Buffalo chicken wontons combine two crowd-pleasing favorites—spicy buffalo chicken and crispy wonton wrappers—into one irresistible bite. They’re the perfect appetizer for game days, parties, or whenever we’re craving something bold and flavorful. With their crunchy exterior and creamy, tangy filling, these wontons never fail to impress.
Buffalo Chicken Wontons Recipe
Creating Buffalo Chicken Wontons at home is simple and fun. These little pockets of crispy delight pack a punch of zesty buffalo flavor with creamy chicken filling wrapped in golden wonton wrappers. Let’s walk through the steps to make these crowd-pleasers.
Ingredients
Here’s what we’ll need to make these irresistible appetizers:
- 2 cups of cooked chicken, shredded
- 4 ounces of cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup of buffalo sauce (adjust based on spice preference)
- 1/4 cup of ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing
- 1/3 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1 package of wonton wrappers (about 40)
- 1 egg, lightly beaten (for sealing)
- Cooking oil (for frying)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, and buffalo sauce. Stir until evenly mixed and smooth. Add ranch or blue cheese dressing, shredded cheddar cheese, and green onions. Mix thoroughly to create a creamy, flavorful filling.
2. Assemble the Wontons
- Lay a single wonton wrapper on a clean flat surface.
- Place 1 teaspoon of the chicken mixture in the center of the wrapper.
- Lightly brush the edges of the wrapper with the beaten egg to act as glue.
- Fold the wrapper into a triangle, pressing the edges to seal. For extra security, press gently all around the edges to remove air pockets.
- Optional: Fold the two outer corners of the triangle toward the center and seal them together with the egg.
3. Fry the Wontons
- Heat 2-3 inches of cooking oil in a deep frying pan or pot to 350°F. Use a thermometer for accuracy.
- Carefully place 4-5 wontons into the hot oil. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crisp.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the wontons and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Repeat with remaining wontons.
4. Serve and Enjoy
Serve the wontons immediately with ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side for dipping. For a garnish, sprinkle some chopped green onions on top for a pop of color and freshness.
Quick Tips for Success
| Tip | Details |
|---|---|
| Keep wrappers moist | Cover wonton wrappers with a damp towel to prevent drying out. |
| Monitor oil temperature | Keep oil consistent at 350°F to avoid greasy or undercooked wontons. |
| Work in small batches | Frying 4-5 wontons at a time ensures even cooking. |
This recipe guarantees crispy, flavorful Buffalo Chicken Wontons that will disappear in minutes at any gathering.
Ingredients
To create these irresistible Buffalo Chicken Wontons, we will need a perfect combination of creamy, spicy, and crispy elements. Here’s a detailed list of ingredients that ensure these appetizers are packed with flavor:
For the Filling:
- 1 ½ cups shredded cooked chicken, (rotisserie chicken works great).
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened.
- ⅓ cup buffalo sauce, adjust for preferred spice level.
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese or a cheese blend.
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional, for extra flavor).
- 1 tsp garlic powder for savory depth.
- ½ tsp onion powder to enhance the taste.
- Pinch of salt and pepper, to taste.
For the Wontons:
- 20-24 wonton wrappers, keep them covered to prevent dryness.
- Water or egg wash, for sealing edges.
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil or canola oil (enough for deep frying, about 2-3 inches deep).
Optional for Serving:
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing, for dipping.
- Chopped green onions or parsley, for garnish.
- Extra buffalo sauce, for drizzle.
Tools And Equipment
To ensure our Buffalo Chicken Wontons turn out perfectly, having the right tools and equipment is key. Below is a comprehensive list of must-have items to streamline the process and achieve the best results:
Essential Tools
- Mixing Bowls: Use medium and large bowls to prepare the buffalo chicken filling and handle any other mixing needs.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise measurements of ingredients like buffalo sauce, cream cheese, and seasonings.
- Spoon or Spatula: Ideal for combining the filling ingredients smoothly.
- Wonton Wrapper Brush: A small kitchen brush or your fingers to seal the wonton edges with water.
- Cutting Board and Knife: To finely chop green onions and shred any additional garnishes.
Cooking Equipment
- Deep Fryer or Heavy-Bottomed Pot: Required for frying the wontons to a golden crisp. A heavy-bottomed pot helps in maintaining consistent oil temperature.
- Thermometer: A deep-fry thermometer is essential to monitor the oil temperature, ensuring it stays steady between 350°F–375°F for even frying.
- Tongs or Slotted Spoon: Use these to gently lower the wontons into the hot oil and safely remove them after frying.
- Baking Sheet with Paper Towels: To drain excess oil from the fried wontons and keep their texture crispy.
Optional Tools
- Piping Bag (or Ziplock Bag): If you prefer neatness, you can use a piping bag to place the filling into the wonton wrappers.
- Air Fryer: For a healthier frying option, an air fryer is an excellent alternative to deep-frying. It still delivers crispy wontons with less oil.
| Tool/Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | Combine buffalo chicken filling |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Ingredient accuracy |
| Heavy-Bottomed Pot/Fryer | Frying wontons to golden perfection |
| Deep-Fry Thermometer | Maintains the ideal oil temperature (350°F–375°F) |
| Tongs/Slotted Spoon | Safely handle wontons in hot oil |
| Baking Sheet with Towels | Drains oil and keeps wontons crispy |
Directions
Let’s walk through the steps to create these irresistible Buffalo Chicken Wontons. From preparing the creamy, tangy filling to assembling and frying to golden perfection, follow these simple instructions for a guaranteed party hit.
Prep The Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups shredded cooked chicken, 4 ounces softened cream cheese, and 1/3 cup buffalo sauce.
- Add 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 2 thinly sliced green onions, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon onion powder. Mix until well-combined.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed.
- Ensure the filling is creamy and cohesive for easy scooping. Set it aside.
Assemble The Wontons
- Lay wonton wrappers flat on a clean surface or cutting board. Keep the unused wrappers covered with a damp paper towel to prevent drying.
- Spoon about 1 teaspoon of buffalo chicken filling into the center of each wrapper.
- Lightly brush the edges of the wrapper with water using your finger or a pastry brush.
- Fold the wrapper diagonally to create a triangle, pressing out any air pockets. Seal tightly by firmly pressing the edges together.
- For an additional seal, pinch the two opposite corners of the triangle together to form a pleated wonton shape.
Cook The Wontons
Option 1: Frying
- Heat 2-3 inches of oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C). Use a kitchen thermometer to monitor the temperature for consistent results.
- Carefully drop a few wontons into the oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot.
- Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, turning them occasionally for even cooking.
- Remove with tongs or a slotted spoon and transfer to a plate lined with paper towels.
Option 2: Air Fryer
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Spray the basket with a light coating of oil. Place the wontons in a single layer, leaving space between them.
- Lightly spray the tops of the wontons with oil to ensure crispness.
- Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the wontons are golden and crisp.
| Cooking Method | Temperature | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Frying | 350°F (175°C) | 2-3 minutes per batch |
| Air Fryer | 375°F (190°C) | 8-10 minutes |
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing these buffalo chicken wontons ahead of time is a fantastic way to save time and ensure you’re party-ready without last-minute stress. Here’s a guide on how to plan and execute make-ahead steps effectively:
Assemble Ahead of Time
- Prepare the buffalo chicken filling as instructed and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before assembling the wontons.
- Lay out your wonton assembly station and prepare the wontons as described. Once assembled, place the un-cooked wontons on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they don’t touch each other to avoid sticking.
- Cover the sheet tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Freezing the Wontons
For longer storage, freeze the wontons before cooking to preserve their texture and freshness:
- After laying the wontons on a parchment-lined tray, freeze them uncovered for 1-2 hours until they are firm.
- Once solid, transfer the wontons to a freezer-safe bag or container. Store them for up to 3 months.
- When ready to cook, you can fry or air fry them directly from frozen—no need to thaw. Simply increase the cooking time by about 1-2 minutes to ensure they are cooked through.
Pre-Cook and Reheat
If you prefer, you can cook the wontons in advance:
- Fry or air fry the wontons as directed in the recipe. Allow them to cool completely.
- Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- To reheat: Place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes or air fry for 3-4 minutes at 350°F, until crisp and warmed through.
Storage Time Overview
| Storage Method | Timeframe |
|---|---|
| Filling in Refrigerator | Up to 2 days |
| Assembled Wontons (Fridge) | Up to 24 hours |
| Assembled Wontons (Frozen) | Up to 3 months |
| Cooked Wontons (Refrigerated) | Up to 2 days |
Pro Tip: Always store wontons in a single layer to maintain their shape and crisp edges. If stacking is unavoidable, use parchment paper between layers.
Tips For Perfect Buffalo Chicken Wontons
To ensure our Buffalo Chicken Wontons turn out irresistibly crispy and flavorful every time, here are some of our tried-and-true tips:
1. Keep Wonton Wrappers Moist
Wonton wrappers can dry out quickly, making them prone to cracking or tearing when folded. To prevent this:
- Cover unused wrappers with a damp kitchen towel while assembling the wontons.
- Work on one wrapper at a time to minimize exposure to air.
2. Properly Seal the Edges
For wontons to hold their filling and stay intact during cooking, it’s crucial to seal them well.
- Brush the edges with a small amount of water, ensuring a tight seal.
- Press firmly to eliminate air pockets, which can cause them to burst during frying.
3. Monitor Oil Temperature
Crispy wontons depend on the oil being at the proper temperature.
- Use a candy thermometer to maintain the oil at 350°F (175°C).
- If the oil is too hot, the wrappers will burn before the filling cooks. If too cool, they’ll absorb oil and become greasy.
4. Work in Batches While Frying
Overcrowding the pan lowers the oil temperature, affecting the crispiness. Fry only 4-5 wontons at a time, depending on the size of your pot.
5. Experiment with Cooking Methods
While traditional frying gives the wontons a golden, crunchy exterior, an air fryer is a fantastic alternative for a lighter version. Spray the assembled wontons lightly with oil and cook at 375°F for about 8-10 minutes in the air fryer.
6. Customize the Heat Level
We can adjust the spice level of our filling by increasing or reducing the amount of buffalo sauce. Adding a touch of honey or a pinch of sugar balances the heat for a milder flavor profile.
7. Serve While Fresh
Buffalo Chicken Wontons are best when they’re freshly cooked and crispy. If creating a large batch, place cooked wontons on a wire rack over a baking sheet in a warm oven (200°F) to keep them crisp until serving.
8. Use the Right Tools for Efficiency
Here’s a quick tool guide for perfectly prepped wontons:
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Damp Kitchen Towel | Keeping wonton wrappers moist. |
| Small Brush or Fingers | Sealing wonton edges with precision. |
| Candy Thermometer | Monitoring oil temperature for frying. |
| Deep Fryer/Heavy Pot | Ensuring even frying for golden crispness. |
| Wire Rack | Draining wontons to maintain their crunchy texture. |
9. Test with One Before Frying All
It’s a good idea to fry one wonton first to ensure seasoning and cooking time are perfect before committing to a full batch. Adjust salt, spice, or time as needed.
10. Pair with Dipping Sauces
Don’t forget to serve with complementary dips like ranch, blue cheese dressing, or extra buffalo sauce. These amplify the flavors and give that classic finishing touch.
By keeping these tips handy, we can craft flawless buffalo chicken wontons every time.
Serving Suggestions
Buffalo chicken wontons are an incredibly versatile appetizer, perfect for various occasions. To elevate the dish and create a memorable experience, here are some of our favorite serving suggestions that complement the spicy, creamy, and crispy nature of these wontons:
1. Dipping Sauces
Pairing these wontons with the right dipping sauces takes them to the next level. We recommend offering a selection so everyone can find their favorite:
- Creamy ranch dressing: Balances the heat with a cooling touch.
- Blue cheese dressing: Highlights the tangy buffalo flavor and adds depth.
- Extra buffalo sauce: For those who crave a spicy kick.
- Honey mustard: Offers a sweet and tangy contrast.
- Garlic aioli: Adds a creamy flavor with a garlicky twist.
Pro Tip: Serve the sauces in small bowls or ramekins for easy dipping and an elegant presentation.
2. Plated with Fresh Accents
Add a fresh, crisp contrast to the rich wontons by plating them with fresh vegetables:
- A bed of shredded lettuce or cabbage to create a vibrant base.
- Fresh celery sticks and carrot sticks on the side for a classic pairing often seen with buffalo dishes.
- Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley for a pop of color and a fresh bite.
3. Drizzle for Extra Flavor
Enhance the visual appeal and flavor with drizzles:
- Drizzle a thin layer of ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, or buffalo sauce over a platter of wontons using a squeeze bottle for precision.
- Sprinkle crumbly blue cheese over the wontons for added texture and flavor.
4. Appetizer Platters
Create a party-worthy platter by combining the buffalo chicken wontons with other appetizers. Here’s a layout idea:
| Item | Reason to Include |
|---|---|
| Mozzarella sticks | Offers a gooey and cheesy contrast to the wontons. |
| Chicken wings | Complements the buffalo theme with classic flavors. |
| Loaded potato skins | Adds a hearty and comforting option to the spread. |
| Mini veggie cups | Balances out the richness with refreshing crunch. |
5. Game Day Setup
For a game day vibe, serve the wontons as part of a snack table. Arrange them on a large platter with dipping sauces in the center, next to bowls of popcorn, chips with guacamole, and sliders. Label each item with small signs for a fun and interactive setup.
6. Meal Pairings
If you’re serving these wontons as part of a meal, pair them with:
- A crisp side salad with a simple vinaigrette to cut through the richness.
- A warm bowl of tomato soup or corn chowder for a comforting combination.
- Fries or sweet potato fries for a classic, indulgent pairing.
7. Garnish and Presentation
Presentation can make a big difference:
- Arrange wontons in a circular pattern on a round platter for an elegant display.
- Sprinkle a pinch of paprika over the wontons for added color.
- Serve on a wooden board lined with parchment paper for a rustic touch.
Conclusion
Buffalo chicken wontons are the perfect blend of bold flavors and crispy textures, making them a must-have for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a cozy night in, these bite-sized treats are sure to impress. With the right ingredients, tools, and a little preparation, creating these flavorful wontons is easier than ever.
We love how versatile they are, from customizing the spice level to pairing them with your favorite dips. They’re not just appetizers—they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds. So grab your wonton wrappers, fire up the fryer, and let’s bring this delicious recipe to life!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are buffalo chicken wontons?
Buffalo chicken wontons are a popular appetizer made by combining shredded chicken, cream cheese, buffalo sauce, and seasonings, wrapped in wonton wrappers and cooked to a crispy golden texture. They are known for their spicy, creamy, and tangy flavor, making them a perfect dish for parties and game days.
What ingredients are needed to make buffalo chicken wontons?
You’ll need shredded cooked chicken, cream cheese, buffalo sauce, shredded cheddar cheese, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, wonton wrappers, and oil for frying. Optional ingredients include ranch or blue cheese dressing and extra buffalo sauce for dipping or drizzling.
How do you assemble buffalo chicken wontons?
To assemble, place a small amount of the buffalo chicken filling in the center of a wonton wrapper. Moisten the edges with water, fold to seal tightly, and press out any air. Proper sealing ensures they stay intact while cooking.
Can I make buffalo chicken wontons in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the wontons ahead of time. Store uncooked wontons in the refrigerator for 1-2 days or freeze them for longer storage. Cook them directly from the refrigerator or frozen as needed.
How do I cook buffalo chicken wontons?
You can fry them in oil at 350°F for 2-3 minutes until golden or cook them in an air fryer at 375°F for 6-8 minutes. Both methods yield crispy wontons, with frying offering a more traditional texture.
What dipping sauces go well with buffalo chicken wontons?
Ranch, blue cheese dressing, honey mustard, and extra buffalo sauce are popular options. These dips complement the spicy and tangy flavors of the wontons perfectly.
Can buffalo chicken wontons be reheated?
Yes, reheat pre-cooked wontons in an air fryer or oven at 350°F for a few minutes to restore crispiness without making them soggy. Avoid using the microwave for reheating as it may make them soft.
Are air fryers a good option for cooking wontons?
Absolutely! Air fryers provide a healthier alternative to deep frying while still achieving a crispy texture. Use 375°F for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
How should buffalo chicken wontons be stored?
Store uncooked wontons in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freeze them on a tray before transferring to a freezer bag. Cooked wontons can be refrigerated for 2-3 days, but they’re best enjoyed fresh.
What are some serving suggestions for buffalo chicken wontons?
Serve them with dipping sauces, fresh vegetables, or arrange them on an appetizer platter for parties. They also pair well with salads or soups for a complete meal. Drizzle sauces for added flavor and enhance presentation when serving.