Every family has a story, and every story has a flavor. Growing up, my neighbor, Mrs. Thompson, often shared tales of her travels with us. One such story that stands out is her visit to Buffalo, New York. She spoke of the vibrant culture, the passionate sports fans, and most importantly, the birthplace of the Buffalo Chicken. Inspired by her tales, I embarked on a culinary journey to recreate that iconic flavor. And today, I’m sharing with you a recipe that’s close to my heart – the Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Sandwich.
Imagine the aroma of spicy buffalo sauce wafting through your home, the tender chicken effortlessly shredding at the touch of a fork, all culminating in a sandwich that promises a burst of flavor with every bite. Let’s dive into the world of slow-cooked magic!
How to Prepare Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches
- 5 boneless skinless chicken breasts, thawed if frozen
- 1 bottle (12 ounces) of your preferred hot sauce (Franks is a popular choice)
- 1 packet dry ranch seasoning
- 1 1/2 tablespoons butter
- 6 Toasted Onion Rolls or Hamburger Buns
- 4 slices cheese (Gouda or Cheddar are great options)
- Blue Cheese Dressing (optional for garnish)
- Ranch Fried Pickles (optional for garnish)
Directions for Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches
- Place the chicken breasts in a slow cooker sprayed with non-stick spray.
- Add 3/4 of the hot sauce bottle and the ranch seasoning.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3 1/2-4 hours.
- Once cooked, add butter and the remaining hot sauce. Shred the chicken using two forks and stir to combine.
- To assemble the sandwiches, place cheese and chicken on a toasted bun. Garnish with blue cheese dressing and Ranch Fried Pickles if desired.
- Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Sandwich!
What type of hot sauce works best for this recipe?
While Franks is a popular choice, any hot sauce with a good balance of heat and flavor will work. It’s essential to choose one that suits your taste preference.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be a juicier alternative to breasts. However, ensure they are boneless and skinless for best results.
How can I make my own ranch seasoning?
You can combine dried parsley, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, dried onion flakes, salt, and pepper. Store in an airtight container for future use.
Is there a vegetarian alternative to this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with jackfruit or tofu. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as these ingredients may not require as long as chicken.
How do I store leftover buffalo chicken?
Store any leftover buffalo chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze the cooked buffalo chicken?
Yes, the cooked buffalo chicken can be frozen for up to a month. Ensure it’s cooled completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
What other garnishes can I use for the sandwich?
Other than blue cheese dressing and fried pickles, you can use coleslaw, lettuce, tomatoes, or even avocado slices for added flavor and texture.
Can I prepare this recipe in an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can use the ‘Poultry’ setting on the Instant Pot. Ensure you adjust the cooking time and liquid quantity as per the appliance’s guidelines.
Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches
Ingredients
- 5 boneless skinless chicken breasts thawed if frozen
- 1 bottle 12 ounces of your preferred hot sauce (Franks is a popular choice)
- 1 packet dry ranch seasoning
- 1 1/2 tablespoons butter
- 6 Toasted Onion Rolls or Hamburger Buns
- 4 slices cheese Gouda or Cheddar are great options
- Blue Cheese Dressing optional for garnish
- Ranch Fried Pickles optional for garnish
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in a slow cooker sprayed with non-stick spray.
- Add 3/4 of the hot sauce bottle and the ranch seasoning.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3 1/2-4 hours.
- Once cooked, add butter and the remaining hot sauce. Shred the chicken using two forks and stir to combine.
- To assemble the sandwiches, place cheese and chicken on a toasted bun. Garnish with blue cheese dressing and Ranch Fried Pickles if desired.
- Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Sandwich!
