Chef Rachel transforms busy weeknights with this easy crockpot buffalo chicken sandwich recipe that requires just four simple ingredients. This lazy dinner solution delivers tender, spicy shredded chicken perfect for game day gatherings or quick family meals.
Buffalo sauce and ranch seasoning create bold flavors while your slow cooker does all the work, making this one of the most convenient crockpot recipes for anyone seeking few ingredients and maximum taste.
Busy families love this recipe because it requires minimal prep time and delivers restaurant-quality buffalo chicken sandwiches without the hassle. Simply add chicken breasts, buffalo sauce, ranch dressing mix, and butter to your crockpot, then let it cook while you go about your day.
See also: https://famillyrecipes.com/crockpot-buffalo-chicken-sandwiches/
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Easy Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Spray the slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray.
- Place chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot in a single layer.
- Sprinkle the dry ranch dressing mix evenly over the chicken.
- Pour buffalo sauce over the chicken and ranch seasoning.
- Place butter on top of the buffalo sauce.
- Cover with lid and cook on low for 5-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours until chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature.
- Remove chicken and shred using two forks or a hand mixer.
- Return shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir to coat with sauce. Keep on warm setting until ready to serve.
- Toast buns if desired and serve buffalo chicken on buns with your favorite toppings.
Notes
Add more buffalo sauce after shredding if you prefer extra saucy chicken.
Leftovers keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
For meal prep, freeze shredded buffalo chicken in portions for up to 3 months.
Adjust spice level by using mild or extra hot buffalo sauce. Calories: 380
Protein: 35
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 380 |
| Protein | 35g |
| Carbohydrates | 32g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Saturated Fat | 4g |
| Cholesterol | 95mg |
| Sodium | 1240mg |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 4g |
Based on 6 servings with brioche bun
Tips and Variations for Easy Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches
Spice Level Adjustments
Control the heat by mixing buffalo sauce with ranch dressing for a milder version, or add extra hot sauce for those who prefer more kick. Use Frank’s RedHot for classic buffalo flavor or experiment with different hot sauce brands to customize the spice intensity.
Protein Options
Swap chicken breasts for boneless chicken thighs for extra juicy results, as dark meat stays moist during long cooking times. Both cuts work perfectly in this crockpot recipe, but thighs offer richer flavor and more tender texture.
Serving Suggestions
- Top with blue cheese crumbles and crispy celery for authentic buffalo wing flavors
- Add creamy coleslaw or shredded lettuce for refreshing crunch
- Drizzle ranch or blue cheese dressing over the chicken before serving
- Try pretzel buns, ciabatta rolls, or slider buns instead of traditional sandwich buns
- Serve on baked potatoes or over salad greens for low-carb alternatives
Make-Ahead Tips
Shred the buffalo chicken and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding extra buffalo sauce if needed to keep the chicken moist.
Crowd-Pleasing Ideas
Double the recipe for parties and game day gatherings by using a larger slow cooker. Set up a buffalo chicken sandwich bar with various toppings like pickled jalapeños, sliced tomatoes, avocado, and caramelized onions so guests can customize their sandwiches.
FAQs
How long do I cook buffalo chicken in the crockpot?
Cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until the chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature. The chicken shreds easily with two forks when fully cooked, and the ranch seasoning and buffalo sauce create a flavorful coating throughout the cooking process.
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but add 1-2 hours to the cooking time on low or 30-60 minutes on high. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F before shredding to ensure the chicken cooks thoroughly and safely.
What can I substitute for ranch dressing mix?
Mix together dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, and a pinch of salt to create a homemade ranch seasoning blend. Use about 2 tablespoons of this mixture to replace one packet of ranch dressing mix in the recipe.
How do I keep the buffalo chicken from getting too watery?
Drain excess liquid before shredding the chicken, then return the shredded meat to the crockpot to absorb the remaining sauce. Add extra buffalo sauce after shredding if needed, and keep the crockpot on warm setting to maintain the perfect consistency until serving time.
Easy Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches
These easy 4-ingredient buffalo chicken sandwiches cook slowly in your crockpot for tender, spicy shredded chicken perfect for busy weeknights or game day gatherings.
Equipment:
6-quart slow cooker
Measuring cups
Two forks for shredding
Ingredients:
2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 packet (1 oz) dry ranch dressing mix
1 cup buffalo wing sauce (Frank’s RedHot recommended)
2 tablespoons butter
6 brioche hamburger buns
Optional toppings: ranch dressing, blue cheese crumbles, celery sticks, coleslaw
Instructions:
Spray the slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray.
Place chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot in a single layer.
Sprinkle the dry ranch dressing mix evenly over the chicken.
Pour buffalo sauce over the chicken and ranch seasoning.
Place butter on top of the buffalo sauce.
Cover with lid and cook on low for 5-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours until chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature.
Remove chicken and shred using two forks or a hand mixer.
Return shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir to coat with sauce. Keep on warm setting until ready to serve.
Toast buns if desired and serve buffalo chicken on buns with your favorite toppings.
Notes:
Chicken thighs can be substituted for chicken breasts for extra juicy results.
Add more buffalo sauce after shredding if you prefer extra saucy chicken.
Leftovers keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
For meal prep, freeze shredded buffalo chicken in portions for up to 3 months.
Adjust spice level by using mild or extra hot buffalo sauce.
Calories: 380
Protein: 35
Conclusion
This easy crockpot buffalo chicken sandwich recipe proves that delicious dinners don’t require complicated ingredient lists or hours in the kitchen. With just four ingredients and your trusty slow cooker, you create tender, flavorful chicken that satisfies the whole family. Whether you’re planning a casual weeknight meal or feeding a crowd on game day, these buffalo chicken sandwiches deliver bold flavors with minimal effort.
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