Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches Recipe

Few dishes combine convenience, bold flavor, and comfort quite like Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches. This recipe marries the iconic spicy tang of Buffalo chicken with the tender, pull-apart texture that only slow cooking can achieve, creating a meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights, game days, or casual gatherings.

Buffalo chicken has long been a beloved staple in American cuisine, inspired by the original Buffalo wings first created in Buffalo, New York. Traditionally, this fiery chicken appetizer features deep-fried wings tossed in a buttery hot sauce, balanced by cool ranch or blue cheese dressing. The flavor profile—spicy, tangy, and rich—has captivated taste buds nationwide and sparked countless variations.

Transforming this beloved classic into a slow cooker recipe elevates it into an effortless main dish. By allowing chicken breasts or thighs to simmer gently with Buffalo sauce and aromatics, the meat becomes incredibly tender and infused with spicy flavor throughout. The slow cooker does all the work, requiring minimal prep and no attention while cooking, making it a lifesaver for busy cooks.

Once cooked, the chicken is shredded and piled onto soft sandwich buns, often topped with creamy slaw, crisp celery, or melted cheese. The result is a sandwich that perfectly balances heat and creaminess, tenderness and crunch, making it satisfyingly complex yet wonderfully simple.

What makes Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches truly special is their versatility and crowd-pleasing nature. Whether served for a family dinner, a potluck, or a casual party, they appeal to a wide range of tastes. They can be mild or fiery hot depending on your preference, customized with different toppings and bread choices, or even adapted for low-carb or gluten-free diets.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches

Step 1: Choose and Prepare Your Chicken

The foundation of this recipe is tender, juicy chicken that soaks up the bold Buffalo sauce.

Best Cuts to Use:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (leaner, mild flavor)

• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs (more flavorful and tender)

Preparation:

1. Rinse the chicken under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.

2. Trim any excess fat or connective tissue.

3. If desired, you can cut the chicken into smaller pieces (2–3 chunks) to fit better in the slow cooker and speed up cooking slightly, but whole breasts or thighs work well too.

Step 2: Assemble Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

The beauty of this recipe is the simplicity of assembly.

Ingredients:

• 2 to 3 pounds chicken breasts or thighs

• 1 cup Buffalo wing sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot) — adjust quantity for heat preference

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (optional, adds richness)

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Place the chicken pieces evenly in the bottom of your slow cooker.

2. In a separate bowl, mix the Buffalo sauce with melted butter (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

3. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken, coating all pieces evenly.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Set your slow cooker to the appropriate temperature and time for tender, shreddable chicken.

• Low setting: 6–7 hours

• High setting: 3–4 hours

Tips:

• Avoid lifting the lid frequently; this releases heat and prolongs cooking.

• The chicken is done when it easily shreds with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, the chicken should be fall-apart tender.

Instructions:

1. Remove chicken pieces from the slow cooker and place on a large plate or cutting board.

2. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

3. Return shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to coat evenly with the Buffalo sauce.

Step 5: Prepare Your Sandwich Components

While the chicken finishes absorbing the sauce, prepare your buns and toppings.

Popular bun choices:

• Soft hamburger buns

• Brioche buns (adds a slightly sweet, buttery flavor)

• Hoagie rolls or sandwich rolls

• Lettuce wraps (for low-carb option)

Toppings:

• Celery slices for crunch

• Blue cheese or ranch dressing for creaminess and cooling heat

• Coleslaw (classic pairing)

• Pickles or sliced onions

• Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese (optional, melt over chicken)

Step 6: Assemble the Sandwiches

Build your sandwiches with layers of flavor and texture.

Instructions:

1. Toast your buns lightly for extra texture and warmth.

2. Pile a generous amount of shredded Buffalo chicken on the bottom half.

3. Add toppings such as celery slices and a drizzle of blue cheese or ranch dressing.

4. Add coleslaw or cheese, if desired.

5. Cap with the top half of the bun.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Buffalo chicken sandwiches immediately for best taste.

• Offer extra dipping sauces on the side.

• Pair with classic sides like French fries, potato chips, or a fresh salad.

• Provide plenty of napkins — Buffalo chicken sandwiches are deliciously messy!

Optional Step 8: Make It a Casserole (Bonus)

You can also turn this into a baked Buffalo chicken casserole.

Instructions:

1. After shredding and mixing chicken with sauce, transfer to a greased baking dish.

2. Top with shredded cheese and crushed crackers or breadcrumbs.

3. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden.

4. Serve with toasted bread or over rice.

Tips for Success:

• Adjusting heat: Mix hot sauce with more butter or honey to balance spiciness.

• Avoid drying out chicken: Add ¼ cup water or chicken broth if sauce looks too thick before cooking.