Name: Buffalo Chicken French Breads
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 loaf french bread (cut in half); 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch pieces); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 0.25 teaspoons salt; 0.25 teaspoons pepper; 2 cloves garlic (minced); 0.67 cup buffalo wing sauce (+ extra for drizzling); 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; 3 tablespoons ranch dressing; 12 ounces fontina cheese (freshly grated); 6 ounces crumbled gorgonzola cheese; 4 green onions (thinly sliced); 1 bunch cilantro (chopped)

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There’s something incredibly satisfying about a dish that combines bold flavors and comforting textures, and that’s exactly what you get with Buffalo Chicken French Breads. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was one of those evenings where I craved something hearty yet quick. The kids were running around, and I needed a recipe that would not only be fun to eat but also satisfy everyone’s appetite. This dish, loaded with spicy buffalo chicken and gooey cheese, turned out to be a hit!

The beauty of Buffalo Chicken French Breads lies in its simplicity and speed. In just thirty minutes, you can serve a meal that feels indulgent but is incredibly easy to whip up. Imagine the aroma of chicken sizzling in the skillet while you prepare the crispy, broiled bread. It’s that perfect blend of crispy and creamy that makes every bite delightful. Whether it’s game day, a casual family dinner, or a quick meal during a busy weeknight, this dish fits the bill perfectly. Plus, it’s a fun meal that everyone can enjoy, and kids absolutely love the interactive aspect of building their own sandwiches!

As the cheesy goodness melts and mingles with the spicy buffalo sauce, you can’t help but get excited about what’s about to come. And let’s not forget the garnishes! The fresh cilantro and green onions add a nice crunch and a burst of freshness that cuts through the richness. Trust me, once you try Buffalo Chicken French Breads, it will become a regular in your dinner rotation!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
20 mins

Cook Time:
10 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
600 kcal

Protein:
45 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
30 g

Tools Used:
Frying Pan, Wooden Spoon, Skillet, Chef’s Knife, Grater, Oven

The Magic of This Buffalo Chicken French Breads

Quick and Easy to Make

One of the reasons I love Buffalo Chicken French Breads is how quick and straightforward it is to make. In just thirty minutes, you can create a dish that feels fancy enough for a party. The prep is minimal, making it ideal for those busy weeknights.

Flavor Explosion

The combination of spicy buffalo sauce, tender chicken, and creamy cheese creates a flavor explosion in every bite. You get the heat from the buffalo sauce balanced by the coolness of ranch dressing and the richness of cheese. It’s a comforting yet thrilling experience for your taste buds!

Customizable

This recipe is incredibly adaptable. Feel free to mix up the toppings or sauces to cater to different tastes. You can easily modify it to include your favorite cheeses or add extra veggies. It’s perfect for cleaning out your fridge!

Great for Gatherings

Buffalo Chicken French Breads is an excellent dish for casual get-togethers or game days. Everyone loves grabbing a piece and can customize their toppings. It makes hosting feel effortless and fun, leaving you free to enjoy time with your guests.

Kid-Friendly

Kids typically adore this meal. They can join in on the action, helping to assemble their own versions. The playful aspect of making these open-faced sandwiches makes for a more engaging dinner experience.

What Goes Into Buffalo Chicken French Breads

When it comes to the ingredients for Buffalo Chicken French Breads, the beauty lies in their simplicity. This dish brings together a few key players that work harmoniously to create a rich and satisfying meal. The main stars are the chicken, buffalo sauce, and cheese, which all come together to create a savory explosion of flavors. The french bread serves as the perfect base, crisping up beautifully under the broiler while supporting all the delicious toppings.

1 loaf of french bread, cut in half – The foundation of this dish, providing a crunchy and chewy base for all the toppings.
1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces – The protein-packed star of the show, bringing heartiness to each bite.
2 tablespoons olive oil – Used for sautéing the chicken, adding moisture and flavor.
1/4 teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavors of the chicken.
1/4 teaspoon pepper – Adds a touch of warmth and seasoning.
2 garlic cloves, minced – Infuses a wonderful aroma and depth of flavor.
2/3 cup buffalo wing sauce + extra for drizzling – Gives the dish its signature spicy kick.
1 tablespoon unsalted butter – Adds richness to the sauce.
3 tablespoons ranch dressing – Creaminess that balances the heat from the buffalo sauce.
12 ounces fontina cheese, freshly grated – Melts beautifully, providing a smooth texture.
6 ounces crumbled gorgonzola cheese – Adds a tangy flavor that complements the buffalo sauce.
4 green onions, thinly sliced – For garnish, adding freshness and a pop of color.
1 bunch of cilantro, chopped – A fresh herb that adds brightness and flavor.

Instructions for Buffalo Chicken French Breads

When it comes to making Buffalo Chicken French Breads, the steps are straightforward and easy to follow. You’ll love how quickly everything comes together. Let’s dive into these delicious, step-by-step instructions.

Start by placing an oven rack in the middle of the oven and preheating your broiler to high. This ensures that your french bread will toast up perfectly.
Take the french bread, cut-side up, and place it on a baking sheet. Set it in the oven for about two minutes, keeping a close eye on it. After two minutes, rotate the bread and broil for an additional two minutes or until slightly golden. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly.
In a large skillet, heat over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, toss the chicken pieces with salt and pepper before adding them to the skillet. Cook the chicken for about ten to twelve minutes, turning occasionally until browned on all sides and cooked through.
Once the chicken is thoroughly cooked, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Stir for about thirty seconds until fragrant, then pour in the buffalo wing sauce and butter. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly in this flavorful mixture.
Next, take a tablespoon and brush 1 1/2 tablespoons (or more to taste) of ranch dressing onto each cut side of the toasted french bread. Then, drizzle 2-3 tablespoons of the buffalo sauce over the ranch dressing, creating layers of flavor.
Now, sprinkle a generous amount of fontina cheese over the top of the bread. Just imagine that melted goodness!
Carefully spoon the buffalo chicken mixture over the cheese, ensuring you get all the sauce from the skillet. Don’t skimp on this step — it’s where the magic happens!
Cover the chicken with the remaining fontina cheese and sprinkle gorgonzola cheese on top. This double cheese combo is what dreams are made of!
Return the baking sheet to the broiler and broil on high for about five to six minutes, checking frequently. You may need to rotate the pan once or twice. The goal is to melt the cheese until it’s bubbly and slightly golden and for the bread to become crunchy. Remain vigilant, as broiling times can vary depending on your oven.
Once perfectly toasted, remove the baking sheet from the oven and drizzle a bit more buffalo wing sauce on top. Finish by garnishing with sliced green onions and cilantro. Cut into pieces and serve warm!

Things Worth Knowing

Broiler Watch: Always keep a close eye when broiling. Ovens can vary in strength, and it’s easy to burn your bread if you’re not monitoring closely.
Chicken Cooking: Make sure your chicken pieces are cut evenly. This ensures they cook at the same rate, resulting in perfectly done chicken throughout.
Cheese Choices: Feel free to mix and match your cheeses. If you’re not a fan of gorgonzola, try using mozzarella or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
Serving Style: These french breads are perfect for sharing! Cut them into small pieces for an appetizer or serve them whole for a hearty main dish.

Substitutions and Tips

While the original recipe for Buffalo Chicken French Breads is incredibly tasty, there are several ways to customize it to your liking. Here are some handy tips and options to consider:

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Freezing: You can freeze the assembled but unbaked french breads. Just wrap them tightly in foil and plastic wrap. When ready, bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Pairing: Serve your Buffalo Chicken French Breads with a side of fresh salad or crispy vegetables to balance the richness of the dish.
Spice Level: If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of buffalo sauce or use a mild wing sauce. You can also omit it entirely and use BBQ sauce as a substitute.
Fresh Herbs: Incorporating other herbs like parsley or chives can add a bright flavor that complements the dish.

Serving This Buffalo Chicken French Breads

When it comes to enjoying Buffalo Chicken French Breads, there are countless ways to serve it that make it even more delightful. Here are some great ideas:

Game Day Treat: These are the perfect finger food for any game day gathering. Serve them as a snack or main course while cheering on your favorite team.
Family Dinner: Ideal for a quick family dinner, these breads are filling and satisfying. Pair them with a side salad for a complete meal.
Casual Get-Togethers: Your friends will love these as an appetizer during casual get-togethers. They can be cut into smaller pieces, making them easy to grab and enjoy.
Seasonal Pairings: Consider serving these delicious breads during warmer months with a fresh cucumber salad or in winter with a warm soup.
Leftover Remix: Use any leftover buffalo chicken mixture to create wraps or quesadillas the next day for a delicious second round!
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for the best results.

FAQ

Absolutely! While french bread is traditional for Buffalo Chicken French Breads, you can experiment with other types of bread too. A hoagie roll or ciabatta would also work wonderfully, providing a unique twist on the classic. Just make sure the bread is sturdy enough to hold the toppings without getting too soggy.

The spiciness of Buffalo Chicken French Breads can be adjusted according to your preference. The buffalo wing sauce is what gives it the heat, so if you like it milder, simply reduce the amount of sauce you use. Alternatively, you can also opt for a mild buffalo sauce or even barbecue sauce for a completely different flavor.

Yes, you can prepare the components of Buffalo Chicken French Breads ahead of time. Cook the chicken and prepare the toppings, then assemble the bread just before baking. This is a great way to save time if you’re serving this for a party or busy weeknight dinner.

To store leftovers of Buffalo Chicken French Breads, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should be consumed within three days for the best flavor. To reheat, place them in the oven until heated through, which will help maintain that crispy texture.

Conclusion

Buffalo Chicken French Breads truly embodies everything we love about comfort food: rich flavors, satisfying textures, and the joy of sharing a meal. Whether it’s for a family dinner or a casual gathering, this dish is sure to impress. I encourage you to give it a try — it might just become your new favorite!