When it comes to fast food sandwiches, Arby’s Buffalo Chicken Sandwich has garnered attention for its flavorful mix of ingredients. One of the most intriguing aspects of this sandwich is the sauce combination that elevates its taste. In this article, we’ll explore everything about the sauces used, break down the ingredients, and take a deeper dive into how you can recreate this popular item at home.
The combination of spicy Buffalo sauce and cool, creamy Parmesan Peppercorn Ranch creates a flavor balance that’s loved by many. Let’s start by examining what makes these sauces so special.
What is Buffalo Sauce?
Buffalo sauce is the key ingredient that gives Arby’s Buffalo Chicken Sandwich its signature heat and tang. It’s not just any hot sauce—it’s a combination of Frank’s Red Hot Sauce with butter and other seasonings to create a distinct spicy flavor. This sauce originated in Buffalo, New York, hence its name, and has since become a staple for spicy dishes, particularly with chicken wings and sandwiches.
Here are the main ingredients in Buffalo sauce:
- Frank’s Red Hot Sauce: The base of the sauce, known for its bold, spicy flavor.
- Butter: Balances the heat by adding a creamy, smooth texture.
- Worcestershire sauce: Adds depth and a slight tang to round out the flavor.
The buttery, tangy combination makes Buffalo sauce perfect for chicken, adding heat without overpowering the other elements. It’s a key reason why this sandwich stands out in fast food offerings.
Fun Fact: Buffalo sauce isn’t just about heat. The blend of ingredients is crafted to create a layered flavor experience. It’s more than just spice—it’s tang, savory, and rich!
For those looking to try making this sauce at home, here’s a great recipe for homemade Buffalo Chicken Sandwich.
How Arby’s Uses Buffalo Sauce on Their Chicken Sandwich
At Arby’s, the Buffalo sauce plays a pivotal role in the sandwich’s overall flavor. The crispy chicken breast is generously dipped in this spicy sauce, which soaks into the breading, ensuring that every bite packs a punch.
Arby’s has perfected the art of balancing heat and crunch in their Buffalo Chicken Sandwich. The crispy texture of the fried chicken contrasts beautifully with the saucy exterior, making the sandwich a joy to bite into. The spicy kick of the Buffalo sauce also pairs well with the other ingredients, giving it a well-rounded, satisfying taste.
For an even more enhanced experience, they top it with a second sauce: Parmesan Peppercorn Ranch, which provides a creamy counterbalance to the spice.
Frank’s Red Hot Sauce is often cited as the key element in their Buffalo sauce recipe, bringing that unmistakable heat that Arby’s is known for.
What Sauce Complements the Buffalo Sauce on Arby’s Sandwich?
While Buffalo sauce adds spice, the other essential element that balances the sandwich is the Parmesan Peppercorn Ranch. This creamy, tangy sauce adds depth and ensures the sandwich isn’t overwhelmingly spicy.
Here’s why it works so well:
- Creaminess: It cuts through the heat, providing a soothing counterpart.
- Peppery kick: The peppercorns add a slight bite, giving it a complex flavor.
- Parmesan: The rich, savory taste of Parmesan cheese brings a nutty and slightly sharp note to the sauce.
This combination of heat and coolness makes the sandwich both exciting and approachable. Many customers appreciate the interplay between these two sauces, which ensures that the sandwich has layers of flavor and texture.
The Ingredients Breakdown: More Than Just Sauce
Aside from the sauces, the Arby’s Buffalo Chicken Sandwich boasts a few other key ingredients that contribute to its overall taste.
Crispy Chicken Breast
The chicken breast is lightly breaded and fried to a perfect crisp. The breading absorbs the Buffalo sauce, ensuring that the spicy flavor infuses the chicken. The interior remains juicy and tender, creating a delightful contrast between the crispy exterior and moist interior.
Shredded Lettuce
Shredded lettuce provides a light, fresh element to the sandwich. Its crunch balances the soft textures of the sauces and chicken.
Buttery Brioche Bun
The sandwich is housed in a toasted brioche bun. Brioche is known for being rich and slightly sweet, which works well with the spiciness of the Buffalo sauce. The butteriness of the bun complements the creamy ranch sauce and enhances the overall mouthfeel of the sandwich.
Health Considerations and Nutritional Breakdown
While delicious, it’s important to consider the nutritional aspects of Arby’s Buffalo Chicken Sandwich.
- Calories: Approximately 540 calories
- Total Fat: 24g
- Sodium: 1900mg
- Protein: 32g
The sandwich provides a good amount of protein, but it is also high in sodium and fat. If you’re mindful of your diet, this sandwich may not be an everyday indulgence, but it can fit into a balanced diet when eaten in moderation.
If you’re looking for healthier fast food options, the Mayo Clinic’s guide to healthy fast food can help you make smarter choices.
How to Make a Copycat Version at Home
Are you interested in recreating Arby’s Buffalo Chicken Sandwich at home? With the right ingredients and a few easy steps, you can enjoy this flavorful sandwich without having to head to Arby’s.
Here’s a simple recipe to try:
Ingredients:
- 2 large chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup Frank’s Red Hot Sauce
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Shredded iceberg lettuce
- 2 brioche buns
- Parmesan Peppercorn Ranch dressing
Instructions:
- Cook the chicken breasts until they’re crispy and golden brown.
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter and stir in the Frank’s Red Hot Sauce and Worcestershire sauce.
- Dip the fried chicken into the Buffalo sauce until it’s well-coated.
- Assemble the sandwich with the shredded lettuce, chicken, and Parmesan Peppercorn Ranch on a toasted brioche bun.
- Serve and enjoy!
This recipe provides a fantastic homemade alternative to Arby’s version. The best part? You can adjust the amount of Buffalo sauce or ranch dressing to match your preferences.
Customer Reviews and Opinions on Arby’s Buffalo Chicken Sandwich
Let’s look at what customers have to say about this popular item. The reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the sandwich for its bold flavors and satisfying textures.
Here are some key takeaways from customer feedback:
- Spicy but not overwhelming: Many customers note that the Buffalo sauce brings a nice level of heat, but it’s tempered by the Parmesan Peppercorn Ranch.
- Crispy texture: The fried chicken breast consistently receives praise for its crispy coating.
- Well-balanced: The combination of heat, crunch, and coolness is a favorite for those who enjoy spicy sandwiches.
However, some customers note that the sandwich can be on the saltier side due to the sauces and chicken preparation. If you’re sensitive to sodium, this is something to keep in mind.
FAQs About Arby’s Buffalo Chicken Sandwich
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Arby’s Buffalo Chicken Sandwich, based on common queries:
Is Arby’s Buffalo Chicken Sandwich spicy?
Yes, the Buffalo sauce gives the sandwich a noticeable kick, but it’s balanced by the creamy Parmesan Peppercorn Ranch, so the heat isn’t overwhelming.
Can I customize the sandwich?
Absolutely! You can ask for extra ranch if you prefer a milder flavor or even request to hold the Buffalo sauce if you’re sensitive to spice.
Does Arby’s serve the Buffalo Chicken Sandwich year-round?
Availability can vary by location, but the Buffalo Chicken Sandwich is often featured as a seasonal item or as part of Arby’s promotional offers.
Is there a smaller version available?
Yes, Arby’s Buffalo Chicken Slider offers a smaller portion of the sandwich, which includes the same Buffalo sauce and Parmesan Peppercorn Ranch on a slider bun.
Conclusion: Why You Should Try Arby’s Buffalo Chicken Sandwich
Arby’s Buffalo Chicken Sandwich offers a unique take on a classic fast-food chicken sandwich by combining spicy Buffalo sauce with cool ranch dressing. The balance of textures and flavors makes it a favorite for many fast-food lovers.
With its crispy chicken, toasted brioche bun, and the tantalizing combination of Buffalo sauce and Parmesan Peppercorn Ranch, it’s no wonder this sandwich is a go-to choice for those who enjoy bold flavors.
Whether you’re trying it at Arby’s or making a copycat version at home, the Buffalo Chicken Sandwich is sure to satisfy your cravings for something spicy, creamy, and crispy all at once.