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If you are craving a delicious handheld snack packed with bold flavors and irresistible crunch, this Crispy Chicken Taquitos Recipe is going to be your new favorite. It’s an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing dish that combines tender shredded chicken with creamy cheese and zesty spices, all wrapped snugly in warm tortillas and baked to crispy golden perfection. Whether it’s game night, a casual dinner, or a fun appetizer, these taquitos deliver comfort and excitement in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of the Crispy Chicken Taquitos Recipe lies in its simple, yet carefully chosen ingredients that create a perfect balance of creamy, savory, and crispy textures. Each element plays a crucial role—from the juicy chicken to the melty cheeses and vibrant spices that bring it all together.
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken: Using rotisserie chicken is a time-saver and adds great flavor.
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened: Provides luscious creaminess that binds the filling.
- ½ cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese: Adds melty richness and a touch of sharpness.
- ¼ cup salsa (mild or spicy): Brings vibrant tang and a mild kick to brighten the flavors.
- ½ tsp garlic powder: Infuses a subtle savory warmth that complements the chicken.
- ½ tsp chili powder: Adds gentle heat and smokiness.
- ½ tsp cumin: Gives a hearty earthiness that’s essential to Mexican-inspired dishes.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Enhances all the flavors perfectly.
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas: Should be warmed beforehand to prevent cracking when rolled.
- Cooking spray or oil (for brushing): Ensures the taquitos become irresistibly crispy in the oven.
How to Make Crispy Chicken Taquitos Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) so it will be nice and hot when your taquitos are ready to bake. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to keep the taquitos from sticking while they crisp up.
Step 2: Mix the Flavorful Filling
In a large bowl, combine your shredded chicken with cream cheese, shredded cheese, salsa, garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mixing these ingredients thoroughly ensures every bite delivers a balanced and deeply satisfying taste.
Step 3: Soften the Tortillas
To avoid any cracks or breakage when rolling, warm the tortillas in the microwave for about 20 seconds so they become pliable and easy to work with.
Step 4: Roll Up Your Taquitos
Spoon 2 to 3 tablespoons of filling along one side of each tortilla. Then, roll them up tightly, making sure the filling is snug inside for that perfect shape and bite.
Step 5: Arrange and Prepare for Baking
Place each rolled taquito seam-side down on your prepared baking sheet. This helps keep them sealed during baking. Lightly brush or spray them with oil to help achieve the crispy, golden finish everyone loves.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake the taquitos for 15 to 20 minutes until they turn beautifully golden and crisp. For an extra crunch, broil them for 1 to 2 additional minutes—just watch closely so they don’t burn.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once perfectly crisp, your taquitos are ready to be served warm with your favorite toppings for a truly memorable meal or snack.
How to Serve Crispy Chicken Taquitos Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle chopped cilantro over your taquitos for a fresh, herbaceous lift. Don’t forget a dollop of cool sour cream and creamy guacamole on the side—these add richness and a beautiful contrast to the crispy exterior.
Side Dishes
Complement your crispy taquitos with simple sides like a fresh green salad, Mexican street corn, or a tangy black bean salad. These light accompaniments balance the richness perfectly and add color to your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the taquitos upright in a tall glass or jar for party-style fun, or arrange them on a platter with bowls of salsa, queso, and hot sauce for dipping. This Crispy Chicken Taquitos Recipe shines when shared and presented in a festive way that invites everyone to dig in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover taquitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep their flavor and texture well for up to 3 days, making them perfect for quick snacks or lunches.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the taquitos before baking by placing them seam-side down on a baking sheet, freezing until firm, then transferring to a freezer-safe bag. When ready, bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating
To bring your taquitos back to crisp perfection, reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make them soggy rather than crispy.
FAQs
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?
Absolutely! Both flour and corn tortillas work well in this Crispy Chicken Taquitos Recipe. Just warm the corn tortillas a bit longer to make them pliable and prevent cracking.
Is it possible to make these taquitos in an air fryer?
Yes, air frying is a fantastic way to get extra crispiness while using less oil. Cook at 400°F for about 8 to 10 minutes, turning halfway through for an even golden crust.
What can I substitute for cream cheese if I want a lighter option?
You can try using Greek yogurt mixed with a little shredded cheese to maintain creaminess but with fewer calories and a tangy twist.
Can I add vegetables to the filling?
Certainly! Finely diced bell peppers, corn, or jalapeños add wonderful texture and flavor. Just sauté them lightly before mixing into the filling to reduce excess moisture.
How spicy is this recipe?
The level of spice depends on the salsa you choose and the amount of chili powder you add. Mild salsa keeps it gentle, while spicier salsa or extra chili powder kicks things up for heat lovers.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so joyful about biting into a crispy, cheesy, and flavorful taquito that instantly lifts your mood. This Crispy Chicken Taquitos Recipe is wonderfully easy to make, endlessly customizable, and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Once you try it, you’ll keep coming back for that crunchy, cheesy goodness. Give it a go and watch these taquitos become a beloved staple in your kitchen!
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Crispy Chicken Taquitos Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
These crispy chicken taquitos are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer or snack featuring shredded chicken blended with cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and flavorful spices, rolled inside tortillas and baked until golden and crunchy. Perfect for serving with sour cream, guacamole, and salsa for a satisfying bite.
Ingredients
Filling
- 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
Tortillas and Cooking
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- Cooking spray or oil (for brushing)
Optional Toppings
- Chopped cilantro
- Sour cream
- Guacamole
- Extra shredded cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it to prevent sticking.
- Make the filling: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese, salsa, garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Warm the tortillas: Microwave the tortillas for about 20 seconds to make them soft and pliable, which helps prevent them from cracking when rolled.
- Assemble the taquitos: Spoon 2 to 3 tablespoons of the chicken filling onto one side of each tortilla. Roll each tortilla tightly around the filling, ensuring the seam is on the bottom to help keep them closed.
- Arrange on baking sheet: Place the rolled taquitos seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly to allow for crisping.
- Brush or spray with oil: Lightly brush the taquitos with oil or spray them generously with cooking spray to help achieve a crispy exterior.
- Bake until crispy: Bake the taquitos in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes until the exterior is golden brown and crispy. For an extra crispy finish, broil them for 1 to 2 minutes at the end of baking, but watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Serve: Remove from oven and serve warm with your favorite toppings such as sour cream, guacamole, chopped cilantro, and extra shredded cheese.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and flavorful shortcut.
- Adjust the spice level of salsa according to your preference.
- For gluten-free options, use corn tortillas that are labeled gluten-free.
- To make ahead, assemble the taquitos and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
- If you prefer extra crispy taquitos, air frying is also a great alternative method.
