When the evening calls for something with a little kick yet comfortingly familiar, buffalo chicken tacos step in as the answer. These tacos combine a spicy, tangy sauce with tender shredded chicken, all nestled inside warm corn tortillas. The crunch of fresh lettuce and the creamy ranch drizzle create a harmony of textures and flavors that’s hard to resist.
One night last week, I remember the moment the kitchen filled with the aroma of melted butter and smoky paprika mingling with the sharp tang of Buffalo sauce. As I folded the first taco, the warmth of the tortilla in my hands and the vibrant orange hue of the chicken made my mouth water. The first bite was a burst of heat, quickly mellowed by a cool ranch drizzle, while the cheddar added that satisfying richness. The crunch of crisp lettuce balanced everything, making each mouthful irresistible. It’s the kind of meal that invites you to pause, savor, and maybe even reach for seconds before you know it.
- Bold, spicy Buffalo chicken with a smoky undertone
- Quick and easy to prepare in about 30 minutes
- Deliciously balanced with creamy ranch and fresh lettuce
- Warm corn tortillas that add authentic flavor and texture
- Perfect for casual weeknight dinners or game day gatherings
Don’t worry if you’re new to Buffalo sauce — the blend of spices and heat here is just right to please those who like a little spice without overwhelming the palate. Plus, the ranch dressing cools things down, making it accessible for everyone at the table.
Print
Buffalo Chicken Tacos
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4
Description
Spicy and tangy Buffalo Chicken Tacos with shredded chicken tossed in classic Buffalo sauce, topped with crisp lettuce, creamy ranch dressing, and shredded cheddar cheese, all wrapped in warm corn tortillas. Perfect for a flavorful and easy meal.
Ingredients
2 cups cooked shredded chicken
1/2 cup Buffalo wing sauce
8 small corn tortillas
1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup ranch dressing
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt to taste
Instructions
In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken, Buffalo wing sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.
In a small skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the coated chicken and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through and slightly caramelized. Remove from heat.
Warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side until soft and pliable.
To assemble each taco, place a layer of shredded lettuce on the tortilla, then add a generous portion of the Buffalo chicken.
Top the chicken with shredded cheddar cheese and drizzle with ranch dressing.
Serve immediately while warm.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
FAQ
Can I make these tacos ahead of time? You can prepare the Buffalo chicken a few hours in advance and store it in the fridge. Warm it gently before assembling the tacos to keep the flavors fresh and the chicken juicy.
What if I don’t have corn tortillas? Flour tortillas are a fine substitute, though the corn adds a traditional touch that pairs beautifully with the spicy chicken.
How spicy are these Buffalo Chicken Tacos? They have a moderate heat level that’s balanced by the creamy ranch, but you can adjust the amount of Buffalo sauce to suit your taste.
Can I use rotisserie chicken? Absolutely! Shredded rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time without compromising flavor.
Once you try these Buffalo Chicken Tacos, you’ll see how easy it is to bring a bold, restaurant-quality flavor home. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or casual weekend meal, they hit the spot every time.