Get ready for a tasty treat with my Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Taquitos! These crispy rolls are filled with shredded chicken, creamy cheese, and spicy buffalo sauce. Perfect for game day or a cozy dinner, they’re quick and easy to make. I’ll walk you through the simple steps and share tips for making them just right. Let’s dive into this flavorful delight that will impress your family and friends!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients List
– 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
– 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup softened cream cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 small flour tortillas
– Cooking spray
The key to making Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Taquitos lies in the ingredients. Start with cooked shredded chicken. You can use rotisserie chicken for a quick option. Next, grab buffalo sauce. This gives the taquitos their spicy kick. Cheddar cheese adds richness, while cream cheese keeps the filling creamy.
For flavor, I use garlic powder and onion powder. Add salt and pepper to taste. Don’t forget the flour tortillas. They hold all that goodness inside. Lastly, I use cooking spray to get a crispy finish.
Nutritional Information
Each serving has about 300 calories. The protein comes from chicken and cheese. You get around 20 grams of protein per serving. The fat mainly comes from cheese and cream cheese, which adds flavor and creaminess.
Possible Substitutions
You can switch the chicken for shredded turkey or even plant-based protein. For cheese, try pepper jack for a spicy twist or mozzarella for a milder taste. If you want less heat, go for a mild buffalo sauce or a barbecue sauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
To start, you need to mix the filling. Grab a large bowl. Add these ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
– 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup softened cream cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Stir the mixture well until it is smooth and creamy. This will be your flavorful filling.
Next, warm the tortillas. Place them in the microwave for about 15 seconds. This softens them and makes them easy to roll.
Rolling the Taquitos
Now, let’s roll the taquitos. Take one tortilla and scoop a tablespoon of the chicken mixture. Place it in the center.
To roll it, fold in the sides and then roll it tightly. This keeps the filling secure.
Keep doing this with each tortilla. Make sure they are snug but not too tight.
Cooking Instructions
For cooking, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the rolled taquitos seam-side down in the basket. Avoid overcrowding. This helps them cook evenly.
Lightly spray them with cooking spray. This gives them a nice, crispy texture.
Cook the taquitos for 10-12 minutes. Flip them halfway through. This ensures both sides get golden brown and crispy.
Once done, let them cool for a couple of minutes. Then, they are ready to enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Perfectly Crispy Taquitos
To get your taquitos crispy, always use cooking spray. A light coat helps them brown nicely. Without it, they might turn out soft and soggy. Make sure to cover all sides.
Do not overcrowd the air fryer. Leave space between taquitos for hot air to flow. This helps them cook evenly and become crispy. If your fryer is small, cook in batches.
Serving Suggestions
Buffalo chicken taquitos taste great with dipping sauces. Ranch and blue cheese dressings are classic choices. They add a creamy touch that complements the spice.
For garnishes, consider chopped green onions or celery sticks. These add color and crunch. A sprinkle of fresh herbs can also brighten the dish.
Storing Leftovers
To store leftovers, place taquitos in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and prevents them from drying out. You can store them in the fridge for up to three days.
When reheating, use the air fryer again. Set it to 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. This restores their crispiness and warms them through.
Variations
Spicy Versions
If you crave heat, try adding more buffalo sauce to the filling. This will ramp up the flavor. You can also mix in some diced jalapeños for a fresh kick. Just chop them finely and blend them with the chicken. The spice level is all up to you!
Vegetarian Alternatives
You can make these taquitos vegetarian by swapping chicken for plant-based proteins. Options like tofu or tempeh work great. For a cheesy delight, mix in more cheese and veggies. Spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms add a nice touch.
Flavor Infusions
Get creative with cheese! Swap cheddar for pepper jack or mozzarella. Each type offers a different taste. You can also add herbs like cilantro or spices like cumin for extra depth. Don’t be afraid to try new flavors; it’s all about your taste!
FAQs
How long do I cook the taquitos in the air fryer?
You should cook the taquitos in the air fryer for 10 to 12 minutes. Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Flip the taquitos halfway through cooking. This helps them get golden brown and crispy all around.
Can I make these taquitos ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these taquitos ahead of time. Prepare the filling and fill the tortillas. Roll them up and store them in the fridge. Cook them in the air fryer when you’re ready to eat. They taste great fresh!
What should I serve with buffalo chicken taquitos?
Serve buffalo chicken taquitos with ranch or blue cheese dressing. These dips balance the spice of the buffalo sauce. You can also add chopped green onions or celery sticks. These extras give a nice crunch and freshness.
Can I freeze air fryer buffalo chicken taquitos?
Yes, you can freeze these taquitos. After rolling them, place them on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to eat, cook from frozen. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Schema Information
Recipe Schema Markup
– Prep time: 15 minutes
– Cook time: 10-12 minutes
– Total time: 30 minutes
– Servings: 4
The Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Taquitos are quick to make. You can prep the filling in 15 minutes. The cooking takes just 10 to 12 minutes. Altogether, you can have these tasty treats ready in 30 minutes. This recipe yields four servings, making it perfect for a small gathering or family snack.
Each taquito is a delightful mix of flavors. You have tender chicken, spicy buffalo sauce, and creamy cheese all wrapped in a crispy tortilla. This dish is fun to eat and filled with bold flavors. Plus, using the air fryer cuts down on oil and mess while giving you that perfect crunch.
When you follow the steps, you’ll see how easy it is to make these taquitos. Just remember, the key is not to overload the air fryer basket. This way, every taquito gets that needed airflow to crisp up nicely. Enjoy cooking these delicious buffalo chicken taquitos and watch as everyone loves them!
These buffalo chicken taquitos are easy and fun to make. We covered the key ingredients, including chicken, cheese, and sauce. You learned how to prepare, roll, and cook them to crispy perfection. I hope you experiment with substitutions and variations to find your perfect flavor. Enjoy these tasty snacks with dips and share them with friends. You can easily store leftovers and reheat them later. Get ready to enjoy a great meal that everyone will love!
