Buffalo Ranch Coleslaw Chicken Sandwich Recipe

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If you are craving a sandwich that perfectly balances bold flavors with a satisfying crunch, the Buffalo Ranch Coleslaw Chicken Sandwich Recipe is your new go-to. This mouthwatering creation combines tender, buttermilk-marinated chicken fried to golden perfection with a zesty, creamy buffalo ranch coleslaw that adds just the right kick and creamy coolness. Every bite bursts with layers of texture and flavor making it ideal for a casual lunch or fun dinner that impresses without the fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple yet essential, each playing a key role in building the iconic creamy, spicy, and crunchy notes that bring this sandwich to life. The fresh produce keeps the sandwich light while the well-seasoned chicken gives it heart and soul.

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein that becomes crispy and juicy after frying.
• 1/2 cup buttermilk: Tenderizes the chicken for juicy, flavorful bites.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour: Creates the crunchy coating around the chicken.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds smoky warmth to the coating.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides savory depth.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances all the natural flavors.
• Vegetable oil for frying: Key to achieving that crispy golden crust.
• 4 sandwich buns: Soft and sturdy, perfect for piling on the fillings.
• 2 cups shredded cabbage: The crunchy base for the slaw, adding freshness and bite.
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots: Sweetness and vibrant color brighten the slaw.
• 1/4 cup ranch dressing: Creamy richness that mellows the heat.
• 2 tablespoons buffalo sauce: Gives the slaw a addictive spicy tang.
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar: Adds a subtle tang to balance creamy flavors.
• 1 tablespoon honey: Touch of natural sweetness to round out the slaw.
• Optional: sliced pickles, lettuce, or tomato slices: Customize your sandwich with extra layers of flavor and texture.

How to Make Buffalo Ranch Coleslaw Chicken Sandwich Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by soaking those chicken breasts in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes. This simple step is the secret to juicy, tender chicken that stays moist even after frying. The acidity tenderizes the meat while imparting subtle tang.

Step 2: Prepare the Flour Coating

While the chicken marinates, mix your flour with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. The paprika adds a gentle smoky undertone that complements the buffalo sauce later on. This seasoned flour will create a crunch that makes each bite incredibly satisfying.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

Get your skillet warming over medium heat and pour enough vegetable oil to submerge the chicken about halfway. The right temperature is essential here – too hot and the coating will burn, too low and the chicken ends up greasy.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

Take your marinated chicken and dredge each piece carefully in the seasoned flour mixture, coating evenly. Fry each breast about 6 to 7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Use a paper towel to drain the excess oil once cooked, keeping the chicken crisp and light.

Step 5: Make the Buffalo Ranch Coleslaw

In a mixing bowl, combine shredded cabbage, carrots, ranch dressing, buffalo sauce, apple cider vinegar, and honey into a vibrant, flavor-packed slaw. Season to taste with salt and pepper. This slaw is where the magic really happens – creamy, spicy, and tangy all at once.

Step 6: Toast the Buns

Lightly toast your sandwich buns until just golden. This adds a pleasant texture and helps prevent sogginess once the juicy chicken and slaw are added.

Step 7: Assemble the Sandwich

Layer the bottom bun with a beautiful piece of the crispy chicken breast, then mound on a generous helping of buffalo ranch coleslaw. Add any optional toppings like pickles or tomato slices if desired, and crown it with the top bun.

Step 8: Serve Immediately

This sandwich is best enjoyed fresh so that the chicken stays crispy and the coleslaw maintains its crunch and zing. Serve with your favorite cold drink and prepare for rave reviews!

How to Serve Buffalo Ranch Coleslaw Chicken Sandwich Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes like crisp pickles or a few crunchy lettuce leaves add additional layers of texture and zing, balancing the creamy buffalo ranch coleslaw beautifully. A slice of ripe tomato adds a juicy, sweet contrast that rounds out the flavor profile.

Side Dishes

Simple sides shine alongside this sandwich because it is so flavor-packed. Try classic crispy French fries, sweet potato fries, or even a side salad to keep things fresh and vibrant. For something a little different, crunchy roasted chickpeas offer a nice protein-rich crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the Buffalo Ranch Coleslaw Chicken Sandwich Recipe on a crunchy pretzel bun for extra flavor, or go open-faced with a slice of melted sharp cheddar cheese under the chicken. For casual gatherings, slice the sandwich into halves or quarters to make sharing easy and inviting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover cooked chicken breasts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store the buffalo ranch coleslaw separately to preserve its crisp texture. This way, your sandwich is just as fresh when you’re ready for round two.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked chicken breasts wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. However, the coleslaw doesn’t freeze well, so make fresh batches when needed to maintain that perfect creamy crunch.

Reheating

Reheat chicken breasts gently in a skillet over medium heat or in an oven preheated to 350°F until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep the breading crisp. Add fresh coleslaw just before serving to keep the balance of textures intact.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Grilled or rotisserie chicken can be a quick alternative. Just warm it gently and top with the buffalo ranch coleslaw for a speedy but delicious sandwich.

How spicy is the Buffalo Ranch Coleslaw Chicken Sandwich Recipe?

The spiciness is moderate and can be adjusted by adding more or less buffalo sauce in the slaw. The ranch dressing helps mellow out the heat while keeping bold flavor.

Can I make this sandwich gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free flour or a suitable breading alternative and gluten-free buns. The rest of the ingredients, like cabbage and sauces, are naturally gluten-free.

What’s the best way to shred cabbage and carrots for the coleslaw?

A box grater or food processor works perfectly. Shred them finely enough to mix well but still retain some crunch for texture.

Are there vegetarian options to try?

For a vegetarian twist, try using crispy fried cauliflower steaks or breaded portobello mushrooms instead of chicken. The buffalo ranch coleslaw pairs wonderfully with these too!

Final Thoughts

This Buffalo Ranch Coleslaw Chicken Sandwich Recipe is one of those rare dishes that feels like a hug wrapped in a sandwich. It’s simple to make, packed with layers of bold flavor, and endlessly satisfying. Whether for a casual meal or to impress friends at your next gathering, give this recipe a try—you’ll be so glad you did!

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