Ooey-Gooey Buffalo Chicken Pizza Pockets

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Buffalo chicken pizza pockets are the ultimate comfort food, combining the spicy, tangy flavor of buffalo chicken with the cheesy, melty goodness of pizza. These little pockets are perfect for a snack, appetizer, or even a meal. The crispy outer layer gives way to an ooey-gooey, flavorful filling that’s loaded with tender chicken, spicy buffalo sauce, and melted cheese. Whether you’re hosting a game night or craving something indulgent, these buffalo chicken pizza pockets are sure to satisfy every bite.

this Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 lb cooked chicken (shredded)

• 1/2 cup buffalo sauce

• 1 cup cream cheese (softened)

• 1/2 cup ranch or blue cheese dressing

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 package refrigerated pizza dough

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)

• Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, cream cheese, ranch or blue cheese dressing, mozzarella cheese, cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well incorporated.

3. Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface and cut it into squares or circles, depending on your preferred size.

4. Spoon the buffalo chicken mixture into the center of each dough piece.

5. Fold the dough over the filling to form a pocket, pressing the edges together to seal.

6. Place the pizza pockets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with olive oil.

7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the dough is golden and the cheese is bubbling inside.

8. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8 pizza pockets

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes

• Total Time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

• Add Veggies: Try adding some sautéed onions, bell peppers, or spinach to the buffalo chicken mixture for extra flavor.

• Spicy Twist: For more heat, add extra buffalo sauce or sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the filling.

• Cheese Swap: If you prefer a different cheese, you can substitute the mozzarella or cheddar with provolone or gouda for a unique twist.

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with a plant-based protein or extra veggies like cauliflower for a vegetarian version of this recipe.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover buffalo chicken pizza pockets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat in a microwave for about 30-45 seconds, but the crust may lose its crispiness.

FAQs

How can I make buffalo chicken pizza pockets ahead of time?

You can prepare the pockets, assemble them, and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just bake them as directed when you’re ready to serve.

Can I freeze buffalo chicken pizza pockets?

Yes, you can freeze these pizza pockets! Assemble them and place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or container for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes.

Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Store-bought rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and works perfectly in this recipe. Just shred the chicken before mixing it with the buffalo sauce and cheese.

Is there a substitute for ranch or blue cheese dressing?

Yes, you can use sour cream or even Greek yogurt as a substitute for the ranch or blue cheese dressing for a different flavor.

Can I make this recipe with gluten-free dough?

Yes, you can use gluten-free pizza dough to make this recipe gluten-free. Just be sure to check the dough packaging for the recommended baking instructions.

Can I bake these buffalo chicken pizza pockets in an air fryer?

Yes! Air frying is a great option. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook the pizza pockets for 8-10 minutes or until golden and crispy.

Can I use a different sauce instead of buffalo sauce?

Yes, you can swap the buffalo sauce for a BBQ sauce or even a teriyaki sauce if you want to experiment with different flavors.

How spicy are these buffalo chicken pizza pockets?

The level of spice depends on the buffalo sauce you use. If you want them milder, choose a mild buffalo sauce or add less to the chicken mixture.

Can I make these without cream cheese?

Yes, you can omit the cream cheese and use more ranch dressing or substitute with a little bit of sour cream for a creamy filling.

What can I serve with buffalo chicken pizza pockets?

These pockets pair perfectly with a simple salad, carrot sticks, or celery. You can also serve them with extra ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.

Conclusion

Ooey-gooey buffalo chicken pizza pockets are an irresistible combination of spicy, cheesy, and crispy goodness that will quickly become a favorite in your household. They’re easy to make, customizable, and perfect for any occasion—whether you’re serving them as a quick meal or a party snack. With their simple ingredients and bold flavors, these pizza pockets are sure to satisfy every craving.