Introduction
Are you on the hunt for a quick and tasty weeknight dinner that will please the entire family? Look no further than these incredible crockpot buffalo chicken taquitos. They are not only easy to make, but they also deliver a burst of flavor that everyone will love. The combination of tender, shredded chicken tossed in spicy buffalo sauce, rolled up in crispy tortillas, and baked to perfection makes this dish an absolute winner.
This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something quick yet satisfying. Simply throw the ingredients in your crockpot in the morning, and by dinnertime, you’ll have a mouthwatering meal ready to go. These taquitos can also be customized with your favorite toppings and sides, making them a versatile addition to your dinner rotation. Let’s dive into how to make these delightful taquitos!
Recipe Summary
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup buffalo sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 12-16 small flour tortillas
- Cooking spray (for baking)
- Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, green onions, or cilantro
Instructions
- Start by placing the chicken breasts in the crockpot. Pour the buffalo sauce over the top, making sure the chicken is well coated.
- Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the crockpot. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
- Cover and cook on low for about 6 hours, or until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and mix it with the remaining buffalo sauce.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
- Take a tortilla and add about 2-3 tablespoons of the buffalo chicken mixture to the center. Sprinkle with a tablespoon of cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
- Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling and place it seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.
- Lightly spray the tops of the taquitos with cooking spray to help them crisp up in the oven.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the taquitos are golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the taquitos with your favorite toppings like sour cream, guacamole, or fresh cilantro.
Why You’ll Love These Taquitos
Crockpot buffalo chicken taquitos are a great way to enjoy a flavorful meal with minimal effort. The slow cooking process allows the chicken to become tender and infused with the spicy buffalo sauce, creating a satisfying filling. Plus, the crispy exterior of the taquitos adds a delightful crunch that complements the soft, flavorful interior.
These taquitos are perfect for a casual weeknight dinner, game day snacks, or even a party appetizer. You can easily double the recipe to serve a crowd, and they reheat well, making leftovers just as enjoyable. The best part? They are versatile; you can customize the fillings and toppings to suit your family’s preferences.
Tips for Perfect Taquitos
To ensure your crockpot buffalo chicken taquitos turn out perfectly every time, consider the following tips:
- Use Quality Chicken: Opt for fresh, high-quality chicken breasts for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust the Spice: If you’re sensitive to spice, use a milder buffalo sauce or adjust the amount according to your taste.
- Keep Tortillas Warm: If you’re making a large batch, keep the tortillas warm in a covered dish while you prepare the filling.
- Don’t Overfill: Be careful not to overfill the tortillas, as this can make them difficult to roll and may cause them to burst while baking.
- Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to mix different cheeses for a unique flavor profile; pepper jack cheese adds a nice kick!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving these delicious taquitos, the options are endless. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:
- Fresh Salsas: A side of fresh salsa adds a refreshing contrast to the spicy taquitos.
- Vegetable Sides: Pair with a simple green salad or some roasted veggies for a balanced meal.
- Dips: Serve with ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, or a creamy avocado dip for extra flavor.
- Loaded Nachos: Use leftover buffalo chicken for a nacho night by layering it over tortilla chips with cheese and toppings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but you may need to increase the cooking time. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
How can I make these taquitos healthier?
To make healthier taquitos, consider using whole wheat tortillas and reducing the amount of cheese. You can also add more vegetables to the filling.
Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the buffalo chicken filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just warm it up before filling the tortillas.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftover taquitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven to retain their crispiness.
Conclusion
Crockpot buffalo chicken taquitos are not only a fantastic weeknight dinner option, but they are also incredibly easy to prepare and packed with flavor. With just a few simple ingredients and some hands-off cooking time, you can enjoy a delicious meal that your whole family will love. Whether you’re serving them for dinner or as a fun appetizer, these taquitos are sure to become a staple in your home. Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family!
