Print

Healthy Ranch Buffalo Turkey Sticks Recipe with Spicy Glaze

Healthy Ranch Buffalo Turkey Sticks - featured image
Print Recipe

These Healthy Ranch Buffalo Turkey Sticks with Spicy Glaze are a quick, easy, and flavorful snack combining smoky buffalo heat with zesty ranch spices and a sticky, spicy glaze. Perfect for snacking, parties, or lunchboxes, they offer a healthier twist on a classic favorite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) ground turkey breast (lean, 93% recommended for best texture)
  • 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning mix (store-bought or homemade with dried herbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley or cilantro (optional)
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) hot sauce (e.g., Frank’s RedHot)
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the ground turkey, ranch seasoning, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and beaten egg. Mix until just combined; do not overwork.
  3. Fold in the chopped fresh parsley or cilantro if using.
  4. Divide the turkey mixture into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into roughly 4-inch (10 cm) sticks, pressing firmly to hold their shape.
  5. Place the turkey sticks onto the prepared baking sheet. If using, place a wire rack on the sheet and arrange sticks on top.
  6. Bake for 15-18 minutes, until the turkey sticks are cooked through and register 165°F (74°C) on a food thermometer. Flip halfway through cooking.
  7. While the sticks bake, prepare the spicy glaze: In a small saucepan over low heat, combine hot sauce, honey, melted butter, apple cider vinegar, and garlic powder. Whisk gently until smooth and warm; do not boil.
  8. Once the turkey sticks are done, remove from the oven. Using tongs, dip each stick into the glaze, turning to coat evenly. Place glazed sticks back on the rack or parchment.
  9. Pop the glazed sticks back in the oven for 3-5 minutes to set the glaze.
  10. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Do not overmix the turkey mixture to avoid tough sticks. Use a food thermometer to ensure proper cooking (165°F). Baking on a wire rack helps keep sticks crispy. Add glaze near the end to prevent burning. If glaze is too thick, warm gently with a splash of water or vinegar; if too thin, simmer to reduce. Fresh herbs are optional but add freshness and color. For dairy-free, substitute butter with coconut oil. For gluten-free, ensure ranch seasoning and hot sauce are gluten-free.

Nutrition

Keywords: buffalo turkey sticks, ranch turkey sticks, spicy turkey snack, healthy buffalo snack, turkey finger food, game day snack, gluten-free turkey sticks

Find it online: https://chrisfeasts.com/healthy-ranch-buffalo-turkey-sticks-recipe-with-spicy-glaze-easy-and-perfect-snack/