Buffalo Chicken Taquitos: 10 Irresistible Bites to Enjoy

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Buffalo Chicken Taquitos are a delightful twist on traditional taquitos, combining tender chicken thighs with a zesty buffalo cream cheese filling. These crispy bites are air-fried to perfection, making them a healthier option for a savory appetizer or a quick snack. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or simply craving something delicious, these taquitos are sure to impress. Let’s dive in and learn how to make buffalo chicken taquitos that will leave everyone wanting more!

Why You’ll Love This Buffalo Chicken Taquitos

These Buffalo Chicken Taquitos offer a burst of flavor in every bite. First, they are incredibly easy to prepare, making them a great choice for weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings. Secondly, the combination of spicy buffalo sauce and creamy cheese creates a perfect balance of flavors. Additionally, they are gluten-free, catering to various dietary needs. Plus, with just 35 minutes of cooking time, they’re a quick solution for hungry guests. You can serve them as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or as a main course paired with a fresh salad. Lastly, they are versatile; feel free to customize the fillings to your taste!

Ingredients for Buffalo Chicken Taquitos

Gather these items:

4 skinless boneless chicken thighs
1 teaspoon sea salt (or to taste)
Black pepper (to taste)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 cup buffalo sauce
1/2 cup cream cheese
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
2 teaspoons ranch seasoning
1/2 cup green onion, sliced
10 small corn tortillas
Avocado oil spray (or oil spray of your choice)

How to Make Buffalo Chicken Taquitos Step-by-Step

Step 1: Season the chicken thighs on both sides with sea salt and black pepper. Preheat a nonstick skillet with olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs and cook until golden brown on both sides and fully cooked through, about 10-15 minutes depending on size. Ensure an internal temperature of 165°F is reached. Remove from skillet and transfer to a cutting board.
Step 2: Cut the cooked chicken thighs into small bite-sized pieces, making them easier to mix and roll into taquitos.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped chicken with buffalo sauce, cream cheese, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, ranch seasoning, and sliced green onions. Mix thoroughly until well combined. Taste and adjust with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Step 4: Using an ice cream scoop or spoon, portion the filling mixture onto each corn tortilla. Roll each tortilla tightly around the filling to form a taquito.
Step 5: Line the air fryer basket or pan with parchment paper. Place rolled taquitos in a single layer and lightly spray or brush them with avocado oil or your preferred oil spray. Air fry at 400°F for 4-5 minutes on each side, totaling 8-10 minutes, until crispy and golden brown.
Step 6: Remove the taquitos from the air fryer and serve hot with extra buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, and additional sliced green onions, if desired. Enjoy your crispy, spicy Buffalo Chicken Taquitos!

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Pro Tips for the Perfect Buffalo Chicken Taquitos

Keep these in mind:

Ensure your chicken is fully cooked before mixing with other ingredients.
For extra crunch, consider baking the taquitos at 425°F for a few more minutes if they need additional crispiness.
Experiment with different cheese combinations like pepper jack for an added kick.
Pair with homemade ranch dressing for a flavorful dipping option.

Best Ways to Serve Buffalo Chicken Taquitos

These Buffalo Chicken Taquitos make great appetizers for parties. Serve them with a side of ranch dressing for dipping or alongside fresh veggies for a complete snack. Pairing with a cold beverage also enhances the experience. You can also serve them with a side salad for a lighter meal option.

How to Store and Reheat Buffalo Chicken Taquitos

To store leftover Buffalo Chicken Taquitos, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, air fry for 3-5 minutes at 350°F until heated through, ensuring they regain their crispiness. These make for excellent meal prep items!

Frequently Asked Questions About Buffalo Chicken Taquitos

What is a buffalo chicken taquito?

A buffalo chicken taquito is a rolled tortilla filled with a spicy buffalo chicken mixture, often combined with creamy cheese and spices, then fried or baked until crispy. They serve as a delicious appetizer or snack option.

Can I make buffalo chicken taquitos ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the filling and roll the taquitos ahead of time. Just store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook them, making it easier for last-minute gatherings.

How do I avoid common mistakes with buffalo chicken taquitos?

To avoid soggy taquitos, ensure your filling isn’t too wet and that you allow them enough space in the air fryer for proper cooking. Also, make sure to roll them tightly to prevent them from falling apart during cooking.

Variations of Buffalo Chicken Taquitos You Can Try

If you’re looking to mix things up, consider these variations: For a vegetarian twist, swap out chicken for black beans and cheese. You can also try adding jalapeños for an extra spicy kick. For a baked version, brush the taquitos with olive oil and bake instead of air frying!

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For more delicious recipes, check out our Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta or Deviled Egg Christmas Trees. You can also explore Baked Pears with Feta and Honey for a delightful dessert option.

For more information on the health benefits of chicken, visit Healthline.