Buffalo Chicken Taquitos Recipe: A Spicy Crunchy Delight

Name: Buffalo Chicken Taquitos
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (Use leftover roasted chicken or store-bought rotisserie chicken.); 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (For a milder flavor, mix with ranch dressing.); 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack) (Pepper jack can be used for spicier flavor.); 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened (Substitute with vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free option.); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 8-10 pieces small flour or corn tortillas; to taste oil for frying or baking (Use vegetable oil for frying.); to taste salt and pepper

Are you ready to dive into a world of flavor with our delicious Buffalo Chicken Taquitos? These little bundles of joy are packed with shredded chicken, creamy cheese, and a spicy kick from buffalo sauce, all wrapped in crispy tortillas. Perfectly crunchy on the outside and irresistibly gooey on the inside, they make an excellent appetizer, snack, or even a main course. In this blog post, not only will I guide you through a step-by-step recipe, but I’ll also share tips, variations, and serving suggestions that will make you the hero of your next gathering. So roll up your sleeves and let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Buffalo Chicken Taquitos

Buffalo Chicken Taquitos aren’t just about flavor; they bring plenty of benefits that make them a must-try in your kitchen. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with them:

Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have this mouthwatering dish ready in no time. Ideal for busy weeknights!
Perfect for Beginners: Even if you’re new to cooking, this recipe is foolproof and easy to follow, ensuring you’ll impress your family and friends.
Ideal for the Whole Family: They’re equally loved by kids and adults, making them a hit for family dinners.
Economical: This recipe uses basic pantry ingredients, offering a cost-effective meal option without sacrificing taste.
Customizable: Whether you like it spicy or mild, you can easily adjust the flavor to suit your preferences.

The Necessary Ingredients

Let’s gather our ingredients for this tantalizing treat! Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these Buffalo Chicken Taquitos:

2 cups shredded cooked chicken
1/2 cup buffalo sauce
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
8-10 small flour or corn tortillas
Oil for frying or baking
Salt and pepper to taste

Notes and Substitutions on Ingredients:

Shredded Cooked Chicken: You can use leftover roasted chicken, store-bought rotisserie chicken, or even cooked turkey! This makes it easy to adapt the recipe based on what you already have.
Buffalo Sauce: For a milder flavor, use a milder hot sauce or mix in some ranch dressing to tone down the heat. If you’re looking for heat, try adding a spicier wing sauce.
Cream Cheese: This creamy addition makes the filling rich and smooth. If you’d like a dairy-free option, you can use vegan cream cheese or cashew cream instead.

How to Prepare the Buffalo Chicken Taquitos Step by Step

Now let’s dive into the cooking process! Follow these clear steps, and you’ll soon be savoring these delicious taquitos.

Mix the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, shredded cheese, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
- Pro Tip: Ensure the cream cheese is softened for easier mixing—this will create a smooth, cohesive filling without lumps.
Prep the Tortillas: Warm the tortillas in a microwave or on a skillet for about 10-15 seconds to make them pliable. This prevents them from tearing while rolling.
- Pro Tip: You can wrap them in a damp paper towel while microwaving to help steam them and maintain moisture.
Fill and Roll: Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto each tortilla, then roll them tightly from one end to the other.
- Pro Tip: Don’t overfill the tortillas; this can cause them to burst during cooking.
Heat the Oil or Preheat the Oven: Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat, or preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) if you prefer baking.
- Pro Tip: For frying, check the oil temperature by dropping a small piece of batter in; it should sizzle immediately if ready.
Cook the Taquitos: If frying, place the taquitos seam side down in the hot oil and cook until crispy and golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. If baking, place seam side down on a baking sheet, brush lightly with oil, and bake for 15-20 minutes until crispy.
- Pro Tip: Keep an eye on them; cooking times may vary based on your stove or oven, so adjust as necessary.
Serve: Once cooked, serve with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch or blue cheese dressing.
- Pro Tip: A sprinkle of fresh herbs or sliced green onions on top adds a fresh touch!

Serving Suggestions

Ready to enjoy your Buffalo Chicken Taquitos? Here are some creative ideas for serving them:

Perfect Pairings

Dipping Sauces: Try out a variety of sauces like ranch, blue cheese, salsa, or guacamole to elevate the flavors.
Beverages: Pair with a cold beer, fruity soda, or a refreshing iced tea for a delightful meal.

Occasions

Game Day: These taquitos make for an excellent snack during football season or any big game.
Family Gatherings: Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or family dinners; they’re easy to hold and munch on.
Movie Nights: A great pick for a cozy night in—enjoy them with your favorite film!

Serving Tips

Presentation: Arrange them on a large platter with dipping sauces in the center for an appealing presentation.
Garnishes: Add chopped cilantro or sliced jalapeños to the serving platter for added color and flavor.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To maintain the freshness and quality of your Buffalo Chicken Taquitos, follow these storage tips:

Refrigerated

Duration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Type of Container: Use a glass Pyrex or a BPA-free plastic container to ensure freshness.

Freezed

If Possible: Place uncooked taquitos on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Packaging: Be sure to label with the date for easy identification.

Reheating

Best Method: For optimal crispiness, reheat in an oven set to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
Alternative: You can also use an air fryer for reheating to keep them crispy.

Guaranteed Success Tips

Want perfect Buffalo Chicken Taquitos every time? Keep these golden rules in mind:

Don’t Overfill: Filling should be just right; too much will cause them to burst during cooking.
Properly Heat Oil: Ensure your oil is hot enough before frying; otherwise, the taquitos will soak up the oil and become greasy.
Don’t Skip Seasoning: Salt and pepper enhance the flavors. Taste your filling before you seal them up!
Keep Tortillas Warm: A warm tortilla is easier to roll and handle without breaking.
Mind the Cooking Time: Keep an eye on them while cooking to avoid burning. Golden brown is the goal!

Recipe Variations

Looking to mix things up? Here are some tasty variations you can try:

For a Spicy Version: Add 1 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the chicken mixture for an extra kick.
For a Vegan Version: Replace the chicken with shredded jackfruit and use plant-based cream cheese and dairy-free cheese for a vegan delight.
For a Cheesy Spin: Swap out the cheddar or Monterey Jack for pepper jack cheese and add in some diced jalapeños for a flavorful twist.
For a BBQ Twist: Substitute buffalo sauce with barbecue sauce for a sweet and smoky flavor profile.
For a Southwestern Flavor: Mix in black beans, corn, and diced bell peppers with the chicken for a Southwest-style taquito.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use raw chicken in this recipe?
A: For food safety, it’s best to use cooked chicken. You can easily cook chicken in advance, shred it, and use it in this recipe.

Q: What if my taquitos are soggy?
A: Ensure that the oil is hot enough when frying, as this will help create a crisp outer layer. If baking, keep an eye on the cooking time.

Q: Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the filling a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just make sure to warm it slightly before filling the tortillas.

Q: Do I have to fry them?
A: No! You can bake them for a healthier option. Just follow the baking instructions above for great results.

Q: How do I know when they are done?
A: They will be golden brown and crispy on the outside. If you’re unsure, you can cut one open to check the filling’s temperature; it should be heated through.

Q: Can I make these gluten-free?
A: Yes! Use gluten-free tortillas and ensure your buffalo sauce is gluten-free.

Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Absolutely! Just ensure you have enough cooking space to avoid overcrowding in the pan or on the baking sheet. You may need to work in batches.

Now that you have all the tools, tips, and tricks to make the perfect Buffalo Chicken Taquitos, you’re ready to impress your family and friends! Enjoy the spicy, cheesy goodness that these taquitos provide and don’t forget to share your cooking adventures with others. Happy cooking!