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Weeknight Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches Recipe

Weeknight Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches Recipe - Quick Delicious Meals

We all have those weeknights when cooking feels like a staged Olympic event. But what if I told you that there’s a way to bring excitement and flavor to the dinner table without spending hours in the kitchen? 
Enter the weeknight buffalo chicken sandwich. This dish shines with vibrant flavors and a comforting presentation. It’s saucy, it’s spicy, and it satisfies on so many levels. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!
This recipe isn’t just another buffalo chicken creation. It’s infused with love, hints of tang, and that glorious crunch from the pickle slaw. Ever since I first made these sandwiches, they've become a staple during busy weeknights when family and friends gather around the table.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 488
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1/2 cup your preferred wing sauce
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Soft brioche buns for serving
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 small green cabbage head
  • 1/2 red onion
  • 3 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
  • 1 cup dill pickles, roughly chopped
  • 2 tablespoons pickle brine from the jar
  • 1/4 cup raw honey
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 cup rice wine vinegar
  • Kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
  1. Start by seasoning your chicken thighs with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. This will amplify the flavor. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of oil. Once hot, carefully place the seasoned chicken in the skillet. Cook until browned and crispy, making sure to flip halfway through. This should take about 6-7 minutes on each side.
Step 2: Shred the Chicken
  1. Once the chicken is cooked through (internal temp of 165°F is key), transfer it to a cutting board. Let it cool for a few minutes, then shred the chicken using two forks. This shredding process adds a fun element, making it even more manageable to stuff into your buns.
Step 3: Toss it in Sauce
  1. In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with your wing sauce and apple cider vinegar. Feel free to adjust the amount of sauce according to your spice preference. Extra sauce can always be drizzled on top before serving.
Step 4: Prepare the Pickle Slaw
  1. While your chicken is flavorful, your slaw needs attention too! In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, red onion, dill pickles, sweet pickle relish, honey, mayonnaise, olive oil, rice wine vinegar, salt, and pepper. Toss it together until everything is well combined.
Step 5: Assemble the Sandwiches
  1. Grab your soft brioche buns and layer them with a generous portion of the buffalo chicken. Top it off with a hearty scoop of pickle slaw. You can add extra wing sauce if you like! Close the sandwich and prepare to devour.

Notes

  • Choose chicken thighs for juiciness: Thighs stay moist and flavorful, especially in buffalo sauce.
  • Homemade sauce: If time permits, whip up your buffalo sauce. It can be fun and takes the flavor to new heights.
  • Prep in advance: Shred the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Simply warm it up when ready to serve.
  • Stay balanced: Too much buffalo sauce can overpower. Start with less and add more if needed.
  • Customize your slaw: Feel free to throw in other veggies like carrots or radishes. Experimenting can lead to delightful results!