If you’re dreaming of a snack that’s both outrageously cheesy and bursting with zesty flavor, look no further than these Ooey-Gooey Buffalo Chicken Pizza Pockets. Imagine tender shredded chicken tossed in spicy buffalo sauce, smothered with two kinds of melty cheese, and wrapped in a pillowy crust that’s baked golden-brown. These little pockets deliver an epic flavor punch in every bite and make for the ultimate game-day treat, lunchbox hero, or irresistible crowd-pleaser. You’ll want to make a double batch because every fan who tries them will be reaching for more!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Ooey-Gooey Buffalo Chicken Pizza Pockets is how straightforward the ingredients are—yet each one plays a starring role in building that legendary flavor combination. Gather these simple essentials for a guaranteed cheesy, spicy, and savory payoff.
- Chicken: Cooked and shredded—rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled works wonders for speedy prep and juicy texture.
- Buffalo wing sauce: The heart of that signature spicy kick; choose your favorite for personalized heat intensity.
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing: Creamy tang tames the buffalo fire and gives an authentic “wing night” vibe.
- Mozzarella cheese: For ultimate meltiness and gorgeous stretch in every bite.
- Cheddar cheese: Adds sharp flavor and vivid color to balance the gooey mozzarella.
- Refrigerated pizza dough: Store-bought or homemade—either way, a soft and tender wrap is key for maximum indulgence.
- Egg (for egg wash): Brushed on top for that irresistible bakery-style golden finish.
- Butter (melted, optional): A quick brush before serving ramps up the richness—totally worth it if you want an extra shine.
- Chopped green onions or parsley (optional): Sprinkle for a pop of color and a fresh, herby finish.
How to Make Ooey-Gooey Buffalo Chicken Pizza Pockets
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C)—this high heat ensures the crust puffs up beautifully and turns golden in just minutes. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper so that the Ooey-Gooey Buffalo Chicken Pizza Pockets will lift right off with zero sticking and minimal cleanup.
Step 2: Make the Buffalo Chicken Filling
In a large bowl, toss the cooked shredded chicken with buffalo wing sauce and ranch or blue cheese dressing until everything is evenly coated. You’ll notice the chicken turning glossy and orange—a sign it’s ready to deliver on maximum spicy flavor with a creamy, tangy edge.
Step 3: Prepare and Fill the Dough
Roll out your pizza dough into a large rectangle on a lightly floured surface. Try to keep it even for fuss-free folding. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice the dough into 6–8 equal squares or rectangles, depending on how big you want each pocket. Spoon a generous couple of tablespoons of that buffalo chicken mixture onto one half of each square, then sprinkle a mix of mozzarella and cheddar cheese right on top.
Step 4: Seal and Shape Your Pockets
Fold the empty side of each dough square over the filling, creating a neat little package. Press the edges all around firmly with a fork—this not only seals in all the goodness but gives each pocket an adorable crimped edge. Transfer them carefully to your lined baking sheet, leaving space for puffing.
Step 5: Egg Wash and Bake
Brush the tops of your Ooey-Gooey Buffalo Chicken Pizza Pockets with a beaten egg for that gorgeously glossy, bakery-worthy crust. Slide them into the oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, watching as they puff and turn gloriously golden.
Step 6: Optional Butter Brushing and Garnishing
If you’re feeling extra, brush the hot pockets with melted butter and sprinkle with fresh green onions or parsley. This quick addition adds a delightful sheen and a pop of color that makes them truly irresistible.
How to Serve Ooey-Gooey Buffalo Chicken Pizza Pockets
Garnishes
After baking, give your pockets the finishing touch with a sprinkle of chopped green onions or parsley. That light, fresh bite is the perfect contrast to the cheesy, spicy middle. And don’t forget an extra drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing—dip and savor every creamy, tangy note.
Side Dishes
For a complete meal, pair your Ooey-Gooey Buffalo Chicken Pizza Pockets with crisp celery sticks (classic buffalo wing style!), a leafy green salad, or even seasoned waffle fries. Their bold flavors also work beautifully alongside carrot sticks or tangy coleslaw for refreshing crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
Hosting a party or Game Day gathering? Pile the warm pizza pockets on a wooden board with little bowls of ranch, blue cheese, and extra buffalo sauce for dunking and passing around. Try making some smaller “mini” pockets as fun bites for a buffet spread, or stack them in a bowl as a playful twist on traditional pizza night—no forks required!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover Ooey-Gooey Buffalo Chicken Pizza Pockets, cool them completely before popping them into an airtight container. They’ll keep fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days, always ready to satisfy that sudden cheesy-craving blitz.
Freezing
These pizza pockets freeze like a dream! Place baked and fully cooled pockets in a single layer on a tray to freeze solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They’ll stay delicious for up to 2 months—perfect for make-ahead snacks or busy weeknight dinners.
Reheating
To bring frozen or chilled pockets back to life, simply reheat them in a 350°F (175°C) oven or air fryer for about 10 minutes, until piping hot and the cheese is oozing. This keeps the crust crispy and the inside ooey-gooey—just the way these Buffalo Chicken Pizza Pockets are meant to be!
FAQs
Can I make these pizza pockets ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the Ooey-Gooey Buffalo Chicken Pizza Pockets up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate before baking. Just pop them in a hot oven when you’re ready, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time if needed.
What’s the best way to get the edges to seal?
Crimping the dough edges firmly with a fork works like magic. If your dough seems dry, lightly wet the edges with a dab of water before pressing together—it helps create that perfect seal to keep all the melted cheese and buffalo goodness inside.
Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?
Yes! Leftover rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut for these pockets, delivering juicy texture and making prep a breeze. Just be sure to shred it finely for easy mixing and stuffing.
Are these spicy, and how can I adjust the heat?
The heat level depends on your buffalo sauce—choose mild for a gentler bite, or go spicy if you’re a heat lover. You can also add a pinch of cayenne or even chopped jalapeños to the filling for an extra fiery version.
Can I make these with homemade pizza dough?
Without a doubt! Homemade dough brings an extra layer of flavor, but store-bought works great for convenience. Just make sure your dough isn’t too thick when rolling out, so the pockets bake up tender and not doughy.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been searching for a new, crowd-winning snack or an easy dinner everyone will love, these Ooey-Gooey Buffalo Chicken Pizza Pockets are calling your name. I can’t wait for you to taste just how addictive that cheesy, spicy filling can be—once you try them, you’ll keep coming back for more!
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Ooey-Gooey Buffalo Chicken Pizza Pockets Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 pizza pockets 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Ooey-Gooey Buffalo Chicken Pizza Pockets are a delicious and easy-to-make snack or main course, perfect for game day or any casual gathering. Packed with spicy buffalo chicken, gooey cheeses, and encased in crispy pizza dough, these pockets are sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
Shredded Chicken:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
Buffalo Sauce Mixture:
- ¼ cup buffalo wing sauce
- ¼ cup ranch or blue cheese dressing
Cheese:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Pizza Dough:
- 1 refrigerated pizza dough (or homemade)
Egg Wash:
- 1 egg, beaten
Optional Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- Chopped green onions or parsley
Instructions
- Preheat: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Chicken: In a bowl, mix shredded chicken with buffalo sauce and dressing until evenly coated.
- Prepare Dough: Roll out the pizza dough into a large rectangle and cut into 6–8 equal squares or rectangles.
- Fill and Seal: Spoon buffalo chicken mixture onto one half of each dough piece, add cheeses, fold over, and press edges to seal.
- Bake: Brush pockets with beaten egg, bake for 12–15 minutes until golden.
- Optional Garnish: Brush with melted butter, sprinkle with green onions or parsley, and serve hot.
Notes
- For extra heat, add cayenne pepper or jalapeños to the filling.
- Pizza pockets can be frozen and reheated in the oven or air fryer.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pocket
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
