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.
This recipe quickly became a family favorite for weeknight dinners because it's both flavorful and hassle-free.
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 the 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 Patties:
- Cook for 34 minutes until the chicken is golden and cooked through
- Flip Tacos:
- Lightly oil the tortilla side then flip each taco so the tortilla side is down Cook 12 minutes more to your preferred crispness
- Finish and 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 dish always brings smiles and satisfaction to our family dinners especially on busy weeknights.
Notes
Swap ranch for blue cheese dressing if you prefer. Make it dairy-free by using plant-based ranch. For a low-carb version use lettuce leaves instead of tortillas. Add sliced jalapeños or diced celery for extra crunch.
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.
Save These Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos are perfect for a quick flavorful meal that everyone will enjoy.
Cooking Questions
- → What is the best way to smash the chicken on the tortillas?
Use a spatula to firmly press the chicken mixture onto warm tortillas in a hot skillet, flattening it to cover most of the surface for even cooking and a crispy texture.
- → Can I use flour or corn tortillas for these tacos?
Both flour and corn tortillas work well; just ensure they are warmed before assembling to prevent tearing when cooking and folding.
- → How can I make the slaw creamier without traditional ranch dressing?
Try using Greek yogurt mixed with fresh herbs and a splash of lemon juice to keep it creamy and tangy without relying on ranch dressing.
- → Is it possible to make these tacos dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the ranch slaw with a plant-based dressing and check that tortillas don’t contain dairy ingredients.
- → What spicy variations can enhance the buffalo chicken mix?
Adding diced jalapeños, smoked paprika, or a dash of cayenne pepper will boost heat and smoky flavors in the chicken blend.