Welcome to the world of Buffalo Chicken Jerky! This deliciously spicy snack is a great way to add extra heat to your snacking routine. Buffalo chicken jerky is a popular snack that combines the flavors of buffalo wings and ranch dressing with the texture of jerky. This recipe is perfect for snack lovers, meal preppers, and anyone looking for a high-protein, flavorful treat. Buffalo chicken jerky combines the flavors of buffalo wings and ranch dressing for a truly irresistible snack. Alongside other unique options like buffalo jerky, it stands out as a flavorful and premium choice. Our simple and easy-to-follow recipe takes little time to whip up, and the results are sure to please. To make this treat, you only need a few simple ingredients, like chicken breasts and buffalo sauce. Bold ingredients like aged cayenne red peppers in the buffalo sauce enhance the spicy flavor. After marinating the chicken in your sauce, dry it in the food dehydrator until it reaches the perfect consistency.
Enjoy your homemade Buffalo Chicken Jerky recipe today!
Ground chicken is commonly used for making buffalo chicken jerky, but chicken breast is also a great option.
The best part of making buffalo chicken jerky is that it only takes about 15 minutes of actual work.
Let’s get started!
| Step | Instructions | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 6 hours | Includes marinating time |
| Dehydrating Time | 6 hours | |
| Total Time | 12 hours | |
| Ingredients | – 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts | Preferably lean chicken breast for best results |
| – 1/2 cup Buffalo sauce | Use your favorite buffalo wing sauce | |
| – 1/4 cup soy sauce | ||
| – 1 tbsp brown sugar | ||
| – 1 tsp garlic powder | ||
| – 1 tsp onion powder | ||
| – 1/2 tsp hot sauce (e.g., Frank’s RedHot) | ||
| – 1/2 tsp lemon juice | ||
| – 1/4 tsp cracked black pepper | ||
| – 1/4 tsp citric acid (optional) | Helps with preservation | |
| – 1/2 tsp table salt | ||
| – 1/2 tsp black pepper | ||
| – 1/4 tsp curing salt or Prague Powder (optional but recommended) | Enhances safety and shelf life | |
| Equipment | – Sharp knife | For slicing chicken evenly |
| – | Dehydrator preferred for best results | |
| – Jerky gun (optional) | Speeds up forming jerky strips | |
| – Plastic wrap or parchment paper | For marinating | |
| – Freezer | Partially freeze chicken for easier slicing | |
| Instructions | 1. Preheat oven to 350°F. | Bake chicken breasts until internal temp reaches 165°F (fully cooked). |
| 2. Allow chicken to cool slightly. | Easier to handle for slicing | |
| 3. Slice chicken into 1/8 to 1/4 inch strips. | Ensures even drying | |
| 4. In a large bowl, combine buffalo sauce and other seasonings. | Mix well to create marinade | |
| 5. Add chicken strips to marinade, coat evenly. | Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate 6-10 hours. | |
| 6. Arrange marinated strips on dehydrator trays in a single layer. | Avoid overlapping for proper drying | |
| 7. Set dehydrator to 165°F and dry for 4-6 hours. | Time depends on thickness; ensure internal temp reaches 165°F for safety. | |
| 8. Remove jerky and let cool completely to room temperature. | Prevent moisture buildup before storage | |
| 9. Store in airtight container in a cool, dark place or refrigerate for longer shelf life. | Jerky can last about a week at room temp, longer if vacuum sealed or refrigerated. | |
| Doneness Test | Bend test: jerky should bend and crack but not break. | Rip test: white fibers visible inside when torn |
| Serving Suggestions | Enjoy as a snack on its own or with ranch dressing dip. | Perfect for camping trips or on-the-go protein boost |
Dehydrating time: 6 hours
Total time: 12 hours
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Half cup Buffalo sauce
• Knife
• Food dehydrator (the better quality the dehydrator, the better result you will get)
Chicken jerky is a delightful dried meat snack made primarily from chicken breast, though other cuts of chicken can also be used. Chicken jerky is a type of dehydrated meat made from poultry, and traditional jerky was also made from fish, reflecting historical preservation methods used by various cultures. This protein-packed treat is a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts, fitness buffs, and anyone seeking a healthy, convenient snack. Ground chicken is commonly used for making chicken jerky as well. The process of making chicken jerky involves marinating the chicken in a flavorful blend of seasonings and spices, then drying it to remove excess moisture. The result is a chewy, savory snack that’s not only delicious but also rich in protein, making it a perfect on-the-go option. Chicken jerky can be flavored with a variety of spices and marinades, such as chili garlic sauce and honey.
Now that you know what chicken jerky is, let’s explore the inspiration behind the buffalo flavor.
Buffalo wings, a beloved American classic, have inspired countless culinary creations, including buffalo chicken jerky. The original buffalo wing recipe, crafted in the 1960s by Teressa Bellissimo, features deep-fried chicken wings tossed in a spicy sauce made from hot sauce and butter. The bold, spicy, and savory flavors of buffalo wings have been adapted into various snacks, with buffalo chicken jerky being a standout. By using similar seasonings and spices, buffalo chicken jerky captures the essence of buffalo wings, offering a convenient and portable way to enjoy those iconic flavors.
Ready to make your own buffalo chicken jerky? Let’s dive into the ingredients and equipment you’ll need.
To whip up a batch of delicious chicken jerky, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Note: The right balance of liquid ingredients and fat in the meat is important for achieving the best texture and proper drying of your jerky.
For the equipment, a dehydrator is ideal, but a low-temperature oven (150-200°F) can also do the trick. If you have a smoker or a grill with temperature control, those can be used as well. The key is to ensure consistent, low heat to properly dry the chicken.
Additional recommended equipment:
Note: Using a jerky gun can make the process of forming jerky strips much quicker and easier.
Note: Using a sharp knife is important for slicing the chicken breast into even strips, and partially freezing the chicken in the freezer helps achieve this.
Note: Chicken breast is the best and preferred cut for making chicken jerky due to its leanness and ease of slicing.
Note: Tracking prep time and cook time is important for best results when making jerky.
Now that you have your ingredients and equipment ready, let’s walk through the step-by-step process of making buffalo chicken jerky.
Enjoy the Buffalo Chicken Jerky!
Now that you’ve learned how to make this delicious Buffalo Chicken Jerky recipe, it is time to roll up your sleeves and get ready to enjoy your homemade jerky snack! Whether you are looking for a game-day treat or just a spicy twist on traditional jerky, this recipe will satisfy you. So get your
Making sure your buffalo chicken jerky is perfectly dried is key to both safety and flavor. During the drying process, check your chicken strips regularly to avoid over-drying, which can make your homemade chicken jerky tough and less enjoyable. The best way to test for doneness is the bend test: simply bend a piece of jerky in half. If it bends and cracks but doesn’t snap in two, your buffalo chicken jerky is ready to eat. You can also try the rip test—tear a strip in half and look for clean white fibers inside, which means the chicken is fully dehydrated. These simple checks help ensure your buffalo chicken jerky is safe, delicious, and packed with that bold buffalo flavor you love. Remember, the right texture makes all the difference in enjoying your homemade jerky!
Once you’ve confirmed your jerky is done, it’s time to store it properly for maximum freshness.
To keep your buffalo chicken jerky tasting fresh and flavorful, proper storage is a must. Once your homemade chicken jerky has cooled completely to room temperature, place it in an airtight container—like a glass jar or a sturdy plastic container with a tight-fitting lid. Store your jerky in a cool dark place, such as a pantry or cupboard, to protect it from moisture and light. Jerky can be stored at room temperature for about a week in a cool dark place. If sealed in an airtight container without oxygen, jerky can last for a month at room temperature. For longer shelf life, you can keep your buffalo chicken jerky in the refrigerator or even the freezer, especially if you’ve made a big batch for future snacking. When it’s time to serve, enjoy your buffalo chicken jerky straight from the container or pair it with classic dips like ranch dressing for an extra kick. This protein-packed snack is perfect for a camping trip, a quick lunchbox treat, or a satisfying bite on the go. Always check for any signs of spoilage—like an off smell or slimy texture—before you eat, to ensure your jerky stays safe and delicious.
With your jerky safely stored, let’s look at some tips and variations to make your next batch even better.
With these tips and variations, you can customize your chicken jerky to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!
Buffalo chicken jerky isn’t just tasty—it’s packed with benefits that make it a standout among homemade jerky options. Thanks to the bold combination of buffalo sauce and lean chicken breast, you get a snack that’s bursting with great flavor and just the right amount of heat. Chicken jerky is naturally high in protein and lower in fat compared to beef jerky or turkey jerky, making it a smart choice for anyone looking to add extra protein to their diet without the added fat. The jerky making process also extends the shelf life of your meat, so you can enjoy your buffalo chicken jerky on a camping trip, at work, or whenever you need a quick, satisfying snack. Plus, making jerky at home means you control the ingredients—no unnecessary preservatives, just pure, delicious flavor. With its convenience, nutrition, and addictive taste, it’s easy to see why buffalo chicken jerky is considered one of the best chicken jerky snacks around!
