Jump to Recipe Print RecipeIn the midst of a bustling week, I stumbled upon a delightful fusion that made my taste buds dance—the Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos. Imagine sinking your teeth into juicy, spicy chicken patties nestled in warm tortillas, topped with a cool ranch slaw that adds a refreshing crunch. What’s the best part? These mouthwatering tacos are a breeze to whip up in just 25 minutes, making them perfect for busy nights when you crave a comforting meal without the guilt of takeout. Plus, with easy variations like gluten-free lettuce wraps or a dairy-free ranch, there’s something for everyone at the table. So, are you ready to elevate your taco night with this exciting twist? Let’s dive into the recipe! Why Choose Buffalo Chicken Tacos? Quick and Easy: Prepare these flavorful tacos in just 25 minutes, making dinner stress-free even on the busiest nights. Spicy and Savory: The combination of juicy ground chicken and zesty buffalo sauce creates a deliciously bold flavor that everyone will love. Crispy Freshness: Topped with a crunchy ranch slaw, they offer a delightful contrast of textures that makes every bite a joy. Versatile Options: With simple substitutions like using lettuce wraps for a gluten-free option or swapping ranch for dairy-free alternatives, these tacos cater to various dietary needs. Family-Friendly: Whether for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, these tacos are sure to please palates of all ages, making them a hit with family and friends. Elevate your culinary lineup with these engaging flavors and check out my other favorites like Buffalo Chicken Bowls and Chicken Street Tacos for more delicious inspiration! Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Taco Ingredients For the Chicken Patties • Ground Chicken – Lean protein that keeps the dish light; swap with turkey for a different flavor. • Buffalo Wing Sauce – Delivers heat and tang; adjust based on your spice preference or replace with BBQ sauce for a milder option. • Garlic Powder – Adds a savory kick; feel free to use fresh garlic for an even bolder taste. • Onion Powder – Boosts flavor depth; can be substituted with finely chopped onions for a fresher bite. • Smoked Paprika – Brings a smoky richness; if unavailable, regular paprika is a suitable replacement. • Himalayan Salt – Enhances overall taste; regular salt works in a pinch. • Black Pepper – Adds pungency; opt for freshly cracked pepper for a stronger flavor boost. • Cooking Spray or Oil – Used for greasing the pan; choose olive oil or avocado oil for healthier options. For the Tacos • Small Tortillas (Corn or Flour) – The perfect vehicle for the patties; for a gluten-free version, use lettuce wraps instead. • Shredded Cabbage – Provides crunch and freshness; you can use lettuce or a coleslaw mix if handy. • Grated Carrots – Adds texture and a hint of sweetness; feel free to substitute with sliced bell peppers for variety. For the Topping • Ranch Dressing – Creamy addition that cools down the spice; try blue cheese dressing for more zing or a plant-based alternative for a dairy-free option. • Dill Relish – Introduces a tangy flavor; chopped pickles can be used if you prefer. Dive into making these Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos and transform your dinner into a tantalizing experience! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos Step 1: Prepare the Ranch Slaw In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage, grated carrots, ranch dressing, and dill relish. Mix everything together until well-coated, creating a vibrant slaw. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the slaw to crisp. Step 2: Mix Chicken In another bowl, add ground chicken along with buffalo wing sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to gently blend everything until just combined, ensuring not to overmix, which helps keep the chicken patties tender. Step 3: Heat the Pan Place a griddle or non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Allow the pan to warm up for about 2-3 minutes. Once hot, lightly coat the surface with cooking spray or a drizzle of oil, ensuring an even layer to achieve a golden crust on the patties. Step 4: Form and Cook Patties Shape the chicken mixture into small balls, roughly the size of golf balls. Place each ball onto a tortilla and using a spatula, firmly smash them down to create flat patties. Cook for 3-4 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through, looking for a slight crisp around the edges. Step 5: Warm Tortillas Optionally, take the remaining tortillas and lightly oil each side. In the same skillet, warm them for about 30 seconds on each side until soft and pliable. This adds a nice touch of warmth and flavor, enhancing the overall experience of your Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos. Step 6: Assemble Tacos On each warm tortilla, place a freshly cooked chicken patty. Generously top it with the cool ranch slaw, ensuring every bite gets that crunchy goodness. For an extra kick, drizzle more ranch dressing or buffalo sauce over the top before folding the tacos. Step 7: Serve and Enjoy Serve your Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos while they are still warm for the best taste and texture. Set them on a pretty platter for a delightful presentation and enjoy a satisfying meal packed with flavors that are sure to please everyone at the table. What to Serve with Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos? In the vibrant world of flavors and textures, pairing the right sides can elevate your meal to new heights of deliciousness. Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes contrasts beautifully with the spicy tacos, adding a delightful crunch. Cooling Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumbers tossed in a tangy vinaigrette create a refreshing balance that complements the heat of the tacos perfectly. Zesty Coleslaw: A classic crunchy companion, coleslaw with a citrus twist adds extra creaminess and freshness to each flavorful bite. Guacamole and Tortilla Chips: The creamy avocados in guacamole serve as a comforting dip while the salty chips add a delightful crunch to your meal. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet and smoky grilled corn brings an earthy sweetness that harmonizes with the zesty chicken. Sparkling Lemonade: A fizzy, citrusy drink refreshes your palate after each spicy bite, making it the perfect toast to your taco night. Chocolate Chip Cookies: To round out this tasty meal, these chewy cookies offer a sweet treat that everyone will enjoy, perfect for satisfying that sweet tooth! Pairing these delightful options with Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos will make your dinner experience one of warmth, comfort, and joy! Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Taco Variations Feel free to make these tantalizing tacos your own with these fun and easy twists that will excite your taste buds! Gluten-Free: Swap small tortillas for crisp lettuce wraps for a refreshing, low-carb option that doesn’t compromise on taste. This makes every bite feel light and invigorating! Dairy-Free: Use a creamy plant-based ranch dressing for a personalized twist, so even those avoiding dairy can indulge without guilt. This alternative is equally flavorful and refreshing! Extra Cheesy: Add a generous sprinkle of sharp cheddar or blue cheese on top of each patty as they cook for a delightful richness. Melty cheese balances the spicy chicken perfectly! Spicy-Sweet Kick: Drizzle hot honey on the tacos or add pickled jalapeños for a touch of sweetness alongside the heat. These simple additions elevate the flavor profile dazzlingly! Upgraded Slaw: Replace the ranch slaw with a zesty slaw made with lime juice and cilantro for a burst of freshness. This gives your tacos a delightful twist and a splash of color! Crunchy Texture: Top your tacos with crushed tortilla chips or crispy onions for an added satisfying crunch. The contrast against the juicy chicken and creamy slaw is heavenly! BBQ Flavor: For a milder option, swap the buffalo sauce for your favorite BBQ sauce. This smaller change still packs a punch, making these tacos irresistible in a whole new way. Stuffed Tacos: For an adventurous take, stuff the patties with cheese before cooking, creating an oozy surprise in every bite. You’ll love the melty goodness that awaits you! Dive into these variations, and don’t forget to check out my other favorites like Buffalo Chicken Bowls or Savory Chicken Flatbread for further inspiration as you explore different flavor landscapes! Storage Tips for Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This helps maintain freshness while keeping the flavors intact. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken patties without the slaw in a single layer for up to 2 months. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag for easy access. Reheating: To enjoy your tacos warm, reheat the patties in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through and crispy, about 3-5 minutes. You can warm tortillas in the skillet alongside for optimal enjoyment. These tips will ensure your Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos stay delicious and full of flavor, ready for whenever you crave them! Expert Tips for Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos Don’t Overmix: Keep the chicken tender by gently mixing the ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tougher patties. Preheat the Pan: Ensure your skillet is hot before cooking. This helps achieve that perfect sear and crispy edges, enhancing the overall texture of the tacos. Check Cooking Time: Ground chicken cooks quickly, so keep a close eye on your patties. Look for a golden crust to indicate they’re done without being dry. Chill the Slaw: Preparing the ranch slaw ahead of time not only saves you time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it more delicious when served. Tortilla Tips: If using corn tortillas, warm them briefly in the skillet or microwave to make them more pliable and enhance the enjoyment of these buffalo chicken smash burger tacos. Make Ahead Options These Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos are perfect for meal prepping and can save you precious time on busy nights! You can prepare the ranch slaw up to 3 days in advance; simply mix the shredded cabbage, grated carrots, ranch dressing, and dill relish, cover, and refrigerate. The chicken mixture can also be combined and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours—just be sure to keep it airtight to maintain its moisture and flavor. When you’re ready to serve, cook the patties and warm the tortillas right before assembling your tacos for that fresh, crispy texture. Enjoy restaurant-quality flavors at home with minimal effort! Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right ground chicken? Absolutely! When selecting ground chicken, look for meat that is bright pink and moist, not gray or slimy. Fresh ground chicken typically has a pleasant, slightly sweet smell. If available, opt for organic or free-range chicken for better flavor and quality. What’s the best way to store leftovers? Very simple! Once your Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos have cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To retain the texture, it’s best to reheat them in a skillet rather than a microwave, which can make them soggy. Can I freeze the chicken patties? Absolutely! For a quick meal later, freeze the cooked chicken patties without the slaw. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply place them in a skillet over medium heat for about 3-5 minutes, ensuring they’re hot throughout. What should I do if the chicken patties are falling apart? If you find your patties are crumbling, it’s likely due to overmixing or not using enough binding agent. Make sure to mix the ground chicken with the spices gently until just combined. To help bind them, you could mix in an egg or breadcrumbs next time! Another tip is to ensure your pan is sufficiently hot before adding the patties, which helps them hold together better while cooking. Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of? Very much so! These Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos can be made gluten-free by using lettuce wraps instead of tortillas. For a dairy-free version, simply substitute the ranch dressing with a plant-based alternative. Always check labels for any allergens, especially if serving guests with specific dietary needs. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked? For ground chicken, the ideal internal temperature is 165°F (75°C). To be sure, you can use a meat thermometer to check the largest patty. Additionally, look for a golden-brown crust around the edges, indicating they’re crispy on the outside while staying juicy inside. Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos: A Spicy Twist on Comfort Food Delicious Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos that are quick to prepare, perfect for busy nights. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsChilling Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 25 minutes mins Servings: 4 tacosCourse: ChickenCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken Patties1 lb Ground Chicken Lean protein that keeps the dish light; swap with turkey for a different flavor.1/2 cup Buffalo Wing Sauce Delivers heat and tang; adjust based on your spice preference or replace with BBQ sauce for a milder option.1 tsp Garlic Powder Adds a savory kick; feel free to use fresh garlic for an even bolder taste.1 tsp Onion Powder Boosts flavor depth; can be substituted with finely chopped onions for a fresher bite.1 tsp Smoked Paprika Brings a smoky richness; if unavailable, regular paprika is a suitable replacement.1/2 tsp Himalayan Salt Enhances overall taste; regular salt works in a pinch.1/2 tsp Black Pepper Adds pungency; opt for freshly cracked pepper for a stronger flavor boost.2 tbsp Cooking Spray or Oil Used for greasing the pan; choose olive oil or avocado oil for healthier options.For the Tacos8 small Tortillas (Corn or Flour) The perfect vehicle for the patties; for a gluten-free version, use lettuce wraps instead.2 cups Shredded Cabbage Provides crunch and freshness; you can use lettuce or a coleslaw mix if handy.1/2 cup Grated Carrots Adds texture and a hint of sweetness; feel free to substitute with sliced bell peppers for variety.For the Topping1/2 cup Ranch Dressing Creamy addition that cools down the spice; try blue cheese dressing for more zing or a plant-based alternative for a dairy-free option.2 tbsp Dill Relish Introduces a tangy flavor; chopped pickles can be used if you prefer. Equipment GriddleLarge bowlnon-stick skillet Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger TacosIn a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage, grated carrots, ranch dressing, and dill relish. Mix everything together until well-coated, creating a vibrant slaw. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes.In another bowl, add ground chicken along with buffalo wing sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to gently blend everything until just combined, ensuring not to overmix.Place a griddle or non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Allow the pan to warm up for about 2-3 minutes. Once hot, lightly coat the surface with cooking spray or a drizzle of oil.Shape the chicken mixture into small balls, roughly the size of golf balls. Place each ball onto a tortilla and using a spatula, firmly smash them down to create flat patties. Cook for 3-4 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through.Take the remaining tortillas and lightly oil each side. In the same skillet, warm them for about 30 seconds on each side until soft and pliable.On each warm tortilla, place a freshly cooked chicken patty. Generously top it with the cool ranch slaw. Drizzle more ranch dressing or buffalo sauce over the top before folding the tacos.Serve your Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos while they are still warm for the best taste and texture. Nutrition Serving: 1tacoCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 150IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1.5mg NotesPrepare the ranch slaw ahead of time for a more delicious taste and keep an eye on cooking times to ensure the chicken patties are perfectly cooked. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
