Buffalo Chicken Taquitos

Buffalo Chicken Taquitos are a delightful fusion of spicy buffalo chicken and crispy tortillas, making them an irresistible appetizer or snack. These taquitos are filled with a creamy, zesty chicken mixture, rolled tightly in tortillas, and baked to golden perfection. Perfect for game days, parties, or a flavorful family dinner, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Spicy and Savory: Combines the tangy heat of buffalo sauce with creamy cheeses and tender chicken.
• Crispy Texture: Baking the taquitos ensures a satisfying crunch without the need for deep frying.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe accessible for all cooking levels.
• Versatile: Suitable as an appetizer, snack, or main course.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be prepared in advance and frozen for later use.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cooked, shredded chicken (e.g., rotisserie chicken)
• Cream cheese, softened
• Buffalo wing sauce (e.g., Frank’s RedHot)
• Ranch dressing or ranch seasoning mix
• Shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
• Flour or corn tortillas
• Optional: Blue cheese crumbles, chopped green onions, jalapeños

Directions

1. Prepare the Filling:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, buffalo wing sauce, and ranch dressing or seasoning. Mix until smooth and well combined.
   • Stir in the shredded chicken and shredded cheese until evenly distributed.
2. Assemble the Taquitos:
   • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
   • Warm the tortillas to make them pliable (microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel for 30 seconds or heat individually in a skillet).
   • Place about 2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture along one edge of a tortilla.
   • Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling and place it seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
   • Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
3. Bake:
   • Lightly spray or brush the tops of the taquitos with cooking oil to enhance crispiness.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tortillas are golden brown and crispy.
4. Serve:
   • Allow the taquitos to cool slightly before serving.
   • Serve with dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese dressing and garnish with optional toppings such as chopped green onions or additional buffalo sauce.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 12 taquitos
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Jalapeño Taquitos: Add finely chopped fresh or pickled jalapeños to the filling for an extra kick.
• Blue Cheese Twist: Incorporate blue cheese crumbles into the filling for a tangy flavor.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute shredded jackfruit or a meat alternative for the chicken.
• Gluten-Free: Use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas to make the recipe gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftover taquitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing:
  • Uncooked Taquitos: Place assembled taquitos on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
  • Cooked Taquitos: Cool completely, then freeze in a single layer before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until heated through and crispy.
• Reheating:
  • Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C), place taquitos on a baking sheet, and heat for 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy.
  • Air Fryer: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place taquitos in the basket, and heat for 5-7 minutes until crispy and warm.

FAQs

Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?

Yes, corn tortillas can be used. Warm them before assembling to prevent cracking, as they are less pliable than flour tortillas.

How can I prevent the taquitos from unrolling during baking?

Place the taquitos seam-side down on the baking sheet and ensure they are rolled tightly. Using a toothpick to secure them can also help.

Are there alternative cooking methods besides baking?

Yes, taquitos can be air-fried or shallow-fried:

• Air Fryer: Cook at 400°F (200°C) for about 6 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Shallow Frying: Fry in a skillet with about 1/4 cup of oil over medium heat, turning to brown all sides.

Can I make these taquitos ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the taquitos and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, freeze them for longer storage.

What dipping sauces pair well with buffalo chicken taquitos?

Ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, or additional buffalo sauce are popular choices.

How do I make the taquitos spicier?

Increase the amount of buffalo sauce in the filling or add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper.

Can I use canned chicken for this recipe?

Yes, well-drained canned chicken can be used, though freshly cooked or rotisserie chicken may offer better texture and flavor.

What side dishes complement buffalo chicken taquitos?

Serve with celery sticks, carrot sticks, a side salad, or coleslaw to balance the spiciness.

How do I prevent corn tortillas from cracking when rolling?

Warm them wrapped in a damp paper towel in the microwave for 30 seconds or heat them individually in a skillet to make them more pliable.

Are buffalo chicken taquitos suitable for kids?

If concerned about spiciness, reduce the amount of buffalo sauce or use a milder sauce to make them more kid-friendly.

Conclusion

Buffalo Chicken Taquitos offer a perfect blend of spicy, creamy, and crispy elements, making them a versatile dish suitable for various occasions. Easy to prepare and customize, they are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or main course, these taquitos are bound to impress with their bold flavors and satisfying texture.

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