Crispy Mini Garlic Butter Buffalo Chicken Tacos

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Ever find yourself in a dinner rut, cycling through the same few dishes? Break free with these Crispy Buffalo Chicken Tacos, a recipe that brings a little spice to your table and excitement to your weeknights.

It’s not every day that you find a meal combining the hearty comfort of shredded chicken with the bold kick of buffalo sauce, all wrapped up in a perfectly crispy taco shell. Whether you’re aiming to impress guests or just treat yourself, this dish is your ticket to a flavor-packed dining experience.

 

Plus, with an air fryer option that crisps without excess oil, you’re looking at a modern twist on taco night that’s as mindful as it is mouthwatering. Ready to upgrade your taco game and make mealtime anything but mundane? Let’s explore how to turn ordinary ingredients into extraordinary dinners.

Mini Garlic Butter Buffalo Chicken Tacos Recipe

Ingredients

For the Tacos:

• 2 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken
• 12 mini flour taco shells 
• 2 cups of a shredded Mexican cheese blend
• 2 tablespoons of oil (for frying)

For the Filling:

• 2 tablespoons of butter, softened
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/3 cup of buffalo sauce
• 1 tablespoon of fajita seasoning
• 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika 
• 1/2 lime, juiced
• 2 tablespoons of cilantro, finely chopped
• 3 green onions, thinly sliced (include both green and white parts)
• 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes

For Serving (optional):

• Guacamole, salsa, or ranch dressing

Instructions

1. Prep the Filling: Combine the softened butter and minced garlic in a large mixing bowl. Microwave for about 20 seconds or until the butter melts. Stir in the buffalo sauce, fajita seasoning, smoked paprika, lime juice, cilantro, sliced green onions, and red pepper flakes. Mix well to ensure all the flavors meld together.
2. Combine with Chicken: Add the shredded chicken to the bowl, tossing until each piece is evenly coated with the spiced mixture.
3. Assemble the Tacos: Sprinkle a base layer of cheese in each taco shell, followed by 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken filling. Add another sprinkle of cheese on top before folding the tacos closed.
4. Cook the Tacos: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-low heat. Place tacos in the pan, cooking for about 3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy. Cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Serve hot with your choice of guacamole, salsa, or ranch dressing on the side.

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Air Fryer Method

1. Preparation: Follow the original recipe to prepare your buffalo chicken filling and assemble your tacos, ensuring each is securely closed to prevent the filling from falling out during cooking.
2. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C). If your air fryer model does not have a preheat option, simply let it run at 380°F for about 5 minutes before adding the tacos.
3. Prepare the Tacos for Air Frying: Lightly brush both sides of the assembled tacos with oil or use an oil spray. This step helps achieve a golden, crispy texture without needing to fully submerge the tacos in oil.
4. Cooking: Place the tacos in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You might need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer to avoid overcrowding, which can affect how crispy they get.
5. Air Fry the Tacos: Cook for about 6-8 minutes at 380°F, then carefully flip the tacos using tongs and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy to your liking. The exact cooking time might vary based on the air fryer model and how crispy you prefer your tacos.

Tips & Recipe Variations

General Tips:

• Shredded Chicken: For an even quicker prep, use pre-shredded rotisserie chicken available at most grocery stores. Alternatively, cooking and shredding your own chicken allows for seasoning control.
• Balancing Flavors: Taste the buffalo filling before adding the chicken to ensure the flavors are to your liking. It’s easier to adjust the spiciness, acidity, and seasoning at this stage.
• Cheese Choices: The Mexican cheese blend is versatile, but feel free to experiment with other types of cheese for different flavors. A combination of sharp cheddar and mozzarella can offer a nice melt and depth of flavor.
• Crispiness: Whether using a skillet or an air fryer, aim for a golden-brown exterior for the best texture. Adjust cooking times based on your appliance and preference for crispiness.

Cooking Method Tips:

• Skillet Cooking: Ensure the oil is hot before adding the tacos to prevent them from becoming greasy. A medium-low heat allows them to crisp up without burning.
• Air Frying: Avoid using too much oil, as it can make the tacos soggy. A light brush or spray is sufficient. Remember to not overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow air circulation.

Recipe Variations:

• Go Green: Add a fresh twist by incorporating diced avocado or a spoonful of guacamole inside the tacos before cooking. This adds creaminess and complements the buffalo sauce.
• Protein Variations: Not a fan of chicken? Shredded pork, ground beef, or even a plant-based meat substitute can work well with the buffalo and cheese filling.
• Heat Level: Adjust the buffalo sauce and red pepper flakes according to your heat preference. For those who love extra spice, adding diced jalapeños to the filling will kick it up a notch.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Use gluten-free taco shells to make this dish accessible for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Serving Suggestion: For a complete meal, serve these tacos with a side of cilantro lime rice, black beans, or a simple salad to balance out the richness of the tacos.

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