Grilled Buffalo Chicken Salad Sandwiches are the perfect way to enjoy the flavors of buffalo chicken in a lighter, more refreshing form. This recipe combines the smoky, tangy, and spicy flavors of buffalo chicken with the crunch of fresh vegetables, all served on a soft sandwich or pita. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch, these sandwiches deliver big flavor with minimal effort. The creamy dressing, combined with the heat from the buffalo sauce, makes this dish the ideal balance of spicy, tangy, and creamy.
A Twist on the Classic Buffalo Chicken
Buffalo chicken is a beloved dish known for its tangy heat and bold flavor. However, transforming it into a salad gives it a refreshing and light twist without sacrificing any of the classic flavor. By grilling the chicken, you add an extra layer of smoky goodness that enhances the richness of the buffalo sauce. The result is a deliciously spicy salad that’s not just a meal—it’s a burst of flavor in every bite.
Ingredients for Grilled Buffalo Chicken Salad Sandwiches
For the Grilled Buffalo Chicken
1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/4 cup buffalo sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Salad
2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
1/2 cup celery, diced
1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup carrots, shredded
1/2 cup blue cheese or ranch dressing (optional, for extra creaminess)
For Serving
4 sandwich rolls or pita pockets (or more, depending on servings)
Optional garnishes: Extra buffalo sauce, cilantro, or parsley
Step-by-Step Instructions for Grilled Buffalo Chicken Salad Sandwiches
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine buffalo sauce, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth. Place the chicken breasts into a resealable bag or shallow dish, and pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the chicken to absorb the flavors.
Step 2: Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F). If using a charcoal grill, allow the coals to become hot and glowing. For a gas grill, preheat the burners to the desired temperature.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 10 minutes. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Grill the chicken until it’s slightly charred and fully cooked.
Step 4: Rest and Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. Shred the chicken using two forks, pulling it into bite-sized pieces. The shredded chicken will soak up any remaining buffalo sauce, making it juicy and flavorful.
Step 5: Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, romaine lettuce, celery, red onion, and shredded carrots. Toss everything together gently to mix. If you want an extra creamy element, drizzle with blue cheese or ranch dressing and toss again.
Step 6: Serve
Scoop the buffalo chicken salad onto sandwich rolls or pita pockets. You can add more buffalo sauce for extra spice, or garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for a touch of color and flavor.
Step 7: Enjoy
Serve immediately and enjoy the spicy, creamy goodness of your Grilled Buffalo Chicken Salad Sandwiches. Pair with your favorite side, like crispy fries, chips, or a fresh fruit salad.
Tips for the Best Grilled Buffalo Chicken Salad Sandwiches
Tip 1: Use Bone-In Chicken for Extra Flavor
For a richer taste, consider using bone-in chicken breasts or thighs. They will impart more flavor to the chicken, especially when grilled, and can be shredded just as easily after cooking.
Tip 2: Adjust the Heat
If you like your buffalo chicken salad on the spicier side, you can increase the amount of buffalo sauce or add a few dashes of hot sauce. For a milder version, reduce the buffalo sauce or mix in a little honey to balance the heat with some sweetness.
Tip 3: Make it a Wrap
If you prefer something lighter, skip the bread and use a whole-wheat tortilla or lettuce wraps for a healthier alternative.
Tip 4: Prep Ahead
You can make the buffalo chicken ahead of time. Grill the chicken and store the shredded meat in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. When ready to serve, toss it with the salad ingredients, and you’re good to go!
Why You’ll Love Grilled Buffalo Chicken Salad Sandwiches
These Grilled Buffalo Chicken Salad Sandwiches are the perfect balance of spicy, crunchy, and creamy. The combination of grilled chicken, buffalo sauce, and fresh veggies makes for an exciting and satisfying meal that works for any time of day. Plus, it’s easy to customize—add your favorite toppings, adjust the heat level, or switch out the dressings to match your preferences.
This recipe is also versatile and can be served in many different ways. Whether as a sandwich, a pita, or a wrap, this buffalo chicken salad is a great way to enjoy the bold flavors of buffalo chicken without the mess of traditional wings. It’s also a great meal prep option, as it holds up well in the fridge and is easy to pack for lunches during the week.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, from crispy potato wedges to grilled corn on the cob. You can also serve it with a side of kale chips or a fresh tomato and cucumber salad for added freshness.
If you’re in the mood for something sweet to balance out the heat, a side of sliced fruit or a cool cucumber salad would be the perfect complement.
Healthier Variations
For a lighter version of this recipe, use grilled chicken breast instead of thighs and skip the creamy dressing. You can also swap the sandwich bread for a low-carb or whole-grain option. For a dairy-free alternative, opt for a dairy-free ranch dressing or simply use a drizzle of olive oil and lemon juice for added flavor.
