Introduction

The Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sandwich is a flavorful twist on the classic Buffalo wings, featuring juicy grilled chicken breast coated in spicy buffalo sauce. Topped with a crunchy grinder slaw and fresh tomatoes on a toasted brioche bun, this sandwich is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a summer BBQ gathering.

The image shows a grilled chicken sandwich with several layers. The bottom layer is a toasted golden-brown bun with a spread of white creamy sauce. On top of this is a thick, juicy piece of grilled chicken breast, showing char marks and a reddish-orange seasoning. Above the chicken is a layer of creamy coleslaw with white and green shredded cabbage. On top of the coleslaw are thin slices of red onion, bright red tomato, and green pickle slices. The sandwich is completed with a top bun that is golden-brown and slightly shiny. The sandwich is placed on a dark textured surface, with a second similar sandwich blurred in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 teaspoons kosher salt

2 teaspoons paprika

2 teaspoons garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper

1/3 cup buffalo wing sauce (such as Frank’s)

2 tablespoons honey

4 brioche buns

1 tomato, sliced

Cheese slices (Havarti or Pepperjack, optional)

Grinder Slaw:

4 cups shredded iceberg lettuce
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
6 pepperoncini, sliced
1/3 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1/2 teaspoon dried dill
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Kosher salt, to taste
Freshly cracked pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat tenderizer. If the breasts are large, cut them in half for more manageable portions.

Step 2: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, kosher salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, buffalo wing sauce, and honey. Toss the chicken in this marinade, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 48 hours for more flavor.

Step 3: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and oil the grates to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Grill the chicken for 5 to 6 minutes per side. During the last few minutes of grilling, brush additional buffalo sauce on the chicken and add cheese slices if using. Allow the cheese to melt.

Step 5: While the chicken grills, prepare the grinder slaw by mixing shredded lettuce, red onion, pepperoncini, mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, dried dill, garlic powder, dried oregano, kosher salt, and freshly cracked pepper in a bowl until well combined.

Step 6: Toast the brioche buns on the grill until lightly golden.

Step 7: Assemble each sandwich by layering grilled chicken, grinder slaw, and sliced tomato on the toasted bun. Add mayonnaise if desired, then top with the other half of the bun.

Tips & Variations

For extra smoky flavor, consider adding a touch of smoked paprika to the marinade.

Swap the buffalo wing sauce for a milder BBQ sauce if you prefer less heat.

Use chicken thighs for a juicier, more flavorful sandwich.

Substitute mayonnaise in the slaw with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.

Grill some onions or peppers as additional sandwich toppings for extra texture.

FAQs

Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?

Yes, marinate the chicken up to 48 hours in advance for deeper flavor, and grill just before serving or grill ahead and reheat gently when needed.

Can I use a stovetop instead of a grill?

Absolutely. You can cook the chicken in a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat, following the same cooking times and steps for brushing on sauce and melting cheese.