Buffalo chicken and cheesesteaks are two classic American favorites that come together in this mouthwatering Buffalo Chicken Cheesesteak recipe. We’ve taken the spicy tang of Buffalo sauce and paired it with tender, juicy chicken and melted cheese, all piled high on a soft hoagie roll. It’s the perfect way to enjoy bold flavors in one satisfying sandwich.
Ingredients
To make our Buffalo Chicken Cheesesteak irresistible, we’ll need fresh, bold ingredients that bring together spicy heat, creamy cheese, and tender chicken in every bite. Here’s exactly what we use to create this crowd-pleasing sandwich.
For the Buffalo Chicken
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (preferably rotisserie or grilled for extra flavor)
- 1/4 cup Buffalo sauce (choose your favorite brand or homemade for authentic spice)
- 1 tablespoon butter (to enrich the sauce and coat the chicken perfectly)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (adds a subtle depth of flavor)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Cheesesteak Assembly
- 4 hoagie rolls (soft inside with a slightly crispy crust)
- 8 slices provolone cheese (melts beautifully and balances the heat)
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced (caramelized or sautéed until tender)
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced (optional, for added crunch and sweetness)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing vegetables)
Optional Toppings and Condiments
- Ranch or Blue Cheese Dressing (a cooling complement to the spicy Buffalo)
- Sliced jalapeños (for extra heat)
- Chopped celery (adds crunch and a refreshing bite)
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish and a flavor lift)
| Ingredient Category | Key Items |
|---|---|
| Buffalo Chicken | Shredded chicken, Buffalo sauce, butter, garlic powder, salt, pepper |
| Cheesesteak Assembly | Hoagie rolls, provolone cheese, onion, green bell pepper, olive oil |
| Optional Toppings & Condiments | Ranch or Blue Cheese dressing, jalapeños, celery, parsley or green onions |
With these ingredients ready, we’re set to make an unforgettable Buffalo Chicken Cheesesteak that delivers heat, richness, and satisfying textures in every bite.
Equipment Needed
To make our Buffalo Chicken Cheesesteak perfectly, we need to use the right equipment that ensures even cooking and easy preparation. Here’s all the essential gear we rely on:
- Large Skillet or Sauté Pan
We use this to cook the shredded chicken evenly and to blend it thoroughly with the spicy Buffalo sauce. A non-stick skillet works best to prevent sticking and allows easy stirring.
- Cutting Board and Sharp Knife
Essential for slicing ingredients like jalapeños or hoagie rolls accurately. A sharp knife ensures clean cuts and safety while prepping.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurement of butter, Buffalo sauce, garlic powder, and other seasonings guarantees consistent taste every time.
- Spatula or Wooden Spoon
For stirring the chicken mixture efficiently without scraping or damaging the pan surface.
- Oven or Toaster Oven
We need this to melt the provolone cheese perfectly onto the sandwich for that gooey texture.
- Butter Knife
To spread butter smoothly on hoagie rolls before toasting for extra richness.
- Tongs
Helpful for handling hot hoagie rolls and flipping the sandwich if pan-toasting.
| Equipment | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Large Skillet | Cook chicken and sauce evenly | Preferably non-stick |
| Cutting Board | Prep veggies and bread | Use separate boards for meat |
| Sharp Knife | Slice rolls, jalapeños, etc. | Keep it sharp for safety |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Measure ingredients precisely | Standard sizes |
| Spatula/Wooden Spoon | Stir and combine | Gentle on cookware |
| Oven/Toaster Oven | Melt cheese | Preheat to 350°F for best results |
| Butter Knife | Spread butter on rolls | Smooth application |
| Tongs | Handle hot items | Heat resistant |
Preparation
To create the perfect Buffalo Chicken Cheesesteak, careful preparation of each component is essential. Let’s start by making the spicy buffalo chicken and then prep the fresh vegetables to complement the bold flavors.
Preparing the Buffalo Chicken
- Heat the Skillet: Preheat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. This ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
- Cook the Chicken: Add 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Once melted, add 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken. Stir frequently to warm the chicken evenly.
- Add Buffalo Sauce and Seasoning: Pour in ½ cup of Buffalo sauce. Sprinkle ½ teaspoon garlic powder over the chicken. Stir the mixture continuously to coat all the chicken with the sauce.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the chicken simmer for 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld perfectly and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Remove from Heat: Once the sauce coats the shredded chicken and the mixture is hot, remove it from heat and set aside for sandwich assembly.
Preparing the Vegetables
- Slice the Vegetables: On a clean cutting board, slice the vegetables thinly. Use a sharp knife for precision. Prepare:
- ½ cup thinly sliced onions
- ¼ cup sliced jalapeños (optional for extra heat)
- ½ cup sliced bell peppers or other preferred veggies
- Optional: Sauté Vegetables: If you prefer, sauté the onions and bell peppers in 1 teaspoon of butter on medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes until softened but still crisp. Avoid overcooking.
- Set Aside: Keep the sliced vegetables ready to top the Buffalo chicken once the sandwich is assembled or to add texture and freshness.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Shredded Chicken | 2 cups | Pre-cooked |
| Buffalo Sauce | ½ cup | Use your favorite brand |
| Butter | 1 tbsp + 1 tsp | For cooking chicken & veggies |
| Garlic Powder | ½ tsp | Adds depth of flavor |
| Onions | ½ cup | Thinly sliced |
| Jalapeños (Optional) | ¼ cup | Thinly sliced |
| Bell Peppers | ½ cup | Thinly sliced |
Pro Tip: Maintaining medium heat during chicken cooking helps the sauce improve without drying the meat. Also keeping veggie slices uniform ensures even texture and better layering in the sandwich.
With this preparation done, our Buffalo Chicken Cheesesteak starts coming to life with vibrant flavors and textures ready for assembly.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these clear steps to achieve the perfect Buffalo Chicken Cheesesteak with bold flavors, tender textures, and melty cheese. Each stage brings together the rich components that make this sandwich irresistible.
Cooking the Buffalo Chicken
- Preheat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat.
- Add 2 tablespoons of butter and allow it to melt evenly.
- Add 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken to the skillet.
- Stir in ½ cup of Buffalo sauce and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder.
- Cook and stir the mixture for 5–7 minutes to allow the chicken to absorb the sauce and flavors.
- Maintain medium heat to keep the chicken moist and avoid drying it out.
- Remove the skillet from heat when the chicken is hot and well-coated.
Sautéing the Vegetables
- Slice ½ cup onions, ½ cup bell peppers, and 2 tablespoons jalapeños uniformly.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a separate skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sliced vegetables and sauté for 4–5 minutes until tender but still slightly crisp.
- Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Remove from heat and set aside for sandwich assembly.
Melting the Cheese
- Preheat your oven or toaster oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Split each hoagie roll lengthwise and butter the inside lightly.
- Fill the rolls generously with the Buffalo chicken mixture, topped evenly with sautéed vegetables.
- Place 2 slices of provolone cheese over the chicken and vegetables.
- Bake in the oven for 3–5 minutes or until the cheese melts thoroughly and becomes slightly bubbly.
- Remove carefully using tongs and let cool slightly before serving.
| Step | Temperature | Time | Key Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cooking Buffalo Chicken | Medium heat | 5–7 minutes | Keep medium heat to retain moisture |
| Sautéing Vegetables | Medium heat | 4–5 minutes | Maintain slight crispness |
| Melting Cheese | 350°F (175°C) | 3–5 minutes | Ensure cheese is bubbly but not burnt |
With these cooking instructions, our Buffalo Chicken Cheesesteak will deliver the perfect balance of spicy chicken, sautéed vegetables, and melted provolone cheese on a soft hoagie roll.
Assembling the Buffalo Chicken Cheesesteak
Now that our Buffalo chicken is perfectly cooked and the vegetables are sautéed just right, it’s time to assemble this iconic sandwich. The layers of spicy chicken, melted cheese, and crisp veggies create a flavor-packed bite in every mouthful.
Building the Sandwich
- Prepare the hoagie rolls:
Slice each hoagie roll horizontally, leaving a hinge on one side to hold the filling securely. Spread a thin layer of softened butter on the inside for extra richness and to prevent sogginess.
- Layer the Buffalo chicken:
Using tongs or a spatula, pile a generous amount of the spicy Buffalo chicken onto the bottom half of each roll. Ensure the chicken is evenly distributed for consistent flavor in every bite.
- Add sautéed vegetables:
Evenly layer your tender sautéed onions, bell peppers, and jalapeños over the chicken. These vegetables add a nice textural contrast and sweet-spicy balance.
- Top with provolone cheese:
Place two slices of provolone cheese over the vegetables and chicken. The cheese should cover the entire filling to melt thoroughly, creating that melty, creamy texture we crave.
- Melt the cheese:
Transfer the open-faced sandwich to a preheated oven or toaster oven set at 375°F (190°C). Bake for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
- Close and press slightly:
Carefully close the sandwich by folding the top half of the hoagie roll. Press gently to bind all layers together without squashing the ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate our Buffalo Chicken Cheesesteak experience, consider these perfect accompaniments:
| Side Dish | Description | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Celery sticks | Fresh, crisp celery sprinkled with sea salt | Traditional pairing; balances heat with crunch |
| Ranch or blue cheese dressing | Creamy dips for dipping or spreading | Cuts through spice with cool creamy notes |
| Crispy potato chips | Lightly salted, crunchy chips | Adds a crunchy, salty contrast |
| Pickle spear | Tart and crisp | Refreshes the palate between bites |
Serve the sandwich hot with these sides for a well-rounded meal that embraces the bold, spicy, and creamy flavors of the Buffalo Chicken Cheesesteak.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
To enjoy our Buffalo Chicken Cheesesteak anytime, proper make-ahead and storage techniques are essential. Let’s break down how to prepare, store, and reheat without losing flavor or texture.
Make-Ahead Preparation
- Cook the Buffalo chicken and sauté the vegetables as instructed.
- Allow them to cool completely to avoid sogginess when stored.
- Store the chicken and vegetables separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
- Keep your hoagie rolls in a sealed bag or container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain freshness.
- Cheese slices should remain wrapped or refrigerated in an airtight container.
Storage Guidelines
| Ingredient | Storage Method | Temperature | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buffalo chicken | Airtight container | Refrigerator 34-40°F | Up to 3 days | Cool before storing to prevent sogginess |
| Sautéed vegetables | Airtight container | Refrigerator 34-40°F | Up to 3 days | Store separately from chicken |
| Hoagie rolls | Sealed bag/container | Room temperature | Up to 2 days | Avoid refrigeration to keep rolls soft |
| Provolone cheese | Wrapped/airtight | Refrigerator 34-40°F | Up to 1 week | Keep away from moisture |
Freezing Tips
For longer storage, freeze Buffalo chicken in a freezer-safe airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Avoid freezing hoagie rolls or sautéed vegetables as this can affect texture.
Reheating Instructions
- Reheat Buffalo chicken in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, stirring to maintain moisture.
- Warm hoagie rolls in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.
- Reassemble the sandwich with sautéed vegetables and layer cheese before warming under the broiler for 2-3 minutes to melt cheese perfectly.
- For convenience, quote these simple steps:
“Reheat chicken gently, warm rolls separately, assemble fresh, and melt cheese last.”
By following these tips, our Buffalo Chicken Cheesesteak will retain its bold flavors and satisfying textures whenever we crave a spicy, cheesy bite.
Conclusion
Buffalo Chicken Cheesesteaks bring together bold flavors and satisfying textures in a way that’s perfect for any meal. With the right ingredients and simple steps, we can create a sandwich that’s both spicy and comforting. Whether served fresh or prepped ahead, this recipe fits effortlessly into our busy lives without sacrificing taste.
By mastering this recipe, we add a versatile and crowd-pleasing option to our culinary repertoire. It’s a delicious way to enjoy classic American flavors with a spicy twist that never gets old. Let’s fire up the skillet and enjoy every melty, flavorful bite together.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed for Buffalo Chicken Cheesesteaks?
You’ll need shredded chicken, Buffalo sauce, butter, garlic powder, hoagie rolls, provolone cheese, and optional toppings like ranch dressing and jalapeños.
What essential equipment do I need to prepare the sandwich?
Use a large non-stick skillet, cutting board, sharp knife, measuring cups and spoons, spatula or wooden spoon, oven or toaster oven, butter knife, and tongs.
How do I cook the Buffalo chicken filling?
Cook shredded chicken with butter in a skillet, add Buffalo sauce and garlic powder, then simmer on medium heat to keep the chicken moist.
Should the vegetables be cooked or raw?
Onions, jalapeños, and bell peppers can be raw or sautéed until tender yet crisp, depending on your preference.
How do I melt the cheese on the sandwich?
Assemble the sandwich, then place it in the oven or toaster oven to melt the provolone cheese until bubbly.
Can I prepare the Buffalo Chicken Cheesesteak in advance?
Yes, cook the chicken and veggies ahead, store separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days, and keep hoagie rolls at room temperature for up to 2 days.
How should I store leftover Buffalo chicken?
Refrigerate cooked Buffalo chicken for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months in airtight containers.
What’s the best way to reheat the sandwich?
Reheat the chicken gently in a skillet, warm the hoagie rolls separately, then melt the cheese on the assembled sandwich in the oven.
What sides go well with Buffalo Chicken Cheesesteaks?
Serve with celery sticks, ranch or blue cheese dressing, crispy potato chips, and pickle spears for a balanced meal.