Buffalo Chicken Skillet Recipe

Buffalo Chicken Skillet Recipe

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Buffalo Chicken Tenderloins

Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients:

  • 3 pounds chicken breast tenderloins
  • teaspoon salt
  • teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 6 large eggs
  • 1 cups panko bread crumbs
  • 9 tablespoons canola oil
  • cup Buffalo wing sauce (such as Frank's), or to taste
  • 1 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Directions:

  1. Season the chicken tenderloins with salt and black pepper. Set them aside.
  2. In a shallow bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth.
  3. Place the panko bread crumbs in a separate shallow bowl.
  4. Dip each piece of chicken into the whisked eggs, then press it into the panko to coat evenly.
  5. Heat 3 tablespoons of canola oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  6. Cook 1/3 of the breaded chicken in the hot oil, turning them until the crust is golden brown and the center is no longer pink, about 4 minutes per side. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
  7. Repeat the process with the remaining oil and chicken in two batches.
  8. Once all the chicken is cooked, return the pan-fried chicken to the skillet.
  9. Pour the Buffalo wing sauce over the chicken and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
  10. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and cook until the cheese is melted, about 5 minutes.

Tips:

  • You can use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins; just flatten and pound them first and adjust the cook time accordingly.
  • If you prefer, you can substitute seasoned bread crumbs for panko.
  • For a variation in flavor, you can swap mozzarella cheese for provolone cheese.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

  • Calories: 509
  • Fat: 28g (36% of Daily Value)
  • Saturated Fat: 6g (29% of Daily Value)
  • Cholesterol: 250mg (83% of Daily Value)
  • Sodium: 1208mg (53% of Daily Value)
  • Total Carbohydrates: 19g (7% of Daily Value)
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g
  • Total Sugars: 1g
  • Protein: 48g (96% of Daily Value)
  • Calcium: 204mg (16% of Daily Value)
  • Iron: 2mg (11% of Daily Value)
  • Potassium: 362mg (8% of 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. Amount is based on available nutrient data. If following a medically restrictive diet, consult with your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

Buffalo Chicken Skillet

Buffalo Chicken Skillet is a flavorful, quick, and easy dish that brings the iconic spicy and tangy flavor of buffalo wings to a simple skillet dinner. It's a favorite for anyone craving comfort food with a bit of a kick. The crispy chicken tenders are coated in a zesty Buffalo sauce and topped with melted mozzarella cheese, creating a mouth-watering combination that's perfect for a busy weeknight.

Origin Story of Buffalo Chicken

The origins of Buffalo chicken can be traced back to the city of Buffalo, New York, where in 1964, the original buffalo wings were created at the Anchor Bar. The story goes that the wings were invented by Teressa Bellissimo, who fried leftover chicken wings and tossed them in a homemade hot sauce. This humble creation quickly gained popularity, and the Buffalo wing became an American staple. Buffalo chicken recipes, including the skillet variation, are now widespread, providing a spicy alternative to traditional chicken dishes.

Regional Characteristics of Buffalo Chicken

Buffalo chicken dishes, especially wings, have become synonymous with American pub food. While Buffalo wings were first served as an appetizer, many regions across the U.S. have adapted the concept into various forms. For instance, some areas use blue cheese dressing as a dip, while others incorporate ranch. The concept of "Buffalo" flavor extends beyond wings to sandwiches, wraps, and even casseroles, creating a broad range of regional variations.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

What sets Buffalo Chicken Skillet apart from other similar dishes is its focus on the signature Buffalo flavor, combining the spicy, vinegary kick of hot sauce with the comforting richness of cheese. While dishes like chicken Parmesan or fried chicken are often topped with marinara or gravies, Buffalo chicken is distinct because of its tangy sauce and fiery spice. This dish also skips the deep-frying step traditionally seen with Buffalo wings, opting instead for a pan-frying method, making it a slightly lighter and quicker alternative.

Where Buffalo Chicken Skillet Is Typically Served

Buffalo Chicken Skillet is a versatile dish commonly found at casual restaurants, family gatherings, or game day parties. It is a great choice for anyone craving the flavors of Buffalo wings but looking for a more substantial, easy-to-make meal. Youll often find it served with sides like coleslaw, celery sticks, and blue cheese or ranch dressing. The dish can also be paired with a variety of sides such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even a simple salad.

Interesting Facts About Buffalo Chicken

  • Buffalo wings were originally considered a "throwaway" part of the chicken, used for making stock or soup before being reinvented by Teressa Bellissimo.
  • The name "Buffalo" doesnt refer to the animal, but rather the city of Buffalo, New York, where the wings were first created.
  • There are over 100 million pounds of Buffalo wings consumed annually in the U.S., particularly during major sports events like the Super Bowl.
  • Buffalo chicken dishes have evolved, with many creative recipes using the spicy sauce in everything from dips to pizza to pasta.

Conclusion

Buffalo Chicken Skillet brings together the bold flavors of traditional Buffalo wings in an easy-to-prepare skillet dish. With its origins rooted in Buffalo, New York, and its widespread adaptation across the United States, this dish offers a perfect combination of spicy, savory, and cheesy that will satisfy any crowd. Whether you're making it for a weeknight dinner or a game day treat, Buffalo Chicken Skillet is sure to be a hit.

FAQ about Buffalo Chicken Skillet Recipe

Store leftover Buffalo Chicken Skillet in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. If reheating in a skillet, you may want to add a little bit of buffalo sauce to keep it moist.

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and breading ahead of time, then store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook. When ready to serve, cook the chicken as directed and add the buffalo sauce and cheese. However, it’s best to add the cheese and sauce just before serving to ensure they stay fresh and melt perfectly.

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken, but it’s best to freeze it without the buffalo sauce and cheese. Allow the chicken to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to eat, thaw and heat in a skillet or oven. Add the buffalo sauce and cheese once the chicken is heated through.

Yes, you can substitute mozzarella with other types of cheese like provolone, cheddar, or even blue cheese for a more authentic buffalo wing flavor. Just make sure the cheese melts well and complements the buffalo sauce.

You can make this recipe healthier by using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or air frying the chicken instead of pan-frying it. Additionally, you can substitute whole wheat panko for regular panko or use a lower-calorie buffalo sauce. For a lighter cheese option, you can use a reduced-fat mozzarella.

To adjust the heat level, you can use a milder buffalo sauce or mix the buffalo sauce with some ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing to tone it down. Alternatively, you can increase the heat by using a hotter buffalo sauce or adding some cayenne pepper or hot sauce.

Buffalo Chicken Skillet pairs well with side dishes like cole slaw, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad. You can also serve it with celery and carrot sticks, or even over a bed of rice or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Yes, you can use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful, but you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they are fully cooked.

Panko breading can become soggy if it's cooked under too much moisture. To avoid this, cook the chicken uncovered to keep the breading crispy. You can also try broiling the chicken for the final step to help crisp up the breading after adding the buffalo sauce and cheese.

To make the recipe spicier, you can use a hotter buffalo sauce, add extra hot sauce, or incorporate ingredients like jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or red pepper flakes into the sauce.

Comments

Nancy Nelson

11/24/2024 12:39:51 AM

Incredible! I used 2 chicken breasts, one egg was more than enough. Started in a skillet and then transferred to the oven, baked at 350+ for 30 minutes. Added cheese towards the end of baking. Used 1/2 cup of buffalo sauce, perfect amount!

Aaron Roberts

04/21/2023 11:47:42 PM

Delicious! I followed the recipe instructions and also added some Italian Seasoning to the Panko breadcrumbs. I drizzled Ranch dressing over the Buffalo sauce to reduce the spiciness and enhance the flavor. Absolutely scrumptious!

Angela Jackson

06/11/2023 05:26:24 PM

I noticed that the Panko coating became soggy when I covered it with the lid to melt the cheese. I believe next time I'll melt it using the broiler instead.

Anna White

10/21/2024 06:38:00 AM

Great recipe, easy to follow.

Barbara Carter

06/26/2024 10:10:38 PM

Absolutely delicious and simple to prepare! I opted for thinly sliced chicken breasts, which cooked quickly and required fewer eggs. I will definitely be making this again!

Richard Torres

05/08/2023 10:00:52 PM

I decided to try this dish and absolutely enjoyed it. However, I opted for the complete Buffalo Wings experience by adding crumbled blue cheese instead of mozzarella.

Joyce Green

11/05/2023 03:44:59 PM

I prepared this dish with high expectations of it being spicy, but the melted mozzarella cheese seemed to tone down the heat. Nevertheless, it turned out to be a fantastic meal! Appreciate you sharing the recipe!