Name: Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Taquitos
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 4 ounces cream cheese (softened); 1/3 cup Buffalo wing sauce; 2 tablespoons ranch dressing; 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (use rotisserie chicken for convenience); 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or colby jack cheese); 1/3 cup blue cheese crumbles (omit if you prefer); 2 green onions (sliced); Black pepper (to taste); 12 small flour or corn tortillas; Ranch dressing (for serving)

If you’re searching for the perfect crowd-pleasing appetizer or a delightful weeknight dinner, look no further than these Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Taquitos! Bursting with flavor and an irresistible cheesy texture, these taquitos are a must-try for anyone who loves a little kick in their meal. They are easy to assemble, baked to crispy perfection, and can be served with a side of ranch dressing for dipping. Let’s dive into the world of cheesy goodness!

Why This Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Taquitos Stands Out

These Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Taquitos are not just another finger food; they are a flavor-packed delight that combines tender shredded chicken with creamy cheese, zesty buffalo sauce, and ranch dressing. The combination of flavors is nothing short of addictive, making them perfect for game day, family gatherings, or a cozy night in. Plus, they are baked, not fried, so you can indulge without the guilt!

Ingredient Rundown

To make these scrumptious Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Taquitos, you’ll need the following ingredients:

4 ounces cream cheese, softened – This provides a creamy base that binds all the ingredients together.
1/3 cup Buffalo wing sauce – Adds that signature spicy kick we all love.
2 tablespoons ranch dressing – Enhances the flavor and adds a creamy texture.
2 cups shredded cooked chicken – The protein base; use rotisserie chicken for convenience!
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese or colby jack cheese – Melts beautifully and adds richness.
1/3 cup blue cheese crumbles – For those who love a tangy twist; feel free to omit if you prefer.
2 green onions, sliced – Adds freshness and a pop of color.
Black pepper – To taste, for added seasoning.
12 small flour or corn tortillas – The vessel for our delicious filling!
Ranch dressing for serving – A classic dipping sauce that complements the flavors perfectly.

Cook’s Kit

Before you start cooking, gather the following kitchen essentials:

Mixing bowl – For combining the filling ingredients.
Spatula – To help mix everything together smoothly.
Baking sheet – To bake the taquitos until they are golden and crispy.
Cooking spray or parchment paper – For easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Measuring cups and spoons – To ensure accurate ingredient portions.
Serving platter – To present your delicious taquitos beautifully!

Cooking Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Taquitos: The Process

Now that we have everything ready, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Taquitos.

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure your taquitos cook evenly and get that crispy texture we desire.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, Buffalo wing sauce, ranch dressing, and black pepper. Mix well until creamy and smooth.

Step 3: Add the Chicken and Cheese

Next, fold in the shredded cooked chicken, 1 cup of shredded cheese, blue cheese crumbles (if using), and sliced green onions. Mix until everything is well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Taquitos

Take a tortilla and add about 2-3 tablespoons of the filling along the center. Roll it tightly, tucking in the ends as you go. Place seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.

Step 5: Top with Cheese

Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheese on top of the rolled taquitos for an extra cheesy finish.

Step 6: Bake

Lightly spray the taquitos with cooking spray. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the taquitos are golden brown and crispy.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Once baked, remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve with ranch dressing on the side for dipping, and enjoy these cheesy delights!

Easy Ingredient Swaps

If you don’t have all the ingredients on hand, here are some easy swaps you can make:

Chicken: Use shredded turkey or even plant-based chicken substitutes for a different protein option.
Cheese: Swap cheddar for pepper jack for extra spice or mozzarella for a milder flavor.
Buffalo Sauce: If you prefer a milder flavor, use a barbecue sauce or a sweet chili sauce instead.
Tortillas: Whole wheat or spinach tortillas can add a nutritious twist to your taquitos.

Watch Outs & How to Fix

While making your Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Taquitos, keep these tips in mind to avoid common pitfalls:

Make sure your cream cheese is softened; otherwise, it will be challenging to mix with the other ingredients.
If your tortillas crack while rolling, warm them slightly in the microwave or on a skillet to make them more pliable.
Don’t overfill your taquitos; otherwise, they may burst open while baking.
If you find they aren’t browning, you can broil them for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end of baking.

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

If you have leftover Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Taquitos, here’s how to store them:

In the Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
In the Freezer: Freeze before baking for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through for the best texture.

Reader Q&A

Can I use raw chicken in this recipe?

For best results, use cooked chicken. However, if you prefer to use raw chicken, you would need to cook it first, shred it, and then proceed with the recipe.

Can I make these taquitos ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the taquitos ahead of time and store them in the fridge until you are ready to bake them. Just be sure to bake them within 24 hours for the best texture.

What can I serve with Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Taquitos?

These taquitos pair beautifully with a side of ranch dressing, celery sticks, or even a fresh salad for a balanced meal. They also make a great addition to any party platter!

Are these taquitos spicy?

The level of spiciness will depend on the Buffalo wing sauce you use. You can adjust the amount of sauce to your taste, or opt for a milder sauce if you prefer less heat.

Bring It to the Table

These Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Taquitos are sure to impress your family and friends, whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them for dinner at home. With their crispy exterior and gooey, flavorful filling, they are bound to be a hit. Pair them with a side of ranch dressing, and you’ve got a snack that will leave everyone coming back for more.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, these taquitos are an easy and rewarding recipe that showcases the delightful combination of buffalo chicken and cheesy goodness. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy this delicious treat!