Buffalo Chicken Tacos Recipe

Name: Buffalo Chicken Tacos
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups shredded cooked chicken; 1 ½ cups buffalo sauce; 8 flour tortillas; ½ cup ranch dressing; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; Chopped green onions (for garnish)

Published: August 22, 2025

by Vanessaa

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 15 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor-Packed: The blend of buffalo sauce and ranch dressing gives these tacos a tasty punch that is hard to resist.
Versatile: Use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken for a fast meal that fits any occasion.
Crowd-Pleaser: With eight servings, these tacos are ideal for parties or family gatherings.
Customizable: Add your favorite toppings like avocado, tomatoes, or extra cheese for a personal touch.

Tools and Preparation

To create these delicious Buffalo chicken tacos, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Non-stick skillet
Mixing bowl
Spatula
Serving plates

Importance of Each Tool

Non-stick skillet: Ensures even cooking and prevents sticking when grilling the tortillas.
Mixing bowl: Aids in easily combining the shredded chicken with the buffalo sauce.

Ingredients

For the Tacos

3 cups shredded cooked chicken
1 ½ cups buffalo sauce
8 flour tortillas
½ cup ranch dressing
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

For Garnish

Chopped green onions (to garnish)

How to Make Buffalo Chicken Tacos Recipe

Step 1: Heat the Chicken

In a non-stick skillet over medium heat, warm the shredded cooked chicken. Pour in the buffalo sauce and toss until the chicken is evenly coated. Cook for about 3–5 minutes until heated through.

Step 2: Prepare the Tortillas

Lay one tortilla on a plate. Spread 1 tablespoon of ranch dressing on half of the tortilla. Top with buffalo chicken mixture and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over it. Fold the tortilla in half.

Step 3: Cook the Tacos

Heat the non-stick skillet again on medium heat. Place one folded tortilla in the skillet at a time. Cook each side for about 2–3 minutes until golden brown and the cheese has melted.

Step 4: Serve Immediately

Remove from heat and serve hot. Garnish with chopped green onions as desired, and enjoy your homemade Buffalo chicken tacos!

How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Tacos Recipe

Buffalo chicken tacos are a delicious and versatile meal option that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just want a quick dinner, these tacos can be customized to suit different tastes.

Add Fresh Toppings

Chopped Lettuce: Adds a refreshing crunch that contrasts with the spicy chicken.
Sliced Avocado: Creamy texture pairs well with the heat of buffalo sauce.
Diced Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes enhance flavor and color.

Pair with Dipping Sauces

Extra Ranch Dressing: A cooling dip that complements the spiciness of the tacos.
Blue Cheese Dressing: For those who love traditional buffalo flavors, this adds a rich taste.
Guacamole: Offers a creamy addition that balances the spices.

Create a Taco Bar

Variety of Tortillas: Offer both flour and corn tortillas to cater to everyone’s preferences.
Buffalo Sauce Variety: Provide different levels of heat for guests to customize their meal.
Cheese Options: Include Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese for added flavor.

How to Perfect Buffalo Chicken Tacos Recipe

To make your buffalo chicken tacos even better, consider these helpful tips. They will enhance both flavor and presentation.

Bold Flavoring: Use homemade buffalo sauce for a fresher taste compared to store-bought options.
Bold Chicken Shredding: Shred your chicken finely for better distribution of flavors in each bite.
Bold Heating Technique: Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding tortillas; this helps achieve that perfect golden color.
Bold Cheese Choices: Mix different cheeses for depth; try blending cheddar with mozzarella for extra stretch.
Bold Garnishing: Don’t skip on garnishes like green onions or cilantro; they add color and freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Buffalo Chicken Tacos Recipe

Buffalo chicken tacos pair wonderfully with various side dishes that can complement their bold flavors. Here are some great options to serve alongside them:

Crispy Potato Wedges: Seasoned and baked until golden, these are perfect for dipping in ranch dressing.
Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy side that brings balance to the spice of the tacos.
Mexican Rice: Flavored rice adds heartiness and pairs well with the rich flavors of the tacos.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn drizzled with lime and chili powder makes for a delightful side.
Black Bean Salad: A refreshing salad loaded with beans, corn, and avocado adds nutrition and flavor contrast.
Chips and Salsa: A classic snack that allows guests to munch while they enjoy their tacos.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Buffalo chicken tacos recipe. Here are some tips to ensure success.

Using cold chicken: Always heat your shredded chicken before mixing with buffalo sauce. Cold chicken can make your tacos less flavorful and enjoyable.
Overstuffing the tortillas: It’s tempting to fill your tortillas, but overstuffing can lead to a messy experience. Stick to the recommended amount of chicken and cheese for the best results.
Skipping the ranch dressing: The ranch dressing adds a cool contrast to the spicy buffalo sauce. Don’t skip this step; it balances flavors beautifully.
Not preheating the skillet: If you don’t preheat your skillet, your tacos may not brown properly. Ensure it’s hot enough to achieve that golden crust.
Ignoring garnish options: Toppings like chopped green onions enhance both flavor and presentation. Always consider garnishing for an extra pop!

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover Buffalo chicken tacos in an airtight container.
They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Keep tortillas separate from the filling to maintain texture.

Freezing Buffalo Chicken Tacos Recipe

Place cooled tacos in a freezer-safe container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.
They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Label containers with dates for easy identification later.

Reheating Buffalo Chicken Tacos Recipe

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake tacos on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Place one taco on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat for about 30-45 seconds, checking for warmth.
Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add tacos one at a time until warmed and crispy, around 2-3 minutes per side.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to season my shredded chicken?

You can enhance the flavor of your shredded chicken by seasoning it with garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika before mixing it with buffalo sauce.

Can I use other sauces instead of buffalo sauce?

Yes! While this Buffalo chicken tacos recipe shines with buffalo sauce, feel free to experiment with BBQ sauce or teriyaki sauce for different flavors.

How can I customize my Buffalo Chicken Tacos Recipe?

Add toppings like diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or avocado for extra flavor and texture. You can also use different cheeses like pepper jack for added heat!

Can I make these tacos ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the filling in advance and store it in the fridge. Assemble and cook right before serving for fresh-tasting tacos.

Final Thoughts

This Buffalo chicken tacos recipe is not only quick but also bursts with flavor, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or gatherings. The versatility allows you to customize toppings and sauces as you prefer. Give it a try and enjoy a spicy twist on classic tacos!

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