Fried Buffalo Chicken Tacos are a bold and flavorful twist on the classic taco. These tacos feature crispy fried chicken tenders that are tossed in spicy Buffalo sauce and served in warm taco shells. Topped with fresh shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and cheddar cheese, these tacos are both crunchy and satisfying. A drizzle of ranch dressing adds a cooling contrast to the heat of the Buffalo chicken, making these tacos a well-rounded meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s Taco Tuesday or a casual dinner, these Buffalo Chicken Tacos are sure to be a hit.
Fried Buffalo Chicken Tacos are a delicious and spicy twist on traditional tacos. These tacos are filled with crispy fried chicken tenders that are tossed in bold Buffalo sauce, providing a perfect balance of heat and flavor. The chicken is complemented by fresh toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and cheddar cheese, all served in warm taco shells. To top it all off, a drizzle of ranch dressing adds a creamy, cooling contrast to the spicy chicken, making these tacos a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
INGREDIENTS
- Chicken tenders: 1 lb, provides the protein and main filling for the tacos.
- All-purpose flour: 1 cup, used to coat the chicken, giving it a crispy texture when fried.
- Cornstarch: 1/2 cup, helps to create a light and crispy coating on the chicken.
- Paprika: 1 tsp, adds a subtle smoky flavor to the chicken coating.
- Garlic powder: 1/2 tsp, enhances the savory flavor of the chicken.
- Onion powder: 1/2 tsp, adds a mild, sweet flavor to the chicken.
- Salt: 1/2 tsp, brings out the flavors of the other ingredients.
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp, adds a touch of heat and flavor to the chicken.
- Buttermilk: 1 cup, helps the flour mixture adhere to the chicken and adds moisture to the meat.
- Buffalo sauce: 1 cup, provides the spicy, tangy flavor that makes these tacos stand out.
- Oil for frying: enough to fill your skillet about 1/2 inch deep, used to fry the chicken to a golden brown.
- Small taco shells: 8, serve as the base for the tacos, holding all the delicious ingredients.
- Shredded lettuce: 1 cup, adds a fresh, crunchy element to the tacos.
- Diced tomatoes: 1/2 cup, provides a juicy, sweet contrast to the spicy chicken.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 1/2 cup, adds a rich, cheesy flavor to the tacos.
- Ranch dressing (optional): 1/4 cup, adds a creamy, cooling element that balances the heat of the Buffalo sauce.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- In a bowl, mix together flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Step 2:
- Dip each chicken tender into the buttermilk, then coat thoroughly with the flour mixture.
- Step 3:
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken tenders in batches for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
- Step 4:
- Toss the fried chicken tenders in Buffalo sauce until evenly coated.
- Step 5:
- Warm the taco shells according to package instructions.
- Step 6:
- Assemble tacos by placing shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheddar cheese in each shell.
- Step 7:
- Top with Buffalo chicken and drizzle with ranch dressing if desired.
Serving and Storage Tips
- These tacos are best served fresh and hot, right after the chicken is fried and tossed in Buffalo sauce. For added convenience, you can prep the toppings and taco shells while the chicken is frying.
- If you have leftovers, store the chicken and taco components separately in airtight containers. Reheat the chicken in the oven or air fryer to keep it crispy, and assemble the tacos just before serving.
Helpful Notes
- For an extra spicy kick, you can add a dash of hot sauce to the Buffalo sauce before tossing the chicken.
- If you prefer a milder version, you can use a less spicy sauce or add more ranch dressing to balance out the heat.
- To make the chicken even crispier, try double-dipping it in the buttermilk and flour mixture before frying.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Bobby Flay suggests adding a squeeze of lime juice to the Buffalo sauce for a fresh, tangy twist.
- Chef Guy Fieri recommends serving these tacos with a side of celery sticks and blue cheese dressing for a classic Buffalo chicken experience.
- Chef Giada De Laurentiis advises using a combination of different lettuce types for added texture and flavor in the tacos.
Why Fried Buffalo Chicken Tacos are the Ultimate Comfort Food
These Fried Buffalo Chicken Tacos are the perfect comfort food for anyone who loves bold flavors and satisfying textures. The crispy fried chicken is the star of the show, providing a delicious crunch that’s enhanced by the spicy Buffalo sauce. The fresh toppings and soft taco shells create a perfect balance, making each bite a delightful experience. Whether you’re looking for a new Taco Tuesday recipe or just want to spice up your dinner routine, these tacos are sure to impress.
Customizing Your Buffalo Chicken Tacos
One of the best things about these Fried Buffalo Chicken Tacos is how easily they can be customized to suit your tastes. You can add different toppings like avocado, jalapeños, or pickled onions to create a taco that’s uniquely yours. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using grilled chicken instead of fried, or swap out the cheddar cheese for a lighter cheese like feta or queso fresco. No matter how you make them, these tacos are sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.
FAQs
Can I make these tacos ahead of time?
It’s best to fry the chicken and assemble the tacos just before serving to ensure the chicken stays crispy. However, you can prepare the toppings and sauce ahead of time to make the assembly process quicker.
What can I serve with these tacos?
These tacos pair well with classic sides like chips and salsa, guacamole, or a simple side salad. You could also serve them with a side of rice or beans for a more substantial meal.
How can I make these tacos gluten-free?
To make these tacos gluten-free, simply use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour and choose gluten-free taco shells. Be sure to check that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
Can I use a different type of chicken?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs if you prefer. Just cut them into strips before coating and frying to ensure they cook evenly.
How do I keep the chicken crispy?
To keep the chicken crispy, make sure to drain it on paper towels immediately after frying and toss it in the Buffalo sauce just before serving. If you’re making a large batch, you can keep the fried chicken warm in a low oven while you finish frying the rest.
Summary
These Fried Buffalo Chicken Tacos are packed with bold flavors and satisfying textures. The crispy fried chicken tenders are tossed in spicy Buffalo sauce and served in soft taco shells, topped with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and cheddar cheese. A drizzle of ranch dressing adds a creamy, cooling touch that balances out the heat. These tacos are easy to make and perfect for any night of the week, offering a delicious twist on a classic favorite. Whether you’re a fan of spicy food or just looking for something new to try, these Buffalo Chicken Tacos are sure to impress.