Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Totchos Recipe

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly.

Original recipe (1X) yields 6 servings.

• 1 (30 ounce) package frozen bite-size potato nuggets (such as Tater Tots)
• pound rotisserie chicken breasts, chopped
• 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
• cup salsa
• cup ranch dressing
• 1 tablespoon buffalo wing sauce, or more to taste
• 1 pinch cayenne pepper, or to taste
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro, or to taste

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the air fryer to 370F (190C) for 2 minutes.

Step 2: Add the frozen potato nuggets to the fryer basket and cook until all pieces are crispy and fully cooked. Shake the basket frequently during cooking, about 12 minutes. You may need to cook in batches if necessary.

Step 3: Once the potato nuggets are cooked, divide them evenly between plates.

Step 4: Top the potato nuggets with chopped rotisserie chicken, shredded Cheddar cheese, and salsa.

Step 5: In a small bowl, mix together the ranch dressing and buffalo wing sauce. Drizzle this sauce mixture over the prepared totchos.

Step 6: Garnish the dish with a pinch of cayenne pepper and freshly chopped cilantro.

Cook's Note:

Each rotisserie chicken breast should weigh 4 to 5 ounces. For variation, you can substitute Crispy Crowns instead of Tater Tots.

Nutrition Facts

Per serving:

• Calories: 441
• Total Fat: 28g (35% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 8g (40% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 51mg (17% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 1014mg (44% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrates: 38g (14% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 4g (14% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 2g
• Protein: 18g (36% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 2mg (2% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 149mg (11% Daily Value)
• Iron: 1mg (4% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 547mg (12% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amounts are based on available nutrient data. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or a registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Totchos or potato-nugget nachos combine crispy Tater Tots with flavorful buffalo chicken, Cheddar cheese, and a zesty ranch and buffalo sauce drizzle. With minimal prep time, this recipe is a crowd-pleasing appetizer or dinner option.

History of Buffalo Chicken Totchos

Buffalo chicken, a beloved American dish, originates from Buffalo, New York, where the iconic Buffalo wings were first served at the Anchor Bar in 1964. Over time, buffalo chicken became a versatile ingredient in many dishes, from sandwiches to salads, and eventually, nachos. Totchos, a fun twist on nachos using Tater Tots instead of tortilla chips, emerged in the 2000s as an easy-to-make comfort food. Combining these two creationsbuffalo chicken and totchosinto a single dish was a natural evolution, bringing together the crispy texture of Tater Tots with the spicy, tangy flavors of buffalo chicken.

Regional Features

The buffalo chicken totchos are most popular in the United States, particularly in the Northeast, where buffalo chicken was first introduced. However, this dish has spread to other regions as part of the growing trend of loaded nachos. In the South, the dish might be served with additional toppings such as jalapeos or pickled vegetables. The concept of "totchos" is not limited to buffalo chicken, and many regional variations exist that incorporate local ingredients and flavors. In California, for example, you might find totchos topped with guacamole, sour cream, or barbecued pulled pork.

Differences from Similar Dishes

While traditional nachos use tortilla chips as a base, totchos replace the chips with Tater Tots, offering a heartier and crunchier texture. The addition of buffalo wing sauce distinguishes this dish from other nacho variations, adding a spicy, tangy flavor profile. Compared to classic buffalo wings, the totchos are more versatile and easier to share, offering a fun, bite-sized twist on the classic flavor combination. Additionally, the air fryer method used in this recipe ensures a crispy finish without the added oil from deep frying, making it a healthier option than traditional fried buffalo chicken dishes.

Where Its Typically Served

Buffalo chicken totchos are a popular appetizer in bars, sports venues, and casual dining restaurants, particularly in the U.S. during game day or parties. They are also often served as a fun family dinner option or a late-night snack. Given the dishs popularity among college students and young professionals, it's common to see it at social gatherings, such as tailgates or casual house parties. The combination of hearty Tater Tots with spicy buffalo chicken and melted cheese makes it a go-to comfort food for a variety of occasions.

Interesting Facts

• The word "totchos" is a portmanteau of "Tater Tots" and "nachos," showing the creative culinary trend of reinventing classic dishes.
• Although buffalo chicken wings are the star of this recipe, the buffalo sauce itself was accidentally created when Teressa Bellissimo at the Anchor Bar tossed leftover chicken wings in a sauce made from butter and cayenne pepper, and it became an instant hit.
• The air fryer method has revolutionized home cooking by making crispy dishes without the excessive oil of deep frying, making recipes like buffalo chicken totchos both healthier and faster to prepare.
• Despite its recent rise in popularity, totchos are considered a part of the "American comfort food" category, combining familiar flavors with a fun and easy-to-make twist.

FAQ about Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Totchos Recipe