There’s nothing quite like the satisfying crunch of a crispy taquito, especially when it’s bursting with the bold flavors of Buffalo chicken! I discovered this recipe one evening while trying to spice up my usual snacking routine, and it has quickly become a favorite in my household. These Baked Buffalo Chicken Taquitos are not just delicious—they are a perfect blend of healthy and indulgent, making them an ideal appetizer for gatherings or a quick weeknight treat.
Freshly baked to golden perfection, each taquito is filled with tender chicken, creamy Greek yogurt, and just the right amount of Buffalo sauce to give you that perfect punch. With the option to prepare them in the oven or air fryer, they’re as versatile and easy to make as they are addictive. Imagine serving these delightful bites at your next gathering—they’re sure to impress and disappear faster than you can say “Buffalo sauce”! Let’s get cooking and turn your ordinary snacking into an extraordinary experience!
Why are Buffalo Chicken Taquitos so irresistible?
Crispy Perfection: Freshly baked to a golden brown, these taquitos achieve that satisfying crunch everyone loves.
Flavor Explosion: The zesty Buffalo chicken filling combined with creamy Greek yogurt creates a mouthwatering taste sensation.
Healthy Twist: Unlike traditional fried options, these baked taquitos pack in flavor while keeping it health-conscious.
Quick & Easy: Simple preparation means you can whip these up in no time, perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: They’re a party favorite, guaranteed to disappear from the platter faster than you can imagine!
Customizable Fun: Whether you opt for the oven or air fryer, you can customize spice levels and fillings to suit everyone’s taste.
Buffalo Chicken Taquitos Ingredients
For the Filling
- Shredded Chicken – Provides the essential protein and moisture; rotisserie chicken works great for convenience.
- Buffalo Sauce – Adds that coveted spicy kick; adjust according to your personal heat preference.
- Plain Greek Yogurt – Brings creaminess and tanginess as a healthier alternative to sour cream; can substitute with sour cream if you like.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Offers richness and a delightful melty texture; feel free to use any melting cheese you love.
- Garlic Powder – Enhances the flavor profile; fresh minced garlic can elevate the dish further.
- Sea Salt – Balances and enhances the overall flavors; adjust based on your dietary needs.
For the Vegetables
- Green Onion – Provides freshness and a mild onion flavor; substitute with chives if you prefer a milder taste.
- Red Onion – Adds a pop of color and sharpness; can replace with green onions or shallots for a different mild flavor.
For the Wrapping
- Tortillas – Holds the whole delicious filling together; Siete Almond Flour tortillas are a great gluten-free option, or use your favorite type.
These Buffalo Chicken Taquitos are full of flavor and easy to make, perfect for snacking or entertaining! Enjoy the crunchy goodness with your favorite dipping sauce!
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Taquitos
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Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes. This step is crucial to ensure your taquitos come out perfectly crispy!
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Combine ingredients in a large bowl: shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, green onions, red onion, buffalo sauce, Greek yogurt, garlic powder, and sea salt. Mix thoroughly until everything is well-coated.
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Warm tortillas in the microwave for about 10 seconds. This step makes them pliable and easy to roll without tearing.
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Fill each tortilla with a portion of the chicken mixture on one side and roll it tightly. The tighter the roll, the better your taquito will hold together!
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Arrange the rolled taquitos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure to leave enough space between each taquito for even cooking.
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Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Enjoy the smell wafting through your kitchen!
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Serve them hot with your choice of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. The perfect pairing to complement those bold flavors!
Optional: Garnish with extra green onions for a refreshing touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Buffalo Chicken Taquitos
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Warm Tortillas: Always warm your tortillas for about 10 seconds in the microwave. This prevents tearing and makes rolling easier, ensuring your Buffalo Chicken Taquitos hold their filling.
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Golden Crispiness: Bake them until they are well-browned and crispy. Keep an eye on them for that perfect golden hue; overbaking can lead to dryness!
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Chicken Choices: For a quick option, use rotisserie chicken for flavor and moisture. Shredded chicken cooked in a slow cooker also works beautifully if you have the extra time.
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Spice Adjustment: Taste the buffalo sauce before adding it to the mixture. Tailor the heat level by adjusting it according to your personal preference and those of your guests.
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Cheese Melting: Using any good melting cheese can enhance the creaminess. Be adventurous and try a combination of cheeses for varied flavors in your Buffalo Chicken Taquitos!
How to Store and Freeze Buffalo Chicken Taquitos
Fridge: Store cooked taquitos in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore crispiness.
Freezer: Freeze unbaked taquitos on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake directly from the freezer when ready to enjoy!
Reheating: To reheat leftover baked taquitos, use the oven for the best texture. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Make Ahead: These Buffalo Chicken Taquitos are perfect for meal prep! Assemble and freeze for quick snacks or dinners during busy weeks.
Buffalo Chicken Taquitos Variations
Feel free to play with this recipe and make it your own—there are so many delightful ways to customize your taquitos!
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Pulled Pork: Swap the chicken for shredded pulled pork to create a BBQ-inspired version that’s equally delicious.
This twist adds a smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the tangy buffalo sauce. -
Vegetarian Delight: Replace chicken with black beans and corn for a vegetarian option packed with protein and flavor.
Add spices like cumin and chili powder for an extra kick! -
Spicy Cheddar: Mix in pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a fiery, cheesy blast in every bite.
This spicy twist will tantalize those who love an extra heat level. -
Buffalo Cauliflower: For a plant-based alternative, toss cauliflower florets in buffalo sauce and bake them until tender before using as a filling.
It’s a fantastic way to enjoy that classic buffalo taste without the meat! -
Extra Veggies: Enhance nutrition by adding chopped bell peppers or spinach into the filling mixture.
This adds both flavor and a rainbow of colors! -
Sweet BBQ Sauce: Swap buffalo sauce for sweet BBQ sauce for a flavorful and less spicy alternative.
This is a crowd-pleaser and perfect for those who prefer mellow flavors. -
Herb & Garlic Cream Cheese: Blend in herb and garlic cream cheese for a creamier filling that adds richness and depth.
This creamy addition takes the taquitos to a whole new level! -
Air Fryer Option: Preparing them in an air fryer gives a delightful crunch without much oil.
They cook faster and turn out just as crispy!
Make Ahead Options
These Buffalo Chicken Taquitos are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts seeking time-saving solutions! You can prepare the filling (shredded chicken, cheese, onions, and sauces) up to 3 days in advance by refrigerating it in an airtight container. Additionally, you can roll the taquitos and freeze them for up to 24 hours before baking; this helps maintain their crispiness. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply bake the frozen taquitos directly in the oven for about 20-25 minutes until they’re golden and crispy. This method not only ensures your taquitos are just as delicious but also saves you precious time on hectic weeknights!
What to Serve with Buffalo Chicken Taquitos?
Pairing these crispy, flavor-packed taquitos with the right sides can elevate your meal to a whole new level of deliciousness!
- Creamy Ranch Dip: A classic companion, ranch dressing offers a cool, creamy contrast against the spicy buffalo flavors.
- Fresh Veggie Sticks: Serve alongside crunchy carrots and celery to add fresh textures and a refreshing bite to your meal.
- Coleslaw: A tangy, creamy coleslaw provides a delightful crunch and balances the heat, making each bite more enjoyable.
- Mexican Street Corn Salad: This dish brings a sweet and tangy flavor, perfectly complementing the spicy kick of the taquitos.
- Guacamole: Smooth and rich, guacamole not only tastes divine but also adds a pop of color to your presentation.
- Fruit Salsa: Bright and zesty, fruit salsa offers a sweet contrast that enhances the boldness of the buffalo chicken.
- Beer or Cider: Enjoy with a light lager or crisp apple cider; the carbonation cuts through the richness for a refreshing sip.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: Wrap up your meal with a sweet treat; the warmth of chocolate pairs beautifully with the spicy taquitos.
- Margaritas: A refreshing margarita can enhance your gathering’s atmosphere, putting a fun twist on the meal’s flavors!
- Lemonade: For those preferring non-alcoholic drinks, a zesty lemonade provides a refreshing cleanse after each spicy bite.
Buffalo Chicken Taquitos Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for Buffalo Chicken Taquitos?
Using shredded rotisserie chicken is an excellent choice for convenience and flavor. It keeps the filling moist and tender, making the taquitos delicious! You can also use slow-cooked shredded chicken if you have time for a homemade option, which adds even more depth to the flavor.
How do I store leftover Buffalo Chicken Taquitos?
Store cooked taquitos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, which helps regain the crispy texture.
Can I freeze Buffalo Chicken Taquitos?
Absolutely! You can freeze unbaked taquitos. Simply arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake them directly from the freezer at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes until golden and crispy.
How can I adjust the spice level in the taquitos?
You can easily customize the heat by adjusting the amount of buffalo sauce you use. Start with a smaller amount and mix it into the filling, tasting as you go. If you’d like more heat, you can always add more sauce until you reach your desired level.
What should I serve with Buffalo Chicken Taquitos?
These taquitos pair wonderfully with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. For a complete meal, consider serving them alongside a fresh salad, vegetable sticks, or even some creamy coleslaw to balance the richness of the taquitos.
Are Buffalo Chicken Taquitos suitable for my gluten-free diet?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free tortillas, such as Siete Almond Flour tortillas, and ensure that all the other ingredients, including the buffalo sauce, are free from gluten. Always check labels to be certain!
Crispy Buffalo Chicken Taquitos That Everyone Will Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes.
- Combine ingredients in a large bowl: shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, green onions, red onion, buffalo sauce, Greek yogurt, garlic powder, and sea salt. Mix thoroughly until everything is well-coated.
- Warm tortillas in the microwave for about 10 seconds to make them pliable.
- Fill each tortilla with a portion of the chicken mixture on one side and roll it tightly.
- Arrange the rolled taquitos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving enough space between each taquito.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Serve hot with your choice of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.