Buffalo chicken smashed potato cups are a fun and tasty dish that is sure to impress your friends and family. If you enjoy the spicy, tangy goodness of buffalo chicken, pair it with creamy mashed potatoes, and you have a winning combination! This recipe is perfect for gatherings, appetizers, or even a casual dinner.
What are Buffalo Chicken Smashed Potato Cups?
Buffalo chicken smashed potato cups bring together the beloved flavors of buffalo chicken and the comforting texture of mashed potatoes. Instead of serving these ingredients on their own, we’re creating delightful little cups that are easy to eat and full of flavor. It’s a great way to enjoy a classic dish in a new, creative format.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly.
- Crowd-Pleaser: The unique presentation and delicious taste make it a hit at parties.
- Customizable: You can adjust the ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs.
Ingredients for Buffalo Chicken Smashed Potato Cups
The Smashed Potatoes
- 2 pounds russet potatoes: These are perfect for that fluffy texture.
- 1/2 cup cream cheese: Adds richness and creaminess to the potatoes.
- 1/4 cup butter: For flavor and creaminess.
- 1/2 cup milk: You can use whole or skim; your choice.
- Salt and pepper: To taste.
The Buffalo Chicken Filling
- 2 cups cooked chicken: Shredded or diced; rotisserie chicken works well.
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce: Pick your favorite brand or make your own.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: For that gooey, melty goodness.
- 1/4 cup blue cheese crumbles (optional): For those who love that tangy flavor.
Topping
- Green onions: Thinly sliced for garnish.
- Extra buffalo sauce: For drizzling on top.
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Smashed Potato Cups
Making these cups involves a few steps, but we promise it’s worth it! Follow along and you’ll be enjoying these delicious treats in no time.
Prepare the Potatoes
- Boil the Potatoes: Start by peeling and cutting the russet potatoes into chunks. Place them in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Bring to a boil and cook until tender, about 15 to 20 minutes.
- Drain and Mash: Once the potatoes are fork-tender, drain the water and return them to the pot. Add in cream cheese, butter, milk, salt, and pepper. Mash until creamy and smooth. Set aside to cool while you prepare the chicken filling.
Make the Buffalo Chicken Filling
- Mix the Chicken and Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken and buffalo sauce. Stir well until the chicken is completely coated.
- Add Cheese: Mix in half of the shredded cheddar cheese and blue cheese, if using. This will make the filling extra cheesy and delicious.
Assemble the Potato Cups
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Prep the Muffin Tin: Grease a muffin tin with cooking spray or butter to prevent the cups from sticking.
- Fill the Muffin Tin: Spoon about a tablespoon of mashed potato into each muffin cup. Use a fork to create a little well in the center of each potato cup.
- Add Chicken Filling: Spoon the buffalo chicken filling into each well. Top with remaining shredded cheddar cheese.
Bake the Potato Cups
- Bake: Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the cheese is melted.
- Cool: Remove from the oven and let the cups cool for a few minutes before removing them from the tin. Use a butter knife to carefully lift the cups out.
How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Smashed Potato Cups
These little delights can be served hot or warm. To really make them shine, consider these serving suggestions:
- Garnish: Sprinkle sliced green onions and drizzle with extra buffalo sauce for a pop of color and flavor.
- Dipping Sauce: Serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side for dipping.
- Pairing Options: These cups are great with a side salad or some steamed veggies for a complete meal.
Tips for the Best Buffalo Chicken Smashed Potato Cups
- Uniform Potato Size: When boiling your potatoes, try to cut them into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Chicken Options: Use leftover chicken or store-bought rotisserie chicken for a quick prep.
- Texture Preference: If you prefer a chunkier filling, don’t shred the chicken too finely.
Storage Tips for Buffalo Chicken Smashed Potato Cups
- Refrigerate: Store any leftover cups in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: To reheat, bake in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.
- Freeze: You can freeze the cups after baking. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They’ll last for about 2 months.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper to the buffalo sauce for extra heat.
- Veggie Option: Substitute chicken with cooked veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
- Cheese Lovers: Use a mix of different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for variety.
Nutritional Benefits
Buffalo chicken smashed potato cups offer a mix of nutrients:
- Protein: From the chicken and cheese, making it a filling option.
- Carbohydrates: The potatoes provide energy to keep you going throughout the day.
- Vitamins: Including green onions adds additional vitamins to your dish.
Buffalo chicken smashed potato cups are a fantastic addition to your recipe repertoire. They are easy to prepare, full of flavor, and can be tailored to suit your tastes. The best part is, they bring a fun twist to traditional buffalo chicken and mashed potatoes, taking your flavors to the next level. So grab your apron and give this delicious recipe a try!