Name: Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches with Slaw and Melty Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 teaspoons kosher salt; 2 teaspoons paprika; 2 teaspoons garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1/3 cup buffalo wing sauce (like Frank’s brand), plus more for brushing; 2 tablespoons honey; Brioche buns; 1 tomato, sliced; Cheese slices, like havarti or pepperjack; 4 cups shredded iceberg lettuce; 1/4 red onion, very thinly sliced; 6 pepperoncini, sliced; 1/3 cup mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1/2 teaspoon dried dill; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Kosher salt, to taste; Freshly cracked pepper, to taste

If you’re craving something that delivers a knockout combination of spicy, smoky, and creamy all tucked inside a soft bun, then these Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches with Slaw and Melty Cheese Recipe are about to become your new go-to. This dish balances tender, buffalo-sauced chicken with zesty slaw and ooey-gooey cheese for a flavor explosion that’s perfect for weeknights, casual gatherings, or anytime you want to treat yourself to something comforting yet exciting. Plus, you don’t have to be a grill master to pull these together—with simple ingredients and a straightforward method, you’ll have a crowd-pleaser on your hands fast.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows three pieces of grilled chicken on a baking tray lined with brown paper. Each piece of chicken is covered with a smooth layer of melted white cheese that has slight specks of seasoning. The chicken underneath has a golden-orange color with some darker char marks. Next to the chicken, there is a small white bowl filled with bright orange sauce, and a brush with some sauce on its bristles rests inside the bowl. The scene is set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient here plays a vital role in bringing this sandwich to life—from the vivid heat of the buffalo sauce to the crisp brightness of the slaw. These straightforward elements are easy to gather but essential for that perfect harmony of flavors and textures.

2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts: The star protein that soaks up all the bold buffalo flavor beautifully.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps keep the chicken juicy and aids the marinade in penetrating deeply.
2 teaspoons kosher salt: Essential for seasoning every bite just right.
2 teaspoons paprika: Adds subtle smokiness and vibrant color to the chicken.
2 teaspoons garlic powder: Brings a warm, savory depth that pairs perfectly with the heat.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the flavor with gentle sweetness and complexity.
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Gives the sandwich its signature kick without overpowering.
1/3 cup buffalo wing sauce: The zesty, spicy base of our marinade and glaze—don’t be shy with it!
2 tablespoons honey: Balances heat with a touch of natural sweetness for a layered taste.
Brioche buns: Soft, buttery, and slightly sweet to cradle all the ingredients perfectly.
1 tomato, sliced: Adds freshness and juicy contrast to the spicy chicken.
Cheese slices (havarti or pepperjack recommended): Melted gooey goodness that elevates the sandwich to heavenly levels.
4 cups shredded iceberg lettuce: Gives crunch and cooling texture in the slaw.
1/4 red onion, very thinly sliced: Sharp bite and beautiful color for brightening the slaw.
6 pepperoncini, sliced: Tangy and slightly spicy, they add a surprising punch to the slaw mix.
1/3 cup mayonnaise: Creamy base that holds the slaw together with richness.
1 tablespoon lemon juice: Adds a zesty lift and freshness to the slaw.
1/2 teaspoon dried dill: Infuses the slaw with herby brightness.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Complements the slaw’s flavor with a warm undertone.
1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds earthiness and depth to the slaw dressing.
Kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper: Seasonal essentials that bring balance and seasoning precision.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches with Slaw and Melty Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Marinate Your Chicken

Start by pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness—this ensures they cook evenly and stay juicy. The marinade is a lively mix of olive oil, kosher salt, smoky paprika, and that unmistakable buffalo wing sauce with a hint of honey for sweetness. Toss your chicken in this for at least an hour to let all those vibrant flavors soak in deeply.

Step 2: Get Grilling

Next, heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high. A well-oiled grill is key so your chicken won’t stick and will get those gorgeous char marks that add smokiness. Grill the chicken for five minutes per side, generously brushing with extra buffalo sauce as it cooks to keep it saucy and spicy. Near the end, add the cheese on top so it melts perfectly over the warm chicken—this is the melty magic we’re after.

Step 3: Make the Slaw

The slaw combines crisp iceberg lettuce with tangy pepperoncini and a creamy, herb-infused dressing that’s balanced with lemon juice and spices. Toss the dressing ingredients first and let them mingle for 15 minutes before mixing in the lettuce to keep its crunch. This slaw cuts through the heat and richness of the chicken beautifully.

Step 4: Assemble Your Sandwiches

Once your chicken and slaw are ready, toast your brioche buns lightly to add slight crunch and buttery flavor. Layer your sandwiches with a slice of juicy tomato, the melty buffalo chicken, and a generous helping of that zesty slaw. If you want, add extra mayo for creaminess and dig in—you’re in for something special!

How to Serve Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches with Slaw and Melty Cheese Recipe

Two open chicken sandwiches sit on white parchment on a metal tray over a white marbled surface. Each sandwich has a white toasted bun base, topped with a layer of light yellow mayo, then a slice of red tomato, followed by a grilled orange chicken filet with melted white cheese on top. On the chicken rests a pile of light green shredded cabbage salad mixed with thin strips of purple onion. The white toasted top bun is placed beside the closest sandwich. In the blurred background stands a dark brown bottle and an orange sauce bottle. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped cilantro or parsley add a burst of color and freshness when sprinkled on top. A few extra pepperoncini or a drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing can also elevate your sandwich experience and balance out the spiciness.

Side Dishes

These sandwiches pair wonderfully with crispy sweet potato fries, crunchy dill pickle spears, or a light cucumber salad. The contrast between crunchy, creamy, and fresh sides keeps the meal exciting and well-rounded.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the components deconstructed on a platter for a DIY sandwich bar. Let your guests assemble the sandwiches themselves, choosing their favorite slaw quantity and cheese type. This turn-your-dinner-into-an-event idea makes mealtime social and fun!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover chicken and slaw separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keeping the slaw apart prevents it from wilting and keeps the sandwich fresh for later.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked chicken slices wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap for up to 2 months. However, it’s best not to freeze the slaw, as the lettuce will lose its texture after thawing.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or extra buffalo sauce to keep it moist. Avoid microwaving if possible to preserve texture and flavor. Add fresh slaw when serving to keep that crunch.

FAQs

Can I make the buffalo chicken without a grill?

Absolutely! You can use an indoor grill pan, bake it in the oven, or even air fry the chicken as outlined in the notes. Each method still yields tender, flavorful results.

What’s the best cheese for this sandwich?

Havarti and pepperjack are fantastic because they melt easily and have complementary flavors. Havarti offers creamy mildness, while pepperjack gives a subtle spicy kick. Feel free to experiment based on your preference.

How spicy is the sandwich?

The spice level is lively but balanced by the honey in the marinade and the refreshing slaw. You can adjust the cayenne and buffalo sauce amounts up or down depending on how much heat you like.

Can I prepare the slaw ahead of time?

You can mix the dressing ingredients up to a day ahead, but it’s best to add the lettuce right before serving for maximum crunch and freshness.

What if I don’t have brioche buns?

No worries! Any soft, slightly sweet bun will work, like potato rolls or even soft sandwich buns. The important part is that they hold all your delicious ingredients without falling apart.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so satisfying about biting into a sandwich layered with tender, saucy grilled buffalo chicken, crisp zesty slaw, and melty, gooey cheese all sandwiched between a soft brioche bun. This Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches with Slaw and Melty Cheese Recipe is simple enough for a busy weeknight but impressive enough to share with friends. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and discover why it’s such a beloved favorite in my kitchen!

Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches with Slaw and Melty Cheese Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

How to Make Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches with Slaw and Melty Cheese Recipe