Nothing beats the smoky, tangy kick of buffalo sauce combined with the juicy texture of grilled chicken, especially when topped with a crunchy, fresh slaw. These spicy grilled buffalo chicken sandwiches are exactly what you need for your next BBQ or casual dinner, delivering bold flavors and satisfying textures in every bite.
You’re going to love how easy these buffalo chicken sandwiches are to prepare, and the crunchy grinder slaw adds the perfect refreshing contrast. Whether you’re grilling for family or friends, this recipe brings a delicious twist that’s sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold and spicy buffalo sauce perfectly balanced with smoky grilled chicken.
- Crunchy grinder slaw adds fresh texture and zest.
- Quick and easy to grill, ready in under 45 minutes.
- Perfect for BBQs, game days, or casual dinners.
- Customizable spice level to suit your taste.
Ingredients
Gather these fresh ingredients to make your spicy grilled buffalo chicken sandwiches and crunchy grinder slaw come together beautifully.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
- 1/2 cup buffalo hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 sandwich buns, toasted
- 4 slices provolone or cheddar cheese (optional)
For the Crunchy Grinder Slaw
- 2 cups shredded green cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrot
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon celery seed
- Salt and pepper to taste
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4 sandwiches
- Calories: approximately 480 per serving
How to Make Spicy Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches with Crunchy Grinder Slaw for BBQ Bliss!
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 400°F, and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
- Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the meat is cooked through with nice grill marks.
- During the last 2 minutes of grilling, brush the chicken generously with buffalo hot sauce and place a slice of cheese on each breast. Close the grill lid to melt the cheese.
- While the chicken cooks, prepare the grinder slaw by combining cabbage, carrot, red onion, and parsley in a bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, celery seed, salt, and pepper. Toss the dressing with the veggies until well coated.
- Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes to keep it juicy.
- Toast the sandwich buns on the grill for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
- Assemble the sandwiches by placing the buffalo chicken breasts on the buns, topping with a generous scoop of crunchy grinder slaw, and finishing with the top bun.
- Serve immediately with your favorite sides and extra buffalo sauce if desired for added heat.
Tips for the Best Results
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfectly cooked chicken that’s juicy and safe to eat.
- Adjust the buffalo sauce amount to make the sandwiches as mild or spicy as you prefer.
- For extra smoky flavor, add wood chips to your grill or use a smoked sea salt in the rub.
- Toast the buns just before serving to keep them crisp and warm.
- Make the slaw ahead of time to let flavors meld, but toss just before serving to keep it crunchy.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover buffalo chicken breasts and slaw separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep buns stored in a cool, dry place or wrapped in foil if refrigerated.
To reheat, warm the chicken gently in the oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes or in a skillet over medium heat. Refresh the slaw if needed by tossing with a little extra dressing before assembling your sandwich again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work great for this recipe and tend to be more forgiving on the grill. Adjust the cooking time to about 5-6 minutes per side for even doneness.
How spicy are these buffalo chicken sandwiches?
The spice level depends on how much buffalo sauce you use; this recipe is moderately spicy but can be toned down or amped up by adjusting the sauce quantity or choosing a milder hot sauce.
Can I make the grinder slaw without mayonnaise?
Absolutely! Substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a vinaigrette to keep it lighter while still providing great flavor and crunch.
What sides go well with buffalo chicken sandwiches?
Classic sides like French fries, sweet potato fries, or a fresh green salad complement the spicy and tangy flavors beautifully. You can also serve with pickles or chips for easy snacking.
