Crispy Buffalo Chicken Sandwich with Ranch Slaw

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If there’s one sandwich I could eat on repeat without ever getting tired of it, it’s this crispy buffalo chicken sandwich with ranch slaw. It has everything I crave in a single bite—crunchy, juicy, spicy, and creamy all at once. The combination of golden fried chicken tenders drenched in tangy buffalo sauce, paired with a refreshing, herb-packed ranch slaw, all nestled between soft brioche buns—it’s just unbeatable.

I first made this sandwich on a game day weekend, and it instantly became a crowd favorite. Now, it’s one of my go-to recipes when I want something indulgent yet super easy to put together. You get bold flavor and satisfying texture without needing a ton of ingredients or complicated steps. Trust me, this one’s worth every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Buffalo Chicken Sandwich with Ranch Slaw

It hits every flavor note you could want: heat from the buffalo sauce, coolness from the creamy ranch, crunch from the slaw, and that irresistible crispy fried chicken. It’s fast enough for a weeknight, but impressive enough to serve to guests. Whether you’re hosting, meal-prepping, or just in the mood for something indulgent, this sandwich delivers.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Chicken tenders or boneless skinless chicken thighs are the best cuts for this recipe. They cook quickly, stay juicy inside, and develop a perfect crispy crust when fried. If you’re looking to cut corners or prefer baking, you can even use store-bought crispy chicken strips—just make sure they’re high quality so they hold up to the buffalo sauce and slaw.

Options for Substitutions

• Buns: Brioche buns are ideal, but potato rolls or even ciabatta work well.
• Chicken: Swap in baked or air-fried chicken strips for a lighter version.
• Buffalo Sauce: You can make your own with hot sauce and butter or use your favorite bottled brand.
• Ranch Slaw: Not a fan of ranch? Try blue cheese dressing or a tangy Greek yogurt slaw instead.
• Lettuce: Shredded iceberg gives the best crunch, but romaine or cabbage are good swaps.

Ingredients for this Crispy Buffalo Chicken Sandwich with Ranch Slaw

• Chicken tenders or boneless thighs – the juicy base of the sandwich, ideal for frying.
• All-purpose flour – essential for a crispy outer layer on the chicken.
• Cornstarch – adds extra crunch to the breading.
• Buttermilk – tenderizes the chicken and helps the coating stick.
• Hot sauce – mixed with the buttermilk for flavor and used to make the buffalo sauce.
• Egg – helps bind the coating to the chicken.
• Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper – seasoning mix to boost flavor.
• Buffalo sauce – a mix of hot sauce and butter for that iconic spicy glaze.
• Butter – used to mellow out and enrich the hot sauce.
• Brioche buns – soft, slightly sweet, and perfect for soaking up all the flavor.
• Shredded iceberg lettuce – adds a cold, crisp texture.
• Ranch dressing – creamy, herby counterbalance to the spicy chicken.
• Fresh herbs (dill, parsley, chives) – mixed into the ranch slaw for brightness.

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Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Combine the buttermilk, hot sauce, and egg in a bowl. Add the chicken and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight). This infuses the meat with flavor and makes it extra tender.

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Step 2: Prep the Breading Station

In a shallow dish, mix flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Dredge each piece of chicken in the dry mix until well coated. Press the coating into the chicken so it adheres properly.

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Step 3: Fry the Chicken

Heat about 2 inches of oil in a deep skillet or heavy pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken in batches for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let drain on a wire rack or paper towel.

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Step 4: Make the Buffalo Sauce

In a small saucepan, melt the butter and stir in hot sauce until smooth. Toss the freshly fried chicken in the buffalo sauce until coated evenly.

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Step 5: Mix the Ranch Slaw

In a bowl, combine shredded lettuce, ranch dressing, and freshly chopped herbs like dill, parsley, and chives. Stir until evenly mixed.

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Step 6: Assemble the Sandwich

Toast the brioche buns lightly. On the bottom bun, spread a bit of ranch, add a scoop of slaw, then top with buffalo chicken. Add extra ranch drizzle and close with the top bun. Serve immediately while the chicken is hot and crispy.

How Long to Prepare the Crispy Buffalo Chicken Sandwich with Ranch Slaw

Prep Time

You’ll need around 20–25 minutes to get everything ready. That includes marinating the chicken (if you’re short on time, a quick 30-minute soak works), preparing the dredging station, slicing the lettuce, and mixing the ranch slaw. You can even make the slaw and buffalo sauce ahead of time to cut down on the day-of work.

Cook Time

Once the prep is done, frying the chicken takes about 10–12 minutes total depending on the thickness. Toasting the buns and assembling the sandwiches adds another 5–10 minutes, so all in all, you’re looking at about 40 minutes from start to finish.

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Tips for Perfect Crispy Buffalo Chicken Sandwich

• Double dredge the chicken for extra crunch—dip it in the flour mix, back in the buttermilk, then again in the flour.
• Use a thermometer to keep the oil at 350°F—too hot and it’ll burn, too cold and the coating gets soggy.
• Let the chicken rest after frying on a wire rack, not paper towels, to maintain crispiness.
• Toss the chicken in buffalo sauce right before assembling so it stays crispy.
• Lightly butter and toast the buns for added flavor and sturdiness.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Skipping the marinade can lead to dry or bland chicken.
• Overcrowding the fryer drops the oil temperature and results in greasy chicken.
• Using too much ranch can make the sandwich soggy.
• Not seasoning the flour mix leads to bland coating.
• Using thin lettuce or greens that wilt easily in the warm sandwich.

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What to Serve With Crispy Buffalo Chicken Sandwich with Ranch Slaw?

1. Seasoned Waffle Fries

Crispy, golden, and full of flavor, waffle fries are the ultimate side.

2. Dill Pickle Spears

The vinegary snap of pickles cuts through the richness perfectly.

3. Coleslaw

A cool, creamy classic that complements the spicy buffalo flavor.

4. Sweet Potato Fries

Add a bit of sweetness to balance the heat.

5. Iced Tea or Lemonade

A refreshing drink to cool off those buffalo spices.

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Storage Instructions

Storing Leftovers

Store the chicken separately from the buns and slaw. Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’ve already tossed the chicken in buffalo sauce, expect it to lose its crispiness.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken in the oven at 375°F for about 10–15 minutes until it regains its crunch. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the crust crispy. Slaw should be kept cold and assembled fresh if possible.

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Estimated Nutrition

(Note: based on one sandwich)

• Calories: ~620
• Protein: 34g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fat: 32g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Cholesterol: 120mg
• Sodium: 1280mg
• Sugar: 5g
• Fiber: 3g

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of oil is best for frying the chicken?

Use a neutral, high-smoke point oil like canola, vegetable, or peanut oil.

Can I bake or air fry the chicken instead of frying?

Yes! It won’t be as crispy but it can still be delicious. Spray well with oil and bake at 425°F or air fry at 390°F for 15–18 minutes.

Can I use pre-made buffalo sauce?

Absolutely. Choose a quality one with a good balance of spice and richness.

Can I make the ranch slaw ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep it a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Stir before using.

What if I don’t like spicy food?

Reduce the amount of buffalo sauce or use a milder hot sauce like Frank’s RedHot Mild.

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Conclusion

This Crispy Buffalo Chicken Sandwich with Ranch Slaw is everything a comfort meal should be: crunchy, spicy, creamy, and totally satisfying. Whether you’re making it for a casual weeknight dinner or to impress friends on game day, it’s a guaranteed winner. With a few simple tricks and easy prep, you’ll be coming back to this sandwich again and again.

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