Looking for a quick and tasty meal or snack that packs a punch? These Buffalo Chicken Bagels are perfect for you! Combining the spicy kick of buffalo chicken with the creamy richness of melted cheese and a hint of garlic, these bagels are sure to satisfy your cravings. They’re easy to make and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual lunch, game day snack, or a quick dinner.
Ingredients
- Bagels (as many as needed)
- Garlic butter
- Chicken tenders
- Buffalo sauce
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
- Ranch dressing (for drizzling)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Cook the chicken tenders according to package instructions or your preferred method until they are fully cooked and crispy. You can bake, fry, or air fry them.
- Shred or chop the cooked chicken tenders into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 3: Prepare the Bagels
- Slice the bagels in half and lay them cut side up on a baking sheet.
- Spread garlic butter generously over the cut sides of each bagel half.
Step 4: Assemble the Bagels
- Place the shredded or chopped chicken in a bowl and toss with buffalo sauce until well coated. Adjust the amount of sauce based on your spice preference.
- Top each bagel half with a generous amount of the buffalo chicken mixture.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the buffalo chicken, followed by shredded mozzarella cheese.
Step 5: Bake the Bagels
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges of the bagels are slightly crispy.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
- Remove the bagels from the oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes.
- Drizzle ranch dressing over the top of each bagel half.
- Serve immediately and enjoy these spicy, cheesy Buffalo Chicken Bagels!
Cook Notes
- Garlic Butter: To make garlic butter, simply mix softened butter with minced garlic and a pinch of salt. Alternatively, you can use store-bought garlic butter.
- Buffalo Sauce: Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to your taste. If you like it spicier, add more sauce. For a milder version, use less.
- Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Pepper jack or blue cheese crumbles can add a unique twist.
Variations
Blue Cheese Buffalo Chicken Bagels
- Add blue cheese crumbles on top of the cheddar and mozzarella for a tangy, flavorful twist.
BBQ Chicken Bagels
- Substitute buffalo sauce with your favorite BBQ sauce for a smoky, sweet flavor. Drizzle with ranch or blue cheese dressing if desired.
Veggie Buffalo Bagels
- Replace chicken with roasted or sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and onions. Toss the veggies in buffalo sauce and proceed with the recipe.
Keto Buffalo Chicken Bagels
- Use low-carb bagels or make your own bagel bites using almond flour. Ensure all other ingredients are keto-friendly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
Yes, you can use store-bought rotisserie chicken. Simply shred the chicken and toss it in buffalo sauce before adding it to the bagels.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover buffalo chicken bagels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven until warmed through.
Can I freeze these bagels?
Yes, you can freeze assembled bagels before baking. Wrap each bagel half tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to eat, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I serve with these bagels?
These bagels pair well with a side salad, carrot and celery sticks, or a bowl of soup for a complete meal.
How can I make them less spicy?
To make the bagels less spicy, use a milder buffalo sauce or reduce the amount of buffalo sauce used. You can also add more ranch dressing to balance the heat.
Buffalo Chicken Bagels are a delightful, spicy, and cheesy treat that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making them for a quick lunch, a party appetizer, or a fun dinner, they’re sure to be a hit. Customize them to your liking and enjoy the bold flavors in every bite. Happy cooking!
