Easy Buffalo Chicken Wonton Cups: Your Ultimate Game Day Appetizer

Craving a quick, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying appetizer that disappears in minutes? Look no further than these sensational Buffalo Chicken Wonton Cups! Combining the irresistible tang of buffalo sauce with creamy chicken and crisp wontons, these bite-sized delights are the ultimate crowd-pleaser for any occasion, especially game day. They’re effortlessly easy to make, require minimal ingredients, and deliver maximum taste with every crunch.

Why You Will Absolutely Love This Recipe

These Buffalo Chicken Wonton Cups are more than just an appetizer; they’re a revelation in simplicity and flavor. Here’s why they’re destined to become a staple in your recipe collection:

• Effortlessly Fast: With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a total cooking time under 30 minutes, these cups are perfect for last-minute gatherings or when hunger strikes. You’ll spend more time enjoying them than making them!
• Simple Ingredients: No exotic items here. You likely have most of these ingredients in your pantry or fridge, especially if you have leftover cooked chicken. This makes them an economical and convenient choice.
• Irresistible Texture Contrast: Each bite offers a delightful interplay of textures – the golden, crispy wonton shell gives way to a warm, creamy, and cheesy buffalo chicken filling. It’s a textural symphony that keeps you coming back for more.
• Explosive Flavor: The bold, zesty kick of buffalo sauce is perfectly balanced by the rich cream cheese and savory cheddar, creating a harmonious flavor profile that satisfies spice lovers and comfort food enthusiasts alike.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: While they truly shine as a game day snack, these wonton cups are also ideal for parties, potlucks, family appetizers, or even a fun, light lunch. They’re bite-sized perfection that’s easy to serve and eat.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the spice level, cheese choices, or even swap out the sauce for a completely new flavor experience. This recipe is a fantastic canvas for your culinary creativity.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: The filling can be prepared in advance, saving you precious time on the day of your event and ensuring crispy wontons every time.

Forget spending hours in the kitchen! These Buffalo Chicken Wonton Cups deliver big on flavor and ease, making them a guaranteed hit that will vanish from the platter almost as quickly as you can make them.

Key Ingredients Spotlight

The beauty of these Buffalo Chicken Wonton Cups lies in their minimal yet mighty ingredient list. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture:

• Wonton Wrappers: These thin, delicate wrappers are the foundation of our crispy cups. When baked in a mini muffin pan, they transform into perfectly shaped, golden, and crunchy vessels that hold the creamy filling without getting soggy. They’re a fantastic alternative to puff pastry or phyllo dough for a lighter, quicker bite.
• Cooked Shredded Chicken: The star of the show! Using pre-cooked chicken, such as rotisserie chicken from the grocery store, significantly cuts down on preparation time. You can also boil and shred chicken breasts or thighs, or use leftover roasted chicken. The shredded texture allows the chicken to absorb all the delicious buffalo flavor.
• Cream Cheese (Softened): This is the secret to the filling’s irresistible creaminess. When softened, it blends seamlessly with the other ingredients, creating a smooth, rich base that binds everything together and mellows the heat of the buffalo sauce. Using full-fat cream cheese will yield the creamiest results.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Adding a sharp, savory note and fantastic meltability, cheddar cheese takes the filling to the next level of indulgence. Feel free to use mild, medium, or sharp cheddar based on your preference. A pre-shredded bag works wonderfully for convenience.
• Buffalo Wing Sauce: The signature flavor! Choose your favorite brand and heat level. Classic Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Wing Sauce is a popular choice for its balanced heat and vinegary tang. Adjust the amount to control the spiciness of your wonton cups.
• Blue Cheese Crumbles (for Garnish): The quintessential pairing with buffalo chicken! The sharp, pungent flavor of blue cheese provides a wonderful contrast to the spicy, creamy filling. It’s optional but highly recommended for an authentic buffalo experience.
• Chopped Chives (for Garnish): A touch of fresh green adds color and a mild oniony freshness, brightening up the appetizer. Green onions (scallions) can be used as a substitute.

With these simple, high-impact ingredients, you’re well on your way to crafting an appetizer that’s sure to impress!

How To Make Buffalo Chicken Wonton Cups

Creating these delectable Buffalo Chicken Wonton Cups is incredibly straightforward. Follow these simple steps for perfect, crispy, and flavorful results:

1. Prepare Your Wonton Cups:

   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place individual wonton wrappers into the cavities of a mini muffin pan, gently pressing them down to form small cups. This initial bake is crucial for achieving a super crispy shell that won’t get soggy once filled. Bake the empty wonton cups for just 5 minutes, then remove them from the oven. They should be lightly golden and slightly firm.

   

   

2. Prepare the Buffalo Chicken Filling:

   While the wonton wrappers are getting their initial crisp in the oven, prepare your delicious buffalo chicken mixture. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, cooked and shredded chicken, and buffalo wing sauce. Use a sturdy spoon or spatula to mix all the ingredients thoroughly until they are well combined and the chicken is evenly coated. Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature to make mixing much easier and prevent lumps.

   

   

3. Fill and Bake:

   Spoon approximately 1 tablespoon of the buffalo chicken mixture into each pre-baked wonton cup. Be careful not to overfill them, as the cheese will melt and expand slightly during baking. If you have any leftover mixture, distribute it evenly among the cups. Return the filled wonton cups to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the filling is hot and bubbly, and the wonton edges are golden brown and extra crispy. Remove from the oven once perfectly baked.

   

   

4. Garnish and Serve:

   Once out of the oven, let the wonton cups cool for a minute or two. Then, generously garnish each cup with blue cheese crumbles and freshly chopped chives. The blue cheese adds a tangy counterpoint, while the chives provide a burst of fresh flavor and vibrant color. Serve these irresistible appetizers hot and watch them disappear!

   

   

Honestly, these little buffalo chicken powerhouses are addictive. I confess to devouring an entire batch myself in record time – they’re just too good to resist. If you’re a true fan of buffalo chicken, this recipe is a must-try. It’s guaranteed to be a hit and won’t disappoint!

Expert Tips for Perfect Wonton Cups

Achieving the perfect Buffalo Chicken Wonton Cups is simple with a few insider tips:

• Room Temperature Cream Cheese is Key: This is perhaps the most crucial tip for a smooth, lump-free filling. Softened cream cheese blends effortlessly with the other ingredients, ensuring a creamy, uniform texture. If you forget to take it out ahead of time, a quick zap in the microwave (10-15 seconds) can help.
• Pre-Bake the Wonton Wrappers: Don’t skip this step! Baking the empty wonton wrappers for 5 minutes before filling creates a barrier that prevents them from becoming soggy. This ensures your cups stay wonderfully crispy, even with the creamy filling.
• Mindful Filling: Resist the urge to overfill the wonton cups. Approximately 1 tablespoon of the mixture per cup is the ideal amount. Overfilling can lead to spillage during baking and can make the wrappers less crispy.
• Serve Immediately for Best Texture: These wonton cups are at their absolute best when served fresh out of the oven. The wrappers will be maximally crisp, and the filling will be warm and gooey.
• Make-Ahead the Filling: To save time, prepare the buffalo chicken filling up to a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply fill your pre-baked wonton cups and bake.
• Alternative Garnishes: While blue cheese and chives are classic, feel free to get creative. Green onions (scallions) are an excellent substitute for chives. A drizzle of ranch or extra buffalo sauce after baking also makes a great addition.
• Choose Your Favorite Buffalo Sauce: The type of buffalo sauce can significantly impact the flavor. We highly recommend using Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Wing Sauce for its classic, balanced profile. However, experiment with other brands or even make your own for a personalized touch.
• Optional Cheese Melt: For extra cheesy goodness, sprinkle a tiny pinch of extra shredded cheddar or mozzarella over the top of the filling in each cup just before the final bake.

Exciting Variations & Customizations

One of the best things about these Buffalo Chicken Wonton Cups is how easily they can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Get creative with these variations:

• Dial Up the Heat (Spicy): If you love a fiery kick, finely dice a fresh jalapeño or serrano pepper and mix it into the chicken filling. A pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce (like ghost pepper sauce) will also do the trick.
• Amp Up the Cheese (Cheesy): Introduce different cheeses for new flavor dimensions. Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese will add a gooey, slightly spicier melt. A blend of cheddar and mozzarella can provide both flavor and an incredible cheese pull.
• Tangy Ranch Twist: For those who prefer ranch over blue cheese, incorporate the flavor directly into the filling! Substitute half of the cream cheese with a good quality ranch dressing, or add a teaspoon of dry ranch seasoning mix to the chicken mixture.
• Sweet & Smoky BBQ Swap: Transform the entire profile by replacing the buffalo wing sauce with your favorite BBQ sauce. This creates delicious BBQ chicken wonton cups, offering a completely different but equally appealing flavor.
• Creamy Spinach & Artichoke: For a less spicy, more savory option, adapt the filling to a creamy spinach and artichoke mixture (think spinach, artichoke hearts, cream cheese, parmesan, and a touch of garlic).
• Vegetarian/Vegan Friendly: Easily make these plant-based by using shredded jackfruit or a plant-based chicken alternative, along with vegan cream cheese and shredded vegan cheddar. Ensure your buffalo sauce is also vegan-friendly.
• Air Fryer Method: For an even quicker and extra-crispy result, try air frying! Place the filled wonton cups in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Air fry at 325°F (160°C) for 8-12 minutes, or until golden and bubbly. Cooking times may vary, so keep an eye on them.

Serving Suggestions for Maximum Enjoyment

These Buffalo Chicken Wonton Cups are fantastic on their own, but pairing them with the right accompaniments can elevate your appetizer spread:

• Classic Cooling Dips: Always a winner! Serve with generous bowls of creamy Ranch dressing or chunky blue cheese dressing. The cool, tangy dips provide a refreshing contrast to the spicy, warm wontons.
• Fresh Veggie Sticks: Offer crisp celery sticks and carrot sticks alongside for a traditional buffalo experience. Not only do they provide a refreshing crunch, but they also act as a palate cleanser between bites.
• Extra Drizzle: For those who can’t get enough buffalo flavor, offer a small bottle of buffalo sauce for an extra drizzle on top. A drizzle of hot honey could also add a sweet and spicy kick.
• Part of a Larger Spread: These wonton cups are perfect for any party platter. Pair them with other popular appetizers like mini quiches, spring rolls, or sliders to create a diverse and appealing spread.
• Pair with Drinks: A cold beer, a crisp hard cider, or even a refreshing lemonade or iced tea will complement the flavors wonderfully.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

While these Buffalo Chicken Wonton Cups are best enjoyed fresh, you can certainly store and reheat them:

• Storing Leftovers: Any leftover buffalo chicken wonton cups can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To prevent them from becoming too soft, place a paper towel at the bottom of the container to absorb any moisture.
• Reheating for Crispiness: To bring back that glorious crispy texture, reheat leftovers in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the wonton cups for 8-10 minutes, or until they are warmed through and the wrappers are crisp once more. Avoid using the microwave if possible, as it tends to make the wonton wrappers soft and chewy rather than crisp.
• Freezing for Later: Yes, you can freeze them! Bake the wonton cups as directed, then let them cool completely. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 1 month.
• Reheating from Frozen: To reheat frozen wonton cups, place them on a baking sheet and bake directly from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.

The Enduring Appeal of Buffalo Chicken

Buffalo chicken isn’t just a flavor; it’s a culinary phenomenon that has captured hearts and taste buds worldwide. Originating from the Anchor Bar in Buffalo, New York, with its iconic buffalo wings, this flavor profile—a perfect balance of spicy, tangy, and savory—has transcended traditional wings to become a beloved staple in countless dishes. From dips and sandwiches to salads and meatballs, the buffalo chicken flavor offers a comforting familiarity mixed with an exciting kick. It’s synonymous with casual gatherings, sports events, and moments of shared enjoyment, making it a go-to choice for any dish designed to be a crowd-pleaser. These Buffalo Chicken Wonton Cups perfectly encapsulate that enduring appeal, delivering all the classic flavors in a convenient, bite-sized package.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

Other Delicious Buffalo Chicken Inspired Recipes

If you’re a true enthusiast of the bold and zesty flavor of buffalo chicken, you’re in for a treat! The versatility of this iconic flavor profile extends far beyond these crispy wonton cups. Explore these other fantastic recipes that bring the beloved taste of buffalo chicken to your table in exciting new forms:

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Buffalo Chicken Wonton Cups Recipe

Buffalo chicken wonton cups are the ultimate quick appetizer—crispy wontons filled with creamy, cheesy buffalo chicken. Perfect for game day, parties, or an easy snack!

5 from 3 votes

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Course:
Appetizer, Main

Cuisine:
American

Prep Time:

10 minutes
minutes

Cook Time:

20 minutes
minutes

Servings:
24

Calories:

67
kcal

Ingredients

• 
  
  24
  Wonton wrappers
  
  
• 
  
  2
  cups
  Chicken
  cooked, shredded
  
  
• 
  
  4
  oz
  Cream cheese
  softened
  
  
• 
  
  3/4
  cup
  Cheddar cheese
  shredded
  
  
• 
  
  1/3
  cup
  Buffalo wing sauce
  
  
• 
  
  1/4
  cup
  blue cheese crumbles
  for garnish
  
  
• 
  
  2
  tbsp
  chopped chives
  for garnish
  
  

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Place wonton wrappers in a mini muffin pan and bake 5 minutes.
   24 Wonton wrappers
2. Mix chicken, cream cheese, cheddar, and buffalo sauce in a bowl.
   2 cups Chicken,
   4 oz Cream cheese,
   3/4 cup Cheddar cheese,
   1/3 cup Buffalo wing sauce
3. Spoon about 1 tablespoon filling into each wonton cup.
4. Bake 20 minutes until hot and bubbly.
5. Garnish with blue cheese and chives. Serve immediately.
   1/4 cup blue cheese crumbles,
   2 tbsp chopped chives

Notes

Leftover buffalo chicken wonton cups can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes to bring back that crispy texture—perfect for next-day snacking or a quick game day reheat.

Nutrition

Calories:
67
kcal

|

Carbohydrates:
5
g

|

Protein:
3
g

|

Fat:
4
g

|

Saturated Fat:
2
g

|

Polyunsaturated Fat:
0.3
g

|

Monounsaturated Fat:
1
g

|

Trans Fat:
0.005
g

|

Cholesterol:
13
mg

|

Sodium:
202
mg

|

Potassium:
27
mg

|

Fiber:
0.1
g

|

Sugar:
0.2
g

|

Vitamin A:
117
IU

|

Vitamin C:
0.1
mg

|

Calcium:
41
mg

|

Iron:
0.3
mg