Pin It 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.
I first made these Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos on a busy weeknight and they quickly became a family favorite because of their spicy and crispy texture combined with the cool creamy ranch slaw.
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 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 Pan:
- Heat a griddle or large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and lightly coat with oil or cooking spray
- Form 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 Chicken:
- Cook for 3 4 minutes until the chicken is golden and cooked through
- Cook Tortilla Side:
- 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:
- 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
Pin It This recipe brings back memories of family dinners where everyone loved adding their favorite toppings
and passing the tacos around the table
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
Nutritional Information (per 2 tacos)
Calories 320 Total Fat 16 g Carbohydrates 20 g Protein 24 g
Pin It These Buffalo Chicken Smash Burger Tacos are perfect for a quick meal with maximum flavor and minimal fuss.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How do I achieve a crispy texture for the chicken?
Use medium-high heat and lightly oil the pan. Smash the chicken thinly to increase surface contact for a crispy exterior.
- → Can I substitute the ranch slaw?
Yes, blue cheese dressing works well, or use plant-based options for dairy-free alternatives.
- → What tortillas are best for this dish?
Small corn or flour tortillas both work; flour tortillas provide softness while corn adds a subtle texture.
- → How long does it take to prepare this meal?
Preparation takes about 10 minutes, with an additional 15 minutes cooking time, making it a quick option.
- → Are there low-carb variations?
Yes, swapping tortillas for large lettuce leaves creates a fresh, low-carb alternative.