Buffalo Chicken Cheesesteak: The Ultimate Spicy & Cheesy Recipe

Buffalo Chicken Cheesesteak: Prepare to experience a flavor explosion that will redefine your sandwich expectations! Imagine the tangy, spicy kick of buffalo chicken melded with the cheesy, savory goodness of a classic Philly cheesesteak. It’s a culinary collision that’s both unexpected and utterly irresistible.

While the traditional Philly cheesesteak boasts a rich history rooted in the heart of Philadelphia, our Buffalo Chicken Cheesesteak is a modern twist, a bold and flavorful innovation that pays homage to two iconic American dishes. The buffalo wing, born in Buffalo, New York, has become a symbol of game day gatherings and casual comfort food. By combining these two beloved staples, we’ve created a sandwich that’s perfect for any occasion, from a quick weeknight dinner to a crowd-pleasing party snack.

What makes this sandwich so universally appealing? It’s the perfect balance of textures and tastes. The tender, juicy chicken, coated in a fiery buffalo sauce, is complemented by the creamy, melted cheese and the soft, slightly chewy roll. The spice level can be adjusted to your preference, making it a customizable dish that everyone can enjoy. Plus, it’s relatively quick and easy to prepare, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights. Get ready to sink your teeth into the ultimate comfort food mashup!

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Buffalo Sauce:
• 1 cup hot sauce (Frank’s RedHot is recommended)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tbsp white vinegar
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• For the Cheesesteaks:
• 4 hoagie rolls (about 6-8 inches long)
• 8 oz provolone cheese, sliced
• 1/2 cup blue cheese dressing (or ranch, if preferred)
• 1/4 cup celery, thinly sliced (optional)
• 1/4 cup green onions, thinly sliced (optional)
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced

Preparing the Chicken:

1. First, we need to get our chicken ready. Take your chicken breasts and either slice them thinly or pound them to about 1/4 inch thickness. This will help them cook quickly and evenly. I prefer slicing because it gives a nice texture to the cheesesteak.
2. Now, in a large bowl, toss the sliced chicken with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Make sure the chicken is well coated with all the spices. This is where the flavor starts to build!
3. Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until fully cooked and no longer pink inside. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan; you might need to cook the chicken in batches to ensure it browns nicely.
4. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. We’ll shred it later, but for now, let’s focus on the buffalo sauce.

Making the Buffalo Sauce:

1. This is the fun part! In a medium saucepan, combine the hot sauce, melted butter, white vinegar, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. This will create a rich and flavorful buffalo sauce.
3. Now, shred the cooked chicken using two forks. Add the shredded chicken to the buffalo sauce and stir to coat it evenly. Make sure every piece of chicken is covered in that delicious, spicy sauce!
4. Reduce the heat to low and let the chicken simmer in the sauce for another 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will allow the chicken to absorb even more of the buffalo flavor.

Cooking the Onions:

1. While the chicken is simmering in the buffalo sauce, let’s prepare the onions. In the same skillet you used to cook the chicken (or a clean skillet), heat vegetable oil over medium heat.
2. Add the thinly sliced onion to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and slightly caramelized. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. The onions should be tender and have a slightly sweet flavor.
3. Once the onions are cooked, remove them from the skillet and set them aside.

Assembling the Cheesesteaks:

1. Now comes the best part – assembling our Buffalo Chicken Cheesesteaks! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Slice the hoagie rolls lengthwise, being careful not to cut all the way through.
3. Spread a generous amount of blue cheese dressing (or ranch) on the inside of each roll.
4. Divide the buffalo chicken mixture evenly among the rolls, piling it high.
5. Top each cheesesteak with sliced provolone cheese. Make sure the cheese covers the chicken completely.
6. Place the cheesesteaks on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove the cheesesteaks from the oven and garnish with thinly sliced celery and green onions (if using).
8. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Buffalo Chicken Cheesesteaks!

Tips and Variations:

• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper in both the chicken and the buffalo sauce to control the spice level. If you like it really hot, add a pinch of red pepper flakes as well.
• Cheese Options: Provolone is the classic choice for cheesesteaks, but you can also use mozzarella, American cheese, or even pepper jack for a spicier kick.
• Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add other vegetables to your cheesesteaks, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or jalapeños.
• Blue Cheese vs. Ranch: If you’re not a fan of blue cheese, ranch dressing is a great alternative. You can also use a combination of both.
• Make it a Wrap: Instead of using hoagie rolls, you can use large tortillas to make Buffalo Chicken Cheesesteak wraps.
• Air Fryer Option: Assemble the cheesesteaks as directed, then place them in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Slow Cooker Method: For an even easier preparation, you can cook the chicken in a slow cooker with the buffalo sauce. Simply place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker, pour the buffalo sauce over them, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Shred the chicken and proceed with assembling the cheesesteaks.
• Grilled Option: Grill the chicken breasts instead of cooking them in a skillet for a smoky flavor.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken and buffalo sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to assemble the cheesesteaks, simply reheat the chicken and sauce.

Serving Suggestions:

These Buffalo Chicken Cheesesteaks are delicious on their own, but they also pair well with a variety of sides. Here are a few suggestions:

• French fries
• Onion rings
• Coleslaw
• Potato salad
• Celery sticks with blue cheese or ranch dressing
• A simple green salad

Nutritional Information (Approximate):

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

• Calories: 700-900 per cheesesteak
• Protein: 50-60g
• Fat: 40-50g
• Carbohydrates: 40-50g

Enjoy your homemade Buffalo Chicken Cheesesteaks! I hope you love them as much as I do. They’re perfect for game day, a quick weeknight dinner, or any time you’re craving something spicy and delicious.

Conclusion:

This Buffalo Chicken Cheesesteak isn’t just another sandwich; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen, and trust me, you absolutely need this in your life. The combination of juicy, shredded chicken tossed in tangy buffalo sauce, the creamy, melted cheese, and the satisfying crunch of the toasted roll is simply irresistible. It’s the perfect balance of spicy, savory, and comforting, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for game day, a quick weeknight dinner, or even a weekend indulgence.

I know what you’re thinking: “Another cheesesteak recipe?” But believe me, this one stands out. The buffalo chicken twist elevates the classic cheesesteak to a whole new level of deliciousness. It’s a simple recipe, but the impact on your taste buds is anything but. The ease of preparation combined with the incredible flavor profile makes this a must-try for anyone who loves a good sandwich and isn’t afraid of a little heat.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

The possibilities are endless when it comes to customizing your Buffalo Chicken Cheesesteak! For a classic experience, serve it with a side of crispy fries and a creamy blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping. If you’re looking to lighten things up, try pairing it with a fresh salad or some crunchy coleslaw.

Want to kick up the heat even more? Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the chicken mixture. For a milder flavor, use a less spicy buffalo sauce or mix in some sour cream to cool things down.

Consider these variations to make it your own:

* Blue Cheese Crumbles: Sprinkle some blue cheese crumbles on top of the melted cheese for an extra layer of tangy flavor.
* Vegetable Boost: Add some sautéed onions, peppers, or mushrooms to the cheesesteak for added texture and nutrients.
* Wrap It Up: Instead of a roll, try wrapping the filling in a warm tortilla for a Buffalo Chicken Cheesesteak wrap.
* Pizza Style: Use the buffalo chicken mixture as a topping for a homemade pizza.
* Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option, serve the buffalo chicken filling in crisp lettuce cups.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your perfect combination! The beauty of this recipe is its versatility.

Now it’s your turn!

I’m so excited for you to try this Buffalo Chicken Cheesesteak recipe. I truly believe it will become a new favorite in your household. The recipe is straightforward, the ingredients are readily available, and the result is pure culinary bliss.

Once you’ve made it, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you make any modifications? What did you serve it with? What did your family and friends think? Share your photos and stories in the comments below! Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue to create recipes that you’ll love.

So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the ultimate Buffalo Chicken Cheesesteak. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear from you! Let me know if you have any questions, and most importantly, enjoy every delicious bite! I am confident that this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.

---