Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe

Jump to Recipe
Print Recipe

Introduction

There’s just something about a grilled cheese sandwich that brings you straight back to childhood—but I’ve taken this classic comfort food and given it a fiery, grown-up upgrade. This Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe is my go-to when I want something cheesy, crispy, spicy, and completely satisfying. From the first buttery crunch to that molten center of melty cheese and tangy Buffalo chicken, every bite delivers the kind of comfort and kick that keeps you coming back.

When I first made this Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe, I was looking for a way to use up some leftover chicken and still make a meal that felt indulgent without a lot of work. And that’s the beauty of it—you can throw it together in 20 minutes using pantry staples. The flavor combo of spicy Buffalo sauce, creamy ranch or blue cheese, and gooey melted cheese pressed between golden slices of toasted bread is just unbeatable. Whether you’re whipping it up for lunch, a game-day snack, or a late-night craving, this sandwich packs serious flavor with minimal fuss.

If you’re like me and always craving a spicy, cheesy fix, this one’s going to become a regular in your rotation.

Perfect For:

• Spicy sandwich cravings
• Game day or weekend comfort food
• Quick and easy lunch or dinner
• Leftover chicken transformations
• Cheese lovers who like a kick

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Bold Buffalo Flavor
  • The tangy, fiery kick of Buffalo sauce is front and center—spicy enough to wake up your taste buds, but balanced with creaminess so it doesn’t overwhelm. It’s that perfect combo of heat and flavor that Buffalo lovers crave.
• Cheesy and Gooey
  • A melty trio of cheddar, mozzarella, or provolone wraps the Buffalo chicken in cheesy bliss. Each bite pulls with gooey richness that makes this melt irresistibly decadent—basically grilled cheese for grown-ups.
• Quick to Make
  • Busy weeknights? No problem. This sandwich goes from skillet to plate in just 20 minutes or less, with minimal prep and maximum satisfaction. It’s comfort food with no time wasted.
• Crispy and Buttery
  • That golden, buttery toast isn’t just there for show—it gives every bite the perfect crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft, creamy filling inside. The textures are just as exciting as the flavors.
• Customizable
  • Whether you’re dialing up the heat with extra hot sauce, swapping in smoked gouda or pepper jack, or adding bacon, avocado, or caramelized onions, this sandwich adapts to your cravings. It’s a canvas for your boldest sandwich dreams.

Preparation and Cooking Time:

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 2 sandwiches
• Calories: ~500–600 per sandwich (depending on cheese and sauce used)

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works great)
• 1/4 cup Buffalo sauce (adjust to taste)
• 2 tbsp ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing
• 4 slices of thick-cut bread (sourdough or Texas toast work well)
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp softened butter (for the bread)

Ingredient Highlights:

• Buffalo Sauce: Brings the tangy, spicy bite that defines the sandwich.
• Chicken: Use leftover or rotisserie for a fast and flavorful base.
• Cheese Blend: Mozzarella melts perfectly, while cheddar brings sharpness.
• Ranch or Blue Cheese Dressing: Adds creaminess and cools down the spice.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. In a bowl, toss the cooked chicken with Buffalo sauce and dressing until evenly coated.
2. Butter one side of each slice of bread.
3. On the unbuttered side of two slices, layer a bit of cheese, then the Buffalo chicken mixture, then more cheese.
4. Top with the remaining slices of bread, buttered side out.
5. Heat a skillet over medium heat and grill the sandwiches for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing slightly with a spatula, until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
6. Slice in half and serve hot.

Save

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with celery sticks and extra ranch for dipping
  • Channel classic Buffalo wing vibes by plating your sandwich with crisp celery sticks and a side of cool ranch or blue cheese dressing. It’s the perfect balance of spicy, creamy, and crunchy in every bite.
• Add a fried egg on top for brunch-style decadence
  • Want to take things over the top? Crown your warm Buffalo melt with a crispy fried egg—runny yolk and all. It turns this sandwich into a brunch showstopper that’s rich, hearty, and totally indulgent.
• Pair with sweet potato fries or a crisp coleslaw
  • The natural sweetness of sweet potato fries plays beautifully with the heat of the Buffalo sauce. Or, serve it alongside a zesty coleslaw for a bright, crunchy contrast that cuts through the richness.
• Make mini versions for party appetizers
  • Hosting a crowd? Use slider buns or cut sandwiches into quarters to make bite-sized Buffalo melts. Stick a toothpick in each and serve with ranch or blue cheese on the side—ideal for game day or casual gatherings.
• Serve with tomato soup for a spicy twist on a classic combo
  • This is comfort food with a fiery edge. Dunk your spicy, cheesy sandwich into a bowl of creamy tomato soup for that nostalgic grilled cheese feel—but with a bold, Buffalo-style twist.

Additional Tips:

• Use low-moisture mozzarella for the best melt.
• Toast the bread slightly before assembling for extra crispness.
• Use a panini press for an evenly golden crunch.
• For more heat, add sliced jalapeños to the sandwich.
• Add crispy bacon for an extra savory layer.

Recipe Variations:

• Spicy BBQ Version
  • For those who love a little heat with their sweet, mix equal parts Buffalo sauce and smoky BBQ sauce before coating the chicken. The result is a rich, spicy glaze that clings to every bite—perfect for grilling or pan-toasting your sandwich.
• Low-Carb Option
  • Watching your carbs? Swap the sourdough or sandwich roll for a low-carb tortilla or keto-friendly bread. Wrap it up and give it a quick press on a grill pan for that same melty, golden crust with fewer carbs.
• Vegetarian Swap
  • Skip the chicken and use chickpeas, soy curls, or jackfruit tossed in Buffalo sauce as a hearty meatless base. Pair it with your favorite plant-based cheese to keep that creamy, spicy flavor intact.
• Blue Cheese Crumble
  • Take things in a more classic Buffalo wing direction by adding blue cheese crumbles to your filling. The tangy, salty punch balances the spicy heat beautifully and melts into every bite for extra richness.
• Double Cheese Delight
  • Want even more gooey goodness? Layer in pepper jack for a kick or smoked gouda for depth, alongside the cheddar. The combo turns this melt into a full-on flavor explosion.

Storage and Freezing:

Refrigerator
Wrap leftover sandwiches tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best results, keep them in a single layer to prevent squishing. If the sandwich includes moist ingredients (like Buffalo sauce), place a paper towel underneath in the container to absorb extra moisture and keep the bread from getting soggy.

Freezer
To freeze, allow sandwiches to cool completely, then wrap each one tightly in foil or parchment followed by a freezer-safe zip-top bag or container. Freeze for up to 1 month. This method works best for grilled sandwiches that don’t have fresh veggies (like lettuce) that might lose texture.

Reheat
To reheat, avoid the microwave if you want to preserve that golden, crispy exterior. Instead:

Microwave: Only use in a pinch—wrap in a paper towel and microwave for 30–45 seconds, but note the texture may soften.

Skillet: Place the sandwich in a dry skillet over medium heat. Cover loosely with foil and warm for 4–5 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula.

Toaster Oven or Air Fryer: Reheat at 350°F for 5–6 minutes, flipping halfway, until crisp and hot all the way through.

Equipment Needed:

• Medium bowl
• Skillet or griddle
• Spatula
• Cheese grater (if not using pre-shredded)
• Cutting board & knife

FAQs (People Also Ask):

What cheese goes best with Buffalo chicken grilled cheese?
Mozzarella, cheddar, provolone, or even pepper jack all work great for a melty, flavorful sandwich.

Can I make Buffalo chicken grilled cheese in advance?
You can prep the filling ahead of time and assemble right before cooking for best results.

How spicy is this sandwich?
It depends on the Buffalo sauce you use. Mild, medium, or hot options allow you to control the heat.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes! Store the chicken filling separately and assemble fresh sandwiches throughout the week.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely—just use gluten-free bread and make sure your sauces are gluten-free too.

External Links:

• Buffalo Sauce Nutritional Breakdown – USDA
• Safe Cooking Temperatures for Poultry – USDA

Conclusion

This Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe is everything I love in a sandwich—cheesy, spicy, crisp, and absolutely packed with flavor. It’s the kind of meal that delivers maximum satisfaction with minimal effort. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, this sandwich hits all the right notes.

I always say: don’t wait for game day or a special occasion. Whip this Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe up any time you’re craving something bold, cheesy, and comforting. And if you do? Snap a photo and include me in your post—I’d love to see how yours turned out. Until next time, keep cooking with flavor and fire!