Looking for a fun and tasty snack? Try my Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Taquitos! They pack a spicy kick, and they’re easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a plate of these crispy treats that everyone will love. Perfect for game day or a quick dinner, these taquitos are sure to become a favorite in your home. Let’s dive into the delicious details!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– ½ cup buffalo sauce
– 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or pepper jack)
– 6 small flour tortillas
– ¼ cup cream cheese, softened
Seasoning Ingredients
– ½ teaspoon garlic powder
– ½ teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Ingredients
– Chopped green onions for garnish
– Cilantro for garnish
– Dipping sauces (buffalo sauce, ranch dressing)
Gather these items to make tasty Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Taquitos. You need cooked chicken and buffalo sauce for a spicy kick. The cream cheese adds creaminess. Choose between cheddar or pepper jack cheese for extra flavor.
Don’t forget the tortillas; they hold all the goodness inside. Garlic and onion powder give a nice touch to the mix. Add salt and pepper according to your taste.
For a fun twist, you can garnish your taquitos with green onions or cilantro. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce, like ranch or extra buffalo sauce. Enjoy this easy and delicious snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Filling
To make the filling, combine these items in a bowl:
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– ½ cup buffalo sauce
– ¼ cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or pepper jack)
– ½ teaspoon garlic powder
– ½ teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Stir well until everything mixes nicely. This blend gives your taquitos a bold flavor. Feel free to adjust the buffalo sauce to match your spice level.
Preparing the Tortillas
Next, warm the tortillas. Heating them makes them softer and easier to roll. You can microwave them for about 20 seconds. This step is key to avoid cracks when rolling.
Assembling the Taquitos
Now, it’s time to roll. Take a warm tortilla and lay it flat. Spoon 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto the center. Then, roll the tortilla tightly, folding the sides in. Repeat this until all your tortillas are filled and rolled.
Cooking in the Air Fryer
Before cooking, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. This ensures even cooking.
Lightly brush the outside of each taquito with olive oil. This step helps them crisp up nicely. Place the taquitos seam-side down in the air fryer basket. Make sure not to overcrowd them; this helps them cook evenly.
Set the cooking time for 8-10 minutes. Flip them halfway through to ensure they get golden and crispy all over. After cooking, let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your tasty taquitos with dipping sauces like ranch or extra buffalo sauce!
Tips & Tricks
Best Practices for Rolling Taquitos
Warm your tortillas before rolling. This makes them soft and easy to work with. A quick 20 seconds in the microwave works well. When you fill the tortillas, use just the right amount of filling. If you add too much, they might break apart when rolling. Aim for 2-3 tablespoons of filling per tortilla.
Achieving the Perfect Crisp
To get that crispy texture, lightly brush the outside of each taquito with olive oil. This step is key to making them golden and crunchy. You can use a spray bottle for even coverage.
Cooking in Batches
Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. This helps each taquito cook evenly. If you have many taquitos, cook them in batches. This way, you ensure they all come out crispy and delicious. Each batch will be worth the wait!
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
You can switch up the protein in your taquitos. Try using turkey or tofu if you prefer. Both options taste great and keep the dish light.
Cheese is another area where you can mix things up. If you don’t have cheddar or pepper jack, use mozzarella or a dairy-free option. This helps everyone enjoy the taquitos.
Flavor Variations
To add more flavor, think about spices. Smoked paprika gives a smoky taste, while cumin adds warmth. Just a pinch of either can make a big difference.
You can also add vegetables to the mix. Chopped bell peppers or green chiles bring crunch and extra flavor. They blend well with the buffalo sauce and cheese.
Serving Suggestions
Dipping sauces are key to enjoying your taquitos. Buffalo sauce is a classic choice, but ranch dressing offers a cool contrast. You can also try blue cheese dressing for a tangy twist.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your taquitos fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container. Place them in the fridge within two hours of cooking. They will stay good for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, freezing is a great option.
Freezing Taquitos
To freeze your taquitos, first let them cool completely. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about two hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. They can stay frozen for up to three months.
Reheating Tips
To reheat your taquitos and keep them crispy, use an air fryer. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the taquitos in the basket and heat for about 5-7 minutes. This method helps to restore their crunch. If you prefer, you can also reheat them in an oven at the same temperature for about 10 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use different types of chicken?
Yes, you can use several types of chicken for these taquitos. Rotisserie chicken makes it easy. It is already cooked and seasoned. You can also grill fresh chicken breast. Just shred it once it’s cooked and cooled.
How do I make these taquitos gluten-free?
To make these taquitos gluten-free, use gluten-free tortillas. Many brands make soft corn or almond flour tortillas. Just check the package to ensure they are certified gluten-free.
What is the best dipping sauce for Buffalo Chicken Taquitos?
Popular choices for dipping sauces include ranch dressing and blue cheese dressing. Both pair well with the spicy buffalo flavor. You can also serve extra buffalo sauce for those who like more heat.
Can I bake these instead of using an air fryer?
Yes, you can bake the taquitos if you don’t have an air fryer. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the taquitos seam-side down on a baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until they are golden and crispy.
You can make delicious Buffalo Chicken Taquitos with simple steps and ingredients. We covered the main and optional ingredients, detailed the steps to prepare and cook them, and explored variations and storage tips.
These taquitos are easy to customize. You can try different proteins and spices. With the right dipping sauces, they become even better. Enjoy your cooking, and share these tasty bites with friends and family. Trust me, they’ll love them!
