Ingredients

1 lb 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

8 small tortillas (corn or flour)

Cooking spray or oil

3 cups shredded cabbage

½ cup grated carrots

¼–⅓ cup ranch dressing (Greek yogurt preferred)

1 tbsp dill relish

Instructions

Step 1: In a bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, grated carrots, ranch dressing, and dill relish. Mix well and chill the slaw in the refrigerator while you prepare the chicken.

Step 2: In a separate bowl, gently mix the ground chicken with buffalo wing sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the patties tender.

Step 3: Heat a griddle or large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and lightly coat with cooking spray or oil.

Step 4: Form the chicken mixture into small loose balls, one for each taco. Place a ball on a taco tortilla, then put it onto the hot pan with the chicken side down. Use a spatula or flat-bottomed cup to smash the ball flat and thin. Repeat with the remaining portions.

Step 5: Cook each patty for 3–4 minutes until golden brown and cooked through, developing crispy edges.

Step 6: Lower the heat, lightly oil the tortillas, and flip them in the pan on the tortilla side. Warm them to your preference—soft and pliable or slightly crispy.

Step 7: Assemble each taco with a chicken patty, a generous spoonful of the chilled ranch slaw, and a drizzle of Greek yogurt ranch sauce or additional buffalo sauce for extra heat.

Step 8: Serve the tacos warm and enjoy the delicious layers of spicy, creamy, and crunchy textures.

Tips & Variations

Swap the ranch dressing for blue cheese dressing or use lettuce cups instead of tortillas for a low-carb option.

Add a slice of sharp cheddar or crumbled blue cheese on the patties just before cooking finishes for a melty, cheesy twist.

Drizzle hot honey or sprinkle pickled jalapeños over the assembled tacos for a sweet and spicy boost.

Prepare the slaw a few hours ahead to allow the flavors to meld and save time at dinner.

Use plant-based ranch dressing alternatives for a dairy-free version.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the chicken patties and slaw separate to maintain freshness. Reheat the patties gently in a skillet over medium heat to preserve crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy. Assemble tacos fresh before serving.

FAQs

What makes buffalo chicken smash burger tacos unique?

They combine the spicy, crispy edges of smash-style chicken patties with the handheld convenience of tacos, layered with a cool, creamy ranch slaw for a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Are these tacos high in protein?

Yes, made with lean ground chicken, these tacos offer a good amount of protein, making them a satisfying and healthier alternative to traditional beef tacos.