Buffalo Chicken Taquitos

If you’re looking for a deliciously fun snack that will make your taste buds dance, you’ve found it! Buffalo Chicken Taquitos are the perfect blend of spicy and crispy, making them a hit for any occasion. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a lively family gathering, these taquitos bring excitement to the table. They are easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying!

What I love most about this recipe is how it balances those bold flavors with creamy goodness. Plus, you can whip them up in no time! So let’s roll up our sleeves and get started on making these scrumptious Buffalo Chicken Taquitos!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have these taquitos ready in about 35 minutes—perfect for busy evenings!
• Crowd-Pleaser: The spicy kick combined with cheesy goodness makes these taquitos a favorite among family and friends.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare them in advance and bake them when ready to serve, making entertaining a breeze.
• Versatile Flavor: Serve with your choice of dipping sauce, like ranch or blue cheese, to suit everyone’s taste preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are likely already in your kitchen! Here’s what you’ll need to make your Buffalo Chicken Taquitos:

For the Taquitos

• 1 pound ground chicken
• 3 scallions, diced (the green and the white part)
• 4 ounces softened cream cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 cup hot sauce
• 1/4 cup ranch dressing
• 1 cup shredded Mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
• Salt and fresh cracked pepper
• 15-17 flour tortillas

For the Blue Cheese Dipping Sauce

• 3/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
• 1/2 cup half & half
• 3 teaspoons all-purpose flour
• 4 teaspoons lemon juice
• Fresh cracked pepper

Variations

One of the best things about Buffalo Chicken Taquitos is how flexible they are! Feel free to customize based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some tasty variation ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or shredded rotisserie chicken instead of ground chicken for an easier option.
• Add some veggies: Toss in diced bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and color.
• Change the cheese: If blue cheese isn’t your thing, try using feta or skipping it altogether for a milder flavor.
• Make it vegan: Substitute ground chicken with lentils or chickpeas and use dairy-free cream cheese for a plant-based version.

How to Make Buffalo Chicken Taquitos

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. In a medium pan over medium heat, add your ground chicken. Cook until no longer pink, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks. This step is important because well-cooked chicken ensures that your filling has great texture and flavor. If there’s excess oil or water, be sure to drain it so your filling stays nice and dry.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese, diced scallions, and crumbled blue cheese. Stir until well mixed. Then add in the cooked ground chicken along with hot sauce, ranch dressing, garlic powder, and Mozzarella cheese. Season everything with salt and pepper to taste. If you like more heat, feel free to add extra hot sauce here for that kick!

Step 3: Roll Your Taquitos

Lay out your flour tortillas flat on a surface. Spoon a few tablespoons of the Buffalo chicken mixture onto each tortilla and roll them tightly closed. Place each taquito seam side down on your baking sheet. Make sure they aren’t touching—spacing them out helps achieve that lovely crispiness we all crave!

Step 4: Bake for Crunchy Perfection

Brush each taquito lightly with olive oil; don’t forget the tops! Sprinkle with salt, garlic powder, and paprika for extra flavor before baking for about 25 minutes. Allowing them to cool slightly after baking makes them easier to handle while still being perfectly crispy.

Step 5: Whip Up the Dipping Sauce

While your taquitos bake away in the oven, let’s make that irresistible blue cheese dipping sauce! In a medium pot over medium heat, warm up half & half until it steams but doesn’t boil. Whisk in flour until smooth before adding crumbled blue cheese and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper then pour into a serving bowl—perfect for dipping those crispy taquitos!

Now you’re all set to enjoy these tasty Buffalo Chicken Taquitos! Grab some friends or family members because this dish is meant to be shared (though I’m sure you’ll want seconds!). Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Buffalo Chicken Taquitos

Creating the perfect Buffalo Chicken Taquitos can be a breeze with a few handy tips! Follow these suggestions to ensure your taquitos turn out delicious every time.

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh ground chicken and high-quality cheese will enhance the flavor of your taquitos, making them more enjoyable for everyone.
• Don’t overfill the tortillas – If you put too much filling in each tortilla, they may burst while baking. A few tablespoons per tortilla is just right to keep them intact and crispy.
• Keep space between taquitos – Ensure that there’s enough space between each taquito on the baking sheet. This allows hot air to circulate and helps them crisp up beautifully.
• Experiment with spices – Feel free to add extra spices or seasonings to the filling. A touch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika can elevate the flavor profile and give your taquitos an extra kick!
• Let them cool before serving – Allowing the taquitos to cool slightly after baking helps them firm up and makes it easier to handle when serving.

How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Taquitos

Buffalo Chicken Taquitos are not only tasty but also visually appealing! Presenting them well can elevate your dining experience, whether it’s for game day, a family gathering, or a cozy night in.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro – A sprinkle of these herbs adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Sliced jalapeños – For those who love an extra kick, adding sliced jalapeños can enhance both flavor and presentation.

Side Dishes

• Celery sticks with ranch dip – Crunchy celery sticks provide a refreshing contrast to the spicy taquitos, with ranch dressing complementing their flavor perfectly.
• Guacamole – Rich and creamy guacamole adds a delicious layer of flavor while balancing out the heat from the buffalo sauce.
• Mexican street corn salad – This vibrant salad features sweet corn, lime, cilantro, and Cotija cheese (or a non-dairy alternative) for a delightful side that pairs wonderfully with taquitos.
• Sweet potato fries or chips – The natural sweetness of sweet potatoes creates a great contrast against the spiciness of the buffalo chicken filling.

With these serving ideas and tips, you’ll create an unforgettable experience with your Buffalo Chicken Taquitos. Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

Buffalo chicken taquitos are perfect for meal prep, making them an excellent choice for busy weeknights or gatherings. You can easily prepare them in advance and enjoy them later, ensuring you always have a delicious snack on hand!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the taquitos to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will keep well for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, arrange the cooled taquitos in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For oven reheating, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Place the taquitos on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through and crispy.
• Alternatively, you can reheat them in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Buffalo Chicken Taquitos that you might find helpful!

Can I make Buffalo Chicken Taquitos with shredded chicken?

Yes! Shredded chicken is a great alternative. Just mix it with the same ingredients as listed in the recipe.

What can I serve with Buffalo Chicken Taquitos?

You can serve them with ranch dipping sauce or a blue cheese sauce for extra flavor. Fresh vegetables on the side also make a nice addition!

How do I make Buffalo Chicken Taquitos spicier?

To amp up the heat, simply add more hot sauce to your filling mixture before rolling the taquitos.

Can I bake Buffalo Chicken Taquitos instead of frying?

Absolutely! This recipe is designed for baking, which keeps them crispy without needing oil from frying.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Buffalo Chicken Taquitos! They are not only delicious but also super versatile and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re prepping for a busy week or hosting friends, these taquitos will surely be a hit. Enjoy every spicy bite and feel free to share your experience – I’d love to hear how they turn out for you!