The aroma of zesty buffalo sauce wafts through my kitchen as I prepare one of my favorite quick dinners: Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos. This delightful twist on two classics—chicken burgers and tacos—brings a comforting yet exciting meal right to your dinner table. Perfect for busy weeknights, these tacos pack lean ground chicken and that bold buffalo flavor into a hand-held treat. Plus, they’re customizable, making them a fun option for the whole family. Whether you’re a spice lover looking for a kick or simply want a healthier alternative to fast food, these tacos are sure to hit the spot. Ready to discover how to whip up this fast and flavorful dish for yourself? Let’s dive in!
Why Buffalo Chicken Tacos Will Delight You
Excitement in Flavor: These Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos pack a punch with zesty buffalo sauce, making every bite a flavor explosion!
Quick and Easy: Ideal for weeknight dinners, this recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy schedules.
Customizable Options: Mix and match ingredients; swap ranch for blue cheese or add your favorite toppings to make it uniquely yours!
Healthy and Lean: Made with ground chicken, these tacos are a healthy alternative that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Crowd Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or entertaining friends, everyone will love these tasty tacos that fuse comfort food with excitement!
If you’re looking for more mouthwatering ideas, check out our vegetarian taco variations for cleaner recipes!
Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Taco Ingredients
• Dive into these Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos with all the essential ingredients for a delicious meal!
For the Chicken Patties
- Ground Chicken – A lean protein source that keeps the tacos healthy; substitute with ground turkey or plant-based meat for a different flavor.
- Buffalo Wing Sauce – This adds the signature spiciness; adjust the quantity based on your heat preference.
- Garlic Powder – Enhances the umami flavor; fresh garlic can be used for extra zest.
- Onion Powder – Provides depth; consider using fresh onions sautéed for a richer taste.
- Smoked Paprika – Adds a smokey essence; or use regular paprika for milder flavor.
- Himalayan Salt – Elevates overall flavor; can be swapped with sea salt or kosher salt.
- Black Pepper – Offers a touch of heat; white pepper serves as a substitution.
For the Tacos
- Small Tortillas (Corn or Flour) – The perfect base for tacos; lettuce wraps can be a fantastic low-carb option.
- Cooking Spray or Oil – Prevents sticking while cooking; olive or avocado oil are ideal alternatives.
For the Slaw
- Shredded Cabbage – Adds a delightful crunch; use shredded romaine or iceberg as substitutes.
- Grated Carrots – Introduces sweetness and vibrant color; increase cabbage if needed.
- Ranch Dressing – Brings a creamy twist to the slaw; blue cheese dressing can provide a tangy alternative.
- Dill Relish – Enhances the slaw’s flavor; chopped pickles or capers can serve as good substitutes.
Get ready to savor each bite of these Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos
Step 1: Prepare the Ranch Slaw
In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded cabbage, grated carrots, ranch dressing, and dill relish. Stir well until all the ingredients are evenly coated, creating a colorful slaw mixture. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together while you prepare the chicken, ensuring a refreshing topping for your Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos.
Step 2: Mix the Chicken Patties
In a separate bowl, take your ground chicken and add buffalo wing sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, Himalayan salt, and black pepper. Gently mix the ingredients with your hands or a spoon until just combined—be careful not to overmix to keep the patties tender. Set aside the mixture to allow the flavors to develop while you heat the cooking surface.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken Patties
Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat, adding a light coat of cooking spray or oil to prevent sticking. Using your hands, form the chicken mixture into small, loose balls and place them onto the hot cooking surface. Smash each ball down flat with a spatula and cook for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown and cooked through, checking for a minimum internal temperature of 165°F before removing from the heat.
Step 4: Warm the Tortillas
Optionally, after cooking the chicken patties, take the same skillet and add a touch of oil to warm the tortillas. Place them front-side down in the skillet for about 30 seconds, or until they are soft and pliable. This step enhances the overall texture of your Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos, making each bite enjoyable and easy to handle.
Step 5: Assemble the Tacos
To assemble the Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos, place a warm chicken patty on a tortilla, and generously top it with the chilled ranch slaw prepared earlier. For an extra kick, drizzle your favorite Greek yogurt ranch or more buffalo sauce on top. Serve the tacos hot, ready to be enjoyed by everyone at the table, making for a satisfying and delicious meal.
What to Serve With Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos
Enjoy these colorful and bold tacos by pairing them with delightful sides and drinks that complement their zesty flavor!
- Creamy Coleslaw: A classic side, refreshing and crunchy, perfectly balances the spicy buffalo chicken, enhancing the overall meal experience.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy with a hint of sweetness, these add a satisfying crunch and contrast to the spice of the tacos.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled, sweet corn brings a joyful burst of summer flavor that resonates beautifully with the tangy chicken.
- Avocado Salad: A fresh mix of creamy avocado, tomato, and lime creates a delicious contrast to the bold flavors, refreshing each bite.
- Pineapple Salsa: This sweet and spicy topping can be spooned over the tacos for a fruity twist that perfectly complements the heat!
- Crisp Beer: A light lager or pale ale enhances the flavors, making it an ideal pairing with the spicy kick of these buffalo tacos.
- Limeade: Refreshing and tangy, this drink provides a zesty contrast to the savory spices, leaving your taste buds craving more.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: For a sweet ending, these warm cookies melt in your mouth and offer a comforting, nostalgic finish to the meal.
Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Taco Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize your Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos with these delightful variations!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute ranch dressing with a creamy avocado dressing to keep it light and dairy-free. This adds a fresh, buttery flavor that complements the buffalo sauce beautifully.
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Spicy Kick: Add sriracha or hot sauce directly into the chicken mixture for an extra layer of heat. Feel free to adjust to your taste—your spice-loving friends will thank you!
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Plant-Based: Use meat alternatives like lentils or chickpeas for a delicious vegetarian twist. Simply mash or mix these with spices for a satisfying and hearty filling.
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Cheesy Goodness: Top your chicken patties with shredded cheese in the last minute of cooking for melty, gooey goodness. Cheddar or pepper jack will enhance the flavor and add a wonderful creaminess.
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Crunchy Slaw: Boost the texture by tossing in some crushed tortilla chips or crispy fried onions into your ranch slaw. This exciting crunch will elevate your taco’s mouthfeel while adding extra flavor on every bite.
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Fresh Herbs: Incorporate fresh cilantro or parsley in the slaw for a lively herbaceous touch. The bright flavors will lighten up the dish and provide an extra pop.
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Sweet & Spicy: Drizzle a bit of honey over the tacos or add candied jalapeños for an unexpected sweet-spicy contrast. This unique combination will make every bite a flavorful adventure!
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Flavor Twist: Swap out the regular buffalo sauce for a smoky chipotle version for a whole new depth of flavor. This can turn your tacos into a smoky delight that will impress your taste buds!
Feel free to combine ideas and let your creativity shine! And if you’re looking for even more taco variations, don’t hesitate to explore other exciting recipes!
Make Ahead Options
These Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the ranch slaw up to 3 days in advance, allowing the flavors to marry for a delicious outcome. Just mix together the shredded cabbage, grated carrots, ranch dressing, and dill relish, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The chicken patties can also be mixed and formed 24 hours ahead; simply wrap them tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. When it’s time to serve, just cook the patties on your skillet and warm the tortillas. This way, you’ll have a tasty, homemade meal ready with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos
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Mix Gently: Avoid overmixing the chicken; this will keep your Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos tender and juicy instead of dense.
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Heat the Pan: Ensure your skillet is hot before adding chicken to achieve that beautiful golden crust, enhancing flavor and texture.
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Adjust Spiciness: Control the heat by adjusting the buffalo wing sauce—start small if you’re unsure of your spice tolerance.
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Keep an Eye on Time: Lean ground chicken can easily dry out, so monitor cooking time closely to prevent overcooking and maintain juiciness.
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Customize the Slaw: Feel free to change up the slaw ingredients—add apples or nuts for extra crunch or flavor that complements the tacos perfectly.
How to Store and Freeze Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain freshness, separate the chicken patties from the slaw and tortillas.
Freezer: Wrap chicken patties individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge when ready to enjoy.
Reheating: Reheat chicken patties on the stovetop over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until warmed through. Warm tortillas separately for optimal texture before assembling your tacos again.
Assembly Tips: For best flavor, reassemble tacos just before serving to keep tortillas soft and the slaw crisp, ensuring delightful Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos in every bite!
Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos Recipe FAQs
What type of ground chicken should I use?
Absolutely! You can use any lean ground chicken for these tacos to keep them healthy. If you prefer a different flavor profile, ground turkey or even plant-based meat alternatives are wonderful substitutes that will still give you great results.
How should I store leftovers?
Store your Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep everything fresh, separate the chicken patties from the slaw and tortillas. This way, the tortillas will stay soft, and the slaw will remain crunchy!
Can I freeze the chicken patties?
Yes, you can freeze the chicken patties! Wrap each chicken patty individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What if my chicken patties are too dry?
The key to juicy chicken patties is not overmixing and not overcooking. If you find your patties are a bit dry, ensure you’re monitoring the cooking time closely—about 3-4 minutes on each side should do the trick. Cooking them at a medium-high temperature helps to create that delightful golden crust while keeping the insides moist.
Are these tacos pet-friendly?
It’s best not to share your Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos with pets. Ingredients like garlic powder and onion powder can be harmful to dogs. Always stick to pet-specific treats for your furry family members!
Can I make these tacos gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make your Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos gluten-free, simply use corn tortillas instead of flour ones. They provide a delightful flavor and texture that complements the fillings perfectly, ensuring everyone can enjoy this dish!
Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos for a Flavor-Packed Feast
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Ranch Slaw by combining shredded cabbage, grated carrots, ranch dressing, and dill relish in a large mixing bowl. Stir well and refrigerate for at least 10 minutes.
- Mix the Chicken Patties by adding buffalo wing sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, Himalayan salt, and black pepper to the ground chicken. Mix gently and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken Patties in a preheated skillet with cooking spray or oil, forming the mixture into small balls, then smashing them down flat. Cook for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Warm the Tortillas in the same skillet after cooking the patties for about 30 seconds until soft and pliable.
- Assemble the Tacos by placing a chicken patty on a warm tortilla and topping it with the chilled ranch slaw. Drizzle with Greek yogurt ranch or buffalo sauce before serving hot.
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