Buffalo Chicken Dutch Babies

Quick Benefits

Buffalo Chicken Dutch Babies combine the deliciousness of a savory pancake with the bold flavors of Buffalo chicken. These tasty, bite-sized treats are easy to make and perfect for parties, game nights, or as a fun appetizer during the week. With a crispy exterior and a fluffy interior, the Dutch babies are filled with spicy Buffalo chicken and topped with creamy blue cheese. They’re a great source of protein and make for a satisfying snack that is sure to impress guests.

Essential Ingredients

Buffalo Chicken:

• 3 tablespoons butter: Used for cooking the chicken and adding richness.
• 3 large boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Provides tender and juicy meat for the filling.
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: For seasoning the chicken.
• ⅓ cup Louisiana-style hot sauce: The signature ingredient that gives the dish its spicy kick.

Dutch Babies:

• 2 large eggs: Provides structure and richness to the batter.
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the flavor of the batter.
• 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour: Forms the base of the batter, giving the Dutch babies their structure.
• 1 ⅓ cups whole milk: Adds moisture and helps create a smooth batter.
• 1 tablespoon butter, softened: Used to grease the muffin tin and add richness.
• Nonstick cooking spray: To prevent the Dutch babies from sticking to the pan.
• ½ cup crumbled blue cheese: Adds a tangy, creamy topping that complements the spicy chicken.
• 6 stalks celery, halved crosswise (optional): Served as a garnish to complete the Buffalo flavor profile.

Preparation Steps

1. Cook the chicken: Melt 3 tablespoons butter in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Add chicken thighs, cooking each side until browned, about 3 to 4 minutes. Remove the chicken, let it cool slightly, then cut into ½-inch pieces.
2. Make the Buffalo chicken filling: Pour the chicken and its juices back into the saucepan. Season with salt, pepper, and cayenne. Stir in hot sauce, simmer for 10-15 minutes until slightly reduced, then set aside to cool.
3. Prepare the Dutch baby batter: Whisk together eggs, salt, flour, and milk until smooth. Let the batter rest for 15-20 minutes.
4. Grease the muffin tin: Grease a 12-cup muffin tin with 1 tablespoon butter and spray with nonstick spray.
5. Fill the muffin tin: Pour the rested batter into the muffin cups, filling each halfway. Spoon Buffalo chicken mixture into each cup, then top with crumbled blue cheese.
6. Bake the Dutch babies: Place the muffin tin in the center of a cold oven. Set a baking sheet on the lower rack to catch any drips. Turn the oven to 450°F (230°C) and bake for 30 minutes until puffed up and browned.
7. Finish and serve: Remove from the oven and let the Dutch babies sit for 3 to 5 minutes until the centers collapse. Let cool for 5 minutes, then use a fork to carefully remove them from the tin. Serve hot, warm, or at room temperature, garnished with celery sticks.

Health Benefits

Buffalo Chicken Dutch Babies offer a well-rounded snack with protein from the chicken and eggs. The spicy Buffalo chicken adds flavor without being overly indulgent, while the batter made from flour and milk provides energy-boosting carbohydrates. The addition of blue cheese gives a rich, tangy element, and the celery adds fiber and freshness to balance out the dish. Overall, they are a satisfying and protein-packed appetizer, though they do contain a moderate amount of fat and sodium, so enjoy them in moderation.

Serving Suggestions

These Buffalo Chicken Dutch Babies are perfect as a party appetizer or snack. Serve them with a side of extra Buffalo sauce or blue cheese dressing for dipping. You can also pair them with a fresh salad, a vegetable platter, or additional garnishes like sliced cucumbers or carrot sticks. For a complete meal, serve them alongside potato wedges or a crunchy coleslaw.

Creative Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with cauliflower or tempeh for a vegetarian alternative. Season it with the same hot sauce and spices for a similar flavor.
• Cheese Variations: If you’re not a fan of blue cheese, try crumbled feta, shredded cheddar, or mozzarella as a topping for a different flavor profile.
• Spicy Twist: Add jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili flakes into the chicken mixture for an extra spicy kick.
• Taco Version: Serve the Buffalo chicken Dutch babies in taco-style with a drizzle of ranch dressing or sour cream and additional toppings like shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes.

Storage Tips

Leftover Buffalo Chicken Dutch Babies can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes or until heated through. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven for 10-15 minutes.

Pro Tips

• Rest the batter: Allowing the batter to rest for 15-20 minutes ensures that it puffs up properly in the oven, giving you the perfect Dutch baby texture.
• Prevent sogginess: To avoid soggy Dutch babies, make sure the chicken mixture is cooled before adding it to the batter.
• Baking Sheet: Always place a baking sheet on a lower rack to catch any drips from the batter. This will prevent a messy oven.
• Nonstick Spray: Even with greasing the muffin tin, using nonstick spray on top ensures the Dutch babies come out easily.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but chicken thighs provide more flavor and moisture. If using breasts, be sure to cook them carefully to avoid drying out.

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these Dutch babies ahead of time. Prepare them and store them in the refrigerator, then reheat in the oven before serving.

Can I use a different hot sauce?
Absolutely! While Louisiana-style hot sauce is traditional, you can use any type of hot sauce you prefer, such as sriracha, buffalo sauce, or a chipotle sauce for a different flavor.

What can I serve with these Dutch babies?
Buffalo Chicken Dutch Babies pair well with a side of fresh vegetables like celery, carrots, or cucumbers. You can also serve them with extra sauce for dipping or a side of creamy ranch or blue cheese dressing.

Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to use one that is designed for baking to maintain the correct texture.