If you love the bold flavors of buffalo chicken but want a high-protein, low-carb option, these High Protein Buffalo Chicken Taquitos are the perfect recipe for you. They combine spicy buffalo chicken with a crispy, golden tortilla, creating a satisfying snack or meal. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week, looking for a protein-packed post-workout meal, or just craving something delicious, these taquitos are a great choice.
Made with lean shredded chicken, creamy Greek yogurt, and flavorful buffalo sauce, they offer a healthier twist on traditional taquitos. They’re baked instead of fried, making them lighter while still giving you that irresistible crunch. Plus, you can easily customize them to fit your dietary needs—whether you prefer gluten-free tortillas or a dairy-free version.
Recipe Information
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 10 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 20 minutes |
| Total Time | 30 minutes |
| Calories | 280 per serving |
| Protein | 38g per serving |
| Carbs | 6g per serving |
| Fat | 10g per serving |
| Servings | 4 |
| Gluten-Free | Yes (if using GF tortillas) |
| Dairy-Free | Optional (use dairy-free cheese) |
| Keto-Friendly | Yes (if using low-carb tortillas) |
| Meal Prep Friendly | Yes |
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are plenty of reasons to add these High Protein Buffalo Chicken Taquitos to your meal plan. Here’s why they’re a must-try:
✔ High in Protein – Each serving packs 38g of protein, making them an excellent choice for muscle recovery and keeping you full.
✔ Low in Carbs – With only 6g of carbs per serving, these taquitos fit perfectly into low-carb and keto-friendly diets.
✔ Quick and Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep.
✔ Baked, Not Fried – Enjoy all the crispiness of traditional taquitos without the extra oil and calories.
✔ Customizable – Easily adjust the spice level, swap out ingredients, or make it dairy-free or gluten-free as needed.
✔ Perfect for Meal Prep – Make a batch in advance and reheat them for a quick, protein-packed snack or meal anytime.
Ingredients to Make Crispy High Protein Buffalo Chicken Taquitos
To make these delicious High Protein Buffalo Chicken Taquitos, you’ll need a handful of simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in adding taste, texture, and nutrition to the dish.
Shredded Chicken (2 cups, cooked)
Lean chicken breast is the main protein source in this recipe. It’s low in fat and high in protein, making these taquitos a filling and nutritious option. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or cook and shred your own.
Greek Yogurt (½ cup, or cream cheese)
Greek yogurt adds a creamy texture to the buffalo chicken mixture while keeping it high in protein. If you prefer a richer, tangier taste, cream cheese is a great alternative.
Buffalo Sauce (¼ cup)
Buffalo sauce gives these taquitos their signature spicy kick. You can use store-bought buffalo sauce or make your own by combining hot sauce with a bit of butter for a milder heat.
Garlic Powder (½ teaspoon)
Garlic powder enhances the overall flavor with a savory depth, balancing out the spice from the buffalo sauce.
Onion Powder (½ teaspoon)
Onion powder provides a subtle sweetness and umami flavor that pairs well with the buffalo seasoning.
Smoked Paprika (½ teaspoon)
Smoked paprika adds a mild smokiness to the taquitos, giving them a slightly grilled taste even though they’re baked.
Black Pepper (¼ teaspoon)
A touch of black pepper enhances the heat and overall seasoning of the dish.
Salt (¼ teaspoon)
Salt brings out all the flavors and helps balance the spiciness of the buffalo sauce.
Shredded Mozzarella or Cheddar Cheese (½ cup)
Cheese adds creaminess and a melty texture to the filling. Mozzarella gives a mild, stretchy consistency, while cheddar adds a sharper flavor.
Low-Carb Tortillas (8 small tortillas, or egg wraps for lower carbs)
These tortillas hold everything together and crisp up beautifully in the oven. For an ultra-low-carb version, you can use egg wraps instead.
Olive Oil (1 tablespoon, for brushing)
Brushing a light layer of olive oil on top of the taquitos helps them get golden brown and crispy in the oven.
Chopped Green Onions (1 tablespoon, for garnish)
Green onions add a fresh burst of flavor and color to the finished dish.
Steps to Make Crispy High Protein Buffalo Chicken Taquitos
Making High Protein Buffalo Chicken Taquitos is a simple and straightforward process. Follow these step-by-step instructions to achieve perfectly crispy, flavorful taquitos with a spicy buffalo kick.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
The first step is to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). A properly heated oven ensures that the taquitos cook evenly and turn golden brown without becoming soggy. While the oven is warming up, prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it with cooking spray. This will prevent the taquitos from sticking to the surface and make cleanup easier.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
The filling is the heart of these buffalo chicken taquitos, providing both flavor and protein. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, Greek yogurt (or cream cheese), buffalo sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and shredded cheese. Stir everything together until the chicken is well coated in the creamy, spicy mixture. The Greek yogurt or cream cheese helps balance the heat of the buffalo sauce while keeping the filling moist. If you prefer an extra kick, you can add more buffalo sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper. Once mixed, set the bowl aside and get ready to assemble the taquitos.
Step 3: Assemble the Taquitos
Now that the filling is ready, it’s time to assemble the taquitos. Lay out the low-carb tortillas (or egg wraps) on a clean surface. Take a spoonful of the buffalo chicken mixture (about 2 tablespoons) and place it in the center of each tortilla. Then, carefully roll the tortilla tightly around the filling to form a compact log shape. Make sure the seam is facing down when you place them on the baking sheet—this will keep them from unrolling while baking. If necessary, you can use a toothpick to hold them in place, though they should stay wrapped as long as they are tightly rolled.
Step 4: Brush with Olive Oil
To achieve a crispy texture without frying, lightly brush the tops of the taquitos with olive oil. This step helps them develop a golden-brown crust in the oven while enhancing their overall flavor. If you don’t have a brush, you can use a paper towel or your fingers to gently rub the oil onto each taquito.
Step 5: Bake the Taquitos
Once the taquitos are assembled and brushed with oil, transfer them to the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the tortillas become crisp and golden brown. Check them around the 15-minute mark to ensure they don’t burn. The tortillas should be lightly crispy on the outside while the filling remains warm and creamy. If you want an even crispier texture, you can turn on the broiler for the last 2 minutes of baking, but be sure to keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
After removing the taquitos from the oven, allow them to cool for a couple of minutes before serving. This step ensures they firm up slightly, making them easier to handle. Garnish with chopped green onions for a pop of color and added freshness. These taquitos pair wonderfully with ranch dressing, blue cheese dip, or extra buffalo sauce for dipping. For a more complete meal, serve them with fresh celery and carrot sticks, a light salad, or some avocado slices for a creamy contrast. Enjoy them warm while the cheese is still gooey and the tortillas are perfectly crisp!
Serving Suggestions
High Protein Buffalo Chicken Taquitos are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. They make for a great appetizer, snack, or even a full meal when paired with the right sides. If you’re looking for a classic buffalo wing experience, serve these taquitos with fresh celery and carrot sticks along with a small bowl of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. The coolness of the dressing balances the spicy buffalo flavor beautifully.
For a heartier meal, consider pairing them with a light side salad or a serving of roasted vegetables. A simple coleslaw with a tangy dressing can complement the creamy and spicy flavors of the taquitos. If you enjoy a creamy texture, add sliced avocado or a dollop of guacamole on top before serving. These taquitos also work well as a party dish—simply slice them into smaller pieces and serve with multiple dipping sauces to suit different tastes.
Can We Make High Protein Buffalo Chicken Taquitos in Advance?
Yes! High Protein Buffalo Chicken Taquitos can easily be prepared in advance, making them a great option for meal prepping or entertaining guests. If you want to make them ahead of time, follow these simple steps:
- Prepare the filling and assemble the taquitos as instructed in the recipe. However, instead of baking them right away, place them on a tray and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. When ready to bake, simply place them in a preheated oven and increase the baking time by 2-3 minutes since they’ll be cold.
- Another option is to freeze the assembled, unbaked taquitos. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. When you’re ready to cook, bake them straight from the freezer at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.
By making them in advance, you save time while still enjoying a fresh, crispy, and delicious meal!
Tips and Tricks
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients: The better the chicken and buffalo sauce, the more flavorful your taquitos will be.
- Shred the chicken finely: This helps it mix evenly with the sauce and ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
- Warm the tortillas slightly before rolling: If your tortillas tend to crack when rolling, microwave them for 10-15 seconds to make them more pliable.
- Don’t overfill the tortillas: Too much filling can cause them to burst open while baking. Stick to about 2 tablespoons per taquito.
- For extra crispiness, use an air fryer: Instead of baking, air fry the taquitos at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes for an even crispier texture.
- Make it spicier: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce for extra heat.
- Cool before serving: Letting them sit for a few minutes after baking allows them to firm up, making them easier to handle and preventing burns.
Variations of High Protein Buffalo Chicken Taquitos
These taquitos are delicious as-is, but you can tweak the recipe to suit your preferences:
- Low-Carb/Keto Version: Use egg wraps or cheese wraps instead of tortillas to reduce the carb count even further.
- Dairy-Free Version: Replace Greek yogurt with a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt or leave out the cheese altogether.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for shredded jackfruit, mashed chickpeas, or a plant-based chicken substitute to keep the texture while making it meat-free.
- Different Sauces: Instead of buffalo sauce, try BBQ sauce, chipotle sauce, or honey mustard for a different twist.
- Extra Crunch: Roll the taquitos in crushed tortilla chips or panko breadcrumbs before baking for an even crispier texture.
No matter how you modify them, these taquitos remain a high-protein, satisfying, and delicious meal!
Storage Instructions
If you have leftovers, don’t worry! High Protein Buffalo Chicken Taquitos store well and can be enjoyed later.
- Refrigeration: Place the taquitos in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, let the taquitos cool completely, then freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag and store them for up to 3 months.
- Label and Date: Always label the container or bag with the date so you can keep track of freshness.
Can We Reheat High Protein Buffalo Chicken Taquitos?
Yes! Reheating properly ensures they stay crispy and delicious. Here are the best methods:
- Oven Method (Best for Crispiness): Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the taquitos on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until heated through.
- Air Fryer (Quickest Method): Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for 5-7 minutes. This keeps them extra crispy!
- Stovetop: Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and reheat the taquitos for 2-3 minutes per side until warmed through.
- Microwave (Fastest, but Softens Texture): If you’re in a hurry, microwave them for 30-45 seconds, but note that they won’t be as crispy.
Avoid reheating in a toaster or over high heat on the stove, as this can burn the edges before the inside is warm.
Recipe FAQs
Q: Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooked chicken breast?
A: Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken saves time and adds extra flavor. Just be sure to remove the skin and shred it well.
Q: What’s the best tortilla to use for this recipe?
A: Low-carb tortillas work well for a high-protein, lower-carb option, but you can also use whole wheat, corn, or egg wraps.
Q: Can I make these taquitos in an air fryer instead of the oven?
A: Yes! Cook them at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
Q: What’s the best dipping sauce for these taquitos?
A: Ranch, blue cheese, or extra buffalo sauce are great choices. If you like a sweeter contrast, try honey mustard or BBQ sauce.
Q: How do I prevent my taquitos from unrolling while baking?
A: Make sure you place them seam-side down on the baking sheet. You can also use a small dab of filling to “seal” the edge.
Conclusion
High Protein Buffalo Chicken Taquitos are a spicy, crispy, and protein-packed dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re meal prepping, making a game-day snack, or looking for a healthier alternative to traditional buffalo wings, these taquitos deliver big flavor with fewer carbs. The combination of shredded chicken, creamy Greek yogurt, and zesty buffalo sauce wrapped in a crispy tortilla makes them an irresistible treat.
With easy storage options, reheating methods, and endless variations, you can customize these taquitos to fit your dietary preferences and taste. Try them today and enjoy a high-protein, guilt-free comfort food that satisfies your cravings!
