Looking for a crunchy, flavorful snack or quick dinner that everyone will love? These Crispy Chicken Taquitos are the ultimate solution! Packed with creamy, shredded chicken and baked to golden perfection, they’re perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or casual entertaining. Easy to make, customizable, and irresistibly tasty, these taquitos are sure to become a household favorite.
Advertisements
Ingredients
For the Taquitos:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- ¼ cup salsa (mild or spicy)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp cumin
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- Cooking spray or oil (for brushing)
For Serving:
- Chopped cilantro
- Sour cream
- Guacamole
- Extra shredded cheese
Instructions for Crispy Chicken Taquitos
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Advertisements
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, cream cheese, shredded cheese, salsa, garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix until creamy and well blended.
Step 3: Warm the Tortillas
Microwave the tortillas for 20 seconds until soft and pliable. This prevents cracking while rolling.
Advertisements
Step 4: Roll the Taquitos
Spoon 2–3 tablespoons of filling onto one side of each tortilla. Roll tightly and place seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 5: Brush with Oil
Lightly brush or spray each taquito with oil to help achieve a golden, crispy exterior.
Advertisements
Step 6: Bake
Bake for 15–20 minutes until golden brown and crispy. For extra crunch, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end—watch carefully to prevent burning.
Step 7: Serve
Serve warm with cilantro, sour cream, guacamole, or additional toppings of your choice.
Pro Tips
- Warm tortillas first: Prevents cracking and spilling of filling.
- Avoid overfilling: Use 2–3 tablespoons per tortilla for the perfect roll.
- Brush with oil: Ensures golden brown, crunchy taquitos.
- Customize flavors: Add smoked paprika, cayenne, or diced veggies for variation.
- Air fryer option: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes for extra crispiness.
Why This Recipe Works
- Quick and easy for busy evenings.
- Crispy, creamy, and flavorful with every bite.
- Versatile—works as a snack, appetizer, or main dish.
- Family-friendly and perfect for entertaining.
Substitutions & Variations
- Protein swap: Use shredded beef, pork, or sautéed vegetables for a vegetarian version.
- Cheese variations: Pepper jack for spice, mozzarella for milder flavor.
- Add-ins: Diced bell peppers, spinach, or corn for extra nutrients.
- Salsa options: Try mango, pineapple, or green salsa for a twist.
Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating
Storing Leftovers:
- Refrigerate in an airtight container up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven for best crispness; avoid microwaving directly.
Freezing:
- Cool completely, then freeze in a single layer before transferring to a freezer-safe bag.
- Store for up to 3 months.
Reheating:
- Oven: 375°F (190°C) for 10–15 minutes
- Air fryer: 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes
Serving Ideas for Crispy Chicken Taquitos
Toppings & Garnishes:
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Sour cream
- Sliced jalapeños
- Extra shredded cheese
Side Dishes:
- Mexican rice
- Refried beans
- Fresh guacamole
- Corn salad with lime dressing
Nutrition (Per Serving Estimate)
- Calories: 325
- Fat: 15g (Saturated: 7g)
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 16g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Sugar: 2g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use different fillings?
A: Yes! Beans, veggies, or alternative cheeses work perfectly.
Q: How do I make taquitos extra crispy?
A: Brush with oil and broil for 1–2 minutes at the end of baking.
Q: Can I bake in an air fryer?
A: Absolutely! Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes.
Q: Best way to serve?
A: Serve warm with guacamole, sour cream, cilantro, or your favorite salsa.
These Crispy Chicken Taquitos are a must-try for anyone craving crunchy, creamy, and flavorful bites. Easy to prepare, fun to roll, and endlessly customizable, they’re perfect for weeknights, family meals, or gatherings. Once you try this recipe, it’ll quickly become a favorite go-to in your kitchen!
Crispy Chicken Taquitos
Equipment
- baking sheet
- parchment paper
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- 1/4 cup salsa
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- salt and black pepper, to taste
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- cooking spray or oil, for brushing
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, cream cheese, shredded cheese, salsa, garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Warm tortillas in the microwave for about 20 seconds until soft and pliable.
- Spoon 2–3 tablespoons of filling onto one side of each tortilla, roll tightly, and place seam-side down on the baking sheet.
- Lightly brush or spray the taquitos with oil.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes until golden and crispy. Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end for extra crunch if desired.
- Serve warm with sour cream, guacamole, cilantro, or your favorite toppings.
Notes
Advertisements