The aroma of spicy buffalo sauce fills the kitchen, instantly transporting me to vibrant game days and celebratory gatherings. Today, I’m excited to share my Buffalo Chicken Taquitos, a quick and easy crowd-pleaser that has won over friends and family alike. These delightful bites combine tender shredded chicken with a zesty kick that’s perfectly complemented by a creamy dip. Not only are they a fantastic choice for a fun dinner, but they also make for the ultimate finger food for parties! Whether you’re looking to switch up weeknight meals or impress your guests, these taquitos won’t let you down. What fun dips or sauces will you experiment with?
Why are Buffalo Chicken Taquitos Irresistible?
Quick Preparation: These taquitos come together in no time, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of spicy buffalo sauce and creamy dip creates an unforgettable taste sensation that pleases every palate.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: They’re always a hit at parties—watch them disappear at your next game day!
Versatile Options: Easily customize them with different fillings or sauces, like BBQ or spicy chipotle, for a unique twist.
Ultimate Finger Food: Perfectly sized for sharing or enjoying solo, these bites are the ultimate finger food for any occasion.
Pair them with a fresh salad or some tortilla chips for a complete meal, and don’t forget to explore our Hot Honey Chicken for another winning recipe to try!
Buffalo Chicken Taquitos Ingredients
For the Filling
- Shredded Cooked Chicken – This is the main protein; using leftover rotisserie chicken makes preparation quick and easy.
- Buffalo Sauce – Provides the signature spiciness; adjust the amount based on your heat preference to create perfectly balanced Buffalo Chicken Taquitos.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Adds a melty richness; feel free to swap it with Monterey Jack or pepper jack for an exciting flavor twist.
- Garlic Powder – Enhances the overall flavor profile; fresh minced garlic can also be used for a stronger punch.
For the Wrap
- Corn Tortillas – These are the perfect wrappers for your filling; flour tortillas can be substituted for a different texture and flavor.
- Melted Butter – Brush on tortillas before frying to achieve a golden, crispy finish; olive oil provides a healthier alternative.
For the Dip
- Plain Greek Yogurt – Adds creaminess and tanginess to the dip; sour cream can be used as a substitute if desired.
- Green Onion – Offers a burst of freshness; feel free to use chives for a milder taste.
- Red Onion – Adds crunch and sharpness; if you prefer, replace it with bell peppers for a sweeter bite.
Seasoning
- Sea Salt – Use to taste; adjust according to your preference for a well-balanced flavor.
With these ingredients, you’re well on your way to delicious Buffalo Chicken Taquitos that will excite your taste buds and bring joy to your dinner table!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Buffalo Chicken Taquitos
Step 1: Prep the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine shredded cooked chicken with buffalo sauce, melted butter, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the ingredients are evenly incorporated, creating a flavorful filling. This step sets the tone for your Buffalo Chicken Taquitos, so make sure the mixture is well-blended and has a lovely creamy consistency.
Step 2: Warm the Tortillas
Heat a dry skillet over medium heat and warm each corn tortilla for about 15–20 seconds on each side until they are soft and pliable. This is crucial, as warming the tortillas prevents them from cracking when you roll them. You want them to be just hot enough to be flexible but not crispy.
Step 3: Roll the Taquitos
Once the tortillas are warm, take 2 tablespoons of the buffalo chicken filling and place it near one edge of a tortilla. Carefully roll the tortilla tightly, ensuring the filling is secure inside, and then place the rolled taquito seam-side down on a baking sheet. Repeat this process until all of the filling is used, laying them close together but not overcrowded.
Step 4: Fry Until Golden
Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, gently place the taquitos seam-side down into the oil. Fry them for about 1–2 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy. It’s essential not to overcrowd the pan; fry in batches if necessary to achieve that perfectly crispy texture on your Buffalo Chicken Taquitos.
Step 5: Make the Dip
In a small bowl, mix together plain Greek yogurt, ranch dressing, and finely chopped chives until well combined. This creamy dip complements the spicy kick of the buffalo chicken perfectly. Adjust seasoning to taste, giving it that added zing to enhance your Buffalo Chicken Taquitos experience.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Once fried, use a slotted spoon to transfer the taquitos onto a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Arrange them on a serving platter, drizzle with extra buffalo sauce for added flavor, and serve alongside your prepared dip. these taquitos are now ready to be the star of your next gathering or a delightful family meal!
Buffalo Chicken Taquitos Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize these taquitos with exciting variations that will tantalize your taste buds!
- Dairy-Free: Use vegan cheese and a plant-based yogurt alternative to create a delicious, dairy-free version of these taquitos.
- Vegetarian Twist: Substitute shredded chicken with black beans or roasted veggies, making these a hearty yet meat-free option.
- BBQ Flavor: Replace buffalo sauce with your favorite BBQ sauce for a sweet and tangy take that will delight your taste buds.
- Spicy Heat: Add diced jalapeños to the chicken filling for an extra kick, elevating the heat level to new heights; perfect for spice lovers!
- Crunchy Additions: Mix in some finely chopped bell peppers or corn for added texture and flavor, creating a delightful crunch within each taquito.
- Zesty Citrus: A squeeze of lime juice in the filling adds a refreshing tang and brightens the flavors for an extra zest in every bite.
- Swap Tortillas: For a gluten-free option, use corn tortillas or even lettuce wraps to create lighter, fresh alternatives.
- Asian Fusion: Try adding some sesame oil and shredded carrots to the filling for an unexpected Asian-inspired twist, which pairs wonderfully with a soy sauce dip.
And while you’re enjoying these delectable Buffalo Chicken Taquitos, why not explore some more exciting recipes like our Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl or add a touch of sweetness to your meal with our Hot Honey Chicken? Each option offers its own delightful twist to keep your family excited at the dinner table!
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 by mixing the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, melted butter, and cheese up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The corn tortillas can also be warmed, rolled with the filling, and placed on a baking sheet before covering with plastic wrap and refrigerating for up to 24 hours. To maintain quality, ensure the tortillas are warm before rolling to prevent cracking. When you’re ready to serve, simply fry the chilled taquitos until golden brown and crispy, and enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!
Tips for the Best Buffalo Chicken Taquitos
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Warm Tortillas: Ensure your tortillas are warm before filling. This prevents cracking and makes rolling easier for perfect Buffalo Chicken Taquitos.
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Tight Rolling: Roll the taquitos tightly to maintain their shape during frying and achieve that crispy texture everyone loves.
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Don’t Overcrowd: Fry in small batches. Overcrowding the pan can lead to uneven cooking and soggy taquitos instead of crispy, golden delights.
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Adjust Heat Levels: Customize the spice by adjusting the amount of buffalo sauce. For a milder flavor, try using a less spicy variant to suit everyone’s taste.
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Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to get creative! Substitute the chicken with turkey or black beans for a vegetarian option and enjoy different flavor profiles.
How to Store and Freeze Buffalo Chicken Taquitos
Fridge: Store leftover taquitos in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze assembled but uncooked taquitos. Wrap each tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat frozen taquitos, bake them directly from the freezer at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, until heated through and crispy.
Preparation Tip: If you’ve made a batch in advance, fry just before serving for the best texture and flavor in your Buffalo Chicken Taquitos.
What to Serve with Buffalo Chicken Taquitos
Create a delightful dining experience with the perfect pairings to complement these crispy, flavorful bites.
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Creamy Coleslaw: A cool and crunchy coleslaw cuts through the richness of the taquitos, adding a refreshing contrast. The tanginess brightens each bite, making it a perfect sidekick.
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Zesty Guacamole: Smooth and creamy guacamole provides a lush texture that balances the spicy kick from the buffalo sauce. A sprinkle of lime juice elevates the flavors to new heights!
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Tortilla Chips with Salsa: Crispy tortilla chips provide an extra crunch alongside zesty fresh salsa for an explosion of flavors. This classic combination is a fun way to keep the snack theme going.
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Spicy Pickles: The tangy crunch of spicy pickles brings a delightful kick, balancing out the richness of the buffalo chicken. They’re an addictive accompaniment that keeps you craving more.
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Mexican Street Corn: Roasted corn on the cob slathered in lime, cheese, and spices enhances the fiesta vibe, amplifying the southwest flavors of the taquitos while offering a sweet crunch with each bite.
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Light Salad: A crisp green salad with a citrus vinaigrette adds freshness and lightens the meal, making everything feel balanced and lively. It’s the perfect match for your savory delights.
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Classic Beer: A cold beer pairs wonderfully with the spicy buffalo chicken, enhancing the flavor while cooling the palate between each delicious bite.
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Mango Sorbet: For dessert, a refreshing mango sorbet offers a sweet, icy finish that cleanses the palate and perfectly complements the meal’s warmth and spice.
These pairings will not only enhance your Buffalo Chicken Taquitos experience but create a memorable dining occasion!
Buffalo Chicken Taquitos Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for Buffalo Chicken Taquitos?
For the best result, I recommend using shredded cooked chicken, like leftover rotisserie chicken. It’s super convenient and adds a great flavor. You can also use poached or grilled chicken breast if you prefer. Marinating the chicken in buffalo sauce before shredding can enhance the flavor even more!
How long can I store leftover Buffalo Chicken Taquitos in the fridge?
You can store leftover taquitos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crispiness.
Can I freeze Buffalo Chicken Taquitos?
Absolutely! To freeze, assemble the taquitos but do not fry them yet. Tightly wrap each taquito in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to cook them, just bake directly from the freezer at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, until they’re hot and crispy.
What should I do if my tortillas crack when rolling?
If your tortillas are cracking, try warming them a little longer to make them more pliable. You can also cover them with a damp cloth to keep them warm while you fill and roll them. Alternatively, consider using slightly thicker flour tortillas as they tend to hold together better during the rolling process.
Are Buffalo Chicken Taquitos gluten-free?
To make gluten-free Buffalo Chicken Taquitos, simply substitute the corn tortillas with gluten-free tortillas available in most grocery stores. Just be sure to check the label to ensure there are no hidden gluten ingredients in any other components. Enjoy these tasty bites without worry!
Can I make Buffalo Chicken Taquitos vegetarian?
Definitely! For a vegetarian variation, replace the shredded chicken with black beans or shredded jackfruit, and keep the same seasonings and buffalo sauce. This will create flavorful Buffalo Chicken Taquitos that everyone can enjoy!
Buffalo Chicken Taquitos: Crispy Bites of Flavorful Joy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine shredded cooked chicken with buffalo sauce, melted butter, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until evenly incorporated.
- Heat a dry skillet over medium heat and warm each corn tortilla for about 15–20 seconds on each side until soft and pliable.
- Place 2 tablespoons of the buffalo chicken filling near one edge of a tortilla and roll tightly, then place seam-side down on a baking sheet.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the taquitos for about 1–2 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
- In a small bowl, mix together plain Greek yogurt, ranch dressing, and finely chopped chives until well combined.
- Transfer fried taquitos onto a plate lined with paper towels, arrange on a serving platter, drizzle with buffalo sauce, and serve with dip.
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