History of the Buffalo Chicken Pizza (and Why It’s a Must-Try)

In the heart of Buffalo, where culinary traditions are as vibrant as the community, there is a dish that captures the city’s spirit: the buffalo chicken pizza. This isn’t just food; it’s a culinary adventure, a local legend born from the city’s soul, offering everyone who tries it a genuine taste of Buffalo. 

The journey began in the buzzing kitchens of the city’s eateries, where the world-famous Buffalo Wings met another American classic: pizza. This wasn’t just a random fusion; it was a moment of inspired culinary brilliance. The traditional tomato sauce was swapped for a spicy, zesty Buffalo flavor, and the pizza was transformed into something extraordinary, quintessentially Buffalo. 

Ready to place an order for buffalo chicken pizza in Buffalo, NY? Be sure to check out our online menu at Franco’s Pizzeria!

The Early Origins of Buffalo Wings 

The story of the buffalo chicken pizza begins with the city’s beloved chicken wings. The invention of the iconic Buffalo wings, a culinary phenomenon that has since become synonymous with American snack culture, is a well-celebrated event in the annals of gastronomy. This spicy, flavorsome dish traces its origins back to Buffalo, New York, in 1964. 

The story, as most recount it, unfolds with an impromptu late-night creation by Teressa Bellissimo, who was looking to prepare a quick, easy snack for her son and his friends. The solution was both innovative and resourceful: she took the wings, a part of the chicken that was often used for stock or otherwise overlooked, and turned them into a culinary delight. She deep-fried the wings and then tossed them in a homemade special buffalo sauce, creating a dish that was an instant hit with her son and his friends.

Recognizing the potential of these spicy tidbits, the Bellissimos added them to their menu the following day. The wings, tossed in buffalo sauce and served traditionally with blue cheese dip and celery sticks, quickly gained popularity beyond their expectations. As their fame grew, so did variations on the recipe, though the original concept of the hot and spicy coating has largely remained the same.

The Creation of the Buffalo Chicken Pizza

It wasn’t long before creative minds saw the potential in merging Buffalo’s famous chicken wings with America’s favorite comfort food — pizza. Creating the perfect buffalo chicken pizza required a few key adaptations to the classic pizza recipe. Instead of the standard tomato sauce, chefs used the spicy, buttery hot sauce typical of Buffalo wings. Mozzarella cheese was joined by crumbles or swirls of blue cheese, adding a sharp, tangy contrast to the heat. Finally, pieces of chicken, often seasoned and cooked in the Buffalo style, were scattered across the top.

The result was a flavor profile that was instantly familiar yet excitingly new. The spicy buffalo sauce, combined with the creamy cheeses, flavorful chicken, and crispy crust, offered a complex array of tastes and textures. It wasn’t long before the buffalo chicken pizza gained popularity, emerging as a menu favorite in pizzerias and restaurants, especially in sports bars and during game nights, where it seemed to find its natural habitat.

However, the appeal of buffalo chicken pizza isn’t just about its bold flavors. This dish is a celebration of culinary creativity and fusion, embodying the spirit of American cuisine, which thrives on experimentation and regional flavor. It pays homage to its roots in Buffalo while demonstrating the universal appeal of well-loved comfort food.

Today, variations of buffalo chicken pizza can be found nationwide, with different establishments adding their unique twists. Some feature additional toppings like red onions or bell peppers, while others experiment with various cheese blends or crust types. Regardless of the type, the dish always pays tribute to Buffalo flavors. It brings together fans of wings and pizza, while also contributing to the history of pizza.

Where to Find the Best Buffalo Chicken Pizza in Buffalo, NY

In a marketplace of endless variations, Franco’s Pizzeria with locations all around Buffalo, NY remains true to the essence of buffalo chicken pizza, establishing itself as a cornerstone of our community’s food scene. It’s not just about providing a meal but about extending an experience that stays with you, creating memories one slice at a time.

At Franco’s Pizzeria, we pride ourselves in carrying on the tradition of serving Buffalo-style wings and pizza. Every dish we prepare is a homage to the rich flavors and spirited atmosphere of Buffalo, brought to life in our kitchen through time-honored recipes and the freshest local ingredients. When you step into Franco’s Pizzeria, you’re not just a customer; you’re part of a storied tradition, embraced by the comforting aromas of authentic Buffalo cuisine and the vibrant echoes of a community that gathers over its love for great food.

Dive into the rich, spicy delight of the best buffalo chicken pizza in town and visit Franco’s Pizzeria With its unique flavors, we’re sure to satisfy your cravings. Plus, you can enjoy the convenience of placing an order online and having it delivered to your home. And don’t forget to try our other food options as well!