Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos Best Weeknight Win

If you’re looking for a dinner that packs a punch while being super easy to make, let me introduce you to my favorite recipe: Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos. This dish is not just about satisfying your cravings; it’s also a go-to for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings. The spicy, crispy chicken combined with creamy ranch slaw creates a delightful flavor explosion that everyone will love. Trust me, once you try these tacos, you’ll want to add them to your regular meal rotation!

These tacos are perfect for when you need something quick yet delicious. With a cook time of just 15 minutes, they’re ideal for whipping up after a long day. Plus, they’re customizable, so everyone can enjoy their tacos just the way they like them.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 25 minutes from start to finish, dinner is served in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will devour these tasty tacos—perfect for picky eaters!
• Make Ahead: Prep the slaw and chicken mixture earlier in the day for an even faster dinner.
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of buffalo sauce and creamy ranch slaw is simply irresistible.
• Versatile: Customize your toppings or swap out proteins based on what you have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t need fancy ingredients for this recipe—just simple and wholesome items that you can easily find at your local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need to create these mouthwatering Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos:

For the Chicken

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 3 tbsp buffalo wing sauce
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp Himalayan salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 8 small tortillas (corn or flour)
• Cooking spray or oil

For the Slaw

• 3 cups shredded cabbage
• ½ cup grated carrots
• ¼ –⅓ cup ranch dressing (Greek yogurt preferred)
• 1 tbsp dill relish

Variations

One of the best things about these tacos is how flexible the recipe is! Feel free to get creative and make it your own with these fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a different twist.
• Change up the sauces: Use teriyaki sauce or a spicy sriracha blend if you’re feeling adventurous.
• Add extra veggies: Toss in some diced bell peppers or corn for added crunch and nutrition.
• Serve with different toppings: Experiment with avocado slices, fresh cilantro, or jalapeños for an extra kick.

How to Make Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos Best Weeknight Win

Step 1: Prepare the Slaw

Start by mixing together your shredded cabbage, grated carrots, ranch dressing, and dill relish in a bowl. This creamy slaw adds a refreshing contrast to the spicy chicken. Letting it chill in the fridge while you prepare the rest allows those flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 2: Mix the Chicken

In another bowl, combine your ground chicken with buffalo wing sauce and all those delicious spices. Mixing until just combined ensures every bite is packed with flavor without overworking the meat.

Step 3: Heat Your Pan

Get your griddle or large pan nice and hot over medium-high heat with a bit of oil. A sizzling pan is key to achieving that perfect crispy exterior on your chicken smash burgers.

Step 4: Form and Smash

Take scoops of your chicken mixture and form loose balls. Place them on your tortillas and give them a good smash down! This step is crucial because it helps them cook evenly while creating that delightful crispy crust we all love.

Step 5: Cook Until Golden

Cook each taco for about 3–4 minutes until they’re golden brown and cooked through. This sizzling process not only locks in moisture but also enhances those savory flavors we crave.

Step 6: Finish Off Your Tortillas

Once cooked, lower the heat, add a bit more oil if needed, and flip them tortilla-side down. Cook until they’re as soft or crispy as you like!

Step 7: Assemble Your Tacos

Now comes the fun part! Pile on that delicious ranch slaw atop each taco and drizzle more ranch dressing or buffalo sauce as desired. The flavors really come together here!

Step 8: Serve Warm & Enjoy

Finally, serve these warm Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos right away! Enjoy every bite—you’ve earned it!

Pro Tips for Making Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos Best Weeknight Win

Creating a perfect weeknight dinner is easy with a few handy tips! Here are some suggestions to take your Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos to the next level.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cabbage and carrots not only enhance the flavor but also add crunch and nutrition to your slaw. Freshness makes all the difference in taste!
• Don’t Overmix the Chicken: When combining the ground chicken with buffalo sauce and spices, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture instead of that tender bite you want.
• Preheat Your Pan: Ensure your griddle or frying pan is hot before adding the chicken. A well-heated surface gives you that beautiful golden crust while keeping the inside juicy.
• Experiment with Tortillas: While corn tortillas bring authentic flavor, flour tortillas offer a softer bite. Try both to see which one you prefer for these spicy tacos!
• Make It Ahead: If you’re planning for a busy week, prepare the slaw and form the chicken patties ahead of time. Store them in the fridge for a quick assembly when you’re ready to eat.

How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos Best Weeknight Win

Serving these Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos can be as creative as it is delicious! Here are some ideas to make your meal visually enticing and satisfying.

Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions: A sprinkle of fresh green onions adds color and a mild onion flavor that complements the spiciness of the buffalo chicken.
• Fresh Cilantro: For those who love its unique taste, cilantro can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors in your tacos.

Side Dishes

• Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: These sweet and savory fries are easy to make and provide a delightful crunch alongside your tacos. Toss them in olive oil, season with salt, and bake until crispy!
• Guacamole with Tortilla Chips: Creamy guacamole adds a rich texture that pairs beautifully with spicy tacos. Serve it alongside crunchy tortilla chips for a perfect appetizer or side dish.
• Mexican Street Corn (Elote): This traditional dish features grilled corn on the cob slathered in creamy sauce, cheese, chili powder, and lime juice. It’s a flavorful complement that’s sure to impress!
• Zesty Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad dressed with lime juice and chili flakes offers a refreshing balance to the bold flavors of your tacos. It’s a simple yet vibrant addition to your meal!

Enjoy crafting these flavorful Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos for an unforgettable weeknight dinner experience!

Make Ahead and Storage

Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos are not only a delightful weeknight option but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare components ahead of time, making it simple to whip up this flavorful dish on busy evenings.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow any leftovers to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftover tacos in an airtight container in the fridge.
• Consume refrigerated leftovers within 3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• To freeze, store the cooked chicken patties separately from the tortillas and slaw.
• Wrap chicken patties tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Store tortillas and slaw in separate airtight containers.
• Use within 1-2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• For chicken patties: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• For tortillas: Warm them in a skillet over medium heat for a few seconds on each side until pliable.
• For slaw: Enjoy it cold straight from the fridge or give it a quick toss to refresh it before serving.

FAQs

If you have questions, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries about Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos.

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken for Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos Best Weeknight Win?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative and will still provide delicious flavor when mixed with buffalo sauce and spices.

How can I make Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos healthier?

You can swap out ranch dressing for a lighter Greek yogurt version to reduce calories while keeping that creamy texture. Additionally, consider using whole wheat tortillas for added fiber.

What can I serve with Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos?

These tacos pair wonderfully with fresh veggies, a side salad, or even some baked sweet potato fries for a complete meal.

How long does it take to make Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos Best Weeknight Win?

This recipe takes about 25 minutes total—perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying!

Final Thoughts

Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos are more than just food; they’re an experience filled with bold flavors and satisfying crunch. I hope you enjoy making these delightful tacos as much as I do! Whether it’s for dinner with family or a fun night with friends, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Happy cooking!