Name: Weeknight Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches with Pickle Slaw
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs; kosher salt and pepper; 0.5 cup your favorite wing sauce (plus more for topping); 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder; 0.5 teaspoon ranch seasoning; 2 tablespoons fresh chives; brioche buns (for serving); 1 small head green cabbage (very thinly sliced); 0.5 red onion (very thinly sliced); 1 cup dill pickles (coarsely chopped); 0.25 cup rice wine vinegar; 0.25 cup honey; 2 tablespoons mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons dill pickle juice (from the jar); 3 tablespoons sweet relish; 0.25 cup olive oil; kosher salt and pepper

Introduction to Weeknight Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches

Why make weeknight buffalo chicken sandwiches?

When you're juggling work, social commitments, and everything in between, weeknight dinners can feel like a daunting task. That’s where weeknight buffalo chicken sandwiches come in! They are not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor, making them an ideal choice for those busy evenings.

Imagine sinking your teeth into tender chicken thighs coated in a spicy buffalo sauce, paired perfectly with a crunchy pickle slaw. It’s comfort food at its finest but with a modern twist that’ll leave your taste buds eager for more. Best of all, this recipe is flexible—feel free to adjust the spice level according to your personal preference.

Beyond the convenience, there’s something undeniably satisfying about crafting a meal from scratch. The joy of mixing your favorite ingredients and enjoying the end result can transform a hectic day into a special occasion, even if it’s a Tuesday! Plus, you’ll impress family or roommates with your culinary skills—who doesn't love a delicious homemade sandwich?

Ready to dive into this mouthwatering recipe? Let’s get cooking and make weeknight dinners something to look forward to!

Ingredients for Weeknight Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches

Creating the perfect weeknight buffalo chicken sandwiches is incredibly simple with the right ingredients. Let’s break down what you’ll need for both the flavorful buffalo chicken and the crunchy pickle slaw.

Buffalo Chicken Ingredients

For the chicken, start with:

1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
Kosher salt and pepper for seasoning
½ cup of your favorite wing sauce, plus more for topping
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon ranch seasoning
2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
Brioche buns, perfect for serving

Make sure to choose a wing sauce you love to personalize the heat and flavor of your sandwich!

Pickle Slaw Ingredients

Now for the crunchy slaw:

1 small head of green cabbage, very thinly sliced
½ red onion, very thinly sliced
1 cup dill pickles, coarsely chopped
¼ cup rice wine vinegar
¼ cup honey
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
2 tablespoons dill pickle juice, from the jar
3 tablespoons sweet relish
¼ cup olive oil
Kosher salt and pepper to taste

This pickle slaw adds a refreshing twist to your sandwiches! Don't skip on letting it sit for a bit to meld those vibrant flavors.

Step-by-step preparation of Weeknight Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches

Creating scrumptious weeknight buffalo chicken sandwiches can be a delightful cooking adventure, especially when it all comes together quickly and easily. Let's dive into the step-by-step process for preparing these mouthwatering sandwiches that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Prepare the chicken

To kick things off, gather 1 ½ pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Start by seasoning the chicken generously with kosher salt and pepper; this basic step is crucial for enhancing flavor. Place your seasoned thighs on a baking sheet, ready to work their magic under the broiler.

Broil the chicken

Next, preheat your oven's broiler to high. Position the oven rack directly below it to get that delicious char. Broil the chicken for 6 minutes, then flip it over and broil for an additional 6 minutes. This method not only cooks the chicken evenly but also gives it that sought-after crispy texture. Afterward, brush your favorite wing sauce all over one side. Broil for another minute, flip, and repeat. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for perfectly cooked chicken.

Mix the spices

Once the chicken is done broiling, let it cool slightly before shredding. You can use an electric mixer to do this quickly or shred by hand if you prefer that method. As you're shredding the chicken, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon of ranch seasoning for a flavor boost. Don't forget to mix in about ⅓ cup of wing sauce to keep things juicy—feel free to add more if you're a sauce lover! Lastly, toss in some chopped fresh chives for an added pop of flavor and freshness.

Prepare the pickle slaw

While the chicken cools, let's whip up that tangy pickle slaw! Start by combining a small head of very thinly sliced green cabbage, ½ a thinly sliced red onion, and 1 cup of coarsely chopped dill pickles in a large bowl. In a separate smaller bowl, whisk together ¼ cup of rice wine vinegar, ¼ cup of honey, 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of dill pickle juice, 3 tablespoons of sweet relish, and ¼ cup of olive oil. Add a good pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Pour this dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss well, then let it sit for about 15 minutes. This resting time allows all those delightful flavors to meld beautifully.

Assemble the sandwiches

Now comes the fun part—assembly! Grab those buttery brioche buns and pile on your flavored shredded chicken. Top it off with a generous helping of your pickle slaw. If desired, drizzle more wing sauce on top for that extra kick. You now have a delectable weeknight buffalo chicken sandwich that’s sure to satisfy your craving!

Enjoy a night of deliciousness and don’t hesitate to share your made-at-home creations with friends and family!

Variations on Weeknight Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches

Buffalo Chicken Sandwich with Different Sauces

Take your weeknight buffalo chicken sandwiches to new heights by experimenting with sauces! Try a zesty barbecue sauce for a sweet twist or a spicy Sriracha mixture for a fiery kick. You could even create a creamy ranch buffalo sauce by mixing ranch dressing with your favorite hot sauce. Not only does this add variety, but it also lets you tailor the flavor to your mood!

Vegetarian Buffalo Chickpea Sandwiches

If you’re looking to switch things up, why not create a vegetarian version? Use mashed chickpeas seasoned with buffalo sauce and spices instead of chicken. This protein-packed alternative is not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making it perfect for a busy weeknight. Just top it with the same crisp pickle slaw for that unbeatable crunch!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Weeknight Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches

Tips for Chicken Cooking

When preparing your weeknight buffalo chicken sandwiches, choose chicken thighs for their flavor and moisture, making them perfect for broiling. Remember to season generously with kosher salt and pepper before broiling for optimal taste. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety and doneness.

Notes on Slaw Texture

For the best texture, slice your cabbage very thinly—aim for about ⅛ inch—to create a light and crunchy slaw. If you’d like a softer slaw, let it sit longer after mixing; the vinegar will soften the cabbage. Use a combination of crunchy pickles and sweet relish for balanced flavor that pairs perfectly with the spicy chicken.

For more tips on chicken cooking, check out resources from the USDA.

Serving Suggestions for Weeknight Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches

Pairing with Sides

The weeknight buffalo chicken sandwiches are a flavor-packed delight on their own, but enhancing your meal with the right sides can elevate your dinner. Consider pairing these sandwiches with crispy sweet potato fries or a refreshing side salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. If you're looking for crunch, homemade potato chips or coleslaw would be perfect complements!

Serving for Gatherings

Planning to share these tasty sandwiches at a gathering? Set up a DIY sandwich bar where guests can customize their own buffalo chicken sandwiches. Include various toppings like sliced avocado, crumbled blue cheese, and additional sauces to amp up the flavors. A side of baked beans or spicy corn salad can also be crowd-pleasers, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied! Looking for inspiration? Check out Bon Appétit for more hosting tips and ideas.

Time Breakdown for Weeknight Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches

Preparation Time
Get your kitchen ready in just 15 minutes! This step includes gathering your ingredients, slicing the veggies for the pickle slaw, and seasoning the chicken.

Cooking Time
Cook up a storm in approximately 20 minutes! You'll broil the chicken to juicy perfection and whip up the tangy pickle slaw.

Total Time
In just 35 minutes, you can enjoy homemade weeknight buffalo chicken sandwiches! Perfect for a quick weeknight meal that's sure to satisfy.

Now that you have your time set, let’s dive into creating these delicious sandwiches!

Nutritional Facts for Weeknight Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches

When you whip up these weeknight buffalo chicken sandwiches, it’s not just about satisfying your cravings—there's some good nutrition packed in, too!

Calories per serving

Each delicious sandwich comes in at approximately 550 calories. This makes it a hearty meal while still being a bit mindful of your daily intake.

Protein content

With about 34 grams of protein per serving, these sandwiches are a fantastic way to fuel your day. Protein is essential for muscle repair and can help keep you feeling full longer!

Dietary considerations

These sandwiches can be modified for various dietary needs. For gluten-free options, swap the brioche bun for a gluten-free roll, and feel free to use a low-sodium wing sauce for a healthier twist. Always a good idea to check out links like Nutrition.gov for tailored dietary advice!

Enjoy making your weeknight dinners a little more exciting with these weeknight buffalo chicken sandwiches with pickle slaw!

FAQs about Weeknight Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs add a rich flavor and tenderness to your weeknight buffalo chicken sandwiches, chicken breasts are a leaner option. Just be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out more easily than thighs.

How long can I store leftovers?
If you have any leftovers (which is a rare occurrence with these delicious sandwiches), they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just make sure to place them in an airtight container. For the best quality, try to reheat only the portions you'll enjoy.

Can I make the slaw ahead of time?
Definitely! The pickle slaw can be prepared up to a day in advance. In fact, letting it sit overnight helps the flavors meld beautifully. Just be sure to keep it in the refrigerator until you're ready to pile it atop your weeknight buffalo chicken sandwiches. For tips on storing and prepping, check out this helpful guide.

Conclusion on Weeknight Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches

In summary, weeknight buffalo chicken sandwiches with pickle slaw offer a vibrant, flavorful meal that fits perfectly into your busy schedule. The combination of zesty buffalo chicken and crunchy slaw creates a delightful bite that's sure to impress. Try this recipe for an effortless dinner that's packed with flavor!