Are you ready to spice up your snack game? In this article, I’ll show you how to make quick and tasty Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Taquitos that everyone will love. With simple ingredients like cooked chicken, buffalo sauce, and cheese, you can whip these up in no time. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want a delicious treat, these taquitos are sure to impress. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
– 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup cream cheese
Seasoning and Additional Ingredients
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 8 small flour tortillas
– Olive oil spray
Garnish and Serving Suggestions
– Fresh cilantro, finely chopped
– Sour cream or ranch dressing
Start with the main ingredients. You need cooked shredded chicken. I love using rotisserie chicken for this. Next, grab buffalo sauce. You can pick your favorite heat level. Then, add cheddar cheese for creaminess. Cream cheese also makes the filling rich and smooth.
Don’t forget about seasoning. Garlic powder and onion powder add depth. You’ll also need small flour tortillas. They hold everything together well. A light spray of olive oil gives the taquitos a crispy finish.
For garnish, fresh cilantro adds a pop of color and flavor. Pair the taquitos with sour cream or ranch dressing for dipping. This combo makes each bite even better. Enjoy the balance of spice and coolness!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of Filling
To start, grab a large mixing bowl. In this bowl, combine the following ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
– 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup cream cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Mix these ingredients well. Make sure the chicken is coated with the buffalo sauce. This will give your taquitos a bold flavor.
Rolling the Taquitos
Now, take your small flour tortillas. Lay one tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of your chicken mixture into the lower third of the tortilla.
Next, roll the tortilla tightly around the filling. Tuck the sides in as you roll. This helps keep the filling inside. Repeat this with all the tortillas until you have a nice stack of rolled taquitos.
Air Fryer Cooking Process
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This step is key for cooking the taquitos evenly. Once it’s hot, lightly spray the taquitos with olive oil. This gives them a nice crispy finish.
Place the taquitos in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure they don’t touch. If needed, cook in batches. Air fry the taquitos for 10-12 minutes. Flip them halfway through to ensure they cook evenly.
When they are golden brown and crispy, carefully take them out. Let them cool for a few minutes. This will prevent burns when you take a bite.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
To make your taquitos super crispy, follow these tips:
– Spray your taquitos with olive oil all over. This helps them brown nicely.
– Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). A hot fryer cooks better.
– Don’t overcrowd the basket. Space them out to let hot air move.
– Flip the taquitos halfway through cooking. This helps them crisp on both sides.
Serving Tips
For a great presentation, try these ideas:
– Arrange the taquitos on a large platter. This makes them easy to grab.
– Place a small bowl of sour cream or ranch in the center. It looks nice and is perfect for dipping.
– Add fresh cilantro leaves around the platter. This adds color and makes it appealing.
Substitutions and Adjustments
If you need gluten-free or dairy-free options, here are some swaps:
– Use corn tortillas instead of flour for gluten-free taquitos.
– Swap cream cheese with a dairy-free version, like cashew cream.
– Choose a dairy-free cheese to keep it all dairy-free.
– Adjust the buffalo sauce to your taste. Use a milder sauce for less heat.
Variations
Spice Level Adjustments
You can easily change the heat of your taquitos by picking different buffalo sauces. If you like it hot, choose a spicy sauce. If you prefer a milder taste, opt for a mild version. Taste the sauce before mixing and adjust it to your liking. This way, everyone can enjoy the dish, no matter their heat preference.
Different Fillings
While I love the classic buffalo chicken filling, you can get creative here. Try adding finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or spinach. You can also swap the chicken for beef or shredded pork. Even beans for a vegetarian option work well. Mixing in different proteins or veggies adds a unique twist to each bite.
Creative Serving Suggestions
Serving your taquitos with the right dips can elevate their flavor. Sour cream or ranch dressing are classic choices. You can also try blue cheese dressing for a bold taste. Pairing with sides like a fresh salad or crispy veggies makes the meal complete. For a fun twist, serve them with a fruit salsa for a sweet contrast. Each dip or side can change the whole experience!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To keep your taquitos fresh, store them in an airtight container. Place parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking. Refrigerate them if you plan to eat within three days. For longer storage, freeze them. Wrap each taquito in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat and keep the taquitos crispy, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the taquitos in the basket without overcrowding. Heat for about 5-7 minutes. This will restore their crunch. You can also use an oven. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
Shelf Life
In the fridge, taquitos last about 3 days. In the freezer, they can last up to 2 months. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating. If they smell off or look strange, it’s best to toss them.
FAQs
Can I use raw chicken instead of cooked?
Yes, you can use raw chicken. Start by cooking it first. Place the raw chicken in a pot. Cover it with water or broth. Bring it to a boil, then simmer for 15-20 minutes. Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks. Mix it with the buffalo sauce and other ingredients as before.
How do I make taquitos crisp in the air fryer?
To make your taquitos crisp, follow these tips:
– Preheat your air fryer. This ensures even cooking.
– Spray the taquitos with olive oil. This helps them brown nicely.
– Do not overcrowd the air fryer. Cook in batches for best results.
– Flip halfway through cooking. This gives both sides a chance to crisp up.
What can I serve with Buffalo Chicken Taquitos?
Buffalo chicken taquitos pair well with many sides and dips. Here are some great options:
– Sour cream or ranch dressing for dipping.
– Celery sticks for a crunchy side.
– A fresh salad to balance the heat.
– Guacamole for a creamy contrast.
In this blog post, I detailed how to make Buffalo Chicken Taquitos. We covered the key ingredients, like cooked chicken, buffalo sauce, and cheese. I also shared instructions for preparing the filling, rolling the taquitos, and cooking them in an air fryer.
These tasty snacks can be adjusted to fit your taste. You can try different fillings and sides. Store leftovers properly to keep them fresh. Enjoy your cooking adventure and impress your friends with these easy taquitos!
