Buffalo Chicken Twice Baked Potatoes

Introduction

There’s something magical about a twice-baked potato. It’s like the best of both worlds: a hearty, fluffy potato loaded with flavor, and then baked again to perfection. Now, imagine taking that comforting classic and giving it a spicy twist with Buffalo chicken. Buffalo Chicken Twice Baked Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, combining the creamy richness of cheese and the bold, zesty kick of Buffalo sauce. Seriously, if you’re looking for a dish that brings both flavor and fun to the table, this is it!

I first discovered this recipe during a tailgating party at a friend’s house. The smell of spicy chicken and melted cheese wafting through the air had me intrigued from the start. As soon as I took my first bite, I knew I had to recreate it in my own kitchen. Not only did it quickly become a household favorite, but it also became my go-to dish for gatherings and potlucks. Everyone loves them, and I love how easy they are to make!

These twice-baked potatoes are perfect for game day, a cozy family dinner, or even just a fun weeknight treat. With a crispy skin, a creamy interior, and a spicy kick, they’re sure to be a hit. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are just a few reasons why these Buffalo Chicken Twice Baked Potatoes will become a staple in your kitchen:

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice cooks can master this recipe.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties and gatherings, everyone from kids to adults will love the flavors.
• Comforting and Filling: These potatoes are hearty and satisfying, making them a great main dish or side.
• Versatile: You can customize them to your liking! Add extra toppings, switch up the protein, or adjust the spice level.

Imagine sinking your fork into a fluffy potato filled with tender chicken, creamy cheese, and a hint of tangy Buffalo sauce. The first bite is like a flavor explosion, with a balance of heat and richness that makes you want to go back for seconds— and trust me, you will!

Preparation Time and Servings

• Total Time: About 1 hour 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 4 large potatoes

Nutrition Facts:

• Calories per serving: 550
• Protein: 30g
• Carbs: 60g
• Fat: 25g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delightful Buffalo Chicken Twice Baked Potatoes:

• 4 large russet potatoes: These are perfect for baking, thanks to their fluffy interior.
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken: Use rotisserie chicken for convenience or cook your own.
• 1/2 cup Buffalo sauce: Adjust based on your spice preference (more for heat, less for mild).
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened: This adds creaminess and richness to the filling.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Because who doesn’t love cheese?
• 1/2 cup sour cream: This adds tang and balances the heat.
• 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped: For freshness and color.
• Salt and pepper: To taste.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: For rubbing on the potatoes.
• Optional toppings: Additional shredded cheese, blue cheese crumbles, more Buffalo sauce, or extra green onions.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s break this down into easy steps that will guide you through making the best Buffalo Chicken Twice Baked Potatoes ever.

1st Step: Bake the Potatoes

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wash and dry the russet potatoes thoroughly.
3. Pierce each potato several times with a fork. This allows steam to escape while baking.
4. Rub the potatoes with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt. This will help create a crispy skin.
5. Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
6. Bake for about 45-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.

Pro Tip: If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave the potatoes for about 5-7 minutes to speed up the cooking process, then finish them in the oven for a crispy skin.

2nd Step: Prepare the Filling

1. While the potatoes are baking, shred your cooked chicken if you haven’t already. Rotisserie chicken works great and saves time!
2. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, Buffalo sauce, cream cheese, half of the cheddar cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Mix until everything is well combined. The mixture should be creamy and slightly spicy.

Encouraging Tip: Don’t worry if the mixture seems too loose—it will firm up once baked and combined with the potato!

3rd step: Hollow Out the Potatoes

1. Once the potatoes are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for about 5-10 minutes until they’re cool enough to handle.
2. Slice each potato in half lengthwise. Be careful; they’ll be hot!
3. Scoop out the insides of the potatoes, leaving about 1/4 inch of potato along the skin. This helps maintain the structure of the potato while providing enough filling.

Personal Note: I love saving the scooped-out potato flesh for later! You can mix it into mashed potatoes or use it for potato pancakes.

4th STEP: Combine and Fill

1. Add the scooped potato flesh to the chicken mixture and stir until combined.
2. Carefully spoon the mixture back into the potato skins, filling them generously. You want to pile it high!
3. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top of each stuffed potato.

5TH STEP: Bake Again

1. Return the stuffed potatoes to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
2. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tip: If you want an extra crispy top, turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, but keep a close eye on them to avoid burning!

How to Serve

These Buffalo Chicken Twice Baked Potatoes are delicious on their own, but here are a few serving suggestions to elevate your meal:

• Drizzle with extra Buffalo sauce for a punch of flavor.
• Top with blue cheese crumbles for a tangy, creamy finish.
• Serve with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of green onions for extra freshness.
• Pair with a crisp salad on the side to balance the richness of the potatoes.

Additional Tips

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Buffalo Chicken Twice Baked Potatoes turn out perfectly every time:

1. Choose the right potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for twice-baked potatoes because of their fluffy texture when baked.
2. Use leftover chicken: This is a great way to use up any leftover chicken from other meals, making this dish quick and economical.
3. Adjust the spice level: If you love heat, feel free to add more Buffalo sauce or even some diced jalapeños to the filling.
4. Experiment with cheese: While cheddar is classic, you can mix in Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a spicier kick.
5. Make ahead: Prepare the stuffed potatoes in advance and store them in the fridge before the second bake. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to serve!

Recipe Variations

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your tastes or dietary needs:

• Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for black beans or shredded carrots for a delicious meat-free version.
• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, just double-check your sauces and cheese.
• Extra Veggies: Add chopped celery or diced bell peppers to the filling for extra crunch and nutrition.
• Herb Infusion: Toss in some fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for an added burst of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Looking for sides or drinks to pair with your twice-baked potatoes? Here are some ideas:

• Side Dishes: Serve with crispy roasted vegetables, a fresh garden salad, or coleslaw for crunch.
• Drink Pairings: A light lager or a refreshing iced tea complements the spicy flavors perfectly.
• Kid-Friendly Options: For little ones, serve the potatoes alongside buttery corn on the cob or soft dinner rolls for a complete meal.

Freezing and Storage

If you have leftovers (which is rare but possible!), here’s how to store and freeze them:

• Storage: Place any leftover stuffed potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the uncooked stuffed potatoes before the second bake. Just wrap each potato tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, bake from frozen, adding an extra 15-20 minutes to the baking time.

Conclusion

Buffalo Chicken Twice Baked Potatoes are a deliciously satisfying dish that combines the comforting goodness of baked potatoes with the bold flavors of Buffalo chicken. They’re perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner, game day, or a potluck with friends.

So, gather your ingredients, get your hands a little messy, and enjoy the delightful process of creating this mouthwatering dish. I promise, once you take that first bite, you’ll be hooked!

Don’t forget to share your creations with family and friends, and if you try this recipe, let me know how it turns out! Happy cooking!

FAQ

1. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes will add a delightful sweetness and a different flavor profile. Just adjust the baking time as needed.

2. What can I use instead of Buffalo sauce?
If you’re not a fan of Buffalo sauce, you can use BBQ sauce or a spicy salsa for a different flavor. Adjust the quantity to your taste.

3. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the stuffed potatoes ahead of time and refrigerate them before the second bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

4. How do I know when the potatoes are done baking?
The potatoes are done when they feel tender when squeezed (using an oven mitt) and a fork can easily pierce through the skin.

5. Can I freeze the twice-baked potatoes?
Yes! Freeze them before the second bake. Just wrap them well and bake from frozen, adding extra time to ensure they’re heated through.

6. What are some good toppings for these potatoes?
You can top them with blue cheese crumbles, sliced jalapeños, more shredded cheese, or a sprinkle of chives for added flavor and presentation.

7. Are there any vegetarian options for this recipe?
Certainly! Substitute the chicken with ingredients like black beans, lentils, or sautéed mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian twist.

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