Crispy Buffalo Chicken Totchos in the Air Fryer

These crispy buffalo chicken totchos are the perfect game day snack or easy weeknight treat. Packed with spicy, tangy flavor and a satisfying crunch, they come together quickly using the air fryer for a healthier twist.

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TIME20 min

SERVINGS4

RATING5.0 / 5

Crispy Buffalo Chicken Totchos in the Air Fryer

01 / WHAT YOU NEED

Ingredients

1 (30 ounce) package frozen bite-size potato nuggets (such as Tater Tots®) ½ pound rotisserie chicken breasts, chopped 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese ½ cup salsa ¼ cup ranch dressing 1 tablespoon buffalo wing sauce, or more to taste 1 pinch cayenne pepper, or to taste 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro, or to taste

02 / HOW TO MAKE IT

Let's cook.

Step 1

First, preheat your air fryer to 370°F (190°C) for a couple of minutes. Toss in the potato nuggets and cook them until they’re golden and crispy, around 12 minutes, giving the basket a good shake every few minutes to help them cook evenly. You might want to do this in batches if your air fryer is small. Once the tots are ready, spread them out on plates and top with the cooked chicken, a generous sprinkle of Cheddar cheese, and some salsa. In a small bowl, mix together the ranch dressing and buffalo sauce, then drizzle this over your totchos. Finish things off with a sprinkle of cayenne pepper and a few cilantro leaves for a fresh kick. Enjoy!

03 / EXTRA DETAILS

Good to know.

Cook's tip

- Preheat the air fryer to ensure even cooking and maximum crispiness.
- Use frozen tater tots for the best texture and ease.
- Toss the chicken in buffalo sauce right before serving to keep it tender and saucy.

Why you’ll love it

This dish combines the best of crispy tots and spicy buffalo chicken for a fun and flavorful snack or meal. It’s quick to make with the air fryer, giving you a perfectly crunchy texture without deep frying. Plus, the bold flavors are always a crowd-pleaser.

Serving ideas

Serve with a side of cool ranch or blue cheese dressing to balance the heat. Add some sliced green onions or chopped celery for extra crunch and freshness. This dish pairs well with a cold beer or a light salad.

Storage & leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven to bring back the crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the tots soggy.