Buffalo Chicken Paninis
Hello, dear readers! Today, we're taking a detour from my favorites to one of my son’s faves. It’s a spicy, cheesy delight that's been a huge hit in our home—Buffalo Chicken Paninis. If your family is anything like mine, where the day's highlight is gathering around the dinner table, this recipe is sure to spice up your meal routine. It's simple, delicious, and a wonderful break from the norm, especially if you're a fan of a little heat.
A Love Affair with Cheese and Spice
Our family's fondness for robust flavors and comforting meals is what drew us to buffalo chicken. There's something irresistible about the tangy buffalo sauce paired with gooey melted cheese, all nestled between two slices of perfectly grilled bread. It's comfort food with a spicy twist that never fails to satisfy.
Kid-Friendly, Adult-Approved
Worried about the spice level for the little ones? Fear not! You can easily adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to suit their taste buds. In fact, my daughter, who is an avid fan of all things crispy, was initially hesitant about anything too spicy. But with a few modifications, she now eagerly asks for these sandwiches. You can even serve some cooling ranch dressing on the side for those who prefer a milder kick. Or if buffalo is too much for them altogether, simply swap to barbecue sauce for their sandwiches!
Budget-Friendly Eats
One of the best things about these paninis is how budget-friendly they are. Chicken, especially when bought in bulk or on sale, is incredibly economical. Keep an eye out for deals on cheese as well—it's often on sale at your local grocery store. Lately my Wal-Mart has had it for $1.97 instead of $2.22 for the 2 cup bag. And if you're looking to save both time and money, consider ordering your ingredients through Amazon Fresh. Not only does it offer convenience, but it can also help you snag some great discounts on pantry staples.
Get the Kids Involved
One of the joys of cooking is getting the whole family involved, and these paninis are the perfect opportunity to do just that. From spreading the guacamole to layering the chicken and cheese, it's a fun and interactive way to bond in the kitchen. Plus, it's a great chance to teach kids about different ingredients and cooking techniques in a hands-on way. I feel that by letting them build their own sandwich, they’re more likely to enjoy it! They do the assembly and I man the panini press.
Endless Adaptations
What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary restrictions. Add some fresh veggies for extra crunch, swap out the cheeses for your favorites, or opt for whole grain bread for a healthier twist. We almost always add tomato slices. Fresh avocado would make a perfect swap for the avocado cups. Cucumber pairs well and adds a satisfying crunch. Roasted red peppers add some complexity and smoky notes. The possibilities are endless!
Perfect for Meal Prep
I always prep the cooked chicken in advance using my Ninja PossibleCooker. You can do this with your slow cooker or InstantPot as well! Another option is to use rotisserie chicken or leftover chicken. But no matter where you get the chicken from, by prepping the chicken ahead, you’re saving yourself plenty of time the day you make it. You can even pre-mix the sauce and just assemble and cook the sandwiches as needed for a quick lunch as well!
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, Buffalo Chicken Paninis are a delightful way to add some excitement to your dinner rotation. They're proof that delicious meals don't have to be complicated or expensive. So why not spice up your meal plan this week and give them a try?
I'd love to hear your thoughts! Have you made paninis at home before? What are your favorite variations? Share your experiences and ideas in the comments below or connect with us on social media. Happy cooking!
Buffalo Chicken Paninis
Ingredients
- 10 slices sourdough bread
- 2 1/2 cups shredded chicken (about 1-1.5 lbs raw chicken breast)
- 10 Tbsp buffalo sauce
- 10 slices colby jack cheese
- 3 avocado or guacamole mini cups
- 5 Tbsp butter, softened
Instructions
- Preheat panini press or if you do not have a panini press, you could use a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Combine shredded chicken and buffalo sauce in a medium mixing bowl.
- Assemble the sandwiches by placing 1 slice of cheese on each piece of bread, spreading half of the mini avocado or guacamole cup on one side of the sandwich and spreading about 1/2 cup of the buffalo chicken on the other side and put them together. Use about 1/2 Tbsp butter on the outside of each slice of bread for the sandwich and put on the panini press.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes or until heated through, outside is crispy, and cheese is melted. Serve!
Nutrition Facts
Calories
788.47Fat
37.33 gSat. Fat
20.57 gCarbs
67.93 gFiber
2.86 gNet carbs
65.08 gSugar
6.21 gProtein
44.79 gSodium
2172.45 mgCholesterol
136.23 mgDisclaimer: The nutritional information provided on this recipe card is generated by a recipe card generator for informational purposes only. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, please note that the actual nutritional content may vary depending on factors such as specific ingredients used, cooking methods, and portion sizes. It is recommended to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or nutritionist for personalized dietary advice and accurate nutritional information tailored to your individual needs and dietary restrictions. Additionally, we encourage you to always double-check ingredient labels and conduct your own calculations if precise nutritional information is essential for your dietary planning.
