Buffalo Chicken Wing Wonton Cups are a delicious and unique twist on the classic buffalo chicken wing. This appetizer combines the spicy and tangy flavors of buffalo sauce with the crispy texture of wonton cups, creating a mouthwatering bite-sized treat. These cups are perfect for parties and gatherings, as they are easy to make, easy to eat, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Key Takeaways
- Buffalo chicken wings originated in Buffalo, New York in the 1960s.
- Buffalo chicken wing wonton cups combine the flavors of chicken wings and crispy wonton cups.
- Ingredients needed include wonton wrappers, cooked chicken, hot sauce, and blue cheese dressing.
- To make the wonton cups, bake the wrappers in a muffin tin until crispy.
- Serve with celery sticks and ranch dressing for a classic pairing.
The Origins of Buffalo Chicken Wings
The history of buffalo chicken wings dates back to the 1960s in Buffalo, New York. The story goes that the owner of the Anchor Bar, Teressa Bellissimo, created this dish as a late-night snack for her son and his friends. She deep-fried some chicken wings, tossed them in a mixture of hot sauce and butter, and served them with celery and blue cheese dressing.
The dish quickly gained popularity in Buffalo and eventually spread throughout the United States. Today, buffalo chicken wings are a staple on menus at sports bars, restaurants, and parties across the country. They are often enjoyed as a finger food during sporting events or as an appetizer before a meal.
The Perfect Combination: Chicken Wings and Wonton Cups
Chicken wings and wonton cups are a match made in culinary heaven. The crispy texture of the wonton cups complements the tender and juicy chicken wings perfectly. The wonton cups also provide a convenient vessel for holding the buffalo sauce, preventing any mess or drips.
Using wonton cups instead of traditional wings has several benefits. First, it eliminates the need for deep-frying, making the dish healthier and easier to prepare. Second, the wonton cups can be baked in advance and stored until ready to use, saving time on party day. Finally, the individual servings make it easy for guests to grab a cup and enjoy without needing utensils or plates.
Ingredients Needed to Make Buffalo Chicken Wing Wonton Cups
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Wonton Wrappers | 24 |
| Chicken Wings | 1 lb |
| Buffalo Sauce | 1/2 cup |
| Cream Cheese | 4 oz |
| Blue Cheese Dressing | 1/4 cup |
| Green Onions | 2 |
| Vegetable Oil | 2 tbsp |
| Salt | To taste |
To make Buffalo Chicken Wing Wonton Cups, you will need the following ingredients:
– 24 wonton wrappers
– 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
– 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– 1/4 cup chopped celery
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
– Ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping
These ingredients can be found at most grocery stores. Wonton wrappers are typically located in the refrigerated section near the produce, while buffalo sauce and blue cheese can be found in the condiment aisle.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Buffalo Chicken Wing Wonton Cups
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a muffin tin.
2. Press a wonton wrapper into each muffin cup, making sure to press it down into the bottom and up the sides.
3. Bake the wonton cups for 5-7 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
4. In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, and melted butter. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.
5. Spoon the chicken mixture into each wonton cup, filling them about halfway.
6. Return the filled cups to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through.
7. Remove the cups from the oven and let them cool slightly.
8. Top each cup with chopped celery and crumbled blue cheese.
9. Serve the Buffalo Chicken Wing Wonton Cups with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
Tips and Tricks for Perfectly Crispy Wonton Cups
To ensure that your wonton cups turn out crispy and delicious, follow these tips:
1. Use fresh wonton wrappers: Wonton wrappers can dry out quickly, so make sure to use fresh ones for the best results. If your wrappers are dry or brittle, they may not crisp up properly in the oven.
2. Grease the muffin tin well: Greasing the muffin tin prevents the wonton cups from sticking and helps them brown evenly. Use cooking spray or a small amount of oil to grease the tin before pressing in the wrappers.
3. Don’t overfill the cups: It’s important not to overfill the wonton cups with the chicken mixture, as this can cause them to become soggy. Fill them about halfway to ensure that they stay crispy.
4. Bake at the right temperature: Baking the wonton cups at 375°F (190°C) ensures that they cook evenly and become crispy. If the temperature is too low, they may not brown properly.
The Spicy Sauce: Making Buffalo Sauce from Scratch
If you prefer to make your own buffalo sauce from scratch, here is a simple recipe:
– 1/2 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– 1 tablespoon white vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
In a small saucepan, combine all of the ingredients and heat over low heat until the butter is melted and the sauce is well combined. Taste and adjust the spice level by adding more hot sauce or cayenne pepper if desired.
Variations on the Classic Buffalo Chicken Wing Wonton Cup Recipe
While the classic Buffalo Chicken Wing Wonton Cups are delicious on their own, there are many variations you can try to customize the dish to your taste. Here are a few ideas:
– BBQ Chicken Wonton Cups: Substitute BBQ sauce for the buffalo sauce and top with shredded cheddar cheese and sliced green onions.
– Teriyaki Chicken Wonton Cups: Toss the shredded chicken in teriyaki sauce instead of buffalo sauce and top with diced pineapple and sesame seeds.
– Mexican Chicken Wonton Cups: Season the chicken with taco seasoning and top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a dollop of sour cream.
– Mediterranean Chicken Wonton Cups: Toss the chicken in Greek dressing and top with crumbled feta cheese, diced cucumbers, and chopped Kalamata olives.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings for Buffalo Chicken Wing Wonton Cups
Buffalo Chicken Wing Wonton Cups are a versatile appetizer that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are a few serving suggestions:
– Serve as an appetizer at parties or gatherings: Arrange the wonton cups on a platter and serve them alongside a bowl of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
– Make it a meal: Serve the wonton cups as a main course by pairing them with a side salad or coleslaw.
– Add some heat: For those who like it extra spicy, serve the wonton cups with a side of hot sauce or sprinkle them with crushed red pepper flakes.
– Pair with refreshing beverages: Serve the wonton cups with ice-cold beer, soda, or a refreshing cocktail like a margarita or mojito.
Final Thoughts: Why Buffalo Chicken Wing Wonton Cups are the Perfect Party Appetizer
In conclusion, Buffalo Chicken Wing Wonton Cups are the ultimate party appetizer. They combine the classic flavors of buffalo chicken wings with the convenience and crunch of wonton cups. These bite-sized treats are easy to make, easy to eat, and guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering.
Whether you’re hosting a Super Bowl party, a birthday celebration, or just a casual get-together with friends, Buffalo Chicken Wing Wonton Cups are sure to impress. So why not give them a try at your next event? Your guests will thank you.