Buffalo Ranch Chicken Taquitos

Buffalo Ranch Chicken Taquitos are the ultimate game-day appetizer or party snack. Featuring a spicy, cheesy chicken filling with tangy ranch flavor, these crispy taquitos are rolled in tortillas and fried to golden perfection. They bring together everything you love about buffalo wings in one crunchy, handheld bite. Whether you’re hosting, meal prepping, or just in the mood for something bold and satisfying, these taquitos deliver big flavor with minimal fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a buffalo sauce fan, these taquitos are a dream come true. They’re creamy, spicy, cheesy, and perfectly crispy on the outside. The filling is incredibly simple to mix up and can be made even quicker by using rotisserie chicken. Whether you’re serving them as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a fun weeknight dinner, they’re easy to make and even easier to love. The 50/50 corn and flour tortillas give just the right balance of texture and flexibility, making the rolling process smooth and the final bite perfectly crisp.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 chicken breasts
1/2 block softened cream cheese (125g)
1 cup shredded mozzarella
1/2 cup buffalo sauce
1 tsp garlic powder
1–2 tbsp ranch seasoning
2 green onions
12 50/50 flour-corn tortillas
ranch dressing (for topping)

Directions

1. Cook the chicken in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked, seasoning with your choice of spices. Once done, transfer to a bowl and shred with two forks.

2. Grate the mozzarella and thinly slice the green onions.

3. To the shredded chicken, add softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, buffalo sauce, garlic powder, ranch seasoning, and green onions. Mix until well combined.

4. Warm the tortillas in the microwave for about 30 seconds to make them more pliable and easier to roll.

5. Place 1–2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture at the end of each tortilla and roll up tightly.

6. Heat a pan with enough neutral oil to cover the bottom by a couple of centimeters. Once hot, add taquitos in batches without overcrowding the pan.

7. Fry each taquito for a few minutes per side, flipping once, until golden brown and crispy.

8. Remove from the pan and place on a paper towel–lined plate. Drizzle with more buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, and sprinkle with extra green onions if desired.

Servings and timing

Makes: 12 taquitos
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Baked Option: Instead of frying, bake the rolled taquitos at 425°F for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.

• Air Fryer Friendly: Cook at 400°F in an air fryer for 8–10 minutes, flipping once.

• Different Cheese: Try cheddar, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend for a flavor change.

• Add Veggies: Mix in finely chopped bell peppers, jalapeños, or even spinach to boost the veggie content.

• Spicier Version: Add a dash of hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes to the filling.

Storage/Reheating

Let taquitos cool completely before storing.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in an oven at 375°F for 8–10 minutes, or in an air fryer for 4–5 minutes until crisp.
To freeze, place cooked taquitos in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag and store up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven or air fryer.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes, using store-bought rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving shortcut and works perfectly.

Can I make these taquitos in advance?

You can assemble the taquitos ahead of time and refrigerate for a few hours before frying or baking. They also freeze well after cooking.

What type of tortillas work best?

A 50/50 blend of corn and flour tortillas works best for flexibility and crispness. Pure corn tortillas tend to crack more easily.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes, baking at 425°F until crispy is a great alternative to frying. Brush with oil or spray with cooking spray before baking.

What can I use instead of buffalo sauce?

If you prefer a milder flavor, use BBQ sauce or a honey garlic wing sauce for a different twist.

Are these spicy?

They do have a kick from the buffalo sauce, but the cream cheese and ranch balance it out. You can reduce the buffalo sauce if needed.

Can I use a different protein?

Absolutely. Shredded turkey, ground chicken, or even canned tuna can work as alternatives.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, just be sure to use gluten-free tortillas and confirm that your ranch seasoning and buffalo sauce are gluten-free.

Do I need to fry them in a lot of oil?

No, just enough to cover the bottom of the pan by a few centimeters is sufficient. Shallow frying works well here.

What can I serve with these taquitos?

Serve with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing, celery sticks, or a fresh slaw for contrast.

Conclusion

Buffalo Ranch Chicken Taquitos are everything you want in a handheld appetizer: crispy, cheesy, spicy, and packed with bold flavor. They’re easy to make, endlessly customizable, and perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself. Whether you’re hosting a party, meal prepping, or just craving something indulgent and delicious, these taquitos are sure to hit the spot every time.