Spicy Shredded Buffalo Chicken Tacos Recipe

Get ready to spice up your mealtime with this irresistible Spicy Shredded Buffalo Chicken Tacos recipe! These tacos are the perfect fusion of tangy buffalo flavors and tender chicken, creating a mouth-watering culinary experience. Ideal for a quick dinner fix or a weekend feast, this dish will satisfy your craving for something bold and delicious.
Growing up, our family gatherings were never complete without a hearty dish of tacos on the table. My grandmother would often experiment with different flavors, but it was her special touch with spicy buffalo sauce that always made these tacos unforgettable. It quickly became a family favorite, and to this day, making these tacos brings back cherished family memories.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe stands out for its simplicity and versatility. It’s easy to prepare, making it a go-to meal for busy weeknights. The combination of zesty buffalo sauce and creamy toppings offers a balance of flavors that will ignite your taste buds. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser, always impressing guests at any gathering with its bold and vibrant taste.
Ingredients Notes
For the best results, opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts as they offer the perfect texture for shredding. You can substitute them with chicken thighs for a richer taste. To save time, use pre-made buffalo sauce, but making it from scratch allows customization of spice levels. Fresh tortillas are a must, and for toppings, include celery, carrots, or a creamy avocado to enhance the dish’s nutritional value.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Begin by cooking the chicken. Place the chicken breasts in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then simmer until fully cooked through. This should take about 20 minutes. Remove the chicken and allow it to cool before shredding it with two forks.
Step 2
While the chicken is cooking, prepare your buffalo sauce. In a medium saucepan, combine hot sauce, butter, garlic powder, and a splash of vinegar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the butter melts and the sauce is smooth.
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Step 3
Once the chicken is shredded, add it to the buffalo sauce. Stir to coat the chicken evenly with the spicy sauce. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 4
Warm your tortillas in a skillet or microwave. Place a generous amount of buffalo chicken in each tortilla, then top with your choice of shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and blue cheese crumbles.
Step 5
Serve the tacos immediately with your choice of sides like celery sticks or a refreshing salad. Enjoy the delightful kick of spice and rich textures in every bite!
Storage Options
To store leftovers, place the buffalo chicken mixture in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When reheating, thaw completely and warm in a covered saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture.
Variations & Substitutions
For a milder version, reduce the amount of hot sauce or switch to a milder variety. Consider using lettuce wraps instead of tortillas for a low-carb option. To make it vegetarian, swap out the chicken for cauliflower, which absorbs the flavors beautifully while maintaining a satisfying texture. Feel free to add corn or black beans for extra heartiness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving substitute! Simply shred the rotisserie chicken and add it to the buffalo sauce. This method cuts down on prep time without sacrificing flavor, making it an excellent option for a quick meal solution.
What is the best way to prevent soggy tacos?
To keep your tacos crisp, serve them immediately after assembling. If you’re hosting a taco bar, keep the chicken and other fillings separate, allowing guests to assemble their tacos just before eating. Using high-quality, fresh tortillas also helps in maintaining a pleasant texture.
How do I adjust the spiciness of the buffalo sauce?
To adjust the spice level, control the amount of hot sauce used in the buffalo sauce. For a milder version, decrease the hot sauce and increase the butter proportion. Alternatively, serve the sauce on the side so individuals can customize their heat level according to their preference.

Spicy Shredded Buffalo Chicken Tacos Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds chicken breast boneless, skinless
- 1 cup Buffalo sauce
- 8 pieces tortillas soft taco size
- 0.5 cup blue cheese dressing for serving
- 1 cup shredded lettuce for topping
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Cook the chicken breasts in a slow cooker on high for 3-4 hours.
- Shred the cooked chicken and mix it with Buffalo sauce until well coated.
- Warm the tortillas in a skillet or microwave.
- Assemble the tacos by placing shredded Buffalo chicken on the tortillas, then top with lettuce and drizzle with blue cheese dressing.