When the weekend rolls around and the urge to whip up something delicious strikes, there’s nothing quite like the irresistible crunch of baked Buffalo Chicken Taquitos. These golden bites of happiness combine tender shredded chicken with zesty Buffalo sauce, all wrapped snugly in warm corn tortillas. The perfume of spicy, savory goodness fills the kitchen, teasing everyone to gather around the table.
These taquitos aren’t just a tasty option for game day; they’re incredibly easy to make and adapt based on what you have on hand. With the added bonus of being baked rather than fried, you can indulge guilt-free! Imagine serving them at your next gathering, where each crispy taquito is an invitation to dive into a flavor-packed experience. Whether you’re a devoted Buffalo chicken fan or just looking to break free from the fast-food rut, these taquitos promise to be a hit with everyone at the table. Let’s get cooking!
Why are Buffalo Chicken Taquitos a must-try?
Crispy texture: Each taquito delivers a satisfying crunch, perfectly baked to golden perfection.
Flavor explosion: The combo of zesty Buffalo sauce and creamy Greek yogurt creates a balance that tantalizes your taste buds.
Quick to prepare: With just a few simple steps, these appetizers can be ready in no time, making them ideal for spontaneous gatherings.
Versatile base: Feel free to customize with your choice of protein or sauces, ensuring everyone leaves happy.
Crowd pleaser: Perfect for parties or family nights, they bring people together over a shared love for delicious comfort food!
Make-ahead option: Prepare them in advance, freeze, and bake straight from the freezer for effortless entertaining.
Buffalo Chicken Taquito Ingredients
For the Filling
• Shredded Chicken – Provides the main protein and flavor; rotisserie chicken can save time.
• Buffalo Sauce – Adds a spicy kick; adjust to your heat preference for these Buffalo Chicken Taquitos.
• Plain Greek Yogurt – Acts as a creamy binder; sour cream is a delicious alternative.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Enhances richness; use any cheese that melts beautifully.
• Green Onion – Adds a burst of fresh flavor; perfect for garnish.
• Red Onion – Offers additional crunch and depth of flavor; consider swapping for shallots for a milder taste.
• Garlic Powder – Boosts overall flavor; fresh minced garlic works well too.
• Sea Salt – Enhances all flavors without overpowering; adjust to taste.
For the Wrap
• Tortillas – Serves as the base; try Siete Almond Flour tortillas for a gluten-free option.
Feel free to use this ingredient list as your guide for crafting these delightful Buffalo Chicken Taquitos—perfect for any occasion!
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Taquitos
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Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature ensures your taquitos will turn out crispy and golden brown, perfect for that delightful crunch.
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Mix the filling in a large bowl. Combine shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, green onion, red onion, Buffalo sauce, Greek yogurt, sea salt, and garlic powder, stirring until everything is well-blended and coated.
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Soften the tortillas. Microwave them for about 10 seconds to make them pliable. This step is essential for rolling without tearing.
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Fill each tortilla! Place a generous spoonful of the chicken mixture along one edge of the tortilla and roll it up tightly, ensuring the filling is well secured.
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Arrange the rolled taquitos on a lined baking sheet. Make sure to spread them out so they bake evenly without sticking together.
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Bake for 10-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through to achieve a golden-brown exterior. They should come out crispy and smelling divine!
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Serve your delicious taquitos hot! Garnish with more green onions and enjoy with ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side for dipping.
Optional: Squeeze some fresh lime juice over the taquitos before serving for an extra zing!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Buffalo Chicken Taquitos are perfect for meal prep, saving you time on busy weeknights or during gatherings! You can prepare the filling (shredded chicken, cheese, and sauce) up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can fill the tortillas and freeze the uncooked taquitos for up to 2 months; just ensure they’re tightly wrapped to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, bake directly from the freezer, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time, and you’ll have crispy, flavorful taquitos that taste just as delicious as if you made them fresh. This makes them a fantastic option for effortless entertaining or quick meals on the go!
Expert Tips for Buffalo Chicken Taquitos
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Tortilla Technique: Ensure you microwave the tortillas just long enough to soften; too long can make them too hot and difficult to handle.
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Filling Balance: Mix the ingredients well, but avoid over-stuffing each tortilla to keep them intact while baking.
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Healthy Choices: Opt for baked Buffalo Chicken Taquitos instead of fried to cut down on calories while still enjoying a satisfying crunch.
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Crisp It Up: For an extra crispy finish, turn on the broiler for the last minute of baking—just watch closely to prevent burning.
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Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare these taquitos in advance and freeze them; bake straight from the freezer for a quick snack anytime!
Buffalo Chicken Taquitos Variations
Looking to add your personal twist to these delicious taquitos? Dive into these fun and tasty variations!
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Turkey Substitute: Swap shredded chicken with shredded turkey for a leaner option rich in flavor. Perfect for using up holiday leftovers!
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BBQ Sauce Twist: Replace Buffalo sauce with BBQ sauce for a sweet and tangy rendition. This change keeps your palate guessing while still delivering a smokey punch.
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Cheese Mixture: Combine cheddar with pepper jack cheese for an extra kick. The creamy melt of the cheese pairs beautifully with the spicy filling.
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Vegetarian Version: Use roasted vegetables and black beans instead of chicken for a hearty, meatless alternative. This variation is absolutely satisfying and packed with flavors!
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Corn Tortilla Swap: Opt for spinach or tomato tortillas to enhance the visual appeal and add a slight twist in flavor, while still maintaining that delicious crunch.
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Heat Levels: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the filling for those who crave a spicier taquito. A little kick can elevate the flavor experience!
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Herby Delight: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley into the filling for a fresh burst of flavor. It adds dimension while brightening up each bite.
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Creamy Avocado: Serve with a side of mashed avocado or guacamole for that creamy and rich contrast to the crispy taquitos. It takes the meal to a new level of indulgence!
How to Store and Freeze Buffalo Chicken Taquitos
Fridge: Store leftover Buffalo Chicken Taquitos in an airtight container for up to 3 days, keeping them fresh and ready to reheat.
Freezer: To freeze, place uncooked taquitos in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Bake frozen taquitos directly from the freezer at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, ensuring they are hot and crispy inside before serving.
Make-Ahead: You can prepare these taquitos in advance, freeze them uncooked, and have a delightful meal ready in no time!
What to Serve with Buffalo Chicken Taquitos?
Elevate your taquito experience by adding delicious sides that complement their crispy, zesty goodness.
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Creamy Ranch Dip: A classic pairing that adds a cooling contrast to the taquito’s heat, perfectly balancing the bold flavors.
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Crisp Salad: A light and refreshing side, featuring mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette, brightening up your meal beautifully.
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Guacamole: Its creamy texture and fresh flavors pair wonderfully, bringing an extra layer of indulgence to each crunchy bite.
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Sweet Potato Fries: The sweetness of the fries enhances the spiciness of the taquitos, creating a delightful flavor harmony.
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Veggie Platter: Colorful raw veggies with hummus or ranch provide a crunchy, healthy contrast, keeping everything vibrant and fresh.
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Buffalo Cauliflower Bites: Double down on the Buffalo theme with these spicy veggie treats, offering a compelling, plant-based twist to your spread.
Picture your guests enjoying taquitos alongside these vibrant sides, creating a memorable feast that tantalizes every palate!
Buffalo Chicken Taquitos Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right tortillas for Buffalo Chicken Taquitos?
Absolutely! For the best results, select tortillas that are pliable enough to roll without tearing. I recommend using corn tortillas for authentic flavor, but if you’re looking for a gluten-free option, Siete Almond Flour tortillas work wonderfully too.
How long do leftover Buffalo Chicken Taquitos last in the fridge?
Very! You can store leftover taquitos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat them in the oven or air fryer for that crispy texture to return.
Can I freeze Buffalo Chicken Taquitos?
Of course! To freeze, arrange the uncooked taquitos in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag where they can stay good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake them straight from the freezer at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until crispy and hot.
What should I do if my taquitos come out soggy?
No need to worry! If your taquitos turn out soggy, it could be due to undercooked tortillas or too much filling. Make sure you microwave the tortillas just enough to soften them, and avoid overstuffing. If they do come out soggy, try crisping them up under the broiler for a minute or two—just keep a close eye on them!
Are there any allergy considerations for Buffalo Chicken Taquitos?
Certainly! If you’re preparing these taquitos for guests, check for allergies to common ingredients like dairy, particularly in the cheese and Greek yogurt. You can easily substitute with dairy-free cheese and yogurt for a safe alternative. Always ask guests about dietary restrictions to ensure everyone can enjoy this tasty treat!
Buffalo Chicken Taquitos: Crispy, Guilt-Free Game Day Delights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Mix the filling in a large bowl with shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, green onion, red onion, Buffalo sauce, Greek yogurt, sea salt, and garlic powder.
- Soften the tortillas by microwaving them for about 10 seconds.
- Fill each tortilla with a spoonful of the chicken mixture and roll it up tightly.
- Arrange the rolled taquitos on a lined baking sheet, spaced apart.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway to ensure even browning.
- Serve hot, garnished with green onions and enjoy with ranch or blue cheese dressing.