If you’re on the hunt for a seriously crave-worthy sandwich with a spicy kick, look no further than the Buffalo Chicken Cheesesteak. Imagine juicy strips of chicken tossed in fiery buffalo sauce, layered with sweet caramelized onions, peppers, and gooey cheese all tucked into a toasty hoagie roll—every bite is a perfect symphony of flavor and comfort. Whether you’re feeding a game-day crowd or just want a bold weeknight dinner, this recipe is a delicious spin on a beloved classic you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
It doesn’t take much to create a mouthwatering Buffalo Chicken Cheesesteak, but each ingredient here plays an important role—bringing flavor, color, and irresistible texture. Quality counts, so grab your freshest veggies and flavorful toppings for the best results.
- Olive oil: Adds richness and helps everything caramelize beautifully in the pan.
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts (thinly sliced): Slicing the chicken thin ensures quick, even cooking and perfect bite-sized pieces for your sandwich.
- Garlic powder: A subtle, savory layer that pairs perfectly with the buffalo sauce.
- Onion powder: Boosts that sweet, earthy flavor in every mouthful.
- Salt: Essential for bringing all those delicious flavors forward.
- Black pepper: Adds just the right amount of gentle heat and depth.
- Smoked paprika: Gives a touch of smokiness that sets this cheesesteak apart.
- Buffalo wing sauce: The starring ingredient, for that signature zesty warmth—adjust the amount to suit your spice preference.
- Unsalted butter: Rounds out the buffalo sauce with ultra-creamy, buttery notes.
- Yellow onion (thinly sliced): Once caramelized, these add irresistible sweetness and softness.
- Green bell pepper (thinly sliced): Brings a bright crunch and vibrant color to the filling.
- Hoagie rolls (split): Soft on the inside and sturdy enough to hold all that juicy filling.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for that classic cheesesteak stretch.
- Crumbled blue cheese or ranch dressing (optional): For a tangy, creamy finish—choose whichever suits your mood.
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Cheesesteak
Step 1: Sauté the Onions and Peppers
Start by heating up the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in your sliced onions and green peppers and let them cook down until they turn glossy, soft, and just slightly browned. This takes about 8 to 10 minutes—just enough time for their natural sweetness to shine through. Remove the caramelized veggies and set them aside for that gorgeous final assembly.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In the same skillet (don’t wipe it down—you want all those flavorful bits!), add your thinly sliced chicken. Season it with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Let the chicken cook for six to eight minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s fully cooked through and nicely golden on the edges.
Step 3: Add Buffalo Sauce and Butter
Lower the heat and pour in that vibrant buffalo wing sauce along with a dab of butter. Give it a good stir so the chicken soaks up every bit of spicy, buttery goodness. Let everything bubble together for just a couple of minutes so the sauce clings to every piece.
Step 4: Bring Back the Veggies
Return your sautéed onions and peppers to the skillet and mix everything to combine. You’ll notice the filling turns beautifully glossy, and the aroma will be irresistible—this is what makes your Buffalo Chicken Cheesesteak so special.
Step 5: Assemble and Broil
Preheat your broiler so it’s nice and hot. Pile the buffalo chicken mixture onto split hoagie rolls and generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the top. Set them on a baking sheet and pop them under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes—just until the cheese melts and bubbles, forming that gorgeous, savory cheese layer.
Step 6: Serve with Your Favorite Toppings
Finish each Buffalo Chicken Cheesesteak with a shower of crumbled blue cheese or a zigzag of creamy ranch dressing, if you’re feeling fancy. Serve them up hot and get ready for major sandwich satisfaction!
How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Cheesesteak
Garnishes
The right garnish makes your Buffalo Chicken Cheesesteak pop with flavor and color. A handful of sliced scallions, some extra crumbled blue cheese, or even a sprinkle of chopped parsley add both a fresh note and that restaurant-style finishing touch.
Side Dishes
This hearty sandwich pairs fantastically with crispy fries, a simple coleslaw, or roasted potato wedges. Want something lighter? A crunchy celery and carrot stick plate with extra ranch or blue cheese dressing elegantly nods to classic buffalo wing sides.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting, try serving Buffalo Chicken Cheesesteak sliders for an easy game-day snack. Or, pile the filling onto toasted baguette slices for party-friendly crostini. If you’re feeling adventurous, try stuffing the filling into baked potatoes for an unexpected but delicious twist!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Buffalo Chicken Cheesesteak filling can be cooled and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep the filling and rolls separate to avoid sogginess, assembling fresh sandwiches as you crave them.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken, onion, and pepper mixture (without cheese or rolls) in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating and assembling your sandwiches fresh.
Reheating
Gently reheat the buffalo chicken mixture in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring until warmed through. If it seems a bit dry, splash in a little extra buffalo sauce. Then proceed to assemble with cheese and broil as usual for a sandwich that tastes just as good as day one.
FAQs
Can I make Buffalo Chicken Cheesesteak with rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken makes this recipe even quicker. Just shred the chicken, stir it into the skillet with buffalo sauce and seasonings, and proceed as usual for a delicious shortcut meal.
What’s the best cheese to use?
Mozzarella melts beautifully for that classic stretchy texture, but provolone or even pepper jack are excellent choices if you want more flavor. Don’t be afraid to get creative with cheese blends, either!
How spicy is the Buffalo Chicken Cheesesteak?
The heat depends mostly on the buffalo sauce you choose. For a milder sandwich, start with a mild sauce and add more gradually. For heat lovers, opt for an extra-spicy sauce and top with plenty of blue cheese.
What bread works best for this sandwich?
Traditional hoagie rolls are perfect—they’re soft, yet sturdy enough to hold the saucy filling. You can also use sub rolls, baguettes, or even toasted ciabatta for a delicious twist.
Can I prep these ahead for a party?
Yes! Make the buffalo chicken filling and prep your garnishes a day in advance. When guests arrive, simply assemble the sandwiches, top with cheese, and broil to order for crowd-pleasing, hot-off-the-oven sandwiches.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve never tried making a Buffalo Chicken Cheesesteak at home, let this be your sign to dive in—it’s bold, satisfying, and guaranteed to earn rave reviews from anyone lucky enough to snag a sandwich. Get creative with your toppings, tweak the spice level to your liking, and don’t forget extra napkins—things are about to get deliciously messy!
