Irresistible Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Tacos: Your Go-To Recipe for a Flavorful Fiesta

Prepare your taste buds for an explosion of flavor with these incredible cheesy buffalo chicken tacos! Crafted with tender chicken breasts, warm flour tortillas, a generous amount of melty cheese, and the iconic tangy heat of buffalo sauce, this recipe is destined to become your absolute favorite chicken taco creation. It’s not just incredibly easy to make, but also budget-friendly and packed with layers of savory, spicy goodness that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, these tacos offer a straightforward path to culinary success, making them perfect for busy weeknights or a fun weekend gathering.

These delightful buffalo chicken tacos strike the perfect balance of spice, offering a pleasant kick without being overwhelmingly hot. The heat from the buffalo sauce is beautifully mellowed by the creamy cheese and the other fresh ingredients, creating a harmonious blend that’s truly addictive. I particularly love to serve these vibrant tacos alongside classic Spanish rice and rich refried beans for a complete and satisfying meal. However, don’t hesitate to keep it simple and serve them with just a few fresh lime wedges for a burst of citrus and a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce for an extra fiery kick. Their versatility means they can complement a wide array of side dishes, making them a fantastic addition to any menu.

Ingredient Notes & Smart Substitutions for Your Buffalo Chicken Tacos

Crafting the perfect buffalo chicken taco starts with understanding your ingredients and knowing how to adapt them to your pantry and preferences. Here’s a deeper dive into the components of this recipe:

Chicken: While my recipe calls for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for their lean protein and ease of shredding, you absolutely have options. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are an excellent alternative, offering a richer flavor and often remaining juicier due to their higher fat content. For an even quicker meal, consider using a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken – simply shred the meat and toss it with the buffalo sauce and spices before proceeding with the rest of the recipe. This can cut down your cooking time significantly without sacrificing flavor.
Buffalo Sauce: The heart of this dish! The amount of buffalo sauce used can be adjusted based on your desired spice level and sauciness. If you’re not a fan of traditional buffalo sauce, or prefer a milder taste, a good quality hot sauce like Frank’s RedHot (which is often the base for buffalo sauce) or a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce can work wonders for a completely different but equally delicious flavor profile. For those who love the classic buffalo flavor but want to reduce the heat, try mixing your buffalo sauce with a touch of ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing before coating the chicken.
Cheese: Colby Jack cheese is a fantastic choice for these tacos, offering a beautiful melt and mild, creamy flavor that complements the buffalo chicken. However, the beauty of tacos is their adaptability! Feel free to use any shredded cheese you have on hand. Mozzarella cheese will provide an incredibly stringy, satisfying melt, while Pepper Jack cheese will add an extra layer of spice. For a truly authentic buffalo experience, blue cheese crumbles can be sprinkled in or on top for that pungent, savory contrast. A blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack also works wonderfully.
Onion, Red Bell Pepper, and Garlic: These aromatic vegetables are listed as optional, but I highly recommend including them. They contribute essential flavor depth, a touch of sweetness from the bell pepper, and a pleasant texture that elevates the overall taco experience. Diced yellow or white onion can be used in place of red onion, and green bell pepper can be substituted for red bell pepper. Fresh garlic is always preferred, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch (about 1/2 teaspoon per clove). Don’t forget the fresh cilantro for a bright, herbaceous finish!
Spices: My go-to blend includes garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and paprika. This combination provides a robust, well-rounded flavor that pairs perfectly with the buffalo sauce. However, feel free to customize! You can easily substitute this blend with a store-bought taco seasoning mix for convenience, or experiment with chili powder, cumin, or a pinch of cayenne pepper if you desire more heat. Always taste and adjust to your preference.
Tortillas: The vessel for all this deliciousness! Both corn or flour tortillas will work beautifully for this recipe. Flour tortillas tend to be softer and more pliable, while corn tortillas offer a slightly chewier texture and a distinct flavor. Make sure to choose small tortillas, typically 6-inch or “street taco” size, for easier handling and frying. You can also use larger tortillas and simply make fewer, bigger tacos.

How to Prepare Your Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Tacos: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating these flavor-packed buffalo chicken tacos is surprisingly simple, especially with the help of a slow cooker. Follow these detailed steps to achieve perfect, mouth-watering results.

**Slow Cooker Prep:** Begin by placing your chicken breasts, butter, all your chosen spices (garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, and Kosher salt), and the buffalo sauce into your slow cooker. Ensure the chicken is nestled comfortably in the sauce. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on high for 2 hours or on low for 4 hours. The slow cooking process tenderizes the chicken beautifully, infusing it with all those delicious flavors.
**Shredding the Chicken:** Once the chicken is fully cooked through and fork-tender, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and transfer it to a large bowl. Using two forks, shred the chicken until it reaches your desired consistency. For an even quicker process, an electric mixer can be used, but be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a mushy, tuna-like texture. It’s crucial not to discard the remaining buffalo sauce in the slow cooker – this flavorful liquid will be used to keep your chicken moist and saucy later on.
**Sautéing Aromatics:** In a large skillet, heat about 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and red bell peppers to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until they begin to soften and become slightly translucent. This step helps to bring out their natural sweetness and aromatic qualities.
**Adding Garlic and Cilantro:** Stir in the minced garlic and chopped cilantro to the skillet with the softened onions and peppers. Season lightly with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for just 20 seconds, or until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be mindful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter quickly.
**Combining with Shredded Chicken:** Add the shredded buffalo chicken to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Pour in about 1/2 cup of the reserved buffalo sauce from the slow cooker. If you prefer your tacos extra saucy and moist, feel free to add a little more of the buffalo liquid. Stir everything together until the chicken is well coated and heated through. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning (salt, pepper, or a pinch more buffalo sauce) as needed. Set this flavorful filling aside.
**Assembling the Tacos:** Lay your small flour tortillas flat on a clean baking sheet. For each taco, generously sprinkle a layer of Colby Jack cheese (or your preferred cheese) on one half of the tortilla, then spoon a good amount of the buffalo chicken mixture over the cheese. Fold each tortilla in half, creating a semi-circle shape. In a separate large skillet, heat about 3 tablespoons of oil and 2 tablespoons of the leftover buffalo sauce over medium-high heat. The combination of oil and sauce will give your tacos a beautiful, crispy exterior with an added boost of flavor.
**Frying to Perfection:** Carefully place the folded chicken tacos into the hot skillet. Fry them for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the tortillas are golden brown and crispy, and the cheese inside is melted and gooey. Avoid overcrowding the pan; work in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and crispiness. Serve immediately and enjoy the irresistible combination of spicy, cheesy, and crunchy goodness!

Top Tips for Perfect Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Tacos

Elevate your buffalo chicken taco game with these handy tips and tricks:

**Save Time with Rotisserie Chicken:** If you’re short on time or simply don’t feel like cooking chicken from scratch, a store-bought rotisserie chicken is your best friend. Simply shred the meat, toss it with your buffalo sauce and spices, and you’re ready to proceed directly to the skillet cooking step. It’s a fantastic shortcut that yields equally delicious results.
**Enhance Flavor with Toppings:** While these tacos are phenomenal on their own, a variety of toppings can take them to the next level. Serve them with a dollop of creamy avocado crema, a generous scoop of cool sour cream, or a fresh, zesty guacamole. Other great additions include shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, pickled red onions, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, or even a drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing to balance the spice.
**Mindful Chicken Shredding:** When shredding the slow-cooked chicken, whether with two forks or an electric mixer, be careful not to overmix. Over-shredding can break down the chicken fibers too much, resulting in a mushy texture that resembles tuna rather than distinct, juicy strands of chicken. Aim for a slightly coarser shred for better mouthfeel.
**Ensure Proper Frying:** For perfectly crispy tacos, it’s crucial to add a good amount of oil to your skillet before frying. Not enough oil can cause the tortillas to stick to the pan and brown unevenly, resulting in a less satisfying texture. The oil, combined with a bit of the reserved buffalo sauce, also adds another layer of flavor and a beautiful golden crust.
**Baking as an Alternative:** If you prefer to avoid frying or want a slightly healthier option, these tacos can also be baked. Simply arrange the assembled tacos in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake them in a preheated oven at 400 degrees F (200 degrees C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the tortillas are crispy and the cheese is thoroughly melted. Flip them halfway through for even browning.
**Make Ahead for Meal Prep:** The buffalo chicken filling can be prepared a day or two in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This makes assembling the tacos incredibly fast when you’re ready to eat, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or lunch prep.
**Adjust the Spice Level:** If you love extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite super-spicy hot sauce to the chicken mixture. For a milder version, use less buffalo sauce or mix it with a creamy element like sour cream or ranch.

Understanding Chicken Quantity for Your Tacos

To prepare a batch of these delicious cheesy buffalo chicken tacos that serves about 12, you’ll need approximately 3 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts. This quantity ensures you have enough flavorful filling for a decent number of tacos. When assembling, aim for about 1/4 cup of the cooked, shredded buffalo chicken mixture for each individual taco. This balance ensures each taco is satisfyingly filled without overflowing, making them easy to handle and enjoy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Got leftovers? Lucky you! These cheesy buffalo chicken tacos are just as delicious the next day. To store them, place any remaining tacos in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For best results, allow them to cool completely before storing to prevent condensation which can make them soggy. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheating is simple:

**Air Fryer:** For maximum crispiness, reheat in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway, until heated through and crispy.
**Oven:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place tacos on a baking sheet and heat for 10-15 minutes, or until warm and slightly crispy.
**Microwave:** For the quickest reheat, place tacos on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through. Note that this method will result in softer tortillas.

If you anticipate having many leftovers, you might consider storing the buffalo chicken filling and the tortillas separately to maintain optimal freshness and texture. Reheat the filling and then assemble and crisp the tortillas just before serving.

More Delicious Recipes You Might Enjoy…

If you loved these cheesy buffalo chicken tacos, you’ll definitely want to explore these other fantastic recipes that offer similar flavors or equally satisfying experiences:

Honey Buffalo Chicken Meatballs: A sweet and spicy twist on buffalo flavor, perfect as an appetizer or a main dish.
Chorizo Tacos: Explore a different flavor profile with these savory and spicy chorizo-filled tacos.
Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls: All the classic buffalo chicken taste, wrapped and fried to crispy perfection.
Air Fryer Shrimp Tacos: A lighter, quick, and incredibly flavorful taco option.

We hope you thoroughly enjoy preparing and devouring these cheesy buffalo chicken tacos! If you’ve tried this recipe, we’d love to hear from you. Please take a moment to leave a star ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ rating in the recipe card below and/or share your thoughts and tips in the comments section further down the page. Your feedback is invaluable and helps other home cooks discover delicious meals! And for more culinary inspiration and tasty recipes, consider following me on Facebook or Pinterest!

5 from 1 vote

Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Tacos

By Julie Maestre

These cheesy buffalo chicken tacos are a fan-favorite, made with tender chicken breasts, warm flour tortillas, a blend of cheeses, and zesty buffalo sauce. This recipe is an incredibly easy and flavorful way to enjoy chicken tacos!

Prep: 10 minutes

Cook: 2 hours 15 minutes

Total: 2 hours 25 minutes

Servings: 12

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Ingredients

▢ 3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
▢ 1 cup buffalo sauce (adjust to taste for desired heat)
▢ 3 tbsp salted butter
▢ 1 teaspoon Kosher salt , or to taste
▢ 1 teaspoon garlic powder
▢ 1 teaspoon onion powder
▢ ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
▢ ½ teaspoon Paprika
▢ ½ medium onion, diced (optional, for flavor and texture)
▢ ½ red bell pepper , diced (optional, for sweetness and color)
▢ 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, finely chopped
▢ 1 garlic clove, finely minced (optional, for aromatic depth)
▢ 12 small Flour Tortillas (6-inch size recommended)
▢ 4 cups Colby Jack Cheese (shredded, or your favorite melting cheese)
▢ Cooking oil, for frying

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Instructions

**Prepare Slow Cooker Chicken:** Add the chicken breasts, 1 cup of buffalo sauce, paprika, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and butter to your slow cooker. Stir to combine and ensure chicken is coated. Cover with the lid and cook on high for 2 hours or on low for 4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
**Shred Chicken & Reserve Sauce:** Once the chicken is fully cooked, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and transfer to a large bowl. Using two forks or an electric mixer on low speed, shred the chicken to your desired consistency. Be careful not to overmix to avoid a mushy texture. Do not discard the flavorful buffalo sauce remaining in the slow cooker; you’ll need it for a later step.
**Sauté Vegetables:** Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and red bell peppers to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and become slightly translucent.
**Add Garlic & Cilantro:** Stir in the minced garlic and fresh cilantro into the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for just 20 seconds, or until the garlic is fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
**Combine & Season Filling:** Add the shredded buffalo chicken to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Pour in 1/2 cup of the reserved buffalo sauce from the slow cooker. If you prefer a saucier filling, add an additional tablespoon or two of sauce. Stir everything together well until the chicken is thoroughly coated and heated. Taste the filling and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or buffalo sauce to your preference. Set aside.
**Assemble Tacos:** Lay the small flour tortillas on a clean baking sheet. For each tortilla, sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese on one half, then spoon a portion of the buffalo chicken filling over the cheese. Fold each tortilla in half to create a taco shape. In a clean large skillet, heat about 3 tablespoons of cooking oil and 2 tablespoons of the leftover buffalo sauce over medium-high heat.
**Fry Tacos & Serve:** Carefully place the assembled chicken tacos into the hot skillet. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the tortillas are golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan. Remove from skillet, drain excess oil if desired, and serve immediately with your favorite toppings. Enjoy!

Notes

For a significant time-saver, use store-bought rotisserie chicken. Simply shred the meat and mix with the buffalo sauce and spices before sautéing the vegetables.
When shredding the chicken, use two forks for a chunkier texture. If using an electric mixer, don’t overmix; otherwise, the chicken can become too fine and mushy, resembling tuna.
Ensure you add a good amount of oil to your skillet before frying the tacos. This prevents sticking and ensures a beautifully crispy exterior.
If you prefer not to fry, these tacos can be baked. Place them on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden and crispy.

Nutrition

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Additional Info

Author: Julie Maestre

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 2 hours 15 minutes

Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes

Course: Entree

Cuisine: American

Servings: 12

Calories: 425

Keyword: buffalo chicken tacos, Chicken Tacos, how to make buffalo chicken tacos, spicy chicken recipe, slow cooker chicken tacos

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