Easy Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Sandwich: Spicy, Tender, and Ready in Hours

The Ultimate Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Sandwich Recipe

Looking for the perfect buffalo chicken sandwich that delivers all the spicy flavor without hours in the kitchen? This slow cooker version brings the heat while saving you time and effort. The tender, shredded chicken soaks up all that tangy buffalo sauce goodness, creating a mouthwatering sandwich that rivals your favorite sports bar’s offering!

Why You’ll Love This Buffalo Chicken Sandwich Recipe

• ⏱️ Set it and forget it – Let your slow cooker do all the work
• 🔥 Customizable heat level – Adjust the buffalo sauce to your preference
• 🍗 Tender, juicy chicken every time
• 🥪 Versatile – Works for sandwiches, wraps, salads, and more!

Ingredients You’ll Need for Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches

• 4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves (about 2 pounds)
• 1 bottle (12 oz) buffalo wing sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
• 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix (1 packet)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 6 hamburger buns
• 1/2 cup blue cheese or ranch dressing (for serving)
• 1 cup prepared coleslaw (for topping)
• Dill pickle slices (optional, for serving)
• Celery sticks (optional, for serving)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Slow cooker/crockpot
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Two forks for shredding
• Serving platter

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches

1. Place the chicken breast halves in the bottom of your slow cooker.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the buffalo wing sauce and ranch seasoning mix until well combined.
3. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated.
4. Add the butter on top of the sauced chicken.
5. Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 2.5-3 hours, until the chicken is very tender and easily shreds.
6. Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker, mixing it thoroughly with the sauce.
7. Allow the shredded chicken to cook in the sauce for an additional 15 minutes to absorb flavors.
8. Toast your hamburger buns lightly if desired.
9. To assemble, spread a thin layer of blue cheese or ranch dressing on the bottom bun, add a generous portion of buffalo chicken, top with coleslaw, and place the top bun.
10. Serve immediately with pickle slices and celery sticks on the side if desired.

Expert Tips for the Best Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches

• Control the heat: For milder sandwiches, use less buffalo sauce or mix with regular hot sauce. For extra spicy, add a dash of cayenne pepper.
• Chicken options: While chicken breasts work great, you can also use chicken thighs for even juicier meat.
• Sauce thickness: If your sauce seems too thin after shredding, leave the slow cooker uncovered on high for 15-20 minutes to reduce.
• Make ahead: The buffalo chicken keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and actually tastes even better the next day!

Delicious Variation Ideas

• Buffalo Chicken Wraps: Serve in flour tortillas instead of buns
• Low Carb Option: Skip the bun and serve over mixed greens for a buffalo chicken salad
• Loaded Buffalo Chicken Sandwich: Add crispy bacon, avocado slices, and pepper jack cheese
• Buffalo Chicken Sliders: Use mini buns for game day appetizers

What to Serve With Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches

Complete your meal with these perfect pairings:

• Crispy french fries or sweet potato fries
• Fresh vegetable sticks with blue cheese dip
• Potato salad or macaroni salad
• Corn on the cob
• Chilled beer or lemonade to cool the heat

Nutrition Information

Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions

This buffalo chicken sandwich filling keeps beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep:

• Refrigerator: Store leftover buffalo chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm gently in the microwave or in a saucepan over medium-low heat until heated through, adding a splash of water if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
For food safety reasons, it’s best to thaw chicken completely before slow cooking. If using frozen chicken, increase the cooking time by 2-3 hours and ensure it reaches 165°F internal temperature.

How spicy is this buffalo chicken sandwich?
Using a standard buffalo wing sauce creates a medium-spicy sandwich. Adjust the heat level by choosing mild or hot sauce varieties, or mixing with regular hot sauce.

Can I make this in an Instant Pot instead?
Yes! Add all ingredients to the Instant Pot, seal, and cook on high pressure for 12 minutes. Allow natural release for 5 minutes, then quick release. Shred the chicken and mix with the sauce.

The Perfect Buffalo Chicken Sandwich for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering, planning weeknight meals, or simply craving some spicy comfort food, this slow cooker buffalo chicken sandwich recipe is sure to satisfy. The combination of tender shredded chicken coated in tangy, spicy buffalo sauce and topped with cooling coleslaw creates the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Give this recipe a try and watch it become a regular in your meal rotation!

Recipe adapted from AllRecipes.com.