Save The first time I made these, my kitchen smelled like a pub during football season and my roommate wandered in asking what kind of magic was happening on the stove. We'd been craving something that hit all the comfort buttons and after a failed attempt at regular buffalo chicken wraps, I decided to throw everything between bread slices with way too much cheese. Now these sandwiches have become our Friday night tradition whenever we need something that feels like a hug and a party all at once.
Last month I made these for my dad who claims he hates fancy sandwich combinations. He took one skeptical bite, went silent for a full minute, then asked if I could teach him how to make them for his poker night. The way the provolone gets all gooey while holding together that spicy chicken is something special.
Ingredients
- Buffalo chicken mixture: The butter mixed with buffalo sauce keeps the shredded chicken moist while it grills, and Ive learned that letting it sit for 5 minutes before assembling makes it even better
- Provolone slices: Provolone melts beautifully and has just enough mild flavor to let the buffalo shine without competing
- Caesar dressing: Spread this on the inside of both bread slices to create a creamy barrier that keeps the lettuce from making the bread soggy
- Sturdy bread: Country bread or sourdough is essential here because flimsy bread will disintegrate under all these layers
- Butter: Softened butter spreads more evenly than melted on the outside, giving you that perfectly golden crunch
Instructions
- Prepare the buffalo chicken:
- Toss the shredded chicken with buffalo sauce and melted butter until every piece is coated and vibrant orange
- Build the base:
- Spread Caesar dressing on one side of each bread slice, making sure to get all the way to the edges
- Layer it up:
- On four slices stack provolone, buffalo chicken, lettuce, and Parmesan, then add another slice of provolone on top
- Close and butter:
- Top with remaining bread slices dressing side down and generously spread softened butter on the outside of each sandwich
- Grill to perfection:
- Cook in a hot skillet for 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing gently with your spatula until golden brown and oozing
- Finish and serve:
- Let them rest for just 2 minutes so the cheese sets slightly, then slice diagonally
Save My niece who claims she hates anything spicy tried one of these and immediately asked for the recipe. I caught her licking the extra buffalo sauce off her plate later that night.
Getting That Perfect Crunch
Ive found that using a cast iron skillet gives the best crunch, but any heavy pan will work. The key is patience and letting each side develop a deep golden color before flipping.
Make It Your Own
Sometimes I swap in sharp cheddar when I want more bite, or add sliced celery right on top of the chicken for that authentic wing experience. Blue cheese crumbles work too if you want to lean into the classic pairing.
Serving Suggestions
These are substantial enough to stand alone as a meal, but I love serving them with a simple side. The contrast between the hot sandwich and something cool and crisp is unbeatable.
- A cold beer or crisp white wine cuts through the richness
- Extra buffalo sauce on the side is never a bad idea
- Napkins are absolutely mandatory
Save Theres something deeply satisfying about a sandwich that eats like a full meal but still feels like comfort food. These always disappear faster than I expect.
Recipe Q&A
- → Can I prepare the buffalo chicken mixture ahead of time?
Yes, you can mix the shredded chicken with buffalo sauce and butter up to 4 hours in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before assembling your sandwiches.
- → What bread works best for this sandwich?
Sturdy country bread or sourdough are ideal because they hold up well to grilling and butter without falling apart. Brioche or thick-cut Texas toast also work nicely for a richer texture.
- → How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out while grilling?
Layer the cheese on both the top and bottom of your filling to create a barrier. Keep heat at medium and press gently during grilling. Avoid overstuffing, and let the cheese melt gradually rather than cooking on high heat.
- → Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely. Substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, crispy tofu, or plant-based chicken tossed in buffalo sauce. The combination of Caesar dressing and melted cheese will deliver equally bold and satisfying flavors.
- → What side dishes pair well with this sandwich?
Crisp celery sticks, carrot crudités, or a light Caesar salad complement the rich sandwich beautifully. Crispy fries, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables also work well for a more substantial meal.
- → Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken is a convenient shortcut. Shred about 2 cups and proceed with the recipe. This can cut your prep time significantly while maintaining excellent flavor and tenderness.