Name: Buffalo Chicken Taquitos: Crispy, Cheesy Game Day Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Shredded Rotisserie Chicken (or canned chicken); 1/2 cup Buffalo Sauce (preferably Frank's RedHot); 8 oz Cream Cheese (can use low-fat); 1 cup Shredded Cheese (e.g., Cheddar or Monterey Jack); 8 pieces Flour Tortillas (corn tortillas can work too); 1 cup Cooking Oil (for frying)

A delightful aroma fills the air as I slide a tray of Buffalo Chicken Taquitos into the oven, the anticipation of game day excitement bubbling within me. Perfectly crispy on the outside and creamy inside, these spicy handheld snacks are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any gathering. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up these mouthwatering taquitos in no time, making them a fantastic option whether you’re hosting friends or looking for a quick weeknight meal. Not only are they customizable—using rotisserie or canned chicken, and baked or fried—but they also provide that comforting flavor we all crave without endless hours in the kitchen. So, why settle for takeout when you can create these show-stoppers right at home? Ready to discover how to make the perfect Buffalo Chicken Taquitos? Let’s dive in!

Why Are Buffalo Chicken Taquitos So Irresistible?

Bold, Flavorful Kick: The spicy buffalo sauce combines beautifully with the creamy filling, delivering flavor that dances on your taste buds.

Crispy Perfection: You have the option to bake or fry, ensuring a satisfying crunch that perfectly complements the gooey interior.

Customizable Delight: Whether using rotisserie chicken or canned, you can easily adapt this recipe to suit your preferences, making it versatile and user-friendly.

Easy to Prepare: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these taquitos in no time. Perfect for game day or busy weeknights!

Crowd-Pleasing Snack: These handheld bites are perfect for sharing—pair them with ranch or blue cheese dressing for extra zing! For more easy crowd-pleasers, check out my Bang Bang Chicken or Buffalo Chicken Rangoons recipes!

Buffalo Chicken Taquitos Ingredients

For the Filling
• Rotisserie Chicken – A tender protein source that ensures a flavorful filling; feel free to substitute canned chicken if you’re in a pinch.
• Buffalo Sauce – This adds the signature kick; opt for your favorite brand, but Frank’s RedHot is highly recommended!
• Cream Cheese – Provides richness and binds everything together; you can use low-fat cream cheese for a lighter twist.
• Shredded Cheese (e.g., Cheddar or Monterey Jack) – Melts wonderfully for a gooey texture; mixing cheese varieties can elevate the flavor profile.

For the Wrap
• Flour Tortillas – These provide the perfect vessel to hold your flavorful filling; corn tortillas can work too but may need a gentle touch.

For Cooking (if frying)
• Cooking Oil – Essential for frying your taquitos to golden perfection; if you prefer a lighter option, baking is a great choice instead.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Buffalo Chicken Taquitos

Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine shredded rotisserie chicken, buffalo sauce, cream cheese, and shredded cheese. Use a fork to blend the ingredients thoroughly, ensuring the creamy filling is consistent and well-mixed. You’ll know it’s ready when the mixture is smooth and vibrant in color, inviting you to roll it into the tortillas.

Step 2: Wrap the Taquitos
Take a flour tortilla and place a generous spoonful of the buffalo chicken filling near one edge. Carefully roll the tortilla tightly around the filling, ensuring it’s secure by tucking in the sides as you go. Once rolled, use a dab of water to seal the edge. Repeat this process until all the filling is used up, and enjoy the lovely sight of your assembled Buffalo Chicken Taquitos.

Step 3: Prepare for Cooking
If baking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, giving you a non-stick surface to work with. Place the rolled taquitos seam-side down on the prepared sheet, ensuring they’re spaced apart. For extra crispiness, lightly spray or brush the tops with cooking oil for that golden finish when baked.

Step 4: Bake the Taquitos
Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake the taquitos for about 20 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they turn golden brown and crispy, which will indicate they’re done. The delightful aroma of Buffalo Chicken Taquitos will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist digging in early!

Step 5: Optional Frying Method
For a fried version, heat about an inch of cooking oil in a frying pan over medium heat until shimmering. Fry the taquitos in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook each side for about 2–3 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown. Use tongs to carefully flip them and keep the fun cooking rhythm going!

Step 6: Serve the Taquitos
Once baked or fried, remove the Buffalo Chicken Taquitos from heat and let them cool for a few minutes on a wire rack. This allows excess oil to drain (if fried) and ensures a delightful texture. Cut them in half if you prefer bite-sized portions, and get ready to serve them warm alongside your favorite dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese dressing.

Buffalo Chicken Taquitos: Customization Ideas

Feel free to get creative with these Buffalo Chicken Taquitos—I encourage you to explore flavors and textures that excite your taste buds!

BBQ Twist: Replace buffalo sauce with your favorite BBQ sauce for a smoky-sweet alternative. It’s a fantastic way to shake things up!
Vegetarian Option: Swap out the chicken entirely for black beans and corn. This makes a hearty, protein-packed twist that vegetarians will love.
Creamy Dream: Add a dollop of sour cream to the filling for an extra layer of creaminess that enhances the flavor profile.
Spicy Kick: Toss in diced jalapeños or chopped serrano peppers for a fiery twist that will satisfy any spice lover’s cravings.
Cheese Medley: Mix different kinds of shredded cheese—like pepper jack for spice or mozzarella for extra stretch! Experiment for personalized flavor.
Baked vs. Fried: If you prefer a lighter option, stick to baking! For a more indulgent treat, frying gives that sinfully crispy texture you crave.
Crispy Corn Wrap: Switch to corn tortillas for a gluten-free alternative, but roll them carefully to avoid cracking; their flavor will shine through beautifully!
Flavor Pairing: Serve with a zesty buffalo ranch dipping sauce by blending ranch dressing with a splash of buffalo sauce for an added zing. Don’t forget to explore my Skinny White Chicken Enchiladas for another delicious dip idea!

How to Store and Freeze Buffalo Chicken Taquitos

Room Temperature: Buffalo Chicken Taquitos should be enjoyed warm and fresh. If left out, they can stay at room temperature for up to 2 hours before needing to be refrigerated.
Fridge: Store any leftover taquitos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure they are cooled down completely to prevent sogginess.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze rolled but uncooked Buffalo Chicken Taquitos in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until golden and crispy. You can also reheat leftovers in the microwave, though they may lose some crispiness.

Make Ahead Options

These Buffalo Chicken Taquitos are a game changer for busy home cooks! You can easily prepare the filling up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the rotisserie chicken, buffalo sauce, cream cheese, and shredded cheese, then storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For even more convenience, roll the taquitos and refrigerate them prior to baking; they can be stored this way for up to 3 days. When it’s time to bake, simply preheat the oven and follow the same cooking instructions, adding about 10 extra minutes if baked straight from the fridge. This way, you’ll have scrumptious, crispy taquitos with just the right amount of spice, ready to delight your family or guests efficiently!

Expert Tips for Buffalo Chicken Taquitos

Don’t Overfill: Avoid the temptation to pack in too much filling. This keeps the taquitos from bursting open during cooking.
Seal it Right: Use a dab of water to seal the edge of the tortilla after rolling. This prevents them from unraveling while baking or frying.
Crispy Finish: For that golden-brown color, lightly spray the taquitos with cooking oil before baking. It enhances texture without all the extra calories of frying.
Watch the Time: If baking from the fridge, anticipate an extra 10 minutes cooking time to ensure they’re hot and crispy throughout.
Keep it Warm: Place cooked taquitos on a wire rack instead of a plate. This allows any excess oil to drip off and maintains their crispiness.
Flavor Variations: Experiment with different sauces or additional ingredients. Adding jalapeños can give your Buffalo Chicken Taquitos an extra kick!

What to Serve with Buffalo Chicken Taquitos

Pairing these spicy, crispy delights with complementary sides and drinks creates a mouthwatering feast for your gatherings.

Ranch Dressing: This cooling dip soothes the heat of the taquitos, making each bite even more enjoyable—a classic pairing every cook loves!
Celery Sticks: Crunchy and refreshing, these add a crisp element to the meal, balancing the spicy kick of buffalo flavor wonderfully.
Guacamole: Creamy and rich, guacamole provides a delightful contrast to the crispy shells, elevating the entire flavor experience.
Mexican Street Corn Salad: This vibrant salad filled with sweet corn, cheese, and spice offers a festive touch, enhancing the overall flavor journey.
Beer: A cold lager or pale ale pairs beautifully with buffalo chicken, bringing a refreshing zesty experience that balances the robust flavors perfectly.
Sweet Potato Fries: Baked or fried, these crispy gems introduce a hint of sweetness, creating a delightful contrast that you’ll crave with every taquito!
Margaritas: A zesty lime margarita brightens the meal, either served frozen or on the rocks, enhancing the festive spirit of your gathering.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, warm cookies are a cozy finish, bringing home a loved flavor that contrasts the savory spiciness of your taquitos.

Buffalo Chicken Taquitos Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best chicken for the filling?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using rotisserie chicken for these Buffalo Chicken Taquitos as it provides a tender and juicy filling. However, if you’re short on time, canned chicken is a suitable substitute. Just make sure it’s drained well before mixing.

How should I store leftover taquitos?
Very! Place any leftover Buffalo Chicken Taquitos in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. To avoid sogginess, ensure they’re completely cooled before sealing them up.

Can I freeze Buffalo Chicken Taquitos?
Definitely! To freeze, roll the taquitos as instructed and lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about 30 minutes, then transfer the frozen taquitos into a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, bake them from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes until crispy.

What do I do if my taquitos are bursting during cooking?
Oh no! To prevent bursting, make sure not to overfill each tortilla; about 2 tablespoons of filling per taquito works well. Additionally, sealing the edges tightly with a dab of water after rolling can help keep everything inside.

Is there a way to adjust this recipe for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! To make these Buffalo Chicken Taquitos gluten-free, switch to corn tortillas. For a lighter option, you can use low-fat cream cheese. Always double-check the labels of all sauces and cheeses to avoid any allergens, especially if anyone has dairy or gluten sensitivities.

How should I serve these taquitos?
The more the merrier! Serve your Buffalo Chicken Taquitos warm with dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese dressing. They pair perfectly with celery sticks for that classic taste.