Discovering new ways to bring flavor into my kitchen is always an adventure, and let me tell you, these Baked Buffalo Chicken Taquitos are the result of one delicious exploration. With the first bite, the crispy exterior gives way to a warm, zesty filling that is nothing short of a flavor explosion.
Perfect for game days or a cozy night in, they offer a healthier twist on a classic favorite. I often find myself reaching for rotisserie chicken when time is short, making this recipe a quick solution to beat the takeout blues. If you’re looking to impress without stress, these taquitos are a crowd-pleasing dish that will surely satisfy cravings while keeping things light and guilt-free.
Whether you’re hosting friends or simply treating yourself after a long day, join me as I dive into this easy and delightful Buffalo Chicken Taquitos recipe that promises to bring warmth to your kitchen and smiles to every table!
Why will you love this Buffalo Chicken Taquitos Recipe?
Crispy, golden perfection: These taquitos come out of the oven perfectly crispy, delivering that satisfying crunch we all crave.
Flavor-packed filling: A zesty blend of buffalo sauce and tender chicken makes each bite a delightful explosion of taste.
Quick and easy: Using rotisserie chicken cuts down on prep time, so you can whip these up in no time!
Healthy twist: Baked instead of fried, they offer a guilt-free way to indulge in comfort food.
Versatile serving options: Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces, or enjoy them as a tasty appetizer at game day gatherings.
Buffalo Chicken Taquitos Ingredients
For the Filling
- Shredded Chicken – Provides protein and texture; a fantastic way to use rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Buffalo Sauce – Adds spicy, tangy flavor; adjust the quantity based on your heat preference.
- Plain Greek Yogurt – Acts as a creamy binder and a healthier alternative to sour cream.
- Green Onion – Contributes freshness and a mild onion flavor that brightens the filling.
- Red Onion – Adds a delightful crunch and sweetness to balance the spices.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Provides richness and flavor; substitute with dairy-free cheese for a vegan option.
- Garlic Powder – Enhances the overall flavor profile, making each bite extra tasty.
- Sea Salt – Balances flavors and enhances all ingredient profiles for a harmonious taste.
For the Taquitos
- Tortillas – Forms the crispy exterior; consider using Siete Almond Flour tortillas for a gluten-free option. Remember to heat briefly in the microwave for flexibility!
Make these Buffalo Chicken Taquitos a delectable addition to your menu, and enjoy every bite guilt-free!
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Taquitos
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Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mix together shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, Greek yogurt, green onion, red onion, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and sea salt until well combined.
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Heat Tortillas: Microwave the tortillas for 10 seconds to make them pliable. This step is important to prevent cracking as you roll them.
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Fill and Roll: Place a portion of the chicken mixture on one side of each tortilla. Roll tightly, ensuring the filling is securely enclosed.
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Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the rolled taquitos seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will help prevent sticking.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the taquitos for about 10-15 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to make sure they don’t overbake.
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Serve: Optionally, serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing and garnish with additional green onions for a fresh touch.
Optional: Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice for an extra zing!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Tips for the Best Buffalo Chicken Taquitos
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Warm Tortillas: Always heat your tortillas before rolling; this prevents cracking and ensures a tight seal.
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Check the Oven: Keep an eye on the baking process to avoid over-browning, which can lead to a dry texture.
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Crispy Finish: For extra crispiness, consider using an air fryer, set to 375°F for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway.
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Customize Heat: Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to suit your spice preference, creating a perfect balance in your buffalo chicken taquitos recipe.
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Make Ahead: Assemble your taquitos ahead of time and freeze them unbaked. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Make Ahead Options
These Buffalo Chicken Taquitos are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the filling up to 3 days in advance; simply mix together the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, Greek yogurt, green onion, red onion, cheese, garlic powder, and salt, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can roll the taquitos and freeze them for up to 3 months before baking. When ready to serve, just bake directly from frozen for an extra 5-10 minutes in the oven. This method ensures that they come out just as delicious and crispy!
Buffalo Chicken Taquitos Variations
Feel free to make this recipe your own with these fun twists and swaps that can elevate your Buffalo Chicken Taquitos!
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BBQ Sauce Swap: Replace buffalo sauce with your favorite barbecue sauce for a sweeter flavor. This gives it a smoky twist that’s sure to please the crowd.
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Add Veggies: Mix in diced bell peppers or spinach to the chicken filling for a nutrient boost. Not only do they add flavor, but they also bring vibrant color!
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free tortillas like corn or Siete Almond Flour to keep your taquitos gluten-free without sacrificing taste. They still come out crunchy and delicious!
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Cheese Variations: Try pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for an extra kick. The melty, spicy goodness is a delightful surprise!
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Ground Turkey or Beef: Swap out chicken for ground turkey or beef for a heartier option. Just ensure that it’s cooked and seasoned well for the perfect filling.
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Creamy Avocado: Mix in mashed avocado for a creamy texture that counters the heat of the buffalo sauce. It’s a delicious addition that makes every bite smoother.
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Spicy Kick: For an extra spicy version, add diced jalapeños to the chicken mixture. This will surely spice things up for those who like more heat!
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Sweet Chili Option: Try sweet chili sauce for a tangy and mildly spicy alternative to buffalo sauce. It creates a delightful contrast that will win over even the pickiest eaters.
With these variations, each batch of taquitos can be a new adventure in flavor!
Storage Tips for Buffalo Chicken Taquitos
Room Temperature: Taquitos are best enjoyed fresh, but if needed, they can be left out for up to 2 hours.
Fridge: Store leftover taquitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for crispiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unbaked taquitos in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the time.
Reheating: To reheat, place taquitos in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy—perfect for enjoying this delicious buffalo chicken taquitos recipe again!
What to Serve with Buffalo Chicken Taquitos?
These savory bites are perfect for creating a delightful meal that will warm hearts and please appetites.
- Crispy Garden Salad: A fresh mix of greens and veggies adds a crunchy contrast that balances the rich flavors of the taquitos.
- Creamy Avocado Dip: This luscious, buttery dip enhances the spice of the chicken, making each bite a creamy escape from the heat.
- Tangy Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy slaw with a touch of sweetness brings freshness, cooling down the spice for a delightful experience.
- Stuffed Jalapeños: For the heat lovers, these spicy bites are a great complement, adding an extra kick alongside the buffalo flavor.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the spiciness of the taquitos, adding a comforting and satisfying texture.
- Classic Ranch Dressing: A must-have for dipping, this creamy dressing cools the palate and ties all the flavors together.
- Pineapple Salsa: A vibrant salsa made with juicy pineapple provides a sweet and fruity contrast that elevates the overall meal.
- Chilled Beer or Sparkling Water: A refreshing drink helps cleanse the palate and enhances the enjoyment of your flavor-packed feast.
- Fruit Sorbet: For dessert, a light and fruity sorbet serves as a refreshing end to your meal, balancing out the spices beautifully.
- Guacamole: Its creamy texture and rich flavor make it a delightful sidekick for taquitos, enhancing their zest while keeping things fresh.
Buffalo Chicken Taquitos Recipe FAQs
What type of tortillas should I use for Buffalo Chicken Taquitos?
You can use any flour or corn tortillas, but for a gluten-free option, I recommend Siete Almond Flour tortillas. Just remember to heat them in the microwave for 10 seconds to make them pliable and easier to roll without cracking!
How do I store leftover Buffalo Chicken Taquitos?
For best results, store any leftover taquitos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crispiness. They’ll taste almost as good as fresh-baked!
Can I freeze Buffalo Chicken Taquitos?
Absolutely! You can freeze unbaked taquitos by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What if my taquitos are cracking when I roll them?
If you’re experiencing cracking, first ensure that you’re heating the tortillas in the microwave for about 10 seconds, as this makes them much easier to roll. If they’re still cracking, try warming them in a skillet over low heat for a bit longer until they’re soft and pliable.
Are Buffalo Chicken Taquitos safe for dogs?
It’s best to keep taquitos away from your furry friends. Ingredients like garlic and high-fat cheese can be harmful to dogs. Always consult with a vet before sharing human food with pets.
Can I customize the spice level in my Buffalo Chicken Taquitos?
Yes, you can easily adjust the heat! Simply reduce the amount of buffalo sauce for a milder flavor, or you can try mixing in a little ranch dressing into the filling to tone down the spice. Enjoy experimenting until you find your perfect balance!
Crispy Buffalo Chicken Taquitos Recipe for Healthy Munching
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, mix together shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, Greek yogurt, green onion, red onion, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and sea salt until well combined.
- Microwave the tortillas for 10 seconds to make them pliable.
- Place a portion of the chicken mixture on one side of each tortilla. Roll tightly, ensuring the filling is securely enclosed.
- Place the rolled taquitos seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the taquitos for about 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Optionally, serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing and garnish with additional green onions.