Buffalo Chicken Pizza Pockets: The Ultimate Guide to Making Them

Buffalo Chicken Pizza Pockets: Prepare to ditch the takeout menu because you’re about to discover a homemade sensation that’s unbelievably easy and bursting with flavor! Imagine the tangy, spicy kick of buffalo chicken combined with the cheesy, comforting goodness of pizza, all conveniently nestled inside a perfectly portable pocket. Sounds divine, right?

While the exact origins of the pizza pocket are debated, its popularity is undeniable. It’s a modern marvel of convenience food, taking the best elements of pizza and making them accessible on the go. But we’re elevating the experience by infusing it with the bold and beloved taste of buffalo chicken, a flavor profile that has captured hearts (and taste buds) across America.

What makes these Buffalo Chicken Pizza Pockets so irresistible? It’s the perfect marriage of textures – the crispy, golden crust gives way to a warm, gooey interior filled with tender chicken, creamy cheese, and that signature buffalo sauce zing. They’re incredibly simple to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort, making them ideal for busy weeknights, game day gatherings, or even a fun family cooking project. Plus, who can resist the allure of a handheld pizza packed with spicy, cheesy goodness? Get ready to experience a flavor explosion that will have everyone begging for more!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Dough:
• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 ¼ cups warm water (105-115°F)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for greasing
• For the Buffalo Chicken Filling:
• 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
• ½ cup buffalo wing sauce (adjust to your spice preference)
• ¼ cup ranch dressing
• ¼ cup blue cheese dressing
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (optional)
• For Egg Wash (Optional):
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon water

Preparing the Dough:

Okay, let’s get started with the dough! This is the foundation of our delicious pizza pockets, so we want to make sure we get it right. Don’t worry, it’s easier than it looks!

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt. Make sure everything is evenly distributed. This helps the yeast activate properly and gives the dough a good flavor.
2. Activate the Yeast: In a separate small bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm water. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until it gets foamy. This is how you know the yeast is alive and kicking! If it doesn’t foam, your yeast might be old, and you’ll need to get a fresh packet.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the yeast mixture and olive oil into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Use a wooden spoon or your hands to mix everything together until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it for about 8-10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment for this step. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time. If it’s too dry, add a little more water, one teaspoon at a time. The goal is a dough that’s easy to handle and not too sticky.
5. First Rise: Lightly grease a large bowl with olive oil. Place the dough in the bowl, turning to coat it with the oil. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size. This is where the magic happens! The yeast is working its wonders, creating those lovely air pockets that make the dough light and airy.

Preparing the Buffalo Chicken Filling:

While the dough is rising, let’s get that spicy, cheesy buffalo chicken filling ready. This is where the real flavor explosion happens!

1. Shred the Chicken: If you haven’t already, shred the cooked chicken breasts. You can use two forks to do this, or even your stand mixer with the paddle attachment on low speed.
2. Combine Filling Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, buffalo wing sauce, ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, and softened cream cheese. Mix everything together until it’s well combined and creamy.
3. Add Cheese: Stir in the cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and green onions (if using). Make sure the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the filling.
4. Taste and Adjust: Give the filling a taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. If you want it spicier, add more buffalo wing sauce. If you want it creamier, add a little more ranch or blue cheese dressing.

Assembling the Pizza Pockets:

Now for the fun part – putting everything together! This is where we transform our dough and filling into those irresistible pizza pockets.

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the pizza pockets from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
2. Divide the Dough: Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down gently to release the air. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces.
3. Roll Out the Dough: Roll out each piece of dough into a circle about 6-7 inches in diameter. You want the dough to be thin enough to easily fold over, but not so thin that it tears.
4. Fill the Pizza Pockets: Place about ½ cup of the buffalo chicken filling in the center of each dough circle. Don’t overfill them, or they’ll be difficult to seal.
5. Seal the Pizza Pockets: Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Pinch the edges together tightly to seal. You can also use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch and to ensure a good seal.
6. Place on Baking Sheet: Place the sealed pizza pockets on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one.
7. Egg Wash (Optional): In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water. Brush the tops of the pizza pockets with the egg wash. This will give them a beautiful golden-brown color and a slightly glossy finish.
8. Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pizza pockets are golden brown and the filling is heated through.

Serving and Enjoying:

Alright, the moment we’ve all been waiting for! Time to enjoy those delicious, homemade Buffalo Chicken Pizza Pockets.

1. Cool Slightly: Let the pizza pockets cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before serving. This will prevent you from burning your mouth on the hot filling.
2. Serve: Serve the pizza pockets warm. They’re delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with extra ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, or buffalo wing sauce for dipping.
3. Enjoy! Take a bite and savor the spicy, cheesy goodness! These pizza pockets are perfect for game day, parties, or just a fun weeknight meal.

Tips and Variations:

• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of buffalo wing sauce to your liking. For a milder flavor, use a mild buffalo wing sauce or reduce the amount. For a spicier kick, use a hot buffalo wing sauce or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling.
• Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese in the filling. Pepper jack cheese would add a nice kick, while provolone cheese would give it a milder flavor.
• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with cooked and crumbled vegetarian chicken substitute or sautéed mushrooms and onions.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough and filling ahead of time. Store the dough in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Store the filling in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to assemble the pizza pockets, let the dough come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before rolling it out.
• Freezing: These pizza pockets freeze well. After baking, let them cool completely. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but they won’t be as crispy.
• Air Fryer Option: You can also cook these in an air fryer! Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the pizza pockets in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they aren’t touching. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and heated through, flipping halfway through.

Conclusion:

So there you have it! These Buffalo Chicken Pizza Pockets are more than just a snack; they’re a flavor explosion waiting to happen. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try because it perfectly balances convenience, affordability, and, most importantly, incredible taste. Forget ordering takeout; these pockets deliver all the spicy, cheesy goodness you crave, right from your own kitchen. The combination of the tangy buffalo sauce, tender chicken, and gooey cheese, all encased in a perfectly golden-brown crust, is simply irresistible. It’s the kind of comfort food that satisfies on so many levels, whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a fun appetizer for game night, or a satisfying dinner.

But the best part? These pockets are incredibly versatile! Feel free to get creative with your fillings. If you’re not a fan of blue cheese, try ranch dressing instead. Want to add some veggies? Sliced bell peppers, onions, or even some spinach would be delicious additions. For a vegetarian option, you could easily substitute the chicken with crumbled tofu or black beans. And don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheeses! Pepper jack would add an extra kick, while mozzarella would create a classic pizza flavor.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Dipping Sauces: Serve these pockets with a side of ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, or even a dollop of sour cream.
* Spice Level: Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to your liking. For a milder flavor, use a mild buffalo sauce or mix it with some melted butter. For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
* Crust Options: While I love using store-bought pizza dough for its convenience, you can also use puff pastry or even crescent roll dough for a different texture.
* Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the pockets. You can even assemble the pockets and freeze them for a quick and easy meal later on. Just be sure to bake them for a few extra minutes when cooking from frozen.
* Air Fryer Option: For an even quicker and crispier result, try cooking these pockets in an air fryer!

I’m genuinely excited for you to try this recipe. I know you’ll love the ease of preparation and the incredible flavor. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and I’m confident it will become a regular in your recipe rotation.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the deliciousness of homemade Buffalo Chicken Pizza Pockets! I can’t wait to hear what you think.

Once you’ve made them, please come back and share your experience in the comments below. Did you make any variations? What dipping sauce did you use? What did your family and friends think? I’m always looking for new ideas and inspiration, and I love hearing from you all. Happy cooking! Let me know if you have any questions, and I’ll do my best to answer them. Enjoy!