After a long week of work and takeout dinners, I was craving something that would transport me back to cozy gatherings with friends. That’s when I decided to whip up these Buffalo Chicken Wontons, a delightfully flavorful and easy appetizer that never fails to impress. Imagine crispy, golden pockets filled with a spicy, creamy chicken mixture that practically begs to be dipped into tangy ranch or blue cheese dressing.
As I sat there folding the wontons, I couldn’t help but reminisce about carefree game nights, where laughter and the aroma of spicy treats filled the air. These delectable morsels are not just perfect for impressing guests; they’re also a great way to break away from the mundane fast-food cycle. In just a few minutes, you can elevate your snacking game with these easy-to-make delights that feel fancy but come together so effortlessly. Let’s dive into how you can recreate this crowd-pleasing favorite right from your own kitchen!
Buffalo Chicken Wontons: Why You’ll Crave Them?
Flavorful and Easy: These Buffalo Chicken Wontons bring a perfect blend of spicy and creamy, making them a crowd favorite.
Quick Prep: They come together in no time, perfect for those busy weeknights or spontaneous get-togethers.
Versatile Filling: Swap in your favorite ingredients—think blue cheese or different proteins—to personalize each bite.
Crispy Delight: Frying to golden perfection ensures a satisfying crunch that will have everyone coming back for more.
For more exciting appetizers that pack a punch, check out our guide on easy party snacks.
Buffalo Chicken Wontons Ingredients
For the Filling
• Cooked chicken – shredded chicken provides a tender, savory base that attracts flavor.
• Cream cheese – adds a creamy richness to balance the heat of the buffalo sauce.
• Buffalo sauce – gives these wontons that signature spicy zing everyone loves.
• Shredded cheddar cheese – enhances the filling with a melty, cheesy goodness.
• Green onions – chopped for a fresh, slightly sharp flavor that brightens the dish.
For Assembly
• Wonton wrappers – these thin pastry sheets create perfectly crispy bites when fried.
• Cooking oil – essential for frying; choose a neutral oil for the best results.
For Serving
• Ranch or blue cheese dressing – perfect for dipping; enhances the flavors and cools the spice.
With these simple yet flavorful ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating Buffalo Chicken Wontons that are sure to impress!
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Wontons
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken, cream cheese, buffalo sauce, shredded cheddar cheese, and green onions until everything is well blended and creamy.
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Prepare Wonton Wrappers: Lay out several wonton wrappers on a clean surface, creating a workspace. Place about a teaspoon of the buffalo chicken mixture in the center of each wrapper for a generous filling.
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Seal the Wontons: Moisten the edges of each wonton wrapper with a little water. Fold the wrapper in half to form a triangle and pinch the edges tightly to seal any filling inside.
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Heat the Oil: In a deep frying pan or pot, heat oil over medium-high heat. Carefully add a few wontons at a time to the hot oil and fry them until they turn golden brown and crispy, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Transfer to paper towels to drain excess oil afterward.
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Serve with Dipping Sauce: Enjoy the buffalo chicken wontons while they are hot! Serve them alongside ranch or blue cheese dressing for a delightful dipping experience.
Optional: Garnish with chopped green onions for an extra pop of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Buffalo Chicken Wontons
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Don’t Overfill: To ensure proper sealing, add just a teaspoon of filling; overfilling can lead to bursting during frying.
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Seal Well: Moistening the edges of the wonton wrapper is crucial. A good seal prevents leaks and keeps the savory buffalo chicken wontons intact.
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Heat Check: Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying. If the oil isn’t hot, the wontons can become greasy instead of crispy.
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Batch Fry: Fry in small batches to maintain the oil temperature, which helps achieve that delicious, crunchy exterior.
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Custom Dips: Experiment with different dressings like honey mustard or spicy mayo along with ranch or blue cheese to enhance your buffalo chicken wontons!
Buffalo Chicken Wontons Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to personalize these delightful wontons to match your tastes and dietary preferences!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a tasty vegan-friendly option. Coconut cream also works well for added richness.
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Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or diced serrano peppers into the filling to amp up the heat! Experiment with different peppers to discover your perfect spice level.
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Protein Swap: Use ground turkey or shredded tofu in place of chicken for a different flavor profile. Each alternative adds its unique twist!
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Cheese Lovers: For a cheesy explosion, try using pepper jack cheese either in the filling or as an extra layer of flavor. The melted spice will complement the buffalo taste wonderfully.
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Herb-Infused: Add fresh cilantro or parsley to the filling for a burst of freshness. Just a tablespoon of your favorite herbs will elevate the flavor profile.
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Baked Alternative: Brush the filled wontons with olive oil and bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes for a healthier crispy option. This alternative keeps the same delicious flavor with less oil.
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Savory Veggies: Incorporate finely chopped spinach or mushrooms into the filling for a nutritious veggie twist. These will add moisture and complexity to each bite.
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Sauce Variations: Serve with a homemade sriracha mayo or sweet chili sauce for a fun twist on dipping sauces. These alternatives can bring out new flavors and sensations in each wonton.
Storage Tips for Buffalo Chicken Wontons
Room Temperature: Best enjoyed fresh, but if necessary, you can leave cooked wontons at room temperature for up to 2 hours before they should be refrigerated.
Fridge: Store any leftover buffalo chicken wontons in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for a crispy texture.
Freezer: To freeze, place uncooked filled wontons in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 1 month.
Reheating: For previously cooked wontons, reheat in the oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through to preserve their crispy exterior.
Make Ahead Options
These Buffalo Chicken Wontons are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy their deliciousness even on your busiest days! You can mix the filling (shredded chicken, cream cheese, buffalo sauce, cheddar, and green onions) up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Additionally, you can assemble the wontons and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover and freeze them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to serve, simply fry the wontons straight from the freezer for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown. This way, they will be just as crispy and tasty, delivering that satisfaction and convenience you crave!
What to Serve with Buffalo Chicken Wontons?
Imagine a table brimming with deliciously complementary dishes to elevate your appetizer experience.
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Crispy Coleslaw: This crunchy side adds a refreshing contrast, balancing the spicy and creamy flavors with its tangy zest. The coolness of the slaw refreshes the palate between bites.
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Loaded Nachos: Topped with cheese, jalapeños, and guacamole, nachos introduce a fun, shareable element that pairs perfectly with the savory wontons.
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Garlic Parmesan Fries: These crispy fries coated in garlic and parmesan offer a satisfying crunch and a comfort food element, enhancing the snack experience.
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Veggie Platter: Crisp carrots, bell peppers, and celery add a healthy, crunchy option for dipping in ranch or blue cheese dressing. This adds a colorful, fresh touch to your spread.
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Spicy Buffalo Cauliflower Bites: For a vegetarian twist, these bites mirror the wontons’ flavor profile while bringing in a delightful crunch. They’re perfect for anyone looking to explore different textures.
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Craft Beer: An ice-cold, hoppy IPA pairs wonderfully with the heat of the buffalo sauce. The bitterness of the beer cuts through the richness and enhances the flavors beautifully.
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Chocolate Lava Cake: To end on a sweet note, this indulgent dessert provides a rich contrast to the spicy wontons, helping you satisfy that sweet tooth after a savory start.
With these pairings, your buffalo chicken wontons will shine brightly in a vibrant spread, making them the star of your next gathering!
Buffalo Chicken Wontons Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right chicken for the filling?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, use cooked chicken that’s been shredded. Leftover rotisserie chicken works wonderfully, as it’s flavorful and already cooked. Just shred it before mixing it into your creamy buffalo goodness!
What’s the best way to store leftover wontons?
Very! Place any leftover buffalo chicken wontons in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in an oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crispy texture.
Can I freeze buffalo chicken wontons?
Absolutely! To freeze, lay the uncooked filled wontons in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid—about 1 hour. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. To cook from frozen, fry them without thawing for a few extra minutes until they’re golden and crispy!
How do I prevent the wontons from bursting while frying?
Great question! Make sure to seal your wontons very well by moistening the edges and pinching them tightly. Avoid overfilling them; a teaspoon of filling per wrapper is sufficient. Fry them in small batches to maintain oil temperature and prevent them from becoming greasy.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Definitely! If you have guests with allergies, be cautious with the buffalo sauce—some can contain gluten or dairy. You might also consider offering a dairy-free cream cheese alternative to accommodate those with lactose sensitivities. For a different flavor profile, try using different proteins, like ground turkey, or make them vegetarian by replacing the chicken with sautéed veggies!
Buffalo Chicken Wontons A Flavorful and Easy Appetizer Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken, cream cheese, buffalo sauce, shredded cheddar cheese, and green onions until everything is well blended and creamy.
- Lay out several wonton wrappers on a clean surface. Place about a teaspoon of the buffalo chicken mixture in the center of each wrapper.
- Moisten the edges of each wonton wrapper with a little water. Fold the wrapper in half to form a triangle and pinch the edges tightly to seal.
- In a deep frying pan or pot, heat oil over medium-high heat. Fry wontons until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes.
- Enjoy the buffalo chicken wontons while hot, served with ranch or blue cheese dressing.