If you’re craving a sandwich that packs a punch of flavor and texture, your search ends here with the Buffalo Ranch Coleslaw Topped Chicken Sandwich Recipe. This dish combines perfectly crispy, juicy chicken breast with a zesty, creamy buffalo ranch coleslaw that adds just the right amount of tang and heat. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or impressing friends at your next cookout, this sandwich delivers a vibrant mix of crunchy, spicy, and cool elements that will keep everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these ingredients is like setting the stage for a taste sensation. Each component is straightforward but essential, contributing textures, flavors, and a splash of color that make this sandwich stand out.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein, juicy and tender after marinating and frying.
- 1/2 cup buttermilk: Tenderizes the chicken to keep it moist and flavorful.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Creates the crispy coating for the chicken.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a smoky warmth to the chicken’s crust.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides a subtle layered flavor to the breading.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring balance.
- Vegetable oil for frying: Ensures a golden, crispy finish on the chicken.
- 4 sandwich buns: Your base for the ultimate handheld delight.
- 2 cups shredded cabbage: The crunchy foundation of the buffalo ranch coleslaw.
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots: Adds natural sweetness and vibrant color to the slaw.
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing: Gives the slaw its creamy, herbaceous note.
- 2 tablespoons buffalo sauce: Brings just the right level of spicy kick.
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar: Adds a bright acidity that balances richness.
- 1 tablespoon honey: Sweetens and mellows the heat in the slaw.
- Optional toppings (sliced pickles, lettuce, tomato slices): Customize this sandwich exactly how you love it.
How to Make Buffalo Ranch Coleslaw Topped Chicken Sandwich Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by soaking your chicken breasts in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes. This soak is the secret to juicy chicken that practically melts in your mouth once cooked.
Step 2: Prepare the Breading
While the chicken marinates, mix the flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish. This blend will coat the chicken with an irresistible golden crust, delivering both flavor and crunch.
Step 3: Fry the Chicken
Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, ensuring every inch is covered, then fry for about 6 to 7 minutes per side. You’re aiming for a crispy exterior and cooked-through, tender meat inside. Drain on paper towels to keep the texture crisp.
Step 4: Make the Buffalo Ranch Coleslaw
In a bowl, combine shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, ranch dressing, buffalo sauce, apple cider vinegar, and honey. Toss well and season with salt and pepper to taste. This slaw adds a cool, creamy contrast with just enough heat, elevating the sandwich to new heights.
Step 5: Toast the Buns and Assemble
Lightly toast your sandwich buns to add firmness and flavor. Then build your sandwich by placing the crispy chicken on the bottom bun, heaping on the buffalo ranch coleslaw, and layering any optional toppings like pickles or fresh lettuce. Cap it with the top bun and you’re ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Buffalo Ranch Coleslaw Topped Chicken Sandwich Recipe
Garnishes
Adding pickles or fresh tomato slices not only enhances the sandwich’s flavor but also provides a refreshing crunch and acidity that complements the buffalo ranch coleslaw perfectly. A few leafy greens like butter lettuce brighten the plate and add that fresh bite.
Side Dishes
This sandwich is a complete flavor powerhouse on its own, but pairing it with classic sides like sweet potato fries, kettle-cooked potato chips, or even a crisp cucumber salad adds a delightful variety to your meal. The cool cucumbers balance the heat beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow your guests? Serve the sandwiches open-faced with an extra scoop of buffalo ranch coleslaw on the side for dunking. Or turn the recipe into sliders for a fun appetizer option at your next gathering—bite-sized bites that still pack all the punch!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover chicken and coleslaw in separate airtight containers and store them in the refrigerator. Keeping them separate preserves the crispy texture of the chicken and the crunchiness of the slaw.
Freezing
If you’d like to freeze the chicken, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. It’s best to freeze before assembling the sandwich, as the slaw doesn’t freeze well and can become watery upon thawing.
Reheating
Reheat your fried chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain its crispiness. Avoid microwaving to keep that crust intact. Add fresh coleslaw when ready to serve for the best texture and flavor contrast.
FAQs
Can I make the Buffalo Ranch Coleslaw ahead of time?
Absolutely! The coleslaw can be made a few hours in advance and refrigerated. Just toss it again before serving to revive its creamy, spicy flavors.
What kind of buffalo sauce works best for this recipe?
A classic buffalo wing sauce with a good balance of heat and vinegar is ideal. You can adjust the quantity depending on how spicy you like your sandwich.
Is there a healthier version of this sandwich?
Yes! Try baking the chicken instead of frying and use a light ranch dressing or Greek yogurt in the coleslaw to cut down on calories while still keeping excellent flavor.
Can I use other types of meat for this recipe?
While the recipe shines with chicken, you can experiment with turkey cutlets or even a crispy fried tofu for a vegetarian twist. Each brings a unique texture but still pairs beautifully with the buffalo ranch coleslaw.
How spicy is this Buffalo Ranch Coleslaw Topped Chicken Sandwich Recipe?
The heat level is moderate and customizable. The buffalo sauce gives a nice kick but the ranch dressing and honey in the coleslaw mellow it out, making it approachable for most tastes.
Final Thoughts
This Buffalo Ranch Coleslaw Topped Chicken Sandwich Recipe is one of those dishes you’ll want to share with everyone you know. The balance of crispy chicken, cool creamy slaw, and a touch of spicy buffalo flavor is simply irresistible. Give it a try and soon it might just become your new go-to comfort meal or showstopper for weekend gatherings!
Print
Buffalo Ranch Coleslaw Topped Chicken Sandwich Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus 30 minutes marinating)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Buffalo Ranch Coleslaw Topped Chicken Sandwich combines crispy fried chicken breasts with a tangy, creamy buffalo ranch slaw for a deliciously spicy and refreshing meal. The sandwich is perfectly balanced with a crunchy, juicy chicken base layered with zesty buffalo-coleslaw and optional fresh toppings on a toasted bun, making it a satisfying dish ready in just over half an hour.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
- 4 sandwich buns
For the Buffalo Ranch Coleslaw:
- 2 cups shredded cabbage
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 2 tablespoons buffalo sauce (more if desired)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Sliced pickles
- Lettuce or tomato slices
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a bowl and cover with buttermilk. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes to tenderize and add moisture to the chicken.
- Prepare the flour mixture: In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to create a seasoned coating for the chicken.
- Heat the oil: Pour vegetable oil into a skillet and heat it over medium heat until hot enough for frying, about 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the chicken: Remove the chicken breasts from the buttermilk, dredge them thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture, then carefully place them in the hot oil. Fry for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Drain the cooked chicken on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Make the Buffalo Ranch Coleslaw: In a bowl, combine shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, ranch dressing, buffalo sauce, apple cider vinegar, and honey. Mix well and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toast the buns: Lightly toast the sandwich buns to add texture and warmth.
- Assemble the sandwich: Place each crispy fried chicken breast on the bottom half of a toasted bun, top generously with the buffalo ranch coleslaw, and add optional toppings such as sliced pickles, lettuce, or tomato slices if desired.
- Serve immediately: Enjoy the sandwich while warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken in buttermilk ensures tender, juicy results and helps the flour coating stick better.
- Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce in the coleslaw according to your preferred spice level.
- Use a thermometer to keep oil temperature steady during frying for even cooking and crispiness.
- Optional toppings like pickles, lettuce, and tomato add fresh contrast and crunch.
- For a lighter version, bake the chicken instead of frying, but frying offers the classic crispy texture.
