Name: Buffalo Chicken Wonton Cups: A Crowd-Pleasing Delight
Prep time: 35 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Cooked Shredded Chicken (Using rotisserie chicken saves time.); 1/2 cup Buffalo Sauce (Adjust based on heat preference.); 8 oz Cream Cheese (Greek yogurt can be a lighter substitute.); 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese (Monterey Jack can add a flavor twist.); 24 pieces Wonton Wrappers (Dried bean curd sheets can work as a substitute.); 1 tbsp Cooking Spray (Prevents sticking in the muffin tin.); 2 tbsp Green Onions (Finely sliced for garnish.)

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Amidst the chaos of a bustling kitchen, I stumbled upon a new favorite that would become my go-to for gatherings: Buffalo Chicken Wonton Cups. These irresistible bite-sized appetizers blend spicy, creamy chicken filling with crispy wonton wrappers, creating a culinary delight that has become a crowd-pleaser among friends and family. With just 35 minutes of prep time, these quick and simple goodies bring a flavorful twist to any occasion while keeping your entertaining stress-free. Plus, they’re versatile enough to adapt to your personal taste—add more buffalo sauce for a fiery kick, or pop in some black beans for extra texture! Are you ready to impress your guests with a fun and delicious snack that’s bound to vanish in moments? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why You’ll Love Buffalo Chicken Wonton Cups

Quick Preparation: These delightful appetizers come together in just 35 minutes, making them a stress-free option for any gathering.

Crowd-Pleaser: With their spicy and creamy filling encased in a crispy wonton shell, these cups are sure to impress family and friends, vanishing from the table in a heartbeat!

Versatility: Feel free to adapt the flavor by adding in more buffalo sauce for an extra kick, or even swap in different proteins like ground turkey or beef for a wholesome twist.

Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s game day or a cozy gathering, serve these with ranch or blue cheese dressing for an unbeatable pairing.

Nutritious Bite: Each cup packs approximately 240 calories, contributing to a satisfying snack that doesn’t compromise on flavor or enjoyment. For more tempting ideas, try our Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower for a lighter bite!

Buffalo Chicken Wonton Cups Ingredients

For the Filling

Cooked Shredded Chicken – Provides the main protein and texture; using rotisserie chicken saves time.
Buffalo Sauce – Adds a spicy kick; adjust the amount based on your desired heat level.
Cream Cheese – Creates a creamy texture and binds the filling; Greek yogurt can be a lighter substitute.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Contributes richness and creaminess; Monterey Jack adds a different flavor twist.

For the Cups

Wonton Wrappers – Forms the crispy base for the cups; dried bean curd sheets can work as a substitute.
Cooking Spray – Prevents sticking in the muffin tin, ensuring perfect removal of your Buffalo Chicken Wonton Cups.

For the Garnish

Green Onions – Adds freshness and color as a topping; although optional, they enhance the overall presentation.

Bring these ingredients together, and you’ll be one step closer to creating a delicious snack that’s perfect for any occasion!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Buffalo Chicken Wonton Cups

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and gather a muffin tin. Spray each cup generously with cooking spray to prevent sticking, ensuring that your Buffalo Chicken Wonton Cups release easily after baking. As you wait for the oven to heat, you can prepare the filling, making sure everything is ready for assembly.

Step 2: Make the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine your cooked shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, cream cheese, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir the mixture until it’s fully blended and creamy, creating a flavorful filling that’s rich with the kick of buffalo sauce. This step should take about 5 minutes, and it’s essential to get the right consistency before moving on.

Step 3: Assemble the Wonton Cups
Place the wonton wrappers into the prepared muffin tin, gently pressing them into the bottom and up the sides to form small cups. Make sure they’re tightly pressed to maintain their shape during baking. This should only take a few minutes, and you’ll want to ensure that each cup is well-formed for the best results with your Buffalo Chicken Wonton Cups.

Step 4: Fill the Cups
Spoon the buffalo chicken mixture into each wonton cup, filling them nearly to the brim. The combination of flavors and textures will start to come alive at this stage. Be sure not to overfill, as the filling may expand during baking. This step should take around 5 minutes, so take your time to ensure even distribution.

Step 5: Top with Cheese
Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese on top of each filled wonton cup. This layer of cheese not only adds flavor but also creates that delicious, gooey texture as it melts in the oven. It should take about 2 minutes to accurately distribute the cheese across all your Buffalo Chicken Wonton Cups.

Step 6: Bake in the Oven
Carefully place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on the cups as they cook; they are done when the edges are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crispiness for your wonton cups.

Step 7: Cool and Remove
Once baked, remove the muffin tin from the oven and let the cups cool for about 5 minutes. This will help the filling set slightly, making them easier to remove. Use a fork or spoon to gently lift each Buffalo Chicken Wonton Cup out of the tin, taking care to preserve their shape as you transfer them to a serving platter.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, garnish your Buffalo Chicken Wonton Cups with finely sliced green onions for a pop of color and freshness. This final touch not only enhances the presentation but adds a delightful crunch. Serve them warm, and watch them vanish from the table as your guests indulge in this delicious appetizer!

Storage Tips for Buffalo Chicken Wonton Cups

Room Temperature: Allow the cups to cool completely before storing at room temperature for up to 2 hours. After that, they should be refrigerated.

Fridge: Store leftover Buffalo Chicken Wonton Cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for a crispy texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the assembled cups (unbaked) on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating: To reheat, place the cups in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes until heated through, ensuring they remain crispy.

What to Serve with Buffalo Chicken Wonton Cups

Create a memorable spread with delightful pairings that elevate your Buffalo Chicken Wonton Cups to a full meal experience.

Creamy Ranch Dip: A classic pairing that cuts through the spice, making each bite refreshing and indulgent.
Crunchy Veggie Platter: Fresh carrots, celery, and cucumbers bring a crisp and cool contrast, perfect for dipping in your favorite sauces.
Spicy Fries: Crispy fries seasoned with a bit of cayenne pepper echo the bold flavors of the wonton cups, adding satisfying crunch.
Crisp Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette offers a refreshing complement to the rich filling.
Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks are perfect for mopping up any leftover dip, balancing spice with heartiness.
Coleslaw: This creamy side is not only easy to make but adds a crunch that harmonizes beautifully with the texture of the cups.
Sweet Drink Options: Pair with sweet iced tea or lemonade to provide a delightful contrast to the savory heat of your Buffalo Chicken Wonton Cups.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: End your meal on a sweet note with warm, gooey cookies for a classic dessert everyone’s sure to adore.

Expert Tips for Buffalo Chicken Wonton Cups

Perfect Wrapping: Ensure wonton wrappers are pressed tightly into the muffin tin to prevent them from unfolding during baking. This helps maintain the shape of your cups.
Adjusting Spice: Taste your filling after combining the buffalo sauce and adjust the amount based on your heat preference. A little more can give your Buffalo Chicken Wonton Cups an extra kick!
Cooling Technique: Let the cups cool for a few minutes after baking. This will help them hold their shape when removing from the tin, making serving a breeze.
Cheese Choice: Experiment with different cheeses! Try adding pepper jack for added heat or mozzarella for a gooey, stretchy texture to your Buffalo Chicken Wonton Cups.
Make Ahead: Prepare the filling ahead of time and store in the refrigerator. Assemble and bake your cups right before serving for the freshest taste.

Make Ahead Options

These Buffalo Chicken Wonton Cups are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time while still delivering delicious flavors! You can prepare the filling up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the cooked shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, cream cheese, and half of the cheddar cheese, then storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The wonton wrappers can also be assembled in the muffin tin ahead of time—simply cover the tray with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, fill the cups with the prepared filling and top them with cheese before baking for 15-20 minutes. This way, you’ll have mouthwatering appetizers that are just as tasty and flavorful while making entertaining a breeze!

Buffalo Chicken Wonton Cups Variations

Feel inspired to make these Buffalo Chicken Wonton Cups your own with delicious twists that will awaken your palate!

Dairy-Free: Swap cream cheese with cashew cream or a dairy-free mayonnaise for a nutty base, keeping it rich and creamy.
Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture for an extra fiery kick that’s sure to excite spice lovers!
Vegetarian Option: Use black beans or finely chopped mushrooms in place of the chicken for a hearty filling packed with flavor and protein.
Flavor Fusion: Mix in some taco seasoning and top with salsa for a Tex-Mex twist that’ll add a whole new dimension to your wonton cups.
Cheese Varieties: Try using pepper jack cheese for an added heat, or go with gouda for a smoky flavor that will surprise your taste buds.
Mixed Mushrooms: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms into the filling for added umami and a delightful earthy flavor; it adds a fantastic contrast to the chicken.
Crunchy Topping: Before serving, sprinkle crushed tortilla chips on top for a crunchy finish that complements the creamy filling beautifully.
Meat Lovers: Add cooked chopped bacon or ground sausage to the filling to indulge any meat lover’s cravings, elevating your appetizer to new heights.

Don’t forget, these wonton cups are adaptable! If you’re enjoying these creative spins, consider serving them alongside a refreshing dip like ranch or try pairing them with our Tandoori Chicken Tikka for a fantastic meal combo!

Buffalo Chicken Wonton Cups Recipe FAQs

What kind of chicken should I use?
Using cooked shredded chicken is ideal for these Buffalo Chicken Wonton Cups. I often recommend rotisserie chicken because it saves time and adds flavor. Just remove the skin, shred it, and it’s ready to go!

How should I store leftover Buffalo Chicken Wonton Cups?
Once they cool completely, place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to retain their crispy texture.

Can I freeze the Buffalo Chicken Wonton Cups?
Absolutely! If you want to get ahead of the game, you can freeze the assembled (but unbaked) cups. Arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to an airtight container and store for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, pop them directly into a preheated oven for a few extra minutes compared to the normal baking time.

What if my wonton wrappers unfold while baking?
To ensure your wonton wrappers stay put, make sure they are tightly pressed into the muffin tin. If you notice any that start to unfold, you can carefully press them back in during the halfway mark of baking. Keeping the filling dense will also help maintain their shape.

Are there any dietary considerations for these Buffalo Chicken Wonton Cups?
Indeed! These cups contain chicken and dairy, so they’re not suitable for those with chicken allergies or lactose intolerance. If you’d like to cater to a vegan crowd, consider swapping out the chicken for shredded jackfruit and using vegan cream cheese; this way, you can still have a flavorful filling while accommodating dietary restrictions.

How can I adjust the spice level of my Buffalo Chicken Wonton Cups?
It’s all about personal preference! Start by adding a moderate amount of buffalo sauce, then taste the filling. If you want more heat, gradually add in more sauce, keeping in mind that ingredients can sometimes intensify as they cook. I always say, the more the merrier, but it’s best to add gradually!