Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of spicy buffalo sauce filled the air, instantly transporting me to a lively backyard barbecue. This was not just any meal; these were Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos, a quick weeknight dinner that combines the bold flavors of zesty chicken with the fresh crunch of creamy ranch slaw, all tucked into soft tortillas. What makes this dish truly special is its high protein content and customizable nature, allowing you to adapt it for the whole family. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for those evenings when you want something satisfying yet light. Curious about how to bring this exciting twist on a classic burger home? Let’s dive into the recipe! Why You’ll Love Buffalo Chicken Tacos Quick and Easy: You can whip these tacos up in under 30 minutes, making them a perfect choice for busy weeknights. High Protein: With lean ground chicken as the star ingredient, each taco packs a protein punch to keep you satisfied. Customizable: Want a milder taste? Swap buffalo sauce for BBQ! You can also play with toppings for a unique twist, like adding avocado slices or spicy jalapeños. Flavor Explosion: The combo of zesty chicken, creamy ranch slaw, and soft tortillas creates a mouthwatering experience that rivals any favorite burger. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: These tacos are sure to impress family and friends, just like my Grilled Buffalo Chicken — perfect for gatherings or casual dinners! Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos Ingredients For the Chicken Mixture Ground Chicken – A high-protein base; opt for lean ground turkey for a lighter alternative. Buffalo Wing Sauce – Key for a spicy kick; BBQ sauce can be a milder substitute. Garlic Powder – Adds depth to flavor; feel free to use fresh minced garlic instead for a fresher taste. Onion Powder – Provides savory richness; substitute with finely chopped onions if preferred. Smoked Paprika – Imparts a unique smokiness; regular paprika works if you want a milder flavor. Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for enhancing taste; kosher salt is a fine alternative to Himalayan salt. For the Slaw Shredded Cabbage – Offers a crunchy texture; swap it with any leafy green, like iceberg lettuce, for a change. Grated Carrots – Brings sweetness and color to the dish; bell peppers can be used instead for a colorful variation. Ranch Dressing (Greek Yogurt Preferred) – Provides creamy richness; blue cheese dressing can be used for a tangy twist. Dill Relish – Gives a tangy zing; chopped pickles can serve as a great substitute. For Assembly Tortillas (Corn or Flour) – Serve as the delicious wrap; consider lettuce wraps for a low-carb twist. Enjoy crafting your very own Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos! Each ingredient plays a crucial role to ensure that this dish is not just a meal, but a comforting experience. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos Step 1: Prepare the Slaw In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage, grated carrots, ranch dressing, and dill relish. Toss the ingredients together until evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 10 minutes. This allows flavors to meld and the slaw to chill, readying it for that perfect creamy crunch when assembling the Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos. Step 2: Mix the Chicken In another mixing bowl, combine ground chicken and buffalo wing sauce, followed by garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix gently until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the texture tender. This spicy chicken mixture is what will elevate your tacos to delicious new heights. Step 3: Heat the Skillet Place a non-stick skillet or griddle on medium-high heat, adding a light coating of cooking spray or oil. Let the pan preheat for about 2-3 minutes, ensuring it’s hot enough to sear the chicken patties. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy exterior on the Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos that everyone loves. Step 4: Form the Chicken Patties Using your hands, divide the chicken mixture into loose balls, roughly the size of golf balls. Carefully place the balls onto the hot skillet, leaving space between them. With a spatula, gently smash each ball into flat patties, about ¾-inch thick. This technique helps them cook evenly and gives you the perfect foundation for your tacos. Step 5: Cook the Chicken Cook the chicken patties for 3-4 minutes on one side without moving them, until you see golden brown edges. Carefully flip each patty over, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes until firm and fully cooked through. This beautifully seared chicken is key to the flavor-packed Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos that you will devour. Step 6: Warm the Tortillas While the chicken is cooking, add tortillas to the skillet for about 30 seconds per side, just until soft and pliable. Warming the tortillas makes them easier to handle when assembling your Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos. Keep the tortillas warm and pliable as you build the meal to ensure they don’t break when filled. Step 7: Assemble the Tacos Now it’s time to assemble! Place a chicken patty on each warmed tortilla. Top generously with the chilled ranch slaw you prepared earlier, and feel free to drizzle extra buffalo sauce if you like it spicy. The combination of spicy chicken and cool ranch slaw creates a perfect balance for your Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos. Step 8: Serve and Enjoy Serve your Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos hot right off the skillet. You can offer additional toppings like avocado slices or crispy onions on the side for customization. Each bite will delight you as you enjoy this comforting, flavorful meal, providing a quick weeknight dinner option that your family is sure to love. Make Ahead Options These Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos are ideal for meal prep enthusiasts! You can mix the ground chicken with buffalo sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Additionally, prepare the creamy ranch slaw by combining the shredded cabbage, grated carrots, ranch dressing, and dill relish, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook the chicken patties on a hot skillet and warm the tortillas, ensuring that the chicken remains tender and flavorful. This approach saves time during those busy weeknights while guaranteeing that every bite of your Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos is just as delicious! How to Store and Freeze Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken patties in the skillet for best results, keeping them crispy. Freezer: Freeze cooked chicken patties separately in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving. Tortillas: Wrap leftover tortillas in foil and store in the fridge for up to 1 week. For best texture, warm them before assembling your tacos again. Slaw: The ranch slaw can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Stir well before serving on top of your tacos. Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos Variations Eager to put your own spin on these delicious tacos? Here are some fun and easy options that will elevate your meal! BBQ Swap: Replace buffalo wing sauce with BBQ sauce for a sweeter, tangy twist. This can create a flavor reminiscent of a summer cookout! Spicy Kick: Add pickled jalapeños or drizzle spicy honey to enhance the heat level and give your tacos a zesty boost. The added spice pairs beautifully with the creamy ranch slaw. Extra Crunch: Top with crushed tortilla chips or crispy fried onions for a delightful crunch. These add-ins not only elevate texture but also heighten the overall experience. Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground chicken with lentils or black beans for a vegetarian alternative that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Trust me, lentils take on the sauce brilliantly! Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to your slaw for an aromatic touch that livens up every bite. It brings a freshness that balances out the spices perfectly. Creamy Alternatives: Swap ranch dressing for blue cheese dressing for a tangier taste. This classic combination provides a rich flavor that many will adore. Fresh Veggies: Incorporate sliced avocado or bell peppers into your taco assembly for a burst of freshness and color. They also provide a refreshing contrast to the spicy chicken. Wrap Variation: Use lettuce leaves instead of tortillas for a low-carb wrap. This option not only makes it lighter but also adds a delightful crunch when you bite in! Whether you stick to the classic recipe or get creative with these variations, your Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos are sure to be a hit! If you’re in the mood for something different, consider also trying my delicious Hawaiian Chicken Salad or Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas. The possibilities are endless! Expert Tips for Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos Mix Gently: Avoid overmixing the chicken to keep the patties tender and juicy. A gentle fold is all it needs! Preheat the Pan: Make sure your skillet is adequately heated to achieve that delicious golden crust on the chicken patties without burning. Correct Cooking Time: Monitor your cooking time closely. Overcooking can lead to dry chicken patties; aim for just until firm. Chill the Slaw: Don’t skip the chilling step for the ranch slaw. This allows flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing overall taste in your Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos. Tortilla Variety: Feel free to use your preferred tortillas—whether corn or flour, or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb version! What to Serve with Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos Elevate your taco night with scrumptious sides and drinks that perfectly complement the zesty flavors! Creamy Guacamole: This rich and smooth dip adds a refreshing contrast to spicy tacos. Scoop it up with tortilla chips for extra delight. Crispy Potato Wedges: Golden brown and seasoned, these wedges offer a hearty side that balances the lightness of the tacos, making for a filling meal. Mexican Street Corn Salad: Sweet corn, tangy lime, and creamy dressing create a vibrant and flavorful dish that pairs beautifully with the zesty chicken. Simple Side Salad: Mixed greens topped with cherry tomatoes and a light vinaigrette provide a refreshing crunch and a pop of color on your plate. Spicy Pickled Jalapeños: Spice lovers will adore these tangy additions, giving every bite of your tacos an extra kick for an electrifying experience. Chilled Lemonade: A sweet and tart beverage quenches your thirst while complementing the bold flavors of the tacos perfectly, adding a touch of refreshment. Chocolate Chip Cookie Skewers: End your meal on a sweet note with warm cookies paired with fruit skewers, striking a delightful contrast with your main dish. Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos Recipe FAQs How do I select the right ground chicken for my tacos? Absolutely! When choosing ground chicken, look for fresh ground chicken with a light pink color and no dark spots. Lean ground turkey is a wonderful, lower-fat alternative that still provides plenty of protein without sacrificing flavor. What’s the best way to store leftover Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos? Very good question! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side to maintain the crispiness of the chicken patties. Trust me, it makes a world of difference! Can I freeze the cooked chicken patties for later use? Yes, you can! To freeze the cooked chicken patties, first let them cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm them in a skillet or microwave. What should I do if the chicken patties are falling apart while cooking? No worries! If your chicken patties are falling apart, it’s likely due to overmixing the meat. Make sure you mix only until the ingredients are just combined to keep them tender. Also, ensure your skillet is hot enough; a well-heated pan helps create a nice crust that holds the patties together while cooking. Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of for this recipe? Absolutely! If you’re serving these Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos to family or friends with dietary restrictions, the recipe is quite flexible. You can substitute ground chicken with ground turkey for a leaner option or even use lentils for a vegetarian version. For those with dairy allergies, try using a dairy-free ranch dressing or omit the slaw altogether. Always double-check ingredients to avoid any allergic reactions! How long can I prepare the ranch slaw in advance? You can prepare the ranch slaw ahead of time! It can be made and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. This not only saves you time but also allows the flavors to develop. Remember to stir well before using it to top off your tacos, as it may settle in the fridge. Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos: Spicy Comfort in Every Bite Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos combine zesty chicken with creamy ranch slaw in soft tortillas for a satisfying, high-protein meal. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsChilling Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 35 minutes mins Servings: 4 tacosCourse: ChickenCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken Mixture1 pound Ground Chicken Opt for lean ground turkey for a lighter alternative.1/2 cup Buffalo Wing Sauce BBQ sauce can be a milder substitute.1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Feel free to use fresh minced garlic instead.1 teaspoon Onion Powder Substitute with finely chopped onions if preferred.1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Regular paprika works if you want a milder flavor.1 teaspoon Salt Kosher salt is a fine alternative.1/2 teaspoon Black PepperFor the Slaw2 cups Shredded Cabbage Swap with any leafy green for a change.1 cup Grated Carrots Bell peppers can be used instead for variation.1/2 cup Ranch Dressing Greek yogurt preferred; blue cheese dressing can add tang.2 tablespoons Dill Relish Chopped pickles can serve as a substitute.For Assembly8 tortillas Corn or Flour Consider lettuce wraps for a low-carb twist. Equipment mixing bowlsnon-stick skilletspatula Method Preparation StepsIn a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage, grated carrots, ranch dressing, and dill relish. Toss together until evenly coated, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for about 10 minutes.In another mixing bowl, combine ground chicken and buffalo wing sauce, followed by garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined.Place a non-stick skillet on medium-high heat, adding a light coating of cooking spray or oil. Preheat for about 2-3 minutes.Divide the chicken mixture into golf ball-sized pieces. Place the balls onto the hot skillet, leaving space in between, and gently smash into flat patties, about ¾-inch thick.Cook the chicken patties for 3-4 minutes without moving them, until golden brown. Carefully flip them and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until firm and fully cooked.Warm tortillas on the skillet for about 30 seconds per side until soft and pliable.Assemble the tacos by placing a chicken patty on each warmed tortilla, topping generously with the chilled ranch slaw, and drizzling extra buffalo sauce if desired.Serve hot with additional toppings like avocado slices or crispy onions on the side. Nutrition Serving: 1tacoCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 25IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 8mg NotesExperiment with different toppings and sauces to customize your tacos. Ensure to keep an eye on the cooking time to avoid dry chicken patties. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
