the bread over; spread a layer of the cheese mixture on four slices. Top with an equal portion of the chicken mixture (about 1/2 cup per sandwich). On the remaining slices, place one or two slices of Muenster cheese before closing the sandwiches.

Step 4: Cook the Sandwiches

Spray a large skillet with cooking spray. Cook the sandwiches on low heat for about 5 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Carefully flip them to cook the other side until equally crispy. Depending on your skillet size, you may need to grill in batches. Once finished, remove from heat and enjoy with extra buffalo sauce or ranch dressing if desired!

How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe

This Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese is a delightful twist on a classic favorite, perfect for lunch or a quick dinner. Here are some tasty serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With a Side of Fries

• Crispy French fries are the perfect companion. Their crunch complements the gooey cheese and spicy chicken.

Pair with Celery Sticks

• Fresh celery sticks provide a refreshing crunch and help balance the richness of the sandwich, making them a great side option.

Serve with Extra Dipping Sauce

• Offer additional ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side for dipping. It enhances the flavors and adds an extra layer of creaminess.

Accompany with Pickles

• Tangy pickles add a zesty punch that contrasts beautifully with the savory sandwich, making each bite more exciting.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped green onions or parsley sprinkled on top can brighten up your plate and add a hint of freshness.

How to Perfect Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe

To make this Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese even better, consider these tips for perfection.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh bread and quality cheese will enhance flavor and texture.
• Control the heat: Cooking on low heat ensures the cheese melts perfectly without burning the bread.
• Experiment with cheeses: Try different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for varied flavors.
• Let it rest: After grilling, allow your sandwich to sit for a minute before slicing. This helps all the ingredients meld together beautifully.
• Add toppings: Consider adding jalapeños or sautéed onions for more flavor and texture.
• Make it personal: Customize the spice level by adjusting the amount of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to suit your taste.

Best Side Dishes for Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe

Pairing your Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese with delicious sides can complete your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness complements the spiciness of the sandwich perfectly.
2. Side Salad: A simple mixed green salad provides freshness and balances out the richness.
3. Vegetable Chips: Crunchy vegetable chips offer a unique and healthy alternative to traditional potato chips.
4. Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw adds texture and tang that pairs wonderfully with buffalo flavors.
5. Tomato Soup: A classic pairing that adds warmth and comfort alongside your grilled cheese.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn can be grilled or boiled, providing a delightful contrast to your spicy sandwich.
7. Macaroni Salad: Creamy macaroni salad is another comfort dish that complements this meal beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

There are a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome of your Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe. Avoiding these will ensure a delicious sandwich every time.

• Using dry chicken: Ensure your chicken is moist and tender by using freshly cooked or rotisserie chicken. Dry chicken will make your grilled cheese less enjoyable.
• Forgetting to butter the bread: Always butter the outside of your bread slices for a golden, crispy finish. Skipping this step can leave you with soggy sandwiches.
• Overcrowding the pan: Cook only a few sandwiches at a time in your skillet. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and soggy bread.
• Neglecting seasoning: Don’t skip on seasoning the chicken mixture. Proper seasoning enhances the flavors, making your grilled cheese more delicious.
• Rushing the cooking process: Cook on low heat to allow the cheese to melt properly and the bread to toast perfectly. High heat can burn the bread while leaving the cheese unmelted.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the sandwiches to cool completely before sealing them in a container.

Freezing Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe

• Wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Frozen sandwiches can last up to 2 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place sandwiches on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat for about 1-2 minutes, but expect softer bread.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat for about 3-5 minutes per side until heated through and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making this Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe.

Can I use any type of cheese?

You can customize this recipe by using different cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or pepper jack for added flavor.

How do I make my Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese healthier?

Consider using whole-grain bread, low-fat cream cheese, or reduced-fat ranch dressing for a lighter option without sacrificing taste.

What can I serve with Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese?

Pair it with celery sticks, carrot sticks, or a simple salad for a complete meal that balances out flavors.

Can I meal prep this Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken mixture ahead of time and assemble sandwiches when you’re ready to cook.

What’s the best way to store leftovers from my Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

This Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe is perfect for lunch or dinner. It’s quick, easy, and uses leftover chicken effectively. Customize it by adding extra toppings like jalapeños or avocado for more flavor. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!