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 is a family favorite that I love making when I want something both spicy and easy.
Ingredients
- 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)
- 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 3–4 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 1–2 minutes more, to your preferred crispness.
- Assemble Tacos:
- 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:
- Serve warm and enjoy immediately.
Save My family loves gathering around the table to enjoy these spicy tacos together.
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.
Nutritional Information
Calories per 2 tacos: 320; Total Fat: 16 g; Carbohydrates: 20 g; Protein: 24 g
Save Enjoy these flavorful tacos fresh off the pan for the best texture and taste.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do you achieve the crispy texture on the chicken?
Smashing the chicken mixture onto a hot, lightly oiled pan ensures a larger surface area contacts the heat, creating a golden, crispy crust.
- → Can I substitute the tortillas with something else?
Yes, using lettuce leaves works well for a low-carb alternative while maintaining freshness and structure.
- → What makes the ranch slaw creamy and crunchy?
The combination of shredded cabbage and carrots provides crunch, while Greek yogurt-based ranch dressing adds creaminess and tang.
- → How can I adjust the spice level in this dish?
Modifying the amount of buffalo wing sauce or adding sliced jalapeños allows you to control the heat according to preference.
- → Is this dish suitable for a quick dinner?
Yes, with a total preparation and cooking time of about 25 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights.