When the craving for something crispy and flavorful strikes, I often find myself returning to the joy of Buffalo Chicken Taquitos. These golden gems are not only a delight to the eyes but also a feast for the senses. Imagine biting into a perfectly baked taquito, the crunch giving way to tender, zesty chicken infused with a kick of Buffalo sauce. This recipe encompasses everything you love about comfort food, yet it’s quick enough to whip up in just 15 minutes.
After a long day or during game night with friends, these baked Buffalo Chicken Taquitos are an absolute game-changer. Using shredded rotisserie chicken and a handful of easy ingredients, they transform traditional taquitos into a healthier, guilt-free indulgence. Whether you opt for the air fryer or the oven, each taquito comes out perfectly crisp and ready to impress. So grab a few ingredients and get ready to elevate your snack game—these taquitos are bound to become a new favorite!
Why are Buffalo Chicken Taquitos a Must-Try?
Crispy Delight: Each bite is a satisfying crunch, thanks to the golden-baked skin.
Savory and Spicy: The zesty Buffalo sauce combined with tender chicken delivers an explosion of flavor.
Quick to Prepare: Ready in just 15 minutes, these taquitos fit perfectly into your busy lifestyle.
Versatile Options: Swap ingredients for dietary needs—make them keto, gluten-free, or even vegetarian!
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties or family gatherings, everyone will love being able to grab and go.
With such fantastic benefits, these Buffalo Chicken Taquitos will surely be a hit at your next meal or gathering!
Buffalo Chicken Taquitos Ingredients
For the Filling
• Shredded chicken – Provides the main protein; using rotisserie chicken makes prep super quick.
• Buffalo sauce – Adds flavor and that signature kick; adjust based on your spice preference!
• Plain Greek yogurt – Adds creaminess; can be swapped with sour cream or vegan yogurt for a non-dairy option.
• Shredded cheddar cheese – Enhances flavor and texture; consider a vegan cheese if needed.
• Green onion – Offers freshness and color; chives are a good substitute if you’re in a pinch.
• Red onion – Provides sweetness and crunch; shallots can be used for a milder taste.
• Garlic powder – Adds depth of flavor; fresh minced garlic works, too!
• Sea salt – Enhances all flavors; remember to adjust according to dietary needs.
For the Wrapping
• Tortillas – The delicious wrap for your filling; opt for gluten-free options if necessary.
These Buffalo Chicken Taquitos are a fun and flavorful way to spice up your mealtime!
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Taquitos
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, Greek yogurt, cheddar cheese, green onion, red onion, garlic powder, and sea salt until everything is well combined and coated in that spicy goodness.
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Prepare Tortillas: Heat your tortillas in the microwave for about 10 seconds to soften them, making it easier to roll them without tearing.
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Assemble Taquitos: Take a portion of the chicken mixture and place it on one side of each tortilla. Roll it up tightly, ensuring the filling is secure inside.
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Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the rolled taquitos seam-side down.
- Bake for approximately 15 minutes or until they are golden brown and crisp to your liking.
- Serve: Once baked to perfection, remove from the oven, garnish with additional green onion if desired, and serve with your favorite ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
Optional: Drizzle with extra buffalo sauce before serving for added flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Buffalo Chicken Taquitos are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling up to 3 days in advance by mixing the shredded chicken, Buffalo sauce, Greek yogurt, cheese, green onion, red onion, garlic powder, and sea salt in a bowl and refrigerating it in an airtight container. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat your tortillas for about 10 seconds in the microwave, assemble the taquitos, and bake them at 400°F (200°C) for approximately 15 minutes. They’ll come out just as delicious, crispy, and flavorful as if you made them fresh that day!
Buffalo Chicken Taquitos Variations
Customize your Buffalo Chicken Taquitos for an even more delightful experience!
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños to the filling for an extra layer of heat that will excite your taste buds.
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Veggie Delight: Substitute shredded chicken with jackfruit for a hearty, vegetarian version that doesn’t skimp on flavor. This plant-based twist brings a fun texture to the table!
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Creamy Avocado: Blend ripe avocado into the filling for a creamy texture and fresh flavor. It pairs beautifully with the zesty buffalo taste.
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Cheese Lovers: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for a delightful twist that adds a bit of spice and creaminess.
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Air Fryer Option: For a quicker, healthier alternative, air fry the taquitos at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes, ensuring they’re crispy without excess oil.
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Mild Version: Use barbecue sauce instead of buffalo sauce for a sweet and smoky flavor that’s more family-friendly for those who prefer milder dishes.
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Whole Wheat Tortillas: Swap regular tortillas for whole wheat ones for a nutty flavor and a bit more fiber, making your taquitos even healthier!
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Herbed Twist: Add fresh cilantro or parsley to the filling to brighten the flavors and give your taquitos an aromatic finish.
Experiment with these variations and let your creativity shine through while preparing your Buffalo Chicken Taquitos!
What to Serve with Buffalo Chicken Taquitos?
Bring your meal to life with these delicious pairings that perfectly complement the bold flavors of Buffalo Chicken Taquitos.
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Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp salad offers a refreshing contrast to the spicy taquitos, balancing out the heat with its lightness.
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Creamy Avocado Dip: This smooth, rich dip enhances the flavors of the taquitos while adding a cooling element, perfect for those who enjoy a texture contrast.
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Zesty Coleslaw: The tangy crunch of coleslaw pairs well, providing a fun crunch that lightens up the spiciness of your taquitos.
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Roasted Vegetables: A mix of roasted seasonal veggies brings earthy tones and a hearty feel that perfectly complements the zesty taquitos.
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Sweet Potato Fries: The subtle sweetness and satisfying crunch of sweet potato fries create an indulgent experience alongside the savory taquitos.
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Homemade Salsa: Fresh salsa brings a burst of flavor and adds a colorful touch; the acidity cuts through the richness of the taquitos.
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Blue Cheese Dressing: A classic choice that offers a tangy kick, this dressing pairs wonderfully as a dip, enhancing the buffalo experience.
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Light Beer or Cider: A chilled beverage like light beer or crisp cider helps wash down the spiciness, making for a delightful pairing.
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Chocolate Mousse: End your meal on a sweet note with a rich chocolate mousse, contrasting with the savory, zesty taquitos for a satisfying finish.
Expert Tips for Buffalo Chicken Taquitos
- Tortilla Preparation: Warm your tortillas in the microwave for about 10 seconds. This prevents tearing during assembly, ensuring your Buffalo Chicken Taquitos hold together beautifully.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the amount of buffalo sauce based on your preferred heat level. Test a small amount first to find your perfect kick!
- Even Filling Distribution: Don’t overfill your taquitos; about 2–3 tablespoons of filling per tortilla works best. This keeps them manageable and crispy when baked.
- Oven Monitoring: Keep an eye on your taquitos towards the end of baking. Ovens vary, and you don’t want them to burn; look for a golden-brown crust.
- Garnishing Tips: Garnish with sliced green onions or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for added color and flavor. Serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing, but feel free to experiment!
How to Store and Freeze Buffalo Chicken Taquitos
Fridge: Keep any leftover Buffalo Chicken Taquitos in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Allow taquitos to cool completely, then freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating (Oven): For best results, reheat frozen taquitos directly from the freezer at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes until crispy and heated through.
Make-Ahead: Prepare the filling and assemble the taquitos, then store them in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking, ensuring a quick meal option that’s ready to go!
Buffalo Chicken Taquitos Recipe FAQs
What kind of chicken should I use for Buffalo Chicken Taquitos?
Absolutely! Using shredded rotisserie chicken is a huge time-saver and makes these taquitos incredibly easy to prepare. You can also use leftover grilled chicken or even boiled chicken—just make sure it’s tender and easily shreddable for the best results.
How can I store leftover Buffalo Chicken Taquitos?
Very! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure they’re completely cool before sealing to prevent sogginess. I often eat them for a quick snack the next day—they stay delicious!
Can I freeze Buffalo Chicken Taquitos?
Definitely! To freeze, first allow the taquitos to cool completely on a cooling rack. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours until solid. Transfer them to a freezer bag and store for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake them directly from the freezer for about 15-20 minutes at 400°F (200°C) until crispy!
Why are my taquitos falling apart when I roll them?
If your tortillas are too cold or not pliable, they can crack. I recommend warming them in the microwave for about 10 seconds to soften them up before filling. This should help you roll them tightly without any tearing.
Can I make these Buffalo Chicken Taquitos healthier or cater to specific diets?
Absolutely! You can use whole wheat or gluten-free tortillas to cater to dietary needs. For a lighter option, you can omit the cheese or use a lower-fat Greek yogurt. If you’re looking for a vegan alternative, try jackfruit for the filling and a vegan yogurt substitute. There’s truly a way to make them work for everyone!
Can my pets eat Buffalo Chicken Taquitos?
It’s best to keep these taquitos away from pets, especially because of the spicy Buffalo sauce and any added seasonings like garlic or onion. If you want to share a little chicken with your furry friend, plain shredded chicken is always a safe and tasty treat!
Buffalo Chicken Taquitos: Crispy Baked Goodness for Everyone
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken, Buffalo sauce, Greek yogurt, cheddar cheese, green onion, red onion, garlic powder, and sea salt until well combined.
- Prepare Tortillas: Heat your tortillas in the microwave for about 10 seconds to soften them.
- Assemble Taquitos: Take a portion of the chicken mixture and place it on one side of each tortilla. Roll it up tightly.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C), line a baking sheet with parchment paper, place rolled taquitos seam-side down, and bake for approximately 15 minutes.
- Serve: Remove from oven, garnish with green onion if desired, and serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing.