How to Make Buffalo Chicken Flatbread: A Dietitian’s Easy 15-Minute Recipe
Buffalo chicken flatbread is spicy, tangy, and ready in just 15 minutes! As a dietitian, I love this recipe because it perfectly balances indulgence with nutrition, while still being incredibly easy to prepare.
At just 340 calories per serving, this buffalo chicken flatbread recipe makes an ideal choice for busy individuals looking for quick yet satisfying meals. Besides being a delicious weeknight dinner option, it also serves as the perfect game day appetizer. The flatbread buffalo chicken combination delivers that classic buffalo flavor everyone loves, with significantly less prep time than traditional pizza.
Even on the busiest days, we still need balanced meals with protein, fiber, and healthy fats. That’s exactly what this recipe delivers – a nutritious option that doesn’t sacrifice flavor or require hours in the kitchen.
Ready to learn how to make this versatile dish that can be customized to your preferences? Let’s dive into this simple buffalo chicken flatbread that will become your new go-to meal!
Gather Your Ingredients
The foundation of an excellent buffalo chicken flatbread begins with quality ingredients that come together quickly. Let’s break down what you’ll need for this 15-minute meal.
Flatbread or naan options
For the perfect base, naan bread offers convenience and delicious texture. Look for Trader Joe’s frozen naan flatbread or Central Market options with fewer preservatives. Alternatively, you can use regular, garlic, or whole wheat naan varieties. Other excellent bases include:
- Pre-made pizza crusts or rectangular flatbreads (about 300g or 6×12-inch)
- Pita bread or flour tortillas for a thinner option
- Low-carb alternatives like cauliflower crusts or Joseph’s Lavash bread
Best chicken choices for quick prep
Rotisserie chicken stands out as the ultimate time-saver for this recipe. Opt for plain rotisserie chickens seasoned with just oil, salt, and pepper available at Whole Foods, Sprouts, Fresh Market, or Central Market/HEB. Furthermore, you can use:
- Leftover grilled or roasted chicken from previous meals
- Pre-cooked chicken (like Tyson’s grilled frozen chicken)
- Freshly cooked chicken breasts (if you have time)
You’ll need approximately 1.5-3 cups of shredded chicken depending on how loaded you want your flatbread.
Buffalo sauce vs. homemade
Frank’s RedHot is a popular choice mentioned across multiple sources[81], essentially becoming the standard for buffalo flavor. Primal Kitchen buffalo sauce, available at Costco, offers another excellent store-bought option.
Sweet Baby Ray’s buffalo wing sauce provides a balanced heat level that won’t “blow the top of your head off”. If you prefer making your own, several recipes suggest homemade buffalo sauce options for full flavor control.
Mozzarella and blue cheese dressing
Mozzarella cheese creates the perfect melty base – use 1-2 cups depending on your preference[81]. Blue cheese adds that authentic buffalo wing experience, typically using ¼ cup crumbled.
Not a blue cheese fan? No problem! Substitute with:
- Jack cheese or pepper jack for extra spice
- Cheddar cheese or a blend
- Small cream cheese cubes tossed with ranch seasoning
For dressing, drizzle with either blue cheese or ranch dressing before serving.
Optional toppings like green onions
Green onions (2-3 tablespoons, thinly sliced) add fresh color and mild flavor. Moreover, consider these additional toppings:
- Red onion, thinly sliced[82]
- Crumbled bacon for extra richness[81]
- Celery slices for traditional buffalo wing accompaniment
- Fresh cilantro for brightness
With these ingredients on hand, you’re ready to create a delicious buffalo chicken flatbread in minutes!
Step-by-Step: Making Buffalo Chicken Flatbread
Creating this delicious buffalo chicken flatbread is surprisingly simple. Let’s walk through the cooking process step by step to achieve perfect results every time.
Preheat and prep the flatbread base
Initially, position your oven rack in the center and preheat to 400°F. Depending on your preferred crispiness level, temperatures between 375°F and 450°F work well. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
For an extra-crispy base, pre-bake your flatbread for 5-10 minutes before adding toppings. This crucial step prevents sogginess, especially when using thinner flatbreads. During this pre-baking time, you can quickly toss your shredded chicken with buffalo sauce and garlic powder in a bowl.
Layer sauce, chicken, and cheese
Once your flatbread is prepped, it’s time for assembly. Start by spreading either ranch dressing or buffalo sauce as your base layer. Use the back of a spoon to create an even coating, leaving a small border around the edges.
Next, layer in this order for best results:
- Half of your cheese (creates a barrier between sauce and bread)
- Buffalo chicken mixture
- Thinly sliced red onions (if using)
- Remaining cheese on top
This layering technique ensures proper melting and prevents the flatbread from becoming soggy in the middle.
Bake and broil for perfect texture
Return your assembled flatbread to the oven and bake for 7-10 minutes until the cheese melts completely. For larger flatbreads or thicker toppings, you might need up to 15 minutes.
For that restaurant-quality finish with golden, bubbly cheese, switch to broil for the final 1-2 minutes. Keep a close eye on it during broiling since it can burn quickly. The edges should turn golden brown, and the cheese should bubble slightly.
Add final toppings and serve
Allow your flatbread to cool for 2-3 minutes before adding final garnishes. This brief rest helps the cheese set slightly, making it easier to slice.
Subsequently, drizzle with additional buffalo sauce or ranch dressing for extra flavor. Sprinkle with fresh green onions, which add bright color and a mild onion flavor. For added freshness, consider adding cilantro or thinly sliced celery.
Slice diagonally or in squares depending on whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or main dish. Serve immediately while still warm for the best taste experience.
Smart Tips for Better Results
With your flatbread basics mastered, these expert tips elevate your buffalo chicken creation from good to spectacular.
Avoiding soggy crusts
Preventing soggy crusts starts with proper preparation. Don’t overload your flatbread with excessive sauce or cheese. Additionally, preheating your oven completely ensures the crispiest results. Consider pre-baking the flatbread for 5 minutes before adding toppings—this crucial step creates a barrier against moisture. For optimal crispness, use a pizza stone if available. Alternatively, cook on high heat (425°F) so toppings warm through quickly without making the crust soggy.
Making it vegetarian or dairy-free
Transform this recipe to suit dietary preferences easily. For vegetarian options, substitute chicken with:
- Half cup of rinsed chickpeas
- Buffalo cauliflower (perfect for extra veggie intake)
- Frozen Quorn pieces cooked until browned
Going dairy-free? Use dairy-free cheese alternatives or simply omit cheese entirely. The buffalo sauce provides plenty of flavor on its own!
Turning it into a buffalo chicken flatbread sandwich
Create a handheld version by topping your buffalo chicken with crisp lettuce, crispy bacon, and red onion. Spread each flatbread with a tablespoon of ranch or blue cheese dressing before assembling. Broil just until cheese melts—about one minute.
Cutting styles for appetizer vs. dinner
Cut into small squares for perfect finger-food appetizers. For a main course, slice into larger portions and serve with a side salad. Hosting a party? Use mini naan for individual-sized flatbreads.
Storage, Reheating, and Nutrition Info
Leftover flatbread buffalo chicken makes for excellent next-day meals! Here’s how to handle those delicious remains properly.
How to store leftovers properly
First of all, allow your buffalo chicken flatbread to cool completely before storage. Place leftovers in an airtight container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then refrigerate for 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze in an airtight bag for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating for best texture
For optimal results, reheat in a preheated 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes until warmed through and crispy. Conversely, air fryer reheating at 400°F for 2-3 minutes provides excellent crispness. In a hurry? Microwave for 30-60 seconds, though the flatbread won’t be as crisp.
Buffalo chicken flatbread calories breakdown
Calorie content varies based on ingredients and portion size:
- Homemade versions: Approximately 340-384 calories per serving
- Restaurant versions: 572-1190 calories per serving
- Macronutrient breakdown (homemade): 32-35g protein, 12g fat, 35g carbohydrates
Making it part of a balanced meal
Indeed, buffalo chicken flatbread pairs wonderfully with lighter sides. Consider serving with:
- Green vegetables like zucchini fries or roasted brussels sprouts
- A simple side salad to balance the spiciness
- Raw veggie sticks with blue cheese dressing for a traditional buffalo-style meal
Conclusion
Buffalo chicken flatbread stands out as a perfect solution for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. This 15-minute recipe transforms simple ingredients into a delicious meal that balances nutrition with indulgence. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility – you can customize it with different flatbread bases, cheese options, and toppings according to your preferences.
Additionally, the meal preparation couldn’t be simpler. After gathering quality ingredients like naan bread, rotisserie chicken, and Frank’s RedHot sauce, you’ll spend just minutes assembling and baking your creation. Smart techniques like pre-baking the flatbread and layering ingredients properly ensure a crispy, non-soggy crust every time.
Most importantly, this flatbread delivers on both flavor and nutrition at just 340 calories per serving. The combination of protein from the chicken, carbohydrates from the flatbread, and various toppings creates a well-rounded meal. Certainly, making adjustments for vegetarian or dairy-free diets allows everyone to enjoy this versatile dish.
Whether served as a quick dinner with a side salad or cut into squares for game day appetizers, buffalo chicken flatbread will undoubtedly become a staple in your recipe collection. The leftovers store well too, making this recipe even more practical for meal planning. Try this buffalo chicken flatbread today – your taste buds and schedule will thank you!
FAQs
Q1. What are the essential toppings for a buffalo chicken flatbread? The key toppings include shredded chicken mixed with buffalo sauce, mozzarella cheese, and optional additions like red onions and crumbled bacon. You can also add a drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing and garnish with green onions for extra flavor.
Q2. Can I make this recipe vegetarian? Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version by substituting the chicken with alternatives like chickpeas, buffalo cauliflower, or meat-free protein pieces. The buffalo sauce and cheese (or dairy-free alternatives) will still provide plenty of flavor.
Q3. What’s the best way to achieve a crispy crust? To avoid a soggy crust, pre-bake the flatbread for 5-10 minutes before adding toppings. Also, avoid overloading with sauce or cheese, and consider using a pizza stone or cooking at a high temperature (around 425°F) for optimal crispiness.
Q4. How long can I store leftover buffalo chicken flatbread? You can store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 2-3 months. When reheating, use an oven or air fryer for the best texture.
Q5. Is buffalo chicken flatbread a healthy meal option? Homemade buffalo chicken flatbread can be a balanced meal option, with approximately 340-384 calories per serving. It provides a good mix of protein, carbohydrates, and fats. To make it even healthier, serve it with a side salad or roasted vegetables for added nutrients.