Name: Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Taquitos
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 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; 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or colby jack cheese); 1/3 cup blue cheese crumbles; 2 green onions (sliced); Black pepper (to taste); 12 small flour or corn tortillas; Ranch dressing (for serving)

These Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Taquitos are the perfect blend of spicy, creamy, and cheesy goodness, all rolled up in a crispy tortilla. Imagine biting into a warm, crunchy taquito filled with shredded chicken, tangy buffalo sauce, and a hearty mix of cheeses. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, looking for a quick weeknight dinner, or simply craving a delicious snack, these taquitos are sure to impress. Plus, they come together in no time, making them an easy go-to recipe for any occasion!

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Taquitos are not just mouth-watering; they are also incredibly versatile. This recipe is perfect for meal prep, easy entertaining, and even satisfying that late-night snack craving. The combination of flavors is a crowd-pleaser, making it ideal for parties, family gatherings, or even a cozy night in. With the kick of buffalo sauce and the creaminess of cheese, these taquitos are sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Plus, they are customizable, so you can adjust the spice level to suit your taste.

What to Buy

When making Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Taquitos, here’s what you’ll need:

4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/3 cup Buffalo wing sauce
2 tablespoons Ranch dressing
2 cups shredded cooked chicken
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese or colby jack cheese
1/3 cup blue cheese crumbles
2 green onions, sliced
Black pepper, to taste
12 small flour or corn tortillas
Ranch dressing, for serving

Kitchen Gear Checklist

To make the cooking process easier, gather the following kitchen tools:

Mixing Bowl: For combining all the filling ingredients.
Spatula: For mixing and spreading the filling.
Baking Sheet: To bake the taquitos until crispy.
Oven: For baking the taquitos to perfection.
Serving Platter: To showcase your delicious creations.

Build Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Taquitos Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, Buffalo wing sauce, and Ranch dressing. Use a spatula to mix until smooth. This creamy base will hold the ingredients together while adding flavor.

Step 2: Add the Chicken and Cheese

Stir in the shredded cooked chicken, shredded cheddar cheese (or colby jack), blue cheese crumbles, and sliced green onions. Season with black pepper to taste. Mix everything until well combined.

Step 3: Warm the Tortillas

To make rolling easier, warm the tortillas. You can do this by placing them in a microwave for about 30 seconds or on a skillet for a few seconds on each side until pliable.

Step 4: Fill and Roll the Taquitos

Take a tortilla and spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto the center. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling and place it seam-side down on a baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.

Step 5: Bake the Taquitos

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the taquitos for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t burn!

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the taquitos from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve with extra Ranch dressing on the side for dipping. Enjoy the cheesy, spicy goodness!

Ingredient Swaps & Substitutions

If you’re looking to customize your Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Taquitos, consider these swaps:

Chicken: Use shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience or substitute with shredded turkey.
Cheese: Swap out cheddar or colby jack for pepper jack for an extra kick.
Buffalo Sauce: If you prefer a milder flavor, use a milder hot sauce or reduce the amount of buffalo sauce.
Ranch Dressing: Use a homemade ranch dressing or even a vegan version if desired.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you encounter any issues while making your Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Taquitos, here are some tips to help you out:

Taquitos falling apart: Ensure that the tortillas are warm and pliable. If they’re too cold, they can crack.
Too spicy: If the buffalo sauce is too spicy for your taste, add more cream cheese or ranch dressing to tone it down.
Not crispy: Make sure to bake until golden brown. If they’re not crispy enough, broil for a minute or two at the end.
Filling too dry: Add a bit more cream cheese or ranch dressing to achieve a creamier consistency.

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

To keep your Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Taquitos fresh, follow these storage tips:

Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freeze: You can freeze the taquitos before baking. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Reheat: To reheat, place taquitos in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.

Ask the Chef

Can I make these taquitos ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and roll the taquitos a day in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. This makes for an easy and quick meal when you’re short on time.

What can I serve with Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Taquitos?

These taquitos pair perfectly with a variety of sides such as celery sticks, carrot sticks, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them with dips like guacamole, salsa, or additional ranch dressing.

Can I use a different sauce instead of buffalo sauce?

Yes! If buffalo sauce isn’t your thing, you can substitute it with any other hot sauce or even a barbecue sauce for a different flavor profile. Just be mindful of the spice level!

How can I make these taquitos vegetarian?

To make vegetarian taquitos, simply replace the chicken with a mixture of sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms or use a meat substitute. Adjust the seasoning as needed for flavor.

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Final Bite

These Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Taquitos are a delightful explosion of flavors that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. With creamy cheese, spicy buffalo sauce, and tender chicken, they make for a perfect snack or meal that everyone will love. The best part? You can easily customize them to suit your preferences, making them a versatile option for any occasion. So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy these delicious taquitos that are bound to become a favorite in your household!