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 served these Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos to my family on a busy weeknight, and they quickly became a favorite.
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
- Make the slaw:
- 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.
- Prepare the chicken mixture:
- 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.
- Heat pan:
- Heat a griddle or large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and lightly coat with oil or cooking spray.
- Form and cook patties:
- 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.
- Cook first side:
- Cook for 3–4 minutes until the chicken is golden and cooked through.
- Flip and cook second side:
- Lightly oil the tortilla side then flip each taco so the tortilla side is down. Cook 1–2 minutes more to your preferred crispness.
- Serve:
- 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. Serve warm and enjoy immediately.
Save This recipe always brings my family together for a delicious and fun meal time.
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
Calories 320 Total Fat 16 g Carbohydrates 20 g Protein 24 g (per 2 tacos)
Save These Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos bring bold flavors to your table with minimal effort. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I achieve the perfect crispy texture on the chicken patties?
Smash the patties firmly onto a hot greased skillet and cook without moving them for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and crisp. This ensures maximum surface contact and caramelization.
- → Can I make the slaw ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the ranch slaw a few hours in advance and refrigerate to allow flavors to meld; toss again before serving for best texture.
- → What can I use instead of the buffalo wing sauce?
For milder flavors, substitute with mild hot sauce or a smoky barbecue sauce to suit your spice preference.
- → Are there gluten-free options for the tortillas?
Yes, use certified gluten-free tortillas or opt for lettuce wraps to keep the dish gluten-free.
- → How can I adapt this for a dairy-free diet?
Replace the ranch dressing in the slaw with a dairy-free alternative made from plant-based yogurt or a vinaigrette.
- → What garnishes can add extra flavor or crunch?
Try adding sliced jalapeños, diced celery, or an extra drizzle of buffalo or ranch sauce for enhanced texture and flavor.