Crispy Chicken Taquitos Recipe
Are you looking for a delicious snack or meal that is easy to make and packed with flavor? Crispy chicken taquitos are a fantastic choice. These tasty treats are perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a party. The crispy corn or flour tortillas packed with creamy chicken filling will leave everyone asking for more. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned chef, this recipe is simple and fun to make!
Why Make This Recipe
Crispy chicken taquitos are not only delicious, but they are also versatile. You can serve them as an appetizer at your next gathering or enjoy them as a main dish for a weekend dinner. They are great for meal prep too! With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a batch quickly. Using cooked rotisserie chicken means you can save time and make the most of your busy schedule. Plus, you can customize the filling to suit your taste by adding more vegetables, spices, or different cheeses.
One more reason to love this recipe is its crowd-pleasing nature. Everyone loves a good taquito! Whether you are hosting a game day or having a family movie night, these crispy delights are sure to impress. Serve them with tasty dips like sour cream and guacamole to elevate your snacking experience even more.
How to Make Crispy Chicken Taquitos
Making crispy chicken taquitos is straightforward. This recipe will guide you through each step to ensure you create a winning dish.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 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)
- Chopped cilantro (for garnish)
- Sour cream (for serving)
- Guacamole (for serving)
- Extra shredded cheese (for serving)
Directions:
Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This helps to ensure that the taquitos will get crispy in the baking process.Prepare the Filling
In a large bowl, add the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, shredded cheese, salsa, garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Use a spoon or spatula to mix everything well. Ensure the mixture is blended evenly and is creamy.Warm the Tortillas
Take your tortillas and warm them in the microwave for about 20 seconds. This step makes the tortillas soft and easier to roll without breaking.Fill and Roll the Tortillas
For each tortilla, spoon about 2–3 tablespoons of the chicken filling onto one side. Carefully roll it up tightly. Make sure the filling is secure inside the tortilla.Arrange on Baking Sheet
Place each rolled taquito seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. This will help keep them together as they bake.Brush with Oil
Lightly brush the tops of the taquitos with oil or spray them with cooking spray. This makes them crispy and golden brown in the oven.Bake the Taquitos
Bake the taquitos in the preheated oven for about 15–20 minutes. You want them to be golden brown and crispy. If you like extra crunch, you can broil them for an additional 1–2 minutes at the end, but be sure to keep an eye on them to prevent burning.Serve
You can now enjoy your crispy chicken taquitos! Serve them warm with sides of sour cream, guacamole, and extra shredded cheese for dipping.
How to Serve Crispy Chicken Taquitos
Crispy chicken taquitos can be served in various ways. They are delicious as a stand-alone dish, but adding sides can enhance the eating experience. Here are a few serving suggestions:
- Dipping Sauce: Set out bowls of sour cream and guacamole for guests to dip their taquitos. You can also add salsa or queso dip for extra flavor.
- Garnishes: Sprinkle chopped cilantro over the taquitos for a bit of freshness and color. This adds to the visual appeal and provides a nice flavor contrast.
- Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option, consider serving the taquitos with some fresh lettuce leaves. They can be wrapped or used as a base to hold the taquitos.
- Plating: Arrange the taquitos on a large platter with the dipping sauces in the center. This makes a great presentation for parties or gatherings.
How to Store Crispy Chicken Taquitos
If you have leftover taquitos, storing them properly is essential to keep them fresh. Here’s how to do it:
Refrigeration: Allow the taquitos to cool completely. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze taquitos. After baking, let them cool down. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last for up to 2 months in the freezer.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat frozen taquitos in the oven for best results. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the taquitos on a baking sheet and heat for about 15–20 minutes until hot and crispy.
Tips to Make Crispy Chicken Taquitos
Use Rotisserie Chicken: Choosing rotisserie chicken saves time on prep and can enhance flavor. You can also use leftover chicken if you have it.
Adjust the Spices: Feel free to customize the spice blend according to your taste preferences. Adding more chili powder will give it an extra kick!
Don’t Overfill: Be careful not to overstuff the tortillas, as they may break when rolling. The right amount makes rolling easy.
Try Different Tortillas: Both corn and flour tortillas work well. If you want a gluten-free option, corn tortillas are perfect.
Variations
Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken for black beans or sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. This makes a tasty vegetarian version of taquitos.
Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheese types, such as pepper jack for a spicier version or mozzarella for a milder taste.
Add Veggies: Chopped spinach, corn, or diced tomatoes can be added to the filling for extra nutrition and flavor.
FAQs
Can I make crispy chicken taquitos ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken filling and fill the tortillas ahead of time. Keep them covered in the fridge for up to a day before baking.
Can I bake frozen taquitos directly from the freezer?
Absolutely! Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when cooking from frozen.
What can I serve with crispy chicken taquitos?
These taquitos pair well with sides like Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad. They are also delightful as a snack or appetizer on their own!
By following this guide, making crispy chicken taquitos can be an enjoyable experience. The combination of flavors and textures will make your meal memorable and satisfying. Happy cooking!
Crispy Chicken Taquitos
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large bowl, add the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, shredded cheese, salsa, garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Mix until well combined and creamy.
- Warm the tortillas in the microwave for about 20 seconds to make them soft.
- Spoon about 2–3 tablespoons of the chicken filling onto one side of each tortilla. Roll it up tightly.
- Place each rolled taquito seam-side down on a baking sheet.
- Lightly brush the tops with oil or spray with cooking spray.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- For extra crunch, broil them for an additional 1–2 minutes at the end.
- Serve warm with sides of sour cream, guacamole, and extra shredded cheese for dipping.