Crispy Golden Buffalo Chicken Jalapeño Cornbread Muffins: A Flavorful Delight!

These Crispy Golden Buffalo Chicken Jalapeño Cornbread Muffins are next-level snack goals. They’re spicy, cheesy, and oh-so crunchy on the edges. I had one… then three more.

The buffalo chicken adds that kick, and the jalapeños? Whew. Just enough heat to keep things interesting.

They’re fun to bake and even better to eat warm. If you like bold flavor packed in a muffin, you’re gonna love these.

Wanna make something that’s kinda wild but super tasty? Let’s get started—these muffins don’t mess around.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: These muffins bring together the spicy heat of buffalo chicken with the tangy sweetness of cornbread, creating a flavor party in your mouth!
• Crispy Exterior, Tender Inside: The crispy golden crust on the outside pairs beautifully with the soft and moist cornbread interior.
• Quick & Easy: With the help of rotisserie chicken, this recipe comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy days or last-minute cravings.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and store them for a week’s worth of tasty lunches or snacks.
• Versatile: You can adjust the spice level, add extra cheese, or mix in additional veggies to make this recipe your own.

Required Kitchen Tools

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s gather the essential kitchen tools:

1. Muffin Tin: A standard 12-cup muffin tin works great for this recipe.
2. Mixing Bowls: You’ll need at least two bowls—one for mixing the wet ingredients and another for the dry ingredients.
3. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precise measurements are key to ensuring the perfect texture and flavor.
4. Whisk and Spoon: For mixing and stirring the batter.
5. Spatula: To scoop the batter into the muffin tin.
6. Baking Brush (Optional): For brushing the top of the muffins with extra buffalo sauce before baking for a golden, crispy finish.

Ingredients

Here’s a list of ingredients you’ll need to create these deliciously spicy muffins (exact measurements are in the recipe card at the end):

• Cornmeal: The key ingredient for that traditional cornbread texture. It gives the muffins a wonderful crumbly yet tender base.
• Flour: Helps balance the cornmeal and gives the muffins the right texture—soft yet sturdy.
• Baking Powder: Ensures the muffins rise beautifully and gives them that light, airy texture.
• Buttermilk: This adds moisture and a slight tanginess to the muffins. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can substitute it with milk plus a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice.
• Vegetable Oil: Keeps the muffins moist and tender, contributing to their soft interior.
• Eggs: They bind the ingredients together and help with the structure of the muffins.
• Chicken (Rotisserie Chicken): The shortcut to delicious shredded chicken! It adds protein and flavor without the need for lengthy cooking.
• Buffalo Sauce: The star of this dish! Adjust the heat to your preference. If you like it hot, go for a spicier buffalo sauce, or use a milder one for a gentler kick.
• Cheddar Cheese: The cheese adds gooey, melty goodness and pairs perfectly with the spicy buffalo sauce.
• Jalapeños: These add a zesty punch and a fresh, crisp texture. You can choose to remove the seeds for a milder flavor, or leave them in for extra heat.
• Green Onions: Used as a garnish, adding a touch of freshness and a slight oniony bite that complements the spice of the buffalo sauce.

Variations for Buffalo Chicken Jalapeño Cornbread Muffins

These muffins are delicious as is, but if you want to get creative and experiment with different flavors, here are a few ideas for variations:

1. Add Extra Cheese: For an even cheesier experience, mix in some mozzarella or pepper jack cheese for extra melt and flavor.
2. Swap the Meat: If you’re not a fan of chicken, you can easily substitute with shredded beef or even ground turkey for a lighter option.
3. Spice It Up: For more heat, add extra chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter.
4. Add Veggies: Mix in some corn kernels or finely diced bell peppers for added texture and flavor.
5. Make It Dairy-Free: Substitute the buttermilk with a dairy-free alternative and use dairy-free cheese for a vegan version.
6. Crispy Topping: For an extra crispy crust, top the muffins with a sprinkle of breadcrumbs mixed with a little olive oil before baking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, and baking powder. Whisk these dry ingredients together to ensure they’re evenly mixed. This step is crucial for the right texture of the muffins, so make sure you sift the dry ingredients to remove any lumps.

2. Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, vegetable oil, and eggs until smooth and well-combined. You want this mixture to be homogeneous, so whisk until there are no lumps of egg or oil left.

3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to dense muffins. The batter should be thick but still spoonable.

4. Add the Chicken, Cheese, and Jalapeños

Gently fold in the shredded rotisserie chicken, cheddar cheese, and chopped jalapeños. If you prefer a milder version, remove the seeds from the jalapeños before chopping them. If you want extra heat, keep the seeds in! Be sure to distribute the chicken, cheese, and jalapeños evenly throughout the batter.

5. Scoop the Batter into Muffin Tin

Line your muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease each muffin cup with cooking spray. Using a spoon or an ice cream scoop, fill each muffin cup with batter, filling each about 2/3 full. This ensures the muffins have room to rise without overflowing.

6. Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the muffins for 18-22 minutes, or until the tops are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The edges should be crispy and golden brown, while the interior stays soft and fluffy.

7. Optional: Add a Crispy Buffalo Sauce Topping

For an extra crispy, golden finish, brush a little buffalo sauce on top of each muffin after baking. This will give them a beautiful shine and an extra kick of flavor. You can also sprinkle a bit of additional shredded cheese on top of the muffins and bake for an extra minute or two for a cheesy, bubbly finish.

Serving and Decoration

How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Jalapeño Cornbread Muffins

These muffins are delicious on their own, but you can elevate them even further by pairing them with a dipping sauce or incorporating them into a meal. Here are a few ideas for serving:

• As a Snack: Serve these muffins as a quick snack on game day, at a BBQ, or as an appetizer at a party. They’re sure to be a crowd favorite.
• With a Salad: Pair the muffins with a fresh green salad or a side of crispy fries for a complete meal.
• With Extra Buffalo Sauce: Serve with additional buffalo sauce for dipping—perfect for those who like their food extra spicy.
• In a Breakfast Spread: These muffins make a great addition to a brunch spread. Serve them alongside eggs, bacon, or even a breakfast burrito for a well-rounded meal.

How to Store Buffalo Chicken Jalapeño Cornbread Muffins

If you have leftovers (though that’s unlikely), here’s how to store them:

• Room Temperature: Keep muffins in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerator: For longer storage, place the muffins in the fridge where they’ll last for about 4-5 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven for the best taste.
• Freezer: You can freeze these muffins for up to 3 months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag for best results. Reheat in the microwave or oven when you’re ready to enjoy them again.

Spice it Up or Tone it Down: Adjusting the Heat

One of the best things about these muffins is how easily you can customize the spice level to match your personal taste. Whether you’re someone who craves intense heat or you prefer a milder kick, here are a few ideas:

1. Adjust the Buffalo Sauce:

The buffalo sauce is the main source of heat in these muffins. Depending on how spicy you like it, you can adjust the amount of buffalo sauce you use. For a mild flavor, use a small amount, or choose a mild buffalo sauce variety. On the other hand, if you’re a heat lover, you can go all out with a spicier sauce or even add in a dash of hot sauce to the batter.

2. Experiment with Different Hot Sauces:

Not all buffalo sauces are created equal. Some have a tangy vinegar-forward flavor, while others focus more on the heat from the peppers. Try using sriracha, Chipotle hot sauce, or even harissa for a unique spin. These variations will give the muffins different nuances of heat and flavor, making the recipe even more exciting!

3. Add Fresh or Pickled Jalapeños:

Jalapeños are the perfect way to add a fresh, crisp heat to the muffins. You can either use fresh jalapeños or pickled jalapeños to give your muffins a tangy kick. For a milder muffin, deseed the jalapeños, or leave them whole for extra heat. You can also experiment with other chili varieties, like serrano peppers or banana peppers, if you’re looking for a milder, but still flavorful, heat.

4. Spice it Up with Cayenne Pepper:

If you want to make your muffins even spicier, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dry ingredients. This will intensify the heat without altering the flavor profile too much. A little goes a long way, so start small and adjust to your desired spice level.

5. Cooling Additions:

For those who find the heat a bit too much, a cooling ingredient like a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt can help balance the spice. Serve the muffins with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for a classic pairing that will cool things down while complementing the bold flavors.

Customizing the Muffins to Fit Your Dietary Needs

Whether you’re following a specific dietary plan, trying to make a healthier version of this dish, or simply want to add a twist, there are plenty of ways to modify these muffins to suit your needs. Here are some ideas for customizing this recipe:

1. Make it Gluten-Free:

If you’re following a gluten-free diet or have dietary restrictions, you can easily swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Many gluten-free flour blends already contain the necessary ingredients to mimic the structure of wheat flour, so you don’t have to worry about experimenting with different types of gluten-free flour.

Make sure to check that the baking powder you use is also gluten-free, as some brands may contain trace amounts of gluten.

2. Lower the Calories:

If you’re watching your calories, consider making these muffins a little lighter without compromising too much on taste. You can substitute the vegetable oil with applesauce or a lighter oil like olive oil. You can also swap the buttermilk with low-fat or non-dairy milk to reduce the calorie count without affecting the moisture in the muffins.

For the cheese, try using reduced-fat cheddar cheese or another lower-calorie cheese alternative.

3. Make it Vegan:

To make these muffins vegan, there are a few easy swaps you can make. Start by using non-dairy milk such as almond milk or soy milk. Replace the buttermilk with vinegar and non-dairy milk (such as almond or soy milk). Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flax seeds + 3 tablespoons water) instead of regular eggs. Lastly, swap out the cheddar cheese for a vegan cheese that melts well.

Instead of chicken, you can use tofu, tempeh, or a plant-based chicken substitute to add protein while keeping the muffins vegan.

4. Make It Low-Carb or Keto:

For those following a low-carb or keto diet, there are ways to modify this recipe. Swap out the cornmeal and flour for almond flour or coconut flour. Keep in mind that these flours may absorb liquid differently, so you may need to adjust the amounts of buttermilk and oil. A good starting ratio is 1:1 for almond flour, but you may need to add more moisture depending on the batter’s consistency.

You can also reduce the amount of sugar or skip it altogether if you prefer your muffins without any sweetness, as the buffalo sauce and cheese provide enough flavor.

Creative Add-ins for Buffalo Chicken Jalapeño Cornbread Muffins

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility, so feel free to get creative and add your favorite ingredients to make these muffins truly your own! Here are a few fun ideas to take your muffins to the next level:

1. Bacon Bits:

Bacon and buffalo chicken are a match made in heaven. Add some crispy bacon bits to the batter for an extra layer of smokiness and crunch. You can either chop up cooked bacon or buy pre-made bacon bits to save time.

2. Sweet Corn:

Add some sweet corn kernels for a deliciously sweet contrast to the spicy buffalo sauce. The sweetness of the corn will balance out the heat and give the muffins an even more comforting flavor.

3. Red Onion or Shallots:

For an extra layer of flavor, finely chop some red onion or shallots and fold them into the batter. This adds a slight sweetness and depth of flavor that complements the savory ingredients.

4. Ranch or Blue Cheese Crumbles:

If you love the classic buffalo chicken and ranch combo, try folding in some crumbled blue cheese or ranch seasoning into the batter for a rich, creamy taste. You can also top the muffins with a little ranch or blue cheese dressing before serving for an extra indulgent touch.

Serving Suggestions:

Once your Buffalo Chicken Jalapeño Cornbread Muffins are done baking, there are several creative ways you can serve them to make them even more enjoyable:

1. Serve as Appetizers:

These muffins make for an incredible appetizer at any gathering. Pair them with a side of ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing for dipping, or serve them alongside celery sticks and carrot sticks for a classic buffalo wings-style experience.

2. Pair with Soup:

These muffins are perfect for dipping in your favorite soups! Try pairing them with a creamy tomato soup, chili, or even a cheddar potato soup. The muffins soak up the soup perfectly and add a savory, cheesy crunch.

3. Make it a Meal:

If you’re in the mood for a hearty meal, serve these muffins alongside a green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance out the richness. Add some sliced avocado or guacamole for a creamy contrast to the spicy muffins.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Buffalo Chicken Jalapeño Cornbread Muffins

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare Muffin Tin

Before you begin mixing the ingredients, start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure your oven is at the right temperature by the time the batter is ready.

Next, prepare your muffin tin by greasing it lightly with butter or non-stick spray. If you prefer to avoid any mess, you can also line the muffin tin with paper liners. This will make it easier to remove the muffins once they’re done baking.

2. Prepare the Chicken

If you’re using rotisserie chicken, shred it into bite-sized pieces, removing any bones or skin. You’ll need about 2 cups of shredded chicken.

For an even quicker option, you can also use leftover chicken from another meal, or bake some chicken breasts and shred them for this recipe. Just make sure the chicken is well-cooked and tender to give your muffins the best flavor.

If you’d prefer to use raw chicken, chop it into small chunks and cook it in a skillet with a bit of oil until it’s browned and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper, then shred or chop it further before adding it to your batter.

3. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients. Whisk together:

• 1 cup cornmeal: This is the base of your cornbread batter, giving it that signature texture and flavor.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour: The flour provides structure and a softer texture to the cornbread.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder: This will help the muffins rise and become light and fluffy.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients.
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a touch of savory flavor that complements the buffalo sauce.

Mix the dry ingredients together until they are well combined.

4. Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the following wet ingredients:

• 1 cup buttermilk: This adds moisture and a slight tang to balance the heat from the buffalo sauce.
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the muffins moist and tender.
• 2 large eggs: These bind everything together and provide richness to the batter.
• 1/4 cup buffalo sauce: Adjust to taste, depending on how spicy you want the muffins to be.

Whisk these ingredients together until smooth and well combined.

5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir gently with a spatula or spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix – you want the batter to stay light and fluffy, so mix just until the ingredients are incorporated.

6. Add the Chicken, Cheese, Jalapeños, and Green Onions

Now it’s time to fold in the flavorful additions:

• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken: Make sure it’s shredded evenly, so it mixes well into the batter.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: The cheese will melt beautifully during baking, making the muffins extra cheesy and delicious.
• 2-3 fresh jalapeños, finely chopped: These give the muffins a fresh, zesty kick. If you want a milder muffin, remove the seeds and ribs before chopping.
• 2 green onions, sliced: These provide a fresh, slightly sweet note that balances the spiciness of the jalapeños and buffalo sauce.

Gently fold these ingredients into the batter, making sure everything is evenly distributed.

7. Scoop the Batter into the Muffin Tin

Using a spoon or a cookie scoop, evenly divide the muffin batter into the prepared muffin tin. Fill each muffin cup about 2/3 to 3/4 full. This will give the muffins enough room to rise and bake to perfection.

8. Bake the Muffins

Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the muffins are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time to ensure they don’t overbake. The muffins should be soft and tender on the inside with a crispy, golden top.

9. Let the Muffins Cool

Once the muffins are baked, remove the muffin tin from the oven and allow the muffins to cool in the tin for about 5 minutes. This makes them easier to remove from the tin without falling apart. After the brief cooling period, transfer the muffins to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Jalapeño Cornbread Muffins

These muffins are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Here are a few ideas for serving them up:

1. As an Appetizer:

These muffins are perfect for serving as an appetizer or snack at your next gathering. Pair them with a side of ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing for dipping, or even serve them alongside a platter of celery sticks and carrot sticks to complete the classic buffalo wings experience.

2. With a Hearty Salad:

For a light lunch or dinner, serve these muffins with a fresh, tangy green salad. A simple caesar salad, spinach salad, or arugula salad with a citrus vinaigrette pairs perfectly with the richness of the muffins. The cool, crisp salad helps balance the spiciness of the muffins.

3. Pair with Soup:

These muffins are also fantastic when served with a bowl of hearty soup. Try pairing them with tomato soup, chili, or even a cheesy potato soup. The muffins will soak up the flavors of the soup, and the cheesy, spicy kick will complement the warmth of the soup.

Storing Buffalo Chicken Jalapeño Cornbread Muffins

If you happen to have leftovers, no worries! These muffins store really well, and you can enjoy them for days to come.

1. At Room Temperature:

Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. They will remain soft and flavorful, though the texture may be slightly less moist as time goes on.

2. In the Refrigerator:

If you want to extend the shelf life of the muffins, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Simply place them in an airtight container or resealable bag.

3. Freezing for Later:

These muffins freeze really well. After they’ve cooled completely, place the muffins in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat them, simply reheat them in the microwave or oven for a few minutes.

Nutrition for Buffalo Chicken Jalapeño Cornbread Muffins (per muffin):

• Calories: 270
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Protein: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 440mg

Buffalo Chicken Jalapeño Cornbread Muffins FAQs

Can I use fresh chicken instead of rotisserie?
Yes! If you prefer fresh chicken, simply cook it in a pan or bake it until it’s fully cooked, then shred or chop it. Just make sure it’s cool enough to handle before mixing it into the batter.

How do I make these muffins spicier?
You can add more jalapeños, or increase the amount of buffalo sauce for a more intense flavor. If you want extra heat, consider adding some cayenne pepper to the batter, or even sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top before baking.

Can I make these muffins ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare these muffins in advance, store them in the fridge for a few days, or freeze them for longer storage. If they are stored in the fridge, reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds or in the oven for about 10 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to bring them back to their fresh-baked goodness.

Can I make them without cheese?
Sure! If you’re looking to reduce the cheese, you can leave it out entirely, or use a dairy-free alternative. The muffins will still be moist and flavorful due to the buttermilk and oil.

Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, if you’re not a fan of cheddar, feel free to use mozzarella, gouda, or even a spicy pepper jack cheese to take the flavor profile in a different direction. Just make sure the cheese melts well to get that gooey texture inside the muffins.

Conclusion:

These Buffalo Chicken Jalapeño Cornbread Muffins are the perfect combination of comfort food and bold flavor. With their savory cornbread base, spicy buffalo sauce, and cheesy goodness, these muffins offer the perfect bite-sized treat for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer at a gathering, pairing them with a hearty salad or soup, or enjoying them as a snack, they’re sure to satisfy your cravings for something both spicy and comforting.

The best part? They’re incredibly versatile, easy to make, and perfect for meal prep. Make a batch ahead of time, store them in the fridge or freezer, and enjoy them throughout the week! With simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you’ll have these mouthwatering muffins on the table in no time.

So go ahead, try making these Buffalo Chicken Jalapeño Cornbread Muffins and treat yourself and your loved ones to a delicious, flavorful snack or meal. Whether you’re a fan of spicy food or just looking for a tasty new twist on cornbread, these muffins are sure to become a new favorite!