Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer that combines the bold, spicy flavor of Buffalo sauce with creamy, cheesy textures, all wrapped in a soft, flaky dough. These bite-sized snacks are perfect for game-day parties, family gatherings, or even as a quick and flavorful meal. Whether baked, air-fried, or served cold as pinwheels, they’re a versatile option that can be customized to suit different tastes.
One of the reasons Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups are so popular is their combination of textures and flavors. The spiciness of the Buffalo sauce is balanced by the creamy richness of cream cheese or ranch dressing, while the melted cheddar or mozzarella cheese adds a gooey, indulgent touch. The outer layer, whether made with crescent dough, tortillas, or pizza dough, provides the perfect crisp or flaky contrast to the warm, flavorful filling.
Another advantage of these roll-ups is how simple they are to prepare. Using pre-cooked or leftover shredded chicken, you can whip up the filling in minutes and have a batch ready to serve in under 30 minutes. Plus, they pair wonderfully with classic dips like ranch or blue cheese dressing, making them a must-have appetizer for Buffalo chicken lovers.
If you love crispy and cheesy dishes, you’ll also enjoy these Crispy Chicken Fritters, which pair wonderfully with ranch dressing or Buffalo sauce.
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History and Popularity of Buffalo Chicken Flavors
Buffalo sauce traces its origins to Buffalo, New York, where it was first created in 1964 at the famous Anchor Bar. The original Buffalo wings were made by deep-frying chicken wings and tossing them in a simple mixture of hot sauce, butter, and seasonings. This tangy and spicy sauce quickly became a favorite and soon inspired countless variations.
As Buffalo sauce gained popularity, chefs and home cooks began incorporating it into different dishes, leading to the creation of Buffalo chicken dip, Buffalo chicken pizza, Buffalo wraps, and now, Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups. The creamy and spicy combination became a staple in American cuisine, particularly for game-day snacks and party appetizers.
Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups evolved as a more convenient, bite-sized way to enjoy the bold flavors of Buffalo sauce without the mess of traditional wings. These roll-ups offer the same addictive taste but in a neater, handheld form, making them a favorite for busy weeknights, meal prepping, and social gatherings.
Ingredients for Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups
The key to perfect Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups is using the right combination of ingredients to create the ideal balance of heat, creaminess, and crunch.
Base Ingredients:
- Cooked shredded chicken – Rotisserie chicken works well for a quick prep.
- Buffalo sauce – Classic choices include Frank’s RedHot or homemade Buffalo sauce.
- Cream cheese or ranch dressing – Adds creaminess and balances the heat.
- Cheddar or mozzarella cheese – Cheddar gives a sharp flavor, while mozzarella provides a gooey texture.
- Crescent roll dough, tortillas, or pizza dough – The wrapping component that holds the filling together.
Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor:
- Chopped celery – Adds a slight crunch and freshness.
- Green onions or chives – Enhances the flavor with a mild oniony taste.
- Blue cheese crumbles – Perfect for those who love classic Buffalo wing flavors.
- Bacon bits – Adds a smoky, savory element.
These ingredients can be adjusted to personal preferences, making it easy to customize the roll-ups to suit different tastes.
Choosing the Right Dough for Roll-Ups
The type of dough you use for Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups greatly affects the texture and overall eating experience. Here are some common options:
Crescent Roll Dough
- Buttery and flaky, crescent roll dough creates soft, golden-brown roll-ups.
- Easy to use and widely available in refrigerated dough sections.
- Ideal for a classic baked version of Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups.
Tortillas
- Great for no-bake roll-ups or cold pinwheels.
- Provides a soft texture and can be cut into bite-sized slices.
- Works well for meal prepping and easy transport.
Pizza Dough
- Offers a chewy, bread-like texture that holds up well when baked.
- Requires rolling and stretching but delivers a more homemade feel.
- Can be made into Buffalo Chicken Pizza Roll-Ups for a fun twist.
Puff Pastry
- A flakier, crispier alternative to crescent rolls.
- Best for extra-crispy roll-ups that resemble mini turnovers.
- Requires an egg wash for a golden-brown, bakery-style finish.
Each dough option brings a unique texture to the recipe, allowing for different styles of Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups depending on your preference. Whether you prefer a flaky pastry, a soft tortilla wrap, or a classic crescent roll, there’s a perfect dough option for every occasion!
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups
Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups are simple to prepare and can be made using various cooking methods. Follow this step-by-step guide to create the perfect crispy, cheesy, and spicy roll-ups.
Step 1: Preparing the Buffalo Chicken Filling
The heart of this dish lies in its flavorful, creamy Buffalo chicken filling.
- Shred the Chicken – Use pre-cooked shredded chicken, such as rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken. If using raw chicken, boil or bake it until fully cooked, then shred it using two forks or a hand mixer.
- Mix the Ingredients – In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, Buffalo sauce, softened cream cheese (or ranch dressing), and shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Optional Step: Let the Filling Chill – If the mixture feels too soft, refrigerate it for 15–20 minutes. This makes it easier to handle and helps maintain the roll-up shape.
Step 2: Prepping the Dough or Tortilla
Depending on your choice of dough, here’s how to prepare it:
- Crescent Roll Dough – Unroll the crescent dough and separate it into triangles. Flatten slightly to create a smooth surface for spreading the filling.
- Tortillas – Spread the Buffalo chicken mixture evenly across the entire surface of a tortilla before rolling.
- Pizza Dough – Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness.
Step 3: Rolling and Cutting
- Rolling the Dough – Start from the shorter end and roll the dough tightly, ensuring the filling stays inside.
- Cutting Into Pieces – Use a sharp knife to slice even portions, about 1 to 1.5 inches thick. If using tortillas, slice them into bite-sized pinwheels.
Step 4: Cooking Methods
Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups can be cooked in different ways depending on your preference for crispiness and convenience.
Baking (Best for Crescent Dough & Pizza Dough)
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange roll-ups on a lined baking sheet and bake for 15–18 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Brush with melted butter for an extra flaky crust.
Air Frying (Best for a Crispy Texture with Less Oil)
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Place roll-ups in a single layer and air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- This method produces a crispy exterior with minimal oil.
Pan-Frying (Best for Quick Cooking)
- Heat a non-stick skillet with 1–2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat.
- Cook roll-ups for 2–3 minutes per side until crispy and golden brown.
- Use tongs to flip them carefully.
Step 5: Serving and Garnishing
Once cooked, transfer roll-ups to a cooling rack or paper towels to absorb excess oil and preserve crispiness.
Best Dips for Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups:
- Ranch dressing – A cooling contrast to the heat.
- Blue cheese dip – A classic Buffalo wing pairing.
- Extra Buffalo sauce – For an extra spicy kick.
Toppings for Extra Flavor:
- Fresh parsley or chopped chives for a pop of color.
- A sprinkle of extra shredded cheese.
- A drizzle of Buffalo sauce or ranch dressing.
Tasty Variations of Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups
These variations allow you to customize Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups to suit different preferences and dietary needs.
Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups
- Add an extra layer of shredded cheese inside and sprinkle more on top before baking.
- Serve with melted cheese dipping sauce for extra indulgence.
Low-Carb Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups
- Swap out dough for lettuce wraps to keep the dish keto-friendly.
- Use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs in the filling for added texture.
Spicy Buffalo Roll-Ups
- Mix in chopped jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or chili flakes to intensify the heat.
- Serve with a spicy sriracha mayo dip for a double kick.
Buffalo Chicken Bacon Roll-Ups
- Wrap each roll-up in a strip of bacon before baking or air frying.
- Bake until the bacon is crispy, adding extra smokiness and crunch.
Vegetarian Buffalo Roll-Ups
- Replace chicken with jackfruit, chickpeas, or shredded tofu for a plant-based alternative.
- Use vegan cream cheese and dairy-free cheese for a fully vegan version.
Best Side Dishes and Dips for Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups
Pair Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups with these sides and dips for a complete meal.
Classic Dips
- Ranch Dressing – The ultimate pairing for Buffalo flavors.
- Blue Cheese Dip – A must-have for Buffalo chicken fans.
- Garlic Aioli – Adds a creamy, garlicky twist.
Perfect Side Dishes
- Celery and Carrot Sticks – Classic cooling sides for spicy food.
- Sweet Potato Fries – A slightly sweet and crispy contrast.
- Coleslaw – Refreshing and crunchy with a tangy dressing.
Healthier Pairings
- Garden Salad – Light and fresh to balance the richness.
- Roasted Vegetables – A healthy, fiber-rich addition.
- Avocado Slices – Creamy and nutritious, cooling down the heat.
With these variations, serving ideas, and cooking techniques, you can enjoy Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups in multiple ways, whether you’re making them for a party, meal prep, or a family-friendly snack!
FAQs About Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups
How do I keep my roll-ups from getting soggy?
Soggy roll-ups often result from excess moisture in the filling. To prevent this, make sure your shredded chicken is properly drained and pat it dry with a paper towel if needed. Avoid using too much Buffalo sauce or cream cheese—just enough to coat the chicken without making it overly wet. If using tortillas, lightly toast them before rolling to create a barrier against moisture.
Can I make Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups ahead of time?
Yes! Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups are a great make-ahead option. Assemble the roll-ups and store them unbaked in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake or air fry them fresh for the best texture and flavor. If you need to freeze them, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer bag.
What’s the best way to reheat Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups?
To maintain crispiness, reheat roll-ups in a 350°F oven for 8–10 minutes or in an air fryer at 375°F for 5–7 minutes. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make them soft and chewy instead of crispy.
Can I make these roll-ups gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free tortillas, crescent dough, or puff pastry alternatives. Double-check that your Buffalo sauce and cream cheese are gluten-free, as some brands may contain hidden gluten ingredients.
Conclusion: Why You Should Try Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups
Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups are the perfect combination of spicy, creamy, cheesy, and crispy, making them an irresistible snack or appetizer. Their versatility allows you to customize the filling, dough, and spice level to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you bake, air fry, or pan-fry them, they are easy to make and deliver bold flavors in every bite.
These roll-ups are a crowd-pleaser for game days, parties, or family dinners, offering all the flavors of Buffalo wings without the mess. Plus, with so many variations—cheesy, spicy, low-carb, or even vegetarian—there’s a version for everyone to enjoy.
If you’re looking for a simple, delicious, and fun-to-make recipe, Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups are a must-try. Get creative, experiment with ingredients, and serve them with your favorite dips for the ultimate appetizer experience!