I love making bold, spicy food that still fits into a high-protein lifestyle, and these High Protein Buffalo Chicken Taquitos are one of my favorites. They’re crispy on the outside, creamy inside, and full of buffalo flavor that feels indulgent but still balanced.
I usually make these when I want an easy dinner or a filling snack that doesn’t feel boring. They’re perfect for busy weeknights, game days, or anytime I’m craving something crunchy and satisfying.
What I really like about this recipe is how simple it is while still feeling exciting. If you enjoy spicy food and easy high-protein meals, this dish is one you’ll want to make again and again.
Quick Recipe Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Recipe Name | High Protein Buffalo Chicken Taquitos |
| Servings | 6 |
| Calories (approx.) | 280 per serving |
| Protein | High |
| Carbs | Low |
| Gluten-Free | Yes (with gluten-free wraps) |
| Keto-Friendly | Yes (with cheese wraps) |
| Vegetarian | No |
| Vegan | No |
| Best For | Dinner, snacks, game night |
Why You’ll Love this Recipe
These High Protein Buffalo Chicken Taquitos are spicy, crispy, and incredibly satisfying. They give you comfort food flavor without heavy carbs.
They’re packed with protein, which helps keep you full longer. This makes them great for high-protein and low-carb eating.
The recipe is simple and beginner-friendly. You don’t need special tools or complicated techniques.
They work well for many occasions. You can enjoy them as dinner, a snack, or a party appetizer.
Ingredients to make High Protein Buffalo Chicken Taquitos
This recipe uses simple ingredients that come together for bold flavor and great texture. Each ingredient plays a key role in making these taquitos creamy, spicy, and crispy.
Cooked chicken breast – 2 cups, shredded
This is the main protein source and keeps the taquitos filling. Shredded chicken also absorbs the buffalo sauce well.
Low-carb tortillas or cheese wraps – 6 to 8
These wraps keep the recipe low in carbs. They hold the filling tightly and crisp nicely in the oven.
Buffalo sauce – ¼ cup
Buffalo sauce adds heat and tangy flavor. You can adjust the amount depending on your spice tolerance.
Cream cheese – 2 oz, softened
Cream cheese balances the spice and adds creaminess. It also helps bind the filling together.
Cheddar cheese – ½ cup, shredded
Cheddar adds richness and a melty texture. It enhances the overall flavor of the taquitos.
Green onions – 2 tablespoons, chopped
Green onions add freshness and a mild bite. They also add a pop of color to the filling.
Olive oil or cooking spray
This helps the taquitos turn golden and crispy. A light coating is all that’s needed.
Steps to make High Protein Buffalo Chicken Taquitos
These steps are easy to follow and don’t take much time. Proper assembly helps keep the taquitos crispy and intact.
Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and promotes even cooking.
Starting with a hot oven is important for crispiness. It helps the wraps brown properly.
Prepare the filling
Add shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and green onions to a bowl. Mix until the filling is fully combined and creamy.
Make sure the cream cheese is evenly mixed. This ensures consistent flavor in every bite.
Assemble the taquitos
Lay one tortilla or cheese wrap flat on a clean surface. Spoon the filling along one side of the wrap.
Roll it tightly and place it seam-side down on the baking sheet. This helps keep it closed while baking.
Bake until crispy
Lightly brush or spray the taquitos with olive oil. This helps them crisp up and turn golden.
Bake until the outside is firm and lightly browned. The taquitos should feel crunchy when touched.
Serve hot
Remove the taquitos from the oven and let them cool briefly. This helps the filling set inside.
Serve them warm for the best flavor and texture. They’re crispy outside and creamy inside.
Serving Suggestions
These High Protein Buffalo Chicken Taquitos are versatile and pair well with a variety of sides. I usually serve them with a fresh salad, like a simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette, to balance the spiciness of the buffalo sauce.
You can also enjoy them with dipping sauces for extra flavor. Ranch dressing, blue cheese dip, or even a light yogurt dip complements the heat and adds creaminess to each bite.
For a fun appetizer, cut the taquitos into smaller pieces. They work perfectly for game nights, parties, or casual get-togethers where finger foods are ideal.
Pairing these taquitos with roasted vegetables is another great option. Roasted broccoli, cauliflower, or bell peppers add color and nutrients to the plate without taking away from the main dish.
Serving them alongside a low-carb side like cauliflower rice keeps the meal high-protein and keto-friendly. I often use this combination for a complete, satisfying dinner.
You can also make a platter for sharing. Arrange the taquitos on a board with dipping sauces in small bowls, some fresh vegetables, and even tortilla chips for a fun party spread.
Meal Prep Tips: Can we make High Protein Buffalo Chicken Taquitos in advance?
Yes, you can definitely make these taquitos in advance for quick meals during the week. I like to prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Once the filling is ready, you can assemble the taquitos and keep them on a tray covered with plastic wrap. This makes it easy to bake or air fry them fresh whenever you’re ready to eat.
You can also freeze them before baking. Place rolled taquitos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until firm. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to a month.
When you’re ready to cook, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. This way, you get crispy, fresh-tasting taquitos with minimal effort.
Meal prepping these taquitos saves time and allows you to enjoy a healthy, high-protein snack or dinner whenever you need it. I find it especially useful for busy weekdays or when hosting casual gatherings.
Cooking Tips
Use fully cooked chicken for convenience and the best texture. Shredded rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time without sacrificing flavor.
Don’t overfill the tortillas. Filling too much can make rolling difficult and prevent the taquitos from staying closed during baking.
Brush or spray lightly with oil for the perfect golden crisp. Too much oil can make them greasy, while too little may prevent the desired crunch.
Bake at the right temperature, 400°F, to achieve a crisp exterior and a creamy, melted interior. Preheating the oven fully ensures even cooking and prevents soggy taquitos.
If using an air fryer, arrange taquitos in a single layer without overcrowding. Air fry at 400°F for 10–15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Let the taquitos rest for a minute or two after baking. This allows the filling to set slightly and makes them easier to handle while keeping the inside creamy.
Variations of High Protein Buffalo Chicken Taquitos
You can adjust the spice level by using more or less buffalo sauce. For milder taquitos, mix the sauce with a little cream cheese before adding to the filling.
Swap cheddar cheese for pepper jack for a slightly spicier, more flavorful bite. You can also try mozzarella for a milder, gooey option.
Add vegetables to the filling, like finely chopped bell peppers or spinach. This increases nutrients and adds color without affecting the protein content significantly.
For a lower-fat version, use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese. It keeps the filling creamy while reducing calories and adding a bit of tang.
Try different wraps such as whole wheat or gluten-free tortillas. Cheese wraps work best for keto versions, while low-carb tortillas are ideal for balanced macros.
For a fun twist, drizzle extra buffalo sauce over the baked taquitos. Garnish with chopped green onions or fresh parsley for a restaurant-style presentation.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover taquitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This keeps them fresh while maintaining the flavor and texture of the filling.
If you want to store them longer, freeze them before or after baking. Freeze on a tray first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to one month.
Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This is especially important if you are freezing multiple taquitos together.
When storing baked taquitos, allow them to cool completely before refrigerating. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy.
Can we reheat High Protein Buffalo Chicken Taquitos?
Yes, reheating is easy and keeps them crispy. Oven or air fryer is the best method to maintain crunchiness.
Preheat the oven to 375°F and bake for 5–10 minutes until warmed through. Flip halfway to ensure both sides are crisp.
For air fryer reheating, cook at 375°F for 3–5 minutes, checking to avoid burning. This keeps the exterior golden and the inside creamy.
Microwave is an option for convenience, but it may soften the tortilla. Covering with a paper towel helps reduce moisture, though the crunch won’t be as crisp as oven-baked.
Reheating allows you to enjoy these taquitos anytime, making them perfect for meal prep or quick snacks. I often make a batch on Sunday and reheat them throughout the week.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time. Make sure to shred it finely for even filling distribution.
Can I make these completely keto?
Absolutely. Use cheese wraps instead of tortillas and stick to low-carb fillings to keep it keto-friendly.
What dipping sauces go well with these taquitos?
Ranch, blue cheese, or a yogurt-based dip pairs excellently with buffalo flavor. You can also drizzle extra buffalo sauce on top.
Can I freeze the taquitos after baking?
Yes, bake first, let cool, then freeze in a single layer or with parchment paper between layers. Reheat in oven or air fryer for best results.
How spicy are these taquitos?
The spice level depends on the buffalo sauce. Adjust the amount to suit your taste, or mix in extra cream cheese for milder flavor.
Can I add vegetables to the filling?
Yes, finely chopped bell peppers, spinach, or even mushrooms can be added without affecting protein content significantly.
Conclusion
High Protein Buffalo Chicken Taquitos are a delicious, easy, and versatile recipe that everyone will love. They combine bold buffalo flavor, creamy filling, and a crispy exterior, making them perfect for dinner, snacks, or parties.
They are quick to prepare, freezer-friendly, and can be reheated while maintaining crunch and flavor. Whether you bake or air fry them, these taquitos are a high-protein, low-carb option that fits into a healthy lifestyle.
With simple ingredients and minimal prep, they are a recipe you can make again and again. I love keeping a batch ready for busy nights or for a fun, protein-packed snack any time.
They’re also highly adaptable, allowing you to adjust spice, cheese, or wrap type. These taquitos prove that high-protein meals can be flavorful, exciting, and satisfying without any complicated cooking.
This recipe is now a staple in my kitchen, perfect for anyone looking for a quick, bold, and protein-packed dish that delivers both taste and nutrition.
