Buffalo Chicken Twice-Baked Potatoes Recipe

Buffalo Chicken Twice-Baked Potatoes Recipe

Cook Time: 110 minutes

Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Potatoes

Ingredients:

  • 4 large baking potatoes
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • cup unsalted butter
  • Salt and ground black pepper, to taste
  • 3 cups shredded Cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1 cups Buffalo hot sauce (such as Texas Pete)

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350F (175C). Using a fork, prick each potato several times and place them on a baking sheet.
  2. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 to 2 hours, or until the potatoes are easily pierced with a fork. Start checking for doneness after 1 hour and then every 15 minutes until the desired tenderness is achieved.
  3. While the potatoes bake, heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes, or until the chicken is no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear.
  4. Once the potatoes are done, remove them from the oven. Cut each potato in half horizontally and scoop out the potato flesh into a large mixing bowl. Set the potato skins aside.
  5. To the bowl with the potato flesh, add the butter. Stir until melted and well combined. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  6. Add the cooked chicken, 2 cups of shredded Cheddar cheese, and the Buffalo hot sauce to the bowl. Stir everything together until well combined.
  7. Spoon the potato mixture back into the empty potato skins, evenly distributing the filling among the skins. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded Cheddar cheese on top of each stuffed potato.
  8. Return the stuffed potatoes to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the filling is hot and the cheese has melted and is bubbly.

Cooks Notes:

  • You can substitute cooked rotisserie chicken for the chicken breasts for a quicker option.
  • If you prefer, margarine can be used instead of butter.
  • The potatoes can also be baked in the microwave if youre short on time.
  • If you want to save time, you can bake the chicken in the oven for the last 30 minutes of the potato baking time.
  • To serve, top the stuffed potatoes with sour cream and extra Buffalo sauce for an added kick.
  • This dish tastes great even when reheated the next day!

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

Nutrition Amount
Calories 575
Total Fat 33g
Saturated Fat 19g
Cholesterol 117mg
Sodium 1707mg
Total Carbohydrates 40g
Dietary Fiber 4g
Total Sugars 2g
Protein 30g
Vitamin C 36mg
Calcium 404mg
Iron 2mg
Potassium 928mg

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

Buffalo Chicken Twice-Baked Potatoes

History of Buffalo Chicken Twice-Baked Potatoes

The Buffalo chicken wing, originating in Buffalo, New York, has become a staple in American cuisine. This dish draws its inspiration from the iconic flavor profile of spicy, tangy Buffalo sauce paired with tender chicken. While traditional Buffalo wings are typically served as an appetizer or main dish, the Buffalo chicken twice-baked potatoes take this beloved combination to new heights. The twice-baked potato itself is a classic comfort food, originating from the tradition of baking potatoes, scooping out the flesh, and refilling the skins with various fillings. Combining these two dishes has created a unique fusion of flavors that has gained widespread popularity in American households.

Regional Characteristics

Buffalo chicken twice-baked potatoes are often found in the Midwest and Northeast of the United States, particularly in areas where Buffalo wings are a culinary icon. The use of tangy hot sauce and blue cheese is synonymous with the Buffalo-style dishes, making this recipe a regional favorite. Though Buffalo chicken recipes can be found across the country, the twice-baked potato twist adds a local flair that has become popular in both casual restaurants and home kitchens alike.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

Compared to other stuffed potato recipes, such as the classic loaded baked potatoes or the Tex-Mex-inspired twice-baked potatoes, Buffalo chicken twice-baked potatoes stand out with their spicy and tangy Buffalo sauce. The addition of chicken further differentiates the dish from the vegetarian or bacon-based fillings often seen in other potato recipes. Moreover, the rich, creamy cheese and the subtle heat of the hot sauce offer a unique contrast to the traditional savory toppings found in other variations, making this dish a bold, flavorful alternative.

Common Settings for Serving

Buffalo chicken twice-baked potatoes are versatile, making them perfect for a variety of occasions. They are commonly served as a hearty side dish during family dinners, especially in gatherings where Buffalo wings or other spicy appetizers are served. They also work well as a main course in casual settings, such as a game day feast or a potluck. Due to their substantial and comforting nature, they are ideal for winter meals or outdoor barbecues. In addition, their ability to be made ahead of time and reheated makes them a popular choice for meal prepping.

Interesting Facts About Buffalo Chicken Twice-Baked Potatoes

  • The first recorded Buffalo wings were created in 1964 at the Anchor Bar in Buffalo, New York, by Teressa Bellissimo, which laid the foundation for the iconic flavor now enjoyed worldwide.
  • Twice-baked potatoes were likely developed in the early 20th century as a way to creatively reuse leftover baked potatoes, making them an economical and delicious option for home cooks.
  • Buffalo chicken twice-baked potatoes have gained popularity in many bars and restaurants, often being served as an appetizer or part of a larger appetizer platter alongside other finger foods like mozzarella sticks and jalapeo poppers.
  • Though Buffalo wings are traditionally paired with celery and blue cheese, Buffalo chicken twice-baked potatoes are often served with ranch dressing or extra hot sauce to balance the dish's heat.

FAQ about Buffalo Chicken Twice-Baked Potatoes Recipe

Leftover Buffalo Chicken Twice-Baked Potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until hot.

Yes, you can prepare the stuffed potatoes ahead of time. Once you've filled the potato skins with the chicken and cheese mixture, cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake them for 20 minutes or until hot and the cheese is melted.

Yes, using cooked rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred the chicken and mix it with the other ingredients as directed.

Yes, you can freeze these twice-baked potatoes. Once they are fully assembled but not yet baked, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. When ready to bake, you can cook them from frozen, though the baking time will be longer.

To reduce the spiciness, use less hot sauce or opt for a milder Buffalo sauce. You can also serve with a cooling side like sour cream or ranch dressing.

If you're looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute margarine or a plant-based butter alternative.

Yes, you can microwave the potatoes to save time. Pierce them with a fork, then microwave on high for about 10 minutes, turning them halfway through. The texture may be slightly different than oven-baked, but they will still work well for this recipe.

These potatoes are rich and filling, so they pair well with a simple side like a fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or crunchy celery and carrots. A creamy dip like ranch or blue cheese dressing can also be served on the side.

Yes, if you prefer less cheese, you can reduce the amount used in both the filling and as a topping. The flavor will still be great, though it may be slightly less creamy.

If you'd like more heat, you can increase the amount of hot sauce or use a spicier Buffalo sauce. Adding some chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper can also boost the spice level.

Comments

George Smith

06/29/2024 03:27:56 PM

I adjusted the recipe to make a smaller batch, but otherwise followed it closely. These turned out to be absolutely delicious! I enjoyed one of the leftovers for lunch today, and while it wasn't as fantastic as when fresh out of the oven, it was still very tasty. One small recommendation I have is to reduce the amount of cheese used. The combination of all the cheese and buffalo sauce made the dish a bit too oily for my liking. The sauce quantity was just right, but I felt there was slightly too much cheese. Apart from that, these were fantastic!

James Taylor

09/13/2022 04:27:00 PM

Absolutely delicious! I opted for a bit less hot sauce than the recipe called for, but it turned out so yummy!

Jacob Collins

10/01/2022 02:32:09 PM

Absolutely fantastic! Slightly spicy, but insanely delicious.