Baked Buffalo Chicken Taquitos

Name: Baked Buffalo Chicken Taquitos
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded cooked chicken; 1/2 cup buffalo sauce; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 8 small flour tortillas; Cooking spray or olive oil for brushing

Highlighted under: Oven-Baked Delights

I absolutely love making Baked Buffalo Chicken Taquitos for a quick and satisfying meal or snack. The combination of spicy buffalo chicken and crispy tortillas is simply irresistible! Using shredded rotisserie chicken saves me time, and the flavors meld perfectly with just a few key ingredients. Whether for game day or a cozy night in, these taquitos never disappoint. Plus, baking instead of frying keeps them lighter without sacrificing that crunchy texture we all crave!

Created by

Noah

Last updated on 2026-01-23T21:42:28.605Z

I had been looking for a fun and tasty appetizer, so I decided to give Baked Buffalo Chicken Taquitos a try. I came across a fantastic combination of buffalo sauce and shredded chicken, and I couldn't wait to get started! I used a store-bought rotisserie chicken, which not only saved time but also added fantastic flavor.

The key to achieving that perfect crunch is to make sure the taquitos are well-rolled and lightly brushed with oil before baking. This simple step ensures they come out golden brown and crispy. They’re the perfect party snack or quick meal!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Spicy buffalo flavor that tantalizes your taste buds
Crispy texture from baking, not frying
Easy to make and perfect for sharing
Great for meal prep and leftovers

Choosing the Right Chicken

Using shredded rotisserie chicken simplifies this recipe significantly, saving you time while still achieving great flavor. If you'd like to make your own chicken, poach or roast it in advance. A simpler option is to use leftover roasted chicken, which adds even more depth to the flavors. Ensuring the chicken is well shredded allows for better incorporation into the sauce and cheese, yielding a more cohesive filling for your taquitos.

For those looking for a healthier choice, you can substitute the chicken with shredded turkey. The taste is similar but can be a great option for using up leftover holiday turkey. This provides the same texture and retains the flavor profile of the dish, especially when combined with buffalo sauce.

Baking Techniques for Perfect Taquitos

The key to achieving that perfectly crispy texture is proper placement on the baking sheet. Ensure the taquitos are placed seam-side down to avoid them unraveling as they bake. This position also helps create a nice golden brown crust on the bottom. Additionally, give them a bit of space to allow the hot air to circulate, creating even crispy edges.

If you prefer a bit more crunch or seasoning, try sprinkling a touch of garlic powder or smoked paprika on top before baking. This enhances not only the flavor but also the color, turning your taquitos into an appealing snack or appetizer that looks as good as it tastes.

Ingredients

For the Taquitos

2 cups shredded cooked chicken
1/2 cup buffalo sauce
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
8 small flour tortillas
Cooking spray or olive oil for brushing

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, and cheddar cheese until well combined.

Assemble the Taquitos

Lay a tortilla flat and spoon approximately 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto one end. Roll the tortilla tightly and place seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling.

Bake the Taquitos

Lightly spray the taquitos with cooking spray or brush with olive oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

Serve

Allow the taquitos to cool for a few minutes before serving with your favorite dipping sauces such as ranch or blue cheese.

Pro Tips

For a milder flavor, use less buffalo sauce or mix it with ranch dressing. You can also add veggies like diced green onions or bell peppers to the filling for extra texture and taste.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These taquitos can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for a quick meal later on. After assembling, you can cover them tightly with plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container for up to 24 hours. If you're preparing them for a party in advance, you can also freeze them, placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag.

To reheat, bake directly from the frozen state at 425°F (220°C) for about 30-35 minutes, adding a few minutes if they were refrigerated. This method helps maintain that crispy texture while ensuring the filling is heated through.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Baked Buffalo Chicken Taquitos with classic dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese for a delightful experience. Adding a sprinkle of chopped green onions or fresh parsley can brighten the dish and add a fresh, crisp contrast to the spicy flavors. If you're feeling adventurous, consider a drizzle of sriracha or a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese for an added kick.

These taquitos also make a fantastic addition to a game day spread. Serve them alongside other finger foods like veggie sticks, chips, and guacamole to create a diverse menu that will thrill your guests. You could even transform them into a complete meal by serving with a side of coleslaw or a fresh salad to balance out the richness of the buffalo sauce.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of tortilla?

Yes! Corn tortillas can be used, but they may need to be warmed up slightly to make them more pliable.

→ How can I make these vegetarian?

You can substitute the chicken with shredded jackfruit or beans, mixed with buffalo sauce for a flavorful vegetarian option.

→ Can I freeze the taquitos?

Yes, you can freeze assembled taquitos before baking. Just freeze them in a single layer and then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.

→ What dipping sauces pair well with taquitos?

Ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing are classic choices, but you can also try guacamole or salsa for a fresh twist!