Chicken Taquitos

Easy homemade Chicken Taquitos are a delightful treat that can spice up any gathering or weeknight dinner. These crispy rolls, filled with shredded chicken and creamy goodness, are perfect for sharing or enjoying solo. Whether baked or fried, they deliver a crunchy texture paired with rich flavors. Serve them as an appetizer at parties, a fun family meal, or a snack during game day!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these taquitos in no time.
• Flavorful Filling: The combination of cream cheese, salsa, and spices creates a deliciously creamy and zesty filling.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them baked for a healthier option or fried for that extra crunch – both are equally satisfying!
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or swap out the cheese to make this recipe your own.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time and freeze them for quick meals later.

Tools and Preparation

To create these Chicken Taquitos, you’ll need some essential tools that will simplify the process and enhance your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Non-stick griddle
• Baking sheet
• Skillet
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl is essential for combining all your filling ingredients smoothly.
• Non-stick griddle: This tool ensures tortillas heat evenly without sticking, making them easier to roll.
• Baking sheet: Perfect for baking taquitos, it helps achieve that golden-brown crispiness.
• Skillet: Ideal for frying; a deep skillet allows for even cooking in oil.

Ingredients

Easy homemade Chicken Taquitos made with shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, and a creamy salsa blend rolled in tortillas and baked or fried until crispy.

For the Filling:

• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (I use rotisserie)
• 6 ounces cream cheese (softened)
• 1/4 cup salsa (your favorite kind)
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup baby spinach leaves (chopped)
• 1/4 teaspoon cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
• salt and freshly ground black pepper (for taste)

For the Taquitos:

• 15-20 corn or flour tortillas
• guacamole, sour cream, salsa, hot sauce (for serving)

How to Make Chicken Taquitos

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

1. Add cream cheese, salsa, and sour cream to a mixing bowl.
2. Stir until smooth.
3. Add remaining ingredients (except tortillas) and toss to combine.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 2: Warm the Tortillas

1. For corn tortillas, heat a non-stick griddle over medium-high heat.
2. Cook tortillas for about 15-30 seconds on each side until soft.
3. Remove tortillas to a plate covered with tinfoil to keep warm.

Step 3: Roll the Taquitos

1. Place a large spoonful of filling along each tortilla.
2. Roll tightly and secure with a toothpick if needed.

Step 4: Bake the Taquitos

1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees F.
2. Spray tops of tacos with cooking spray or brush lightly with oil.
3. Bake for 15-20 minutes until shells are crispy.

Step 5: Fry the Taquitos

1. Add about 1 1/2 inches of oil to a large skillet and heat to medium-high.
2. Once hot (tortillas should sizzle), fry taquitos in small batches.
3. Cook for a few seconds on each side until golden and crispy on all sides.
4. Place on paper towel-lined plate.

Step 6: Serve

Serve your Chicken Taquitos hot with guacamole, salsa, and sour cream for dipping!

How to Serve Chicken Taquitos

Serving Chicken Taquitos can elevate your meal experience, making it enjoyable for everyone. Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, these crispy bites can be paired with various delicious sides and dips.

With Guacamole

• Creamy guacamole adds a rich texture that complements the crispy taquitos perfectly.

With Salsa

• A zesty salsa brings a fresh flavor that enhances the overall taste of your taquitos.

With Sour Cream

• A dollop of sour cream offers a cool contrast to the warm fillings, making each bite delightful.

With Hot Sauce

• For those who enjoy some heat, a splash of hot sauce adds a spicy kick that elevates the flavor.

As Part of a Platter

• Create a fun platter by serving taquitos alongside other appetizers like nachos, quesadillas, or chips for variety.

How to Perfect Chicken Taquitos

To achieve the perfect Chicken Taquitos, consider these helpful tips. Following them will result in a deliciously crispy and flavorful dish every time.

• Use fresh tortillas: Fresh corn or flour tortillas ensure better texture and pliability when rolling your taquitos.
• Don’t overfill: Keep the filling modest to avoid tearing the tortillas and ensure they roll up easily.
• Ensure even cooking: If baking, arrange taquitos evenly on the baking sheet for consistent crispness on all sides.
• Experiment with fillings: Try different cheeses or add veggies to customize your taquito filling according to your taste preferences.
• Serve immediately: Enjoy taquitos right after cooking to maintain their crispiness; they are best served hot.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Taquitos

Pairing side dishes with Chicken Taquitos can round out your meal beautifully. Here are some tasty options to consider:

1. Mexican Rice
   Fluffy and seasoned rice complements the flavors of chicken taquitos wonderfully.
2. Refried Beans
   Creamy refried beans add protein and richness, making them an excellent accompaniment.
3. Corn Salad
   A refreshing corn salad brings sweetness and crunch, brightening up your plate.
4. Pico de Gallo
   This fresh tomato salsa adds zest and freshness, enhancing every bite of your taquito.
5. Chips with Queso Dip
   Crispy tortilla chips paired with warm queso dip create an indulgent snack alongside taquitos.
6. Grilled Vegetables
   Charred veggies such as bell peppers and zucchini provide a healthy balance to this hearty dish.
7. Cabbage Slaw
   A crunchy slaw adds texture and tanginess, pairing well with the rich flavors of chicken taquitos.
8. Black Bean Salad
   A protein-packed black bean salad is not only nutritious but also delicious alongside your crispy treats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Taquitos, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using cold ingredients: Ensure all your cream cheese and shredded chicken are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can make the mixture hard to combine and affect the filling’s texture.
• Overfilling the tortillas: Avoid overstuffing each tortilla. Too much filling can lead to tearing when rolling, making it difficult to secure your taquitos.
• Skipping the softening step: If you’re using corn tortillas, don’t skip heating them first. This step makes them pliable and easier to roll without breaking.
• Not seasoning enough: Taste your filling before rolling. Underseasoned mixtures may lead to bland taquitos, so adjust the spices according to your preference.
• Immediate frying without cooling: After frying, let the taquitos cool on a paper towel-lined plate. This helps them stay crispy instead of getting soggy from excess oil.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Chicken Taquitos in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Chicken Taquitos

• For longer storage, freeze taquitos in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid.
• Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.

Reheating Chicken Taquitos

• Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place taquitos on a baking sheet and heat for about 10–15 minutes until warmed through and crispy.
• Microwave: Heat individually on a microwave-safe plate for about 30 seconds. Note that this method may make them less crispy.
• Stovetop: Heat a small amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat, then add taquitos and cook for several minutes until heated through and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Chicken Taquitos crispy?

To achieve crispy Chicken Taquitos, ensure you fry or bake them at the right temperature and avoid overcrowding the pan or baking sheet.

Can I add vegetables to my Chicken Taquitos?

Absolutely! You can customize your filling by adding bell peppers, onions, or other veggies for added flavor and nutrition.

What is the best way to serve Chicken Taquitos?

Serve Chicken Taquitos with guacamole, sour cream, salsa, or hot sauce for dipping. They make a great appetizer or main dish!

Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Yes! Using leftover roasted chicken or rotisserie chicken is perfect for making quick and delicious Chicken Taquitos.

How long does it take to prepare Chicken Taquitos?

The total time needed for this recipe is about 32 minutes, including preparation and cooking time.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Taquitos are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize the fillings with your favorite ingredients. Whether served as a snack or main course, these tasty rolls are sure to please everyone’s palate. Give this recipe a try and enjoy your homemade treat!