Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches Recipe

Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless, these are the main protein for the dish.

Buffalo wing sauce: This spicy sauce gives the chicken its signature buffalo flavor.

Ranch dressing mix: A packet of this mix adds a tangy and herby taste to the chicken.

Sandwich buns: Soft buns that will hold the shredded buffalo chicken.

To enhance the flavor of your buffalo chicken, consider searing the chicken breasts in a hot skillet with a bit of oil before placing them in the slow cooker. This step adds a layer of caramelization and depth to the dish. Additionally, for a creamier texture, you can mix in a couple of tablespoons of cream cheese or ranch dressing into the shredded chicken before serving.

• boneless skinless chicken breasts - Substitute with boneless skinless turkey breasts: Turkey breasts have a similar texture and can absorb flavors well, making them a good alternative.

• boneless skinless chicken breasts - Substitute with tofu: For a vegetarian option, firm tofu can be used as it absorbs the buffalo sauce well and provides a similar protein content.

• buffalo wing sauce - Substitute with sriracha mixed with melted butter: This combination can mimic the spicy and buttery profile of buffalo sauce.

• buffalo wing sauce - Substitute with barbecue sauce mixed with hot sauce: This mixture can provide a sweet and spicy flavor that is somewhat similar to buffalo sauce.

• ranch dressing mix - Substitute with Italian dressing mix: Italian dressing mix can provide a different but still flavorful seasoning to the chicken.

• ranch dressing mix - Substitute with blue cheese dressing mix: Blue cheese dressing mix can offer a tangy and creamy flavor that pairs well with buffalo sauce.

• sandwich buns - Substitute with lettuce wraps: For a low-carb option, lettuce wraps can be used to hold the buffalo chicken.

• sandwich buns - Substitute with whole wheat buns: Whole wheat buns provide more fiber and nutrients compared to regular sandwich buns.

• Allow the buffalo chicken to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the chicken soggy.

• Transfer the shredded buffalo chicken into an airtight container. Make sure to include some of the sauce to keep the chicken moist.

• Store the container in the refrigerator if you plan to consume the buffalo chicken within 3-4 days.

• For longer storage, place the buffalo chicken in a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.

• Label the container or bag with the date and contents. This helps you keep track of how long the buffalo chicken has been stored.

• When ready to use, thaw the buffalo chicken in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.

• Reheat the buffalo chicken in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, stirring every 1-2 minutes to ensure even heating.

• If the buffalo chicken seems dry after reheating, add a splash of buffalo wing sauce or a bit of chicken broth to moisten it up.

• Toast the sandwich buns lightly before serving to add a bit of crunch and prevent them from becoming soggy from the sauce.

• Assemble your buffalo chicken sandwiches and enjoy!

• Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the leftover buffalo chicken in an oven-safe dish, cover with aluminum foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. This method helps retain moisture and keeps the chicken juicy.

• For a quicker option, use the microwave. Place the buffalo chicken in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap (leaving a small vent), and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes. Stir halfway through to ensure even heating.

• If you prefer a stovetop method, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the buffalo chicken and a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent drying out. Stir occasionally until the chicken is heated through.

• To reheat the sandwich buns, wrap them in aluminum foil and place them in a preheated 350°F oven for about 10 minutes. This will make them warm and slightly crispy.

• For an extra touch, you can toast the sandwich buns on a skillet or griddle over medium heat for 1-2 minutes per side until they are golden brown and slightly crispy. This adds a delightful texture to your buffalo chicken sandwiches.

• Slow cooker: A countertop electrical appliance used to cook food at a low temperature over a long period.

• Measuring cup: A kitchen utensil used to measure the volume of liquid or bulk solid cooking ingredients.

• Forks: Utensils used to shred the cooked chicken into smaller pieces.

• Mixing spoon: A spoon used to mix the shredded chicken with the sauce in the slow cooker.

• Serving spoon: A large spoon used to scoop the buffalo chicken onto the sandwich buns.

• Sandwich buns: The bread used to serve the buffalo chicken as a sandwich.

Use pre-cooked chicken: Save time by using pre-cooked chicken breasts from the store. Just shred and mix with buffalo wing sauce and ranch dressing mix.

Double the batch: Cook extra chicken breasts and freeze the leftovers. This way, you can quickly reheat for another meal.

Use a liner: Line your slow cooker with a disposable liner for easy cleanup.

Pre-mix the sauce: Combine the buffalo wing sauce and ranch dressing mix ahead of time to save a step.

Toast the buns: Toast the sandwich buns while the chicken cooks to save time later.