Description

This Spicy Shredded Buffalo Chicken Sandwich features tender slow-cooked chicken breasts simmered in authentic buffalo sauce, shredded to perfection, and piled high on toasted buns with crisp lettuce, carrots, celery, and creamy blue cheese or ranch dressing. The combination of spicy, tangy, and crunchy elements makes for a delicious and satisfying sandwich ideal for game days or casual dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Sauce

2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 cup buffalo sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons ranch dressing mix
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Sandwich and Toppings

6 hamburger buns or rolls of choice (brioche, kaiser, or whole grain recommended)
1/2 cup blue cheese or ranch dressing
1 cup shredded lettuce
1/2 cup thinly sliced carrots
1/4 cup thinly sliced celery

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Instructions

Slow Cooker Preparation: Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Pour the buffalo sauce over the chicken, add ranch dressing mix, melted butter, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper if using. Stir gently to coat the chicken evenly. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
Shred the Chicken: Remove the cooked chicken from the slow cooker and place it on a large plate or bowl. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. For a faster method, use a hand mixer on low speed to shred the chicken quickly without making it mushy.
Prepare the Buns: Select sturdy buns like brioche, kaiser, or whole grain. Toast the buns lightly to add texture and prevent sogginess from the sauce and toppings.
Assemble the Sandwiches: Spread a layer of blue cheese or ranch dressing on the bottom half of each bun. Add a generous amount of shredded buffalo chicken on top. Layer with shredded lettuce, thinly sliced carrots, and celery for crunch and authentic buffalo flavor. Drizzle extra blue cheese or ranch dressing if desired. Place the top bun on and press gently to hold everything together.
Serve: Serve the assembled sandwiches immediately while warm. Optionally pair with celery sticks or a side salad for a complete meal.

Notes

Adjust the cayenne pepper and buffalo sauce amount to control heat level according to your preference.
Using a slow cooker ensures tender and juicy shredded chicken without much hands-on time.
Choosing sturdy buns prevents the sandwich from becoming soggy from the sauces and juicy chicken.
To add a gourmet touch, mix a little honey into the buffalo sauce for sweet-heat flavor.
Leftover shredded chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.