If you’re craving a sandwich that perfectly balances spicy, creamy, tangy, and crunchy, you’re in for a treat with my Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches with Gorgonzola Slaw Recipe. This isn’t just a quick fix—it’s a fan-freaking-tastic way to elevate your sandwich game with juicy grilled chicken slathered in buffalo sauce, topped with a bright and tangy gorgonzola slaw that’ll wow your taste buds. Stick with me, and I promise you’ll nail it every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect Buffalo Flavor: The combination of smoked paprika and real butter in the buffalo sauce brings deep flavor that you just can’t get from bottled sauces alone.
- Crunchy, Tangy Slaw: The gorgonzola slaw adds the perfect creamy tang and crunch that balances the spicy chicken so well.
- Super Easy to Make: From prepping thin chicken breasts to making the slaw in minutes, it’s a straightforward recipe that’s impressive and quick.
- Customizable: Whether you like ranch, blue cheese, or an extra sprinkle of gorgonzola, you can easily make it your own.
Ingredients & Why They Work
This recipe balances spicy, tangy, and creamy elements with fresh textures. Each ingredient plays a role: smoky spices for depth, buffalo sauce and butter for that classic wing flavor, and the gorgonzola slaw adds brightness and crunch. A few key tips on what to look for when shopping to get the best results.
- Thin sliced chicken breasts: These cook evenly and stay juicy, making them perfect for sandwiches without overwhelming your bite.
- Smoked paprika & garlic powder: They add subtle smoky warmth and savoriness that lift the buffalo sauce beyond just heat.
- Hot sauce (Frank’s Red Hot or similar): The classic choice for buffalo flavor with the right tang and heat level.
- Unsalted butter: Melting butter into the hot sauce creates that silky, rich buffalo wing sauce that clings beautifully to the chicken.
- Brioche buns: Soft, slightly sweet buns that toast nicely and hold up without getting soggy.
- Gorgonzola cheese: Its sharp, creamy profile pairs so well with the spicy chicken and fresh slaw.
- Cabbage or coleslaw mix: Provides crunch and freshness; pre-shredded coleslaw mix is an excellent time saver.
- Carrots: Ribbons or shredded add subtle sweetness and texture contrast.
- Greek yogurt & lime juice: These lighten up the slaw dressing, making it tangy and creamy without being heavy.
- Olive oil or avocado oil: Adds smoothness and a bit of richness to the slaw dressing.
Note: Exact ingredients and measurements are listed in the recipe card below.
Make It Your Way
One of the things I love about this Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches with Gorgonzola Slaw Recipe is how easy it is to tweak based on what you like or have on hand. Don’t hesitate to make it your own!
- Variation: I sometimes swap out the gorgonzola for blue cheese when I want a creamier, tangier slaw, and honestly, it’s just as delicious.
- Heat Level: Want it milder? Reduce the hot sauce or swap for a milder wing sauce; for extra heat, add a dash of cayenne or hot sauce on top before serving.
- Protein Swap: If you’re not into chicken breasts, thinly sliced turkey or even grilled cauliflower steaks work surprisingly well.
- Dietary Change: For a dairy-free twist, skip the cheese in the slaw and swap the yogurt for a tangy plant-based alternative.
Step-by-Step: How I Make Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches with Gorgonzola Slaw Recipe
Step 1: Prep & Season Your Chicken Just Right
I always start by slicing the chicken breasts thinly—usually cutting three breasts in half lengthwise. It helps them cook evenly and makes for a perfect sandwich thickness. Season them with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder to build layered flavor even before the grill hits the scene.
Step 2: Master the Buffalo Sauce
While the grill is heating, I melt the butter and combine it with the hot sauce in a small saucepan or the microwave. Stir it gently just until combined—this simple step transforms the sharpness of the hot sauce into a velvety coating everyone loves.
Step 3: Grill to Juicy, Spicy Perfection
Get your grill heat between 400 and 450°F. Lay down the seasoned chicken breasts and grill for about 4 minutes on one side. Flip, grill 3 minutes on the other side, and start brushing with your buffalo sauce. Flip again and brush the second side—repeat once or twice until the internal temperature hits 165°F. If you like, throw the buns on the grill for just 1-2 minutes to toast.
Step 4: Whip Up the Gorgonzola Slaw
While the chicken cooks, toss your shredded cabbage and carrot ribbons in a big bowl. In a smaller bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lime juice, olive oil, and crumbled gorgonzola. Pour over the veggies, season with salt and pepper, then toss well. The slaw is light, zesty, and the perfect partner for the spicy chicken.
Step 5: Build & Serve Immediately
Spread a bit of ranch or blue cheese dressing on the bottom bun if you like, pile on the buffalo chicken (or double pile if you’re feeling hungry, like my husband!), and top generously with the gorgonzola slaw. Add an extra sprinkle of cheese for good measure. Eat immediately—you’re in for a seriously satisfying sandwich experience.
Pro Tips for Making Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches with Gorgonzola Slaw Recipe
- Even Thickness Matters: Slicing chicken breasts evenly ensures they cook at the same rate, preventing dry or undercooked spots.
- Buffalo Sauce Timing: Brush with sauce towards the end of grilling to avoid burning the sugars in the sauce but still get that beautiful glaze.
- Slaw Dressing Lightness: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo for a lighter slaw that still feels creamy and tangy.
- Grill Buns Briefly: Toast buns just for 1-2 minutes on the grill for a bit of crunch and smoky flavor—don’t overdo it!
How to Serve Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches with Gorgonzola Slaw Recipe
Garnishes
I like to top mine with a drizzle of blue cheese or ranch dressing and an extra sprinkle of crumbled gorgonzola for that indulgent touch. Fresh celery leaves or chopped chives also add a nice fresh pop that complements the buffalo flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pair this sandwich with classic sides like crispy sweet potato fries, a light cucumber salad, or even some grilled corn on the cob with a squeeze of lime. A crisp beer or an ice-cold lemonade also makes the meal feel complete.
Creative Ways to Present
For a game day or party, slice the sandwiches into sliders and serve on a wooden board with mini bowls of extra buffalo sauce, ranch, and blue cheese dressing for dipping. It makes for a fun and shareable presentation that everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I find that storing leftover chicken separately from the slaw and buns keeps everything fresh longer. Keep chicken and slaw airtight in the fridge for up to 3 days. The slaw softens a bit but still tastes great.
Freezing
If you want to freeze the chicken for later, grill and sauce it as usual, then cool completely and freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. I don’t recommend freezing the slaw because of the fresh veggies and cheese.
Reheating
For leftovers, I reheat the chicken gently in a skillet over medium heat or in a toaster oven to keep that grilled texture and prevent drying out. Add fresh slaw and a toasted bun after reheating for the best experience.
FAQs
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Can I use regular chicken breasts instead of thin sliced?
You can, but I recommend slicing the breasts in half or pounding them thinner so they cook evenly and quickly on the grill. Thick chicken breasts tend to take longer and can dry out on the outside before the inside is cooked through.
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What if I don’t have a grill? Can I make this indoors?
Absolutely! You can use a grill pan or even a regular skillet on the stovetop. Cook the chicken over medium-high heat and follow similar timing, finishing with brushing on the buffalo sauce. The buns can be toasted in a pan or under the broiler.
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Is there a good substitute for gorgonzola cheese?
Blue cheese is the closest substitute, offering a similar creamy and tangy flavor. If you prefer something milder, feta cheese works in a pinch but will change the flavor profile.
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Can I make the slaw ahead of time?
You can prepare the slaw a few hours ahead and store it in the refrigerator, but I wouldn’t recommend making it more than a day in advance—the cabbage and carrots can release moisture and change texture.
Final Thoughts
This Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches with Gorgonzola Slaw Recipe is one of those meals I keep coming back to because it hits all the right notes—spicy, creamy, crunchy, and fresh—all in one delicious bite. I love sharing this recipe with friends because it’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough for guests. When you try it yourself, I hope you feel as proud as I do every time I take that first bite. Trust me, you’re going to want to make this one again and again.
PrintGrilled Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches with Gorgonzola Slaw Recipe
These Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches feature tender, smoky-spiced chicken breasts brushed with tangy buffalo wing sauce, served on toasted brioche buns with a refreshing gorgonzola slaw and optional ranch or blue cheese dressing for extra creaminess. Perfect for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 to 6 thin sliced chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot or Frank’s Buffalo Wing)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Brioche buns, for serving
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing, for serving (optional)
Gorgonzola Slaw
- 2 to 3 cups chopped/shredded green or savoy cabbage, or 1 (14 oz) bag coleslaw mix
- 1 large carrot, peeled into ribbons
- 4 ounces crumbled gorgonzola cheese, plus extra for serving if desired
- 3 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or avocado oil or another oil you prefer)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Grill. Preheat your grill to the highest setting ensuring the heat reaches between 400 and 450 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Prepare Chicken. Slice chicken breasts in half lengthwise if needed to create thin slices. Season all over with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Make Buffalo Sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt together the hot sauce and unsalted butter, stirring frequently until combined. Alternatively, melt in the microwave.
- Grill Chicken. Place chicken on the hot grill. Cook for 4 minutes, flip and cook 3 minutes more. Brush the chicken evenly with buffalo sauce, flip, brush the other side, and grill for an additional minute. Repeat brushing and grilling 1-2 more times until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F. Adjust timing based on chicken thickness.
- Toast Buns. Optionally, place brioche buns on the grill for 1 to 2 minutes to lightly toast.
- Finish Chicken. Remove chicken from grill and brush with more buffalo sauce for extra flavor.
- Prepare Gorgonzola Slaw. In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage and carrot ribbons. In a smaller bowl, whisk together gorgonzola cheese, Greek yogurt, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Pour dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss thoroughly to coat lightly.
- Assemble Sandwiches. Spread ranch or blue cheese dressing on the bottom brioche bun if desired. Place grilled buffalo chicken breast(s) on the bun, top with gorgonzola slaw, and sprinkle extra crumbled gorgonzola if you like. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Use thin sliced chicken breasts for easier sandwich assembly and eating.
- If you don’t have a grill, use a grill pan or stovetop skillet at medium-high heat, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
- For milder flavor, reduce the amount of hot sauce or substitute with a milder wing sauce.
- The slaw is lightly dressed; for creamier texture, add more Greek yogurt or a bit of mayonnaise.
- To keep sandwiches warm, cover with foil while you grill remaining chicken.
- Brioche buns add a slightly sweet richness, but you can substitute with sandwich rolls or hamburger buns as preferred.
