Name: Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos: Spicy, Crunchy Perfection
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Ground Chicken (Lean option for a lighter meal.); 1/2 cup Buffalo Wing Sauce (Adds spiciness; swap with milder sauce for less heat.); 1 tsp Garlic Powder (Enhances savory flavor.); 1 tsp Onion Powder (Adds sweetness and depth.); 1 tsp Smoked Paprika (Introduces a smoky depth.); 1 tsp Himalayan Salt (Enhances flavor.); 1/2 tsp Black Pepper (Adds heat and seasoning.); 8 pieces Tortillas (Corn or Flour) (Use lettuce wraps for a low-carb twist.); 1 tbsp Cooking Spray or Oil (Prevents sticking during cooking.); 2 cups Shredded Cabbage (Provides the perfect crunch.); 1 cup Grated Carrots (Adds vibrant color and natural sweetness.); 1/2 cup Ranch Dressing (Offers a creamy topping.); 2 tbsp Dill Relish (Adds a tangy crunch.)

As the enticing aroma of spicy buffalo chicken filled the kitchen, I couldn’t help but feel a rush of excitement—it was time to spice up our weeknight dinners! Enter the Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos, a fusion that beautifully merges the heartiness of burgers with the fun, handheld nature of tacos. With just 25 minutes of prep and cook time, this recipe isn’t just quick; it’s also incredibly customizable to fit everyone’s tastes—whether you’re craving a low-carb option with lettuce wraps or a creamy twist with ranch slaw. Each bite delivers zesty flavors, making these tacos a savory indulgence without the guilt. Ready to elevate your dinner game and leave the fast-food behind? Let’s dive into the deliciousness!

Why Are These Tacos a Must-Try?

Speedy Preparation: In just 25 minutes, you can serve up a delicious meal, perfect for busy weeknights.

Customizable Flavors: Tailor this recipe to your taste, whether opting for low-carb lettuce wraps or adding a spicy kick with jalapeños.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: These Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos are sure to impress family and friends, making them a fantastic choice for gatherings.

Juicy Texture: Enjoy the perfect combination of crispy chicken and cool, creamy ranch slaw in every bite.

Lean Protein: Packed with ground chicken, these tacos offer a healthier alternative to typical fast food without sacrificing flavor.

Elevate your dinner table with these unique tacos that combine classic flavors and modern twists! If you love spicy dishes, you might also enjoy Buffalo Chicken Sliders.

Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos Ingredients

For the Chicken Mixture

Ground Chicken – Lean option for a lighter meal that’s high in protein.
Buffalo Wing Sauce – Adds spiciness; swap with a milder sauce for less heat.
Garlic Powder – Enhances savory flavor; fresh garlic can give a bolder taste.
Onion Powder – Adds sweetness and depth; fresh onions could be used instead.
Smoked Paprika – Introduces a smoky depth; regular paprika works as an alternative.
Himalayan Salt – Enhances flavor; sea salt makes for a great substitute.
Black Pepper – Adds heat and seasoning; feel free to use any ground pepper.

For Assembly

Tortillas (Corn or Flour) – Serves as a base; use lettuce wraps for a low-carb twist.
Cooking Spray or Oil – Prevents sticking during cooking.

For the Ranch Slaw

Shredded Cabbage – Provides the perfect crunch and freshness.
Grated Carrots – Adds vibrant color and natural sweetness to the slaw.
Ranch Dressing – Offers a creamy topping; substitute with blue cheese or dairy-free options as needed.
Dill Relish – Adds a tangy crunch; can be omitted for a simpler flavor profile.

Get ready to whip up these Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos and savor every delicious bite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos

Step 1: Prepare the Ranch Slaw
In a bowl, combine shredded cabbage, grated carrots, ranch dressing, and dill relish. Toss everything together until well-coated, creating a fresh and crunchy slaw. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld and enhance the taste, making it a perfect topping for your Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos.

Step 2: Mix Chicken Mixture
In a separate bowl, combine ground chicken with buffalo wing sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, Himalayan salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined to maintain a light and tender texture in your patties. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the chicken tough. Set aside while you heat the griddle.

Step 3: Cook Chicken Patties
Heat a griddle or large skillet over medium-high heat and lightly coat it with cooking spray or oil. Once hot, form the chicken mixture into loose balls, then smash each ball down onto the heated surface, creating flat patties. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes until golden-brown on the bottom and cooked through, flipping carefully for even browning.

Step 4: Warm Tortillas
While the chicken is cooking, lightly oil another skillet over low heat. Add the tortillas, warming each for about 30 seconds on each side until they are soft and pliable. Alternatively, you can warm them in the microwave in a damp paper towel for about 15-20 seconds. This step enhances the taco experience for your Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos.

Step 5: Assemble Tacos
Once the chicken patties are cooked and the tortillas are warmed, place one chicken patty on each tortilla. Top generously with the chilled ranch slaw and drizzle additional ranch dressing or buffalo sauce over the top to suit your taste. Feel free to be creative with your toppings for a delicious customization in your Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos.

Step 6: Serve Warm
Arrange the assembled tacos on a serving platter, ready to delight your family or guests. Enjoy them warm for the best flavor and texture combination, experiencing the spicy buffalo chicken and cool ranch slaw in every bite. Perfect for a fun weeknight dinner or a gathering, these Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos are sure to impress!

How to Store and Freeze Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos

Fridge: Store cooked chicken patties and ranch slaw separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: Freeze chicken patties in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Reheating: To reheat, place the patties in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, or microwave on a plate covered with a damp paper towel for 1-2 minutes until warmed through.

Storage Tip: Assemble tacos just before serving to keep tortillas crisp and slaw fresh.

What to Serve with Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos?

Elevate your taco night with these delicious side dishes and drinks that perfectly complement the zesty flavors of your tacos.

Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: Their sweetness contrasts nicely with the spicy buffalo chicken, offering a delightful balance of flavors. Perfect for dipping in ranch or buffalo sauce!
Classic Coleslaw: A refreshing, crunchy counterpart to the creamy ranch slaw, adding extra texture and flavor that enhances the overall meal experience.
Guacamole & Tortilla Chips: Rich, creamy guacamole with crunchy chips provides a delicious appetizer or side, seamlessly tying in those creamy flavors with your tacos.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled or roasted corn drizzled with lime and chili powder brings a summery vibe to the table, enhancing the whole meal with a burst of freshness.
Cucumber Salad: Light and refreshing, a cucumber salad with a vinegar dressing cools the palate, balancing the heat from the buffalo chicken perfectly.
Beer or Spicy Margarita: A crisp beer or a refreshing spicy margarita can elevate the overall dining experience while complementing the spicy notes of the tacos.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits adds a touch of sweetness and freshness, cleansing the palate between bites of bold flavors.

These pairings not only enhance the flavors of your Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos but also create a delightful dining experience for family and friends alike!

Make Ahead Options

These Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos are an excellent choice for meal prep, saving you valuable time on busy weeknights! You can mix the chicken mixture and store it in the refrigerator up to 24 hours before cooking, ensuring the flavors meld beautifully. Additionally, the ranch slaw can be prepared and refrigerated up to 3 days in advance, which allows the ingredients to soften and develop deeper flavors. When you’re ready to enjoy your tacos, simply cook the patties as outlined, warm the tortillas, and assemble with the slaw for a quick and satisfying meal. By prepping ahead, you’ll have a flavorful dinner ready to serve with minimal effort!

Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos Variations

Feel free to get creative with these Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos, and make them your own flavor experience!

Lettuce Wraps: Replace tortillas with crisp lettuce leaves for a refreshing, low-carb alternative.
Cheesy Goodness: Top the patties with cheese just before they finish cooking for a rich, melty layer of flavor.
Spicy Kick: Drizzle hot honey or toss in pickled jalapeños for added heat and a burst of flavor.
Creamy Swap: Use a Greek yogurt-based dressing instead of ranch for a tangy twist that complements the spicy chicken beautifully.
Veggie Boost: Add sliced cucumbers or fresh bell peppers for a crunchy contrast and extra nutrients.
Herb Infusion: Mix fresh chopped cilantro or green onions into the ranch slaw for an aromatic boost.
Seasonal Flavors: Embrace seasonal ingredients by adding roasted corn or diced avocado to enhance texture and flavor.

If you’re looking to keep dinner quick and satisfying, these variations can help you rediscover the love for home-cooked meals. And if you’re still hungry for more tasty ideas, don’t miss out on trying Baked Chicken Tacos or Butter Chicken Comfort for exciting alternatives!

Expert Tips for Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos

Prep Ahead: Prepare the ranch slaw in advance to let the flavors meld beautifully, enhancing your Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos.
Don’t Overmix: Mix the chicken just enough to combine ingredients, keeping the patties tender and juicy; overmixing can lead to toughness.
Perfect Temperature: Ensure your cooking surface is hot before adding the chicken patties. This helps achieve that desired crispy edge.
Adjust Spiciness: If you love heat, feel free to add extra buffalo wing sauce or top with sliced jalapeños for a fiery kick.
Tortilla Choices: Opt for corn tortillas for traditional flavor or lettuce wraps for a lighter, low-carb version of your Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos.
Patience is Key: Do not rush cooking time; let the patties develop a nice golden-brown crust for maximum flavor and texture.

Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos Recipe FAQs

What type of ground chicken should I use for the tacos?
Absolutely! I recommend using lean ground chicken for a healthier option that still delivers on flavor. You can find it in most grocery stores. If you prefer a richer taste, ground turkey also works great!

How do I store leftover Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos?
Very! To preserve freshness, store the cooked chicken patties and ranch slaw separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors intact and prevents the tortillas from becoming soggy.

Can I freeze the chicken patties?
Definitely! To freeze, place the chicken patties in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a zip-top bag and store for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes or microwave them covered with a damp paper towel for 1-2 minutes.

What if my chicken patties are falling apart while cooking?
No worries! If your patties are falling apart, it might be due to overmixing the chicken mixture. To keep them firm, mix the ingredients just until incorporated, and ensure your pan is hot before adding them. Press down lightly to form a patty but avoid excessive handling.

Are there any dietary considerations for these tacos?
Absolutely! These Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos can easily be made dairy-free by substituting ranch dressing with a plant-based alternative or using a yogurt-based dressing. For a low-carb option, simply swap the tortillas for lettuce wraps, and enjoy without the guilt!

How do I know if my ingredients are ripe enough?
For the freshest flavor, use vibrant, crunchy cabbage and bright orange carrots for the slaw. If your cabbage has dark spots or wilting leaves, it’s best to choose a fresher head. Carrots should ideally be firm to the touch.