Get ready to unleash a flavor explosion that combines the best of three culinary worlds: the zesty kick of buffalo chicken, the irresistible crispiness of a smash burger, and the handheld convenience of a taco. Welcome to the magic of Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos – your new go-to for a fun, easy, and incredibly delicious meal!
These aren't just any tacos. We're talking juicy, seasoned ground chicken infused with tangy buffalo sauce and savory ranch, smashed thinly onto a warm tortilla, then cooked until beautifully crispy. Top it all off with melty cheese and your favorite fresh fixings, and you've got a dish that’s guaranteed to be a hit with everyone at the table.
Why These Smash Burger Tacos Will Be Your Next Obsession
Beyond the incredible flavor, there are so many reasons to fall in love with this recipe:
- Quick & Easy: From prep to plate, these tacos come together in under 40 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavor Fusion: It's the ultimate mash-up! The distinct buffalo and ranch flavors blend perfectly with the smash burger technique.
- Customizable: Load them up with your favorite toppings – from classic ranch and crisp lettuce to bold blue cheese and spicy jalapeños.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it's game day, taco Tuesday, or just a family dinner, these unique tacos are always a hit.
Key Ingredients for Flavorful Perfection
The beauty of these tacos lies in their simplicity and the powerful flavor combination of just a few core ingredients:
- Ground Chicken: The lean canvas for our buffalo and ranch seasonings.
- Buffalo Sauce: The star of the show, delivering that signature tangy heat.
- Ranch Seasoning: Adds a creamy, herbaceous depth that complements the buffalo.
- Small Flour Tortillas: Essential for the smash technique, providing a soft yet crisp shell.
- Shredded Cheese: Melts beautifully into the patty for a gooey, satisfying layer.
(You'll find the full list of ingredients with precise measurements in the recipe card below!)
Mastering the Smash: Tips for Perfect Tacos
The 'smash' technique is what gives these tacos their unique texture and flavor. Here’s how to get it right every time:
Choosing Your Cooking Surface
A flat-top griddle or a large cast-iron skillet works best. If you're a grilling enthusiast like me, you might even consider using My Favorite Grill with a griddle insert for that extra outdoor flavor!
Don't Overmix the Chicken
When combining the ground chicken with the buffalo sauce and ranch seasoning, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tougher patties.
The Art of the Smash
Place a small ball of the chicken mixture directly onto the tortilla, then lay it meat-side down on your preheated, oiled skillet. Use a sturdy spatula to press down firmly and evenly, smashing the chicken thin. This creates maximum contact with the hot surface, leading to that desirable crispy crust.
If you're looking for another delightful chicken dish that's bursting with flavor, you might enjoy my recipe for Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken & Green Beans Skillet. It's another fantastic way to enjoy tender, juicy chicken!
Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Your Tacos
These Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos are a meal in themselves, but if you're looking to round out your spread, consider these delicious pairings:
- Crispy sweet potato fries or a side of tater tots.
- A simple garden salad with a creamy ranch dressing.
- Celery and carrot sticks with extra blue cheese dip, mirroring the classic buffalo wing experience.
- For another unique and delicious patty, check out my recipe for Spinach & Feta Patties!
Conclusion: Your New Favorite Taco Night!
These Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos are more than just a recipe; they're an experience. They bring together bold flavors, satisfying textures, and a fun, interactive way to enjoy your meal. Easy enough for a quick weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for company, they're sure to become a regular in your rotation. So grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and get ready to smash your way to taco nirvana!
FAQs
What kind of tortillas are best for Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos?
Small flour tortillas work best as they are flexible and can be easily pressed onto the chicken patty in the skillet. They crisp up beautifully, creating the perfect base for your taco.
Can I adjust the spice level of these tacos?
Absolutely! The spice level primarily comes from the buffalo sauce. You can use a milder buffalo sauce, reduce the amount, or balance the heat with extra ranch dressing or a dollop of sour cream. For more kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken mixture.
What are some recommended toppings for Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos?
Classic toppings include a drizzle of ranch dressing, shredded lettuce for crunch, chopped pickles, diced red onion, or crumbled blue cheese. Sliced jalapeu00f1os or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro can also add a nice touch.
Can I use ground turkey or beef instead of ground chicken?
Yes, ground turkey or lean ground beef can be substituted for ground chicken. Just ensure they are cooked thoroughly and adjust the seasoning slightly if needed, though the buffalo sauce and ranch seasoning work well with most ground meats.
Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings (approx. 8-10 tacos) 1x
- Diet: High Protein
Description
A creative fusion of buffalo chicken, smash burgers, and tacos, these flavorful bites are quick, easy, and bursting with spicy, cheesy goodness.
Ingredients
1 lb ground chicken
1/2 cup buffalo sauce (mild or hot, to taste), plus extra for drizzling
1 tbsp ranch seasoning mix
8-10 small flour tortillas
1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
1 tbsp olive oil or butter, for cooking
For serving: ranch dressing, shredded lettuce, chopped pickles, diced red onion, blue cheese crumbles (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: In a medium bowl, gently combine the ground chicken, 1/2 cup buffalo sauce, and ranch seasoning. Mix just until combined; do not overwork the meat.
Step 2: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add a little olive oil or butter to coat the surface.
Step 3: Divide the chicken mixture into 8-10 small balls. Place one chicken ball onto a small flour tortilla, then lay the tortilla chicken-side down onto the hot skillet. Using a sturdy spatula, press firmly to smash the chicken flat into a thin patty that adheres to the tortilla.
Step 4: Cook for 3-4 minutes until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Flip the taco and cook on the tortilla side for 1-2 minutes, or until golden and slightly crispy.
Step 5: Flip the taco back chicken-side up. Immediately sprinkle with shredded cheese. Cover the skillet for a few seconds (or tent with foil) to allow the cheese to melt completely.
Step 6: Remove the Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Taco from the skillet and transfer to a plate. Repeat with the remaining chicken and tortillas.
Step 7: Load up your hot tacos with your favorite toppings: a drizzle of ranch dressing, shredded lettuce, chopped pickles, diced red onion, or blue cheese crumbles. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
For extra crispiness, ensure your skillet is very hot before smashing the patties. Adjust buffalo sauce to your preferred spice level. Serve with extra buffalo sauce or ranch for dipping.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Frying, Smashing
- Cuisine: American Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tacos
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
