Save Spicy, crispy Buffalo chicken patties smashed on tortillas and topped with a creamy ranch slaw—these tacos are a bold, satisfying, and quick weeknight dinner.
I first tried these Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos on a whim and they quickly became a family favorite. The crispy chicken paired with the cool ranch slaw is irresistible.
Ingredients
- For the Buffalo Chicken: 1 lb (450 g) 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, cooking spray or oil for pan, 8 small tortillas (corn or flour)
- For the Ranch Slaw: 3 cups shredded cabbage, ½ cup grated carrots, ¼–⅓ cup ranch dressing (Greek yogurt preferred), 1 tbsp dill relish
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large bowl, toss together the shredded cabbage, grated carrots, ranch dressing, and dill relish to make the slaw. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Step 2:
- In another bowl, combine ground chicken, buffalo wing sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, Himalayan salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined do not overwork.
- Step 3:
- Heat a griddle or large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and lightly coat with oil or cooking spray.
- Step 4:
- Divide the chicken mixture into 8 loose balls. Place a ball on each tortilla, then place on the hot pan, chicken side down. Smash the chicken flat with a spatula to cover most of the tortilla.
- Step 5:
- Cook for 34 minutes until the chicken is golden and cooked through.
- Step 6:
- Lightly oil the tortilla side, then flip each taco so the tortilla side is down. Cook 12 minutes more, to your preferred crispness.
- Step 7:
- Remove tacos from the pan. Top each with a generous spoonful of ranch slaw. For extra zing, drizzle with more ranch or buffalo sauce if desired.
- Step 8:
- Serve warm and enjoy immediately.
Save This recipe is a staple for family dinners, bringing everyone together around a plate of flavorful, crunchy, and juicy tacos.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowls, box grater, large non-stick skillet or griddle, spatula, knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains Dairy (ranch dressing), Wheat (if using flour tortillas), Egg (possible in ranch dressing), Mustard (possible in buffalo sauce). For gluten-free, use certified gluten-free tortillas. Always check ingredient labels if you have allergies or sensitivities.
Nutritional Information
Per 2 tacos: Calories 320, Total Fat 16 g, Carbohydrates 20 g, Protein 24 g
Save Enjoy these vibrant tacos with your favorite toppings for a perfect quick meal any night.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I get the chicken patties crispy on the tortillas?
Smash the ground chicken mixture firmly onto a hot, lightly oiled skillet and cook undisturbed until golden. Flip carefully and crisp the tortilla side for a satisfying crunch.
- → Can I substitute the ranch slaw with another topping?
Yes, you can swap ranch slaw for blue cheese dressing or a dairy-free alternative. Adding sliced jalapeños or celery can bring added crunch and zest.
- → What tortillas work best for these tacos?
Both corn and flour tortillas work well. For gluten-free or low-carb options, lettuce leaves can be used instead of tortillas.
- → How spicy are the Buffalo chicken patties?
The level of heat depends on buffalo wing sauce used. Mild to hot sauces can be selected to adjust spiciness to your preference.
- → Is this suitable for quick weeknight cooking?
Absolutely. With just 10 minutes prep and 15 minutes cooking, these tacos are perfect for fast, flavorful weekday dinners.