Buffalo chicken is a popular dish that’s loved by many. It’s spicy, tangy, and delicious, making it a great option for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking it at home or ordering it from your favorite restaurant, it’s important to know what foods go well with buffalo chicken.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the best foods to eat with buffalo chicken. From side dishes to toppings, we’ve got you covered. So, whether you’re planning a party or simply looking to spice up your weeknight dinner, read on to discover some delicious and creative ways to enjoy buffalo chicken.
Classic Pairings for Buffalo Chicken: Fries, Celery, and Ranch Dressing
When it comes to classic pairings for buffalo chicken, there are a few staples that everyone should be aware of. At the top of the list is fries – whether you opt for a classic French fry or a sweet potato version, these starchy treats are the perfect complement to the spiciness of the buffalo chicken. You can also dress the fries up with toppings like cheese, bacon, and scallions to make them even more delicious.
Another classic pairing for buffalo chicken is celery, which is often served in small, crunchy pieces that help to balance out the heat of the chicken. Plus, celery is low in calories and high in nutrients, so it’s a great option if you’re looking for a healthier side dish. Finally, no plate of buffalo chicken would be complete without a generous dollop of ranch dressing on the side – the creamy, tangy flavor of the dressing is the perfect complement to the spicy buffalo sauce. Whether you’re dipping fries, celery, or even chicken tenders into it, ranch dressing is a must-have when you’re eating buffalo chicken.
Unexpected Combinations: Buffalo Chicken Tacos, Salad, and Pasta
Buffalo chicken is a perfect match for those who love spicy food. It’s delicious and offers variety, making it an ideal ingredient for different dishes. Trying unexpected combinations like buffalo chicken tacos, salad, and pasta can add a unique twist to your meal and make it a memorable one.
Buffalo chicken tacos are a perfect blend of spicy and cool flavors. To prepare buffalo chicken tacos, start off by grilling or sautéing the chicken in buffalo sauce. Then, add some guacamole, cheese, and lettuce. Top it off with some sour cream to balance out the spice and enjoy the result. Similarly, buffalo chicken salad is an excellent way to incorporate this spicy protein into your healthy diet. Tossing sliced buffalo chicken with greens, vegetables, and a creamy dressing can turn it into a satisfying and healthy salad. Finally, if you’re game for something different, try combining buffalo chicken with pasta. Cook penne pasta and add in buffalo chicken, cream, and your favorite vegetables, creating a creamy and spicy pasta dish.
Vegetarian and Vegan Alternatives: Buffalo Cauliflower, Chickpea Salad, and Quinoa Bowls
If you’re a vegetarian or a vegan, don’t worry, there are still a lot of delicious options that you can eat with buffalo chicken without sacrificing your dietary restrictions. One of the best alternatives is buffalo cauliflower, where instead of chicken, you use roasted cauliflower which is baked with the same buffalo sauce, either served as a snack or as a main dish. It’s a great source of Vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber, all while providing the same satisfying heat as buffalo chicken.
Another great vegetarian alternative is Chickpea salad, which is a great source of protein, fiber, and nutrients. Simply toss boiled chickpeas with buffalo sauce, chopped celery, and carrots, and you have yourself a delicious and nutritious salad, packed with flavors. And for those who want a more substantial and filling meal, quinoa bowls are an excellent option. Topped with roasted vegetables, grilled tofu, and drizzled with buffalo sauce, it’s a tasty and healthy way of enjoying buffalo-style flavors while staying true to your dietary restrictions.
Global Cuisine Inspiration: Buffalo Chicken Pizza, Sushi, and Empanadas
When it comes to expanding your culinary horizons, mixing up classic recipes with global flavors is a great way to start. Buffalo chicken, a popular dish that originated in the United States, can be transformed into a variety of international dishes. For example, you can enjoy the spicy and tangy flavors of buffalo chicken on top of a crispy pizza with a drizzle of blue cheese dressing. The combination of the tender chicken, melted cheese and bold flavors will deliver a flavor explosion in every bite.
Empanadas, a traditional Latin American dish, can also be stuffed with buffalo chicken. These small pastries are filled with tender chicken, hot sauce, onions, and cheese. They can be served as appetizers or a main course, and they’re perfect for parties. Want to take it up to a notch? Try the mouth-watering combination of sushi and buffalo chicken. This fusion dish adds a fiery kick to traditional sushi rolls and adds a new twist to the dish. So the next time you’re craving buffalo chicken, try these international dishes and be adventurous in your culinary explorations!
Low-Carb Options: Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps, Zucchini Fritters, and Stuffed Peppers
If you’re trying to keep your carb intake low, there are still plenty of delicious options for enjoying buffalo chicken. One great choice is to make buffalo chicken lettuce wraps. Simply wrap shredded buffalo chicken in a crisp lettuce leaf with some shredded carrots and chopped celery for added crunch. This option is not only low-carb but also low-calorie and packed with nutrients.
Another low-carb option is zucchini fritters with buffalo chicken. These fritters are made by shredding zucchini, mixing it with egg and almond flour, and then frying them up until crispy. Top them with buffalo chicken and a little blue cheese dressing for a tasty low-carb meal. Finally, stuffed bell peppers make a great low-carb option. Fill halved bell peppers with buffalo chicken, top with some grated cheese, and bake until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted. These low-carb options are sure to satisfy your craving for buffalo chicken while keeping your carb intake in check.
Perfect Beverages to Serve with Buffalo Chicken: Beer, Margaritas, and Lemonade
Buffalo chicken is spicy and flavorful, which means you’ll want to pair it with a refreshing drink that can balance out the heat. Beer is a classic choice and pairs perfectly with buffalo wings. A cold beer can help cut the spice and refresh your palate after each bite of chicken. Go for a light, crisp lager or an ale with hints of citrus or hops for a perfect match.
If you’re looking for something with a little more kick, try a margarita. This classic Mexican cocktail with tequila, triple sec, and lime juice will complement the spicy flavors of the buffalo chicken while cutting through the heat. You can also opt for a non-alcoholic drink, such as lemonade. The tartness of the lemonade can cut through the richness of the buffalo chicken and provide a refreshing balance. Additionally, it is a perfect choice for those who prefer non-alcoholic drinks.
Sauces and Dips that Complement Buffalo Chicken: Blue Cheese Dressing, Honey Mustard, and Sriracha Mayo
No party or game night is complete without some snacks and dips. If you’re serving buffalo chicken, it’s important to have a few complementary sauces and dips that your guests can enjoy. Blue cheese dressing is a classic dip that pairs perfectly with buffalo chicken. The tangy flavor of blue cheese perfectly complements the spiciness of buffalo chicken, making it a favorite for many. You can either buy ready-made blue cheese dressing or make it at home with some blue cheese crumbles, sour cream, mayonnaise, and a few other ingredients.
Another great dip to serve with buffalo chicken is honey mustard. The sweetness of the honey and the tanginess of mustard make this dip a crowd-pleaser. You can also combine honey mustard with blue cheese dressing to create a delicious flavor combination. If you’re looking for a spicy dip, sriracha mayo is a great option. The creaminess of mayo balances out the heat of the sriracha, making it a perfect dip for those who love spice. These dips are easy to make and are perfect for serving with buffalo chicken wings, tenders, or even a buffalo chicken sandwich.
Wrapping Up
If you’re a fan of spicy, tangy buffalo chicken, you certainly have a wide range of options beyond the classic chicken wings dish. Buffalo chicken dip, wraps, salads, pizzas, and sandwiches are just a few of the ways you can enjoy this delicious flavor.
With a little bit of creativity, you can come up with countless ways to incorporate buffalo chicken into your meals. Whether you prefer meat or veggies, carbs or salads, there’s a buffalo chicken dish out there for everyone. So next time you’re craving something spicy and flavorful, explore the many options available to you and indulge in the delicious taste of buffalo chicken.