Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Mushrooms
Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Recipes
I love making Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Mushrooms for game nights or casual get-togethers. The combination of hearty mushrooms filled with spicy, creamy buffalo chicken hits all the right notes. Each bite is packed with flavor, and if you’re a fan of buffalo wing flavors, you’ll find this recipe to be a perfect fit. Plus, they come together quickly—making them ideal for impromptu gatherings or weeknight snacks. I always get compliments on these tasty treats!
When I first created this dish, I wanted to give a classic buffalo wing twist to a healthy appetizer. The mushrooms not only hold the filling beautifully but also enhance the flavors with their earthy undertones. I experimented with different cheeses and spices until I achieved the right balance. You’ll find that the melty cheese and spicy chicken complement each other perfectly, and the mushrooms retain a lovely texture that makes every bite satisfying.
Another tip I discovered was to prep the mushrooms ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld while they sit. You can even assemble them a few hours before baking. Just pop them in the oven when your guests arrive, and the aroma will have everyone flocking to the kitchen. Trust me, they won't last long!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Spicy buffalo flavor meets earthy mushroom in a delightful combo
- Creamy filling with just the right amount of heat
- Perfect finger food for watching sports or casual gatherings
Choosing the Right Mushrooms
For this recipe, using large cremini mushrooms ensures that you have enough space for a generous amount of filling. They have a slightly earthy flavor that complements the spiciness of the buffalo chicken. If you're unable to find cremini mushrooms, you can use button mushrooms, but keep in mind that they may be more delicate and watery when cooked. Just be sure to select mushrooms that are firm and free of blemishes.
When cleaning the mushrooms, avoid soaking them in water, as they tend to absorb moisture, which can lead to soggy stuffed mushrooms. Instead, wipe them with a damp paper towel to remove dirt. After cleaning, removing the stems is essential for creating a cavity for the filling. Try to keep the caps intact so they can hold up during baking.
Making the Perfect Filling
The filling for these stuffed mushrooms is key to achieving that rich, creamy texture. Using softened cream cheese helps to create a cohesive mixture that binds the shredded chicken and other ingredients together. Be sure to combine the filling until smooth, as lumps can detract from the experience. If you prefer a bit of crunch, consider adding chopped celery or bell peppers for added texture and freshness.
To adjust the heat level of your filling, you can modify the amount of buffalo sauce. If you're serving a crowd with varying spice tolerances, my suggestion is to start with half the amount of sauce and add more to your taste. A dash of garlic powder or onion powder can also elevate the flavor profile significantly. Remember, the mixture should be firm enough to hold its shape when stuffed into the mushrooms.
Serving and Storage Suggestions
These Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Mushrooms can be served as an appetizer or as part of a main course. For a unique presentation, serve them on a bed of shredded lettuce or alongside dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese. I like to sprinkle a little extra green onion on top right before serving for an added burst of color and flavor. They are best enjoyed warm, but you can also let them cool to room temperature for a casual gathering.
If you have leftover stuffed mushrooms, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, until warmed through. These mushrooms also freeze well; after baking, allow them to cool completely, then freeze them in a single layer before transferring to a freezer bag. They can be baked directly from frozen, adding about 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Stuffed Mushrooms
- 24 large cremini mushrooms
- 1 cup cooked shredded chicken
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Feel free to adjust the buffalo sauce according to your taste; adding more will increase the heat!
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the Mushrooms
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Clean the mushrooms and carefully remove the stems. Set the caps aside and chop the stems finely.
Make the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream cheese, buffalo sauce, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, and chopped mushroom stems. Mix until well combined and season with salt and pepper.
Stuff the Mushrooms
Using a spoon, fill each mushroom cap generously with the buffalo chicken mixture. Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and golden. Serve warm.
These stuffed mushrooms are best served immediately, but they can be reheated if needed.
Pro Tips
- For an extra crunch, try topping the stuffed mushrooms with panko breadcrumbs before baking.
Ingredient Substitutions
This recipe is versatile, allowing you to swap out the chicken for shredded turkey or even cooked tempeh for a vegetarian option. If you're watching your caloric intake, consider using low-fat cream cheese without sacrificing flavor. You could also experiment with different types of cheese—swapping cheddar for mozzarella will yield a gooey, stretchy filling that many enjoy. Don't forget to taste as you mix and adjust the buffalo sauce for personal preference.
For a different flavor twist, try incorporating diced jalapeños or green chiles into the filling for extra heat. You can also substitute the buffalo sauce with a barbecue sauce if you prefer a sweeter profile. Just remember to balance it with some acidity, possibly a splash of vinegar, to keep the depth of flavor.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If your stuffed mushrooms leak moisture during baking, it often means they were not cleaned properly or moisture was trapped in the filling. Make sure to dry the mushrooms thoroughly after cleaning, and avoid adding too much buffalo sauce initially. If you've made the filling ahead of time, allow it to come to room temperature before stuffing to ensure the mushrooms cook evenly.
Overcooked mushrooms can become rubbery, so keep a close eye during baking. Ovens can vary, and checking them around the 15-minute mark can help you achieve the perfect tenderness. The mushrooms should be soft yet firm, holding their shape without collapsing. A light golden color on top also indicates that the filling is nicely baked.
Scaling the Recipe
This recipe can be easily scaled up or down depending on your gathering size. If you're planning for a larger group, consider making multiple trays; just keep in mind that baking may take slightly longer if you crowd the oven. If you're cooking for one or two, you can prepare a smaller batch using about half the original ingredients—just ensure to adjust baking time accordingly for fewer mushrooms.
When scaling the recipe, try to keep the proportions of the filling consistent. Mixing smaller batches can also help you more easily modify the flavors, allowing you to experiment with additional seasonings or fillings without overwhelming the dish. Enjoy the process of discovering your favorite combination!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken for the filling?
Yes, just ensure it's cooked and shredded before mixing it with the other ingredients.
→ What can I substitute for cream cheese?
You can use goat cheese or ricotta cheese for a different flavor.
→ How can I make this recipe milder?
Choose a milder buffalo sauce or reduce the amount of sauce used in the filling.
→ Can I prepare these in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed mushrooms and refrigerate them up to 4 hours before baking.
Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Mushrooms
I love making Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Mushrooms for game nights or casual get-togethers. The combination of hearty mushrooms filled with spicy, creamy buffalo chicken hits all the right notes. Each bite is packed with flavor, and if you’re a fan of buffalo wing flavors, you’ll find this recipe to be a perfect fit. Plus, they come together quickly—making them ideal for impromptu gatherings or weeknight snacks. I always get compliments on these tasty treats!
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Cozy Comfort Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 24 stuffed mushrooms
What You'll Need
For the Stuffed Mushrooms
- 24 large cremini mushrooms
- 1 cup cooked shredded chicken
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Clean the mushrooms and carefully remove the stems. Set the caps aside and chop the stems finely.
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream cheese, buffalo sauce, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, and chopped mushroom stems. Mix until well combined and season with salt and pepper.
Using a spoon, fill each mushroom cap generously with the buffalo chicken mixture. Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and golden. Serve warm.
Extra Tips
- For an extra crunch, try topping the stuffed mushrooms with panko breadcrumbs before baking.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g