Buffalo Chicken Tacos Recipe

Name: Buffalo Chicken Tacos
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: 4 ounces grilled chicken, chopped; 0.5 teaspoon chili powder; 0.5 teaspoon ground cumin; 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder; 3 white corn taco shells; 0.25 cup hot Buffalo wing sauce (such as Frank's® REDHOT Buffalo Wing Sauce); 0.25 cup crumbled blue cheese

Yield: 3 servings

Ingredients

4 ounces grilled chicken, chopped
teaspoon chili powder
teaspoon ground cumin
teaspoon garlic powder
3 white corn taco shells
cup hot Buffalo wing sauce (such as Frank's REDHOT Buffalo Wing Sauce)
cup crumbled blue cheese

Directions

Place the chopped grilled chicken into a bowl. Season with chili powder, ground cumin, and garlic powder, then mix well to combine.
Spoon the seasoned chicken mixture into the taco shells, ensuring an even distribution.
Drizzle the hot Buffalo wing sauce over the chicken in each taco shell.
Top each taco with crumbled blue cheese for a rich, tangy finish.

Note: Soft taco shells can be used in place of the crispy corn shells, if preferred.

Nutrition Facts

Per Serving	Amount
Calories	203
Total Fat	10g
Saturated Fat	4g
Cholesterol	36mg
Sodium	797mg
Total Carbohydrate	14g
Dietary Fiber	1g
Total Sugars	0g
Protein	15g
Calcium	84mg
Iron	1mg
Potassium	149mg

Note: Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may vary depending on your calorie needs. Nutrient information is based on available data and may not be available for all ingredients.

Disclaimer: If you are following a medically restricted diet, please consult a healthcare provider before preparing this recipe.

Origin Story

The Buffalo Chicken Taco is a modern American dish that draws its inspiration from two popular food cultures: Mexican and American. The origins of the dish can be traced back to the creation of Buffalo wings, which were invented in Buffalo, New York, in the 1960s. The spicy, tangy flavor of Buffalo wings has become a beloved staple in American cuisine, while tacos have long been a quintessential part of Mexican food. By combining these two iconic flavors, the Buffalo Chicken Taco offers a new and exciting twist on classic comfort food.

Regional Variations

Though the Buffalo Chicken Taco is often associated with American cuisine, it can be found in different variations across the United States. In certain regions, such as the Northeast, where Buffalo wings originated, the tacos may feature extra heat from hot sauce or even incorporate ranch dressing as a cooling element. In the Southwest, the tacos may be served with additional ingredients such as jalapeos, cilantro, and avocado, giving them a fresh, zesty kick. The versatility of this dish means that it can be customized to suit different regional tastes and spice preferences.

Distinguishing Features

What sets Buffalo Chicken Tacos apart from similar dishes is its unique combination of flavors. While chicken tacos are a common feature in Mexican cuisine, the addition of Buffalo wing sauce and blue cheese gives these tacos an unmistakable American flair. Compared to traditional chicken tacos, which may use a variety of seasonings and toppings such as salsa, sour cream, and guacamole, Buffalo Chicken Tacos focus on the bold, tangy heat of the Buffalo sauce paired with the creamy, rich flavor of blue cheese. This results in a dynamic flavor profile that appeals to both fans of spicy food and those seeking a comforting dish with a twist.

Where to Serve Buffalo Chicken Tacos

Buffalo Chicken Tacos are a popular choice for casual dining establishments, particularly those that specialize in fusion cuisine. They are often served at sports bars, taco trucks, and modern Mexican-American eateries. The dish is perfect for game day, casual parties, or family gatherings, as it can be easily prepared in large batches and is sure to please a crowd. Additionally, Buffalo Chicken Tacos are frequently featured in fast-casual chains or at restaurants with an emphasis on bold, comfort food-inspired creations.

Fun Facts About Buffalo Chicken Tacos

Buffalo wing sauce was originally created by Teressa Bellissimo at the Anchor Bar in Buffalo, New York, in 1964. It has since become a staple of American cuisine.
Although Buffalo wings are traditionally made with chicken wings, Buffalo Chicken Tacos use grilled or shredded chicken, making them a lighter alternative.
Buffalo Chicken Tacos can be made with soft or crispy taco shells, offering a different texture with every bite.
The combination of spicy Buffalo sauce and creamy blue cheese has become so popular that it's often used in other dishes, such as dips, sandwiches, and even pizza.

FAQ about Buffalo Chicken Tacos Recipe

To store leftover buffalo chicken tacos, remove the fillings from the taco shells. Place the chicken, buffalo sauce, and blue cheese in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. If you'd like to store the taco shells separately, they can be kept in a sealed container at room temperature for 1-2 days or refrigerated for longer freshness. Reheat the chicken mixture thoroughly before assembling the tacos again.

Yes, the buffalo chicken filling can be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, place the chicken, buffalo sauce, and blue cheese in a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the microwave or on the stove before serving.

Absolutely! If you're not a fan of blue cheese, you can substitute it with shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or even a creamy ranch dressing to achieve a different flavor profile while still maintaining the delicious buffalo sauce pairing.

Yes, you can prepare the buffalo chicken filling in advance. Cook the chicken, season it, and mix it with the buffalo sauce. Store the mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you're ready to serve, simply heat it up and assemble the tacos. For best results, avoid preparing the tacos fully in advance, as the taco shells may become soggy.

Yes, you can absolutely use flour tortillas instead of corn taco shells. Flour tortillas may offer a softer texture, while corn shells will provide a bit more crunch. The choice is up to your preference!

Buffalo chicken tacos can be served with a variety of sides. Consider pairing them with a simple salad, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. You could also add a side of chips or guacamole for some extra crunch.

Yes, you can adjust the spiciness by adding more buffalo sauce or choosing a hotter variety of sauce. For those who prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of buffalo sauce or use a milder hot sauce.

This recipe yields 3 servings, with each serving consisting of 1 taco. If you're serving more people, simply multiply the ingredients by the number of servings desired.

Yes, you can definitely add vegetables to enhance the flavor and texture of your tacos. Consider adding sliced celery, diced tomatoes, or even shredded lettuce to balance the spiciness of the buffalo chicken with some crunch and freshness.

To make the buffalo chicken tacos less spicy, you can use a mild buffalo sauce or reduce the amount of sauce you add. You can also mix the sauce with a little sour cream or ranch dressing to tone down the heat.