Buffalo Chicken Enchiladas bring together the bold, spicy flavors of classic buffalo wings and the comforting, cheesy goodness of traditional enchiladas. These enchiladas are filled with tender shredded chicken tossed in buffalo sauce, creamy cheese, and zesty spices, all wrapped in soft tortillas and smothered in a cheesy buffalo-infused sauce. The result is a dish that’s spicy, tangy, and perfectly balanced for an unforgettable meal.
This recipe is perfect for game day, family dinners, or any occasion when you want to spice things up. It’s a versatile crowd-pleaser that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, from crisp salads to creamy coleslaw. Whether you’re hosting friends or just feeding the family, these Buffalo Chicken Enchiladas are sure to impress.
If you love enchiladas, don’t miss our Chicken Enchiladas for another flavorful take on this classic dish. Both recipes deliver hearty, satisfying meals packed with bold, delicious flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Buffalo Chicken Enchiladas Recipe
1. Bold Buffalo Flavor
If you’re a fan of buffalo wings, this recipe is a must-try. It combines all the zesty, spicy goodness of buffalo sauce with tender chicken, melted cheese, and soft tortillas. The creamy buffalo-infused sauce ties everything together, creating a flavor-packed dish that’s both satisfying and indulgent.
2. Perfect for Any Occasion
Buffalo Chicken Enchiladas are versatile enough for game-day gatherings, weeknight dinners, or casual family meals. They’re easy to prep in advance, making them ideal for busy nights when you need something hearty and comforting on the table fast.
3. Customizable and Family-Friendly
This recipe is easy to customize based on your spice tolerance and preferences. Add extra cheese, swap in low-fat ingredients, or incorporate veggies for added texture and nutrients. Plus, it’s a hit with both kids and adults, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy.
Preparation Time and Yield
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 370
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
Ingredients for Buffalo Chicken Enchiladas
Prepare Chicken Filling:
- 3 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie or boiled)
- 1 cup buffalo sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
For the Enchiladas:
- 8 medium flour or corn tortillas
- 1 cup buffalo sauce (for coating)
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Topping:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Sliced green onions
- Blue cheese crumbles (optional)
- Extra buffalo sauce
Step-by-Step Instructions for Buffalo Chicken Enchiladas
Prepare the Chicken Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, cream cheese, ranch dressing, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix until the chicken is fully coated and the cream cheese is evenly distributed. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and set aside.
Assemble the Enchiladas
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread 2-3 tablespoons of buffalo sauce on the bottom of the dish to prevent sticking.
Lay out a tortilla and add a generous scoop of the buffalo chicken filling in the center. Roll the tortilla tightly and place it seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and chicken mixture.
Add the Sauce and Cheese
In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining buffalo sauce and sour cream (or Greek yogurt) until smooth. Pour the sauce evenly over the rolled enchiladas. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese generously over the top.
Bake the Enchiladas
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If desired, broil for an additional 2 minutes for a golden, bubbly cheese topping.
Garnish and Serve
Remove the enchiladas from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Top with fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, and blue cheese crumbles (optional). Drizzle with extra buffalo sauce before serving.
Ingredient Background
Buffalo Sauce
Buffalo sauce brings the signature heat and tanginess to this dish. It’s made from hot sauce, butter, and a touch of vinegar, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
Shredded Chicken
Shredded rotisserie chicken works well in this recipe for convenience, but you can also use leftover grilled or boiled chicken for a homemade touch.
Cream Cheese
Cream cheese adds creaminess to the filling, balancing the bold heat of the buffalo sauce and creating a velvety texture.
Ranch or Blue Cheese Dressing
Ranch dressing adds a cool, tangy contrast to the buffalo heat, while blue cheese dressing provides a stronger, more complex flavor for those who love blue cheese.
Technique Tips for the Best Buffalo Chicken Enchiladas
Don’t Overfill the Tortillas
Filling the tortillas with just the right amount of chicken mixture is key. Overfilling can lead to messy assembly and prevent the enchiladas from rolling properly. Stick to about 1/4 to 1/3 cup of filling per tortilla to achieve even cooking and tidy results.
Warm the Tortillas
Cold tortillas are prone to cracking when rolled. Briefly warming them in the microwave, oven, or a skillet makes them pliable and easier to handle. Wrap a stack of tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave for 20–30 seconds to soften them uniformly.
Adjust the Heat
To customize the spice level, tweak the amount of buffalo sauce in the filling and sauce. For a spicier dish, add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce. If serving to spice-sensitive guests, tone it down by mixing in more ranch dressing, sour cream, or cream cheese.
Bake Covered First
Covering the enchiladas with foil during the initial baking phase keeps the tortillas tender and prevents them from drying out. Once the cheese is bubbling, uncover them for the final 10 minutes to allow the top to brown and achieve that irresistible golden crust.
Use Fresh Toppings
The right toppings can elevate the enchiladas. Sprinkle chopped cilantro, green onions, or freshly crumbled blue cheese for bold flavors and visual appeal. A drizzle of ranch or additional buffalo sauce adds the perfect finishing touch.
Alternative Presentation Ideas
Buffalo Chicken Enchilada Bowls
Skip the tortillas and serve the buffalo chicken mixture over a bowl of fluffy rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice. Add a garnish of shredded cheese, diced avocado, and fresh cilantro for a lighter, deconstructed version of the dish.
Buffalo Chicken Quesadillas
Transform the filling into crispy quesadillas by layering it with shredded cheese between two tortillas. Toast the quesadillas in a skillet until the cheese is melted and the outside is golden. Slice into wedges for a quick snack or appetizer.
Buffalo Chicken Taquitos
Roll the buffalo chicken mixture tightly in small corn tortillas and bake until crispy. Serve with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. These bite-sized treats are perfect for parties or game-day spreads.
Buffalo Chicken Nachos
Spread tortilla chips on a baking sheet, layer with the buffalo chicken filling, and sprinkle with cheese. Broil until the cheese melts, then top with jalapeños, sour cream, and green onions. Serve immediately for a crowd-pleasing snack.
Mini Enchilada Cups
Press small tortillas into a muffin tin to form cup shapes, then fill each with the chicken mixture and cheese. Bake until bubbly and golden. These individual portions are easy to serve and ideal for potlucks or casual gatherings.
Freezing and Storing Buffalo Chicken Enchiladas
Storing Leftovers
Transfer cooled enchiladas to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To maintain their texture and flavor, reheat them in the oven rather than the microwave. Adding a little extra sauce before reheating will keep them moist and flavorful.
Freezing Instructions
Prepare the enchiladas but stop before baking. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Store in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the enchiladas in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed.
Reheating Tips
For the best texture, reheat the enchiladas in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes until thoroughly warmed. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the tortillas soggy and the cheese unevenly melted.
Healthier Twist Ideas
Use Whole Wheat Tortillas
Switch to whole wheat tortillas for a fiber boost without sacrificing flavor. Low-carb or gluten-free tortillas are great alternatives for dietary preferences.
Light Cheese
Opt for reduced-fat cheddar or mozzarella cheese to lower the calorie content while keeping the dish satisfyingly cheesy.
Greek Yogurt
Replace sour cream with plain Greek yogurt in the sauce and as a topping. This substitution adds protein while maintaining creaminess and tang.
Add Veggies
Incorporate sautéed spinach, diced bell peppers, or grated zucchini into the chicken filling. This not only adds texture but also boosts the nutritional value of the dish.
Homemade Buffalo Sauce
Whip up your own buffalo sauce using a blend of hot sauce, butter, and lemon juice. This allows you to control the spice level and reduce unnecessary additives.
Serving Suggestions for Events
Game Day Parties
Buffalo Chicken Enchiladas are a natural fit for game day spreads. Serve them with classic buffalo wing accompaniments like celery sticks, carrot sticks, and a variety of dipping sauces for a themed meal that guests will love.
Family Dinners
Pair the enchiladas with a crisp green salad, guacamole, or roasted vegetables for a balanced family meal. They’re hearty enough to stand alone but versatile enough to complement lighter sides.
Potlucks
These enchiladas are easy to prepare ahead and reheat, making them an excellent option for potluck gatherings. Transport them in the baking dish and add fresh toppings just before serving to keep them vibrant and fresh.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
Yes, corn tortillas work great, but warm them first to prevent cracking during assembly. - How spicy are these enchiladas?
The spice level can be adjusted based on the amount of buffalo sauce you use. - Can I prepare the enchiladas ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the enchiladas and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. - What’s the best cheese for this recipe?
Cheddar, mozzarella, or a Mexican cheese blend works well for a melty, flavorful topping. - Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze baked or unbaked enchiladas. Just make sure they’re wrapped tightly before freezing. - What sides pair best with Buffalo Chicken Enchiladas?
Serve with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or cilantro-lime rice for a complete meal. - Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free tortillas and check that the buffalo sauce is gluten-free. - What’s another great enchilada recipe to try?
Try our Chicken Enchiladas for a classic and comforting take on this beloved dish!
Conclusion
Buffalo Chicken Enchiladas are a spicy, creamy, and utterly satisfying meal that combines the best of Tex-Mex cuisine with bold buffalo flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or enjoying a family dinner, this dish is easy to prepare, customizable, and always a hit. Serve it with your favorite sides, garnish with fresh herbs, and get ready to impress with every bite!