Save to Pinterest Experience the ultimate comfort food with this Buffalo Chicken Ranch Grilled Cheese. This dish brings together the fiery kick of spicy buffalo chicken and the cooling, creamy taste of ranch dressing, all melted to perfection between buttery slices of golden sourdough bread. It is a bold and savory twist on the classic American grilled cheese that is sure to become a lunch favorite.
Save to Pinterest This sandwich is more than just a quick meal; it is a flavor explosion. By combining shredded chicken breast with sharp cheddar and optional mozzarella, you create a satisfying texture that is both hearty and indulgent. Whether you are making a quick lunch or a weekend treat, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
- Buffalo Chicken
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1/3 cup buffalo sauce (such as Franks RedHot)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
- Cheese & Dressing
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, grated (optional, for extra melt)
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- Bread & Assembly
- 8 slices sourdough or hearty white bread
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (for spreading)
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1
- In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, and 1 tablespoon melted butter. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.
- Step 2
- Lay out the bread slices. Spread a thin layer of ranch dressing on one side of each slice.
- Step 3
- On four slices, layer half the cheddar cheese, then divide the buffalo chicken mixture evenly on top. Sprinkle with mozzarella (if using) and top with the remaining cheddar cheese.
- Step 4
- Place the remaining bread slices ranch-side down to close the sandwiches.
- Step 5
- Spread softened butter on the outside of each sandwich (both top and bottom).
- Step 6
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook the sandwiches for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently, until bread is golden brown and cheese is melted.
- Step 7
- Remove from heat, slice in half, and garnish with chopped green onions if desired. Serve warm.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To achieve the perfect golden-brown crust without burning the bread, cook the sandwiches over medium heat. Pressing gently with a spatula during grilling helps ensure the cheddar and mozzarella are fully melted and the filling is heated through.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For extra spice, consider adding sliced jalapeños or an extra drizzle of hot sauce before closing the sandwich. If you prefer a more traditional buffalo wing flavor profile, you can easily substitute the ranch dressing with blue cheese dressing.
Serviervorschläge
This bold grilled cheese pairs exceptionally well with fresh celery sticks or a crisp green salad to balance out the richness of the cheese and the heat of the buffalo chicken.
Save to Pinterest Serve these spicy and creamy sandwiches while they are warm and the cheese is still gooey. It is an easy, American-style lunch that perfectly combines bold flavors and satisfying textures in every bite.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I prepare the buffalo chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can mix the shredded chicken with buffalo sauce and butter up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, then assemble and grill when ready.
- → What type of bread works best?
Sourdough, hearty white bread, or even brioche work wonderfully. Choose bread with a sturdy crumb that won't fall apart when grilling. Thicker slices help prevent the filling from leaking out.
- → How can I make this spicier?
Add sliced jalapeños between the cheese layers, increase the buffalo sauce amount, or drizzle extra hot sauce before grilling. You can also use a spicier buffalo sauce variety.
- → Can I substitute the ranch dressing?
Absolutely. Blue cheese dressing creates a classic pairing with buffalo flavors. Alternatively, try sriracha mayo, garlic aioli, or creamy horseradish sauce for different flavor profiles.
- → What's the best way to prevent the bread from burning?
Use medium heat rather than high, and don't rush the cooking process. Grill each side for 3-4 minutes, pressing gently. This allows the cheese to melt while keeping the bread golden rather than charred.
- → Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooked chicken breast?
Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken is a convenient substitute. Simply shred the meat and mix with buffalo sauce and butter as directed. This actually adds more flavor to the sandwich.