Crispy Chicken Taquitos

As a chef, I always remember the warmth of family gatherings, especially those filled with delicious food. Crispy Chicken Taquitos holds a special place in my heart. My grandmother would make them for our Saturday movie nights. They always filled the house with a savory smell that made our tummies rumble with excitement. The taste brings back such happy memories, like laughter and stories shared around the table. Each bite of the crispy tortilla and the savory chicken hits that comfort-food spot. Whenever I make these taquitos, I feel connected to my roots and the love from my family. This recipe not only satisfies hunger but also invokes warmth and joy. I want to share this feeling with you, so let’s dive into the secret of making Crispy Chicken Taquitos.

why make this recipe

Crispy Chicken Taquitos offer more than just flavor; they fill your home with laughter and good times. First of all, they are easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights or a fun weekender. You can whip up a batch in no time, and your family will love you for it. Their comforting taste connects with the heart and soul of gatherings and celebrations. Additionally, you can customize filling ingredients based on what you have at hand. So whether you like them mild or spicy, there’s room for creativity!

Furthermore, Crispy Chicken Taquitos are not just a meal; they double as a snack or even a party appetizer. Imagine serving them at your next game night. Guests will enjoy every bite, sharing smiles and stories over crispy, golden treats. Plus, you can prepare taquitos ahead of time and just pop them in the oven or air fryer when it’s time to eat. This flexibility makes them ideal for any occasion, from family dinners to festive celebrations.

In short, making Crispy Chicken Taquitos is not just about cooking; it’s about creating moments. Everyone will remember the laughter, the flavors, and the joy that fills the room. Embrace this recipe, and enjoy the deliciousness that comes along with it.

how to make Crispy Chicken Taquitos

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked Chicken
• 1/4 cup Salsa (mild or spicy)
• 1/2 tsp Garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp Chili powder
• 1/2 tsp Cumin
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 cups Cilantro, chopped
• 4 oz Cream cheese
• 1/2 cup Cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
• 8 small flour or corn tortillas
• Cooking spray or oil
• Guacamole for serving
• Sour cream for serving

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) or set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cilantro, garlic powder, salsa, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Spread a layer of cream cheese and a sprinkle of cheddar cheese on each tortilla.
4. Place a generous amount of the chicken mixture in the center of each tortilla.
5. Roll the tortillas tightly and secure with a toothpick if necessary.
6. Place the taquitos seam-side down on a baking sheet and spray or brush with cooking spray or oil.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or air fry for 10-15 minutes, until golden and crispy.
8. Serve warm with guacamole and sour cream on the side.

how to serve Crispy Chicken Taquitos

Serving Crispy Chicken Taquitos is all about presentation and paired tastes. First, you want to serve them while they are hot and crispy. The best way to enjoy them is right out of the oven or air fryer. Arrange the taquitos on a large serving platter, making sure they are not overcrowded. This makes them look inviting and appetizing.

Next, add bowls of guacamole and sour cream on the side. These creamy dips complement the crunch of the taquitos perfectly. You can also sprinkle some fresh cilantro or diced tomatoes on top for a pop of color and flavor. These small touches create a warm and friendly atmosphere.

Consider serving these taquitos during a game night, a movie marathon, or even as a fun party snack. They encourage sharing and celebrating, which makes the moment even more special. Trust me, everyone will dive into the platter, and you will enjoy watching them savor each crispy bite.

how to store Crispy Chicken Taquitos

Storing Crispy Chicken Taquitos is easy and keeps them delicious for later. If you have leftovers, first let them cool to room temperature. Then, place the taquitos in an airtight container. They will last in the fridge for about 3-5 days. This way, you can enjoy them again without losing the crispy texture.

If you want to save them for a longer time, freezing is a great option. To do this, wrap each taquito tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When done properly, they can last up to 2 months in the freezer.

When you are ready to eat them, there is a simple way to reheat. First, take the taquitos from the freezer, then let them thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until they feel heated through. This method keeps them crispy on the outside and warm on the inside. Enjoy them freshly reheated, and it will feel like they were just made!

Tips to Make Crispy Chicken Taquitos

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Always choose fresh cilantro, spices, and chicken. Freshness makes a huge difference in taste, adding vibrant flavors to your taquitos. If you have leftover rotisserie chicken, it works wonderfully here too!

2. Don’t Overfill: When adding the chicken mixture to the tortillas, be careful not to overfill them. Too much filling makes rolling difficult, and they might break apart. Aim for a generous tablespoon of filling for easy, tasty rolling.

3. Seal Them Well: To prevent the taquitos from unrolling during cooking, make sure they’re sealed tightly. You can use a toothpick if needed. This simple step ensures they turn out perfectly crispy and golden.

4. Consider Your Tortilla Choice: Flour tortillas tend to be softer and can hold more filling, while corn tortillas create a nice crunch. Choose based on your preference; both options provide a tasty experience.

5. Let Them Cool Before Storage: If you plan to save some for later, always allow the taquitos to cool completely before placing them in containers. This step helps them maintain their crunch and prevents sogginess.

6. Experiment with Spices: If you want to change the flavor profile, try adding different spices or herbs to the filling. Smoked paprika or oregano can add exciting variations to your sauted filling mixture.

7. Dip Options: While guacamole and sour cream are classic dips, try offering different options. Salsa verde, spicy ranch dressing, or even a tangy yogurt dip can bring new flavors to your taquitos.

8. Reheat Smartly: When reheating, don’t just pop them in the microwave, which can make them soft. Instead, using the oven or air fryer helps to regain that important crispy texture.

Variation

1. Spicy Chicken Taquitos: If you like heat, add diced jalapeños or diced chipotle peppers to the filling mixture. This adjustment not only enhances flavor but gives a wonderful kick.

2. Cheesy Taquitos: For extra richness, mix in more cheese before rolling. A blend of pepper jack or mozzarella can give them a gooey texture that kids will love!

3. Veggie Taquitos: Swap out the chicken for a mix of sautéed bell peppers, onions, and black beans for a vegetarian-friendly option. Add avocado for creaminess and lime juice for a zesty flavor.

4. Sriracha Taquitos: Mix in some sriracha sauce with the chicken filling for an added spicy kick. This creates a flavorful twist that adds layers of taste.

5. Breakfast Taquitos: Use scrambled eggs, cheese, and even crumbled bacon instead of chicken. This variation makes a perfect start to the day or delicious snack anytime.

6. Low-Carb Taquitos: For a healthier option, use lettuce wraps instead of tortillas for a low-carb friendly version. Fill them with the same chicken mix and enjoy a crunchy yet soft meal.

FAQs Of Crispy Chicken Taquitos

1. How do I keep my taquitos crispy?
To maintain their crispiness, always make sure to bake or air fry until they are golden and crunchy. Avoid covering them while they are warm, as this traps steam and makes them soggy. If they are leftovers, reheat them in the oven or an air fryer for best results.

2. Can I freeze unbaked taquitos?
Yes, you can freeze unbaked Crispy Chicken Taquitos. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer until they freeze solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. You can cook them straight from the freezer, just adjust the cooking time.

3. What can I substitute for chicken?
If chicken isn’t an option, consider using cooked turkey, beans, or shredded beef. You can also use tofu or a mix of sautéed veggies for a vegetarian alternative. These substitutes give you a delightful variety of tastes.

4. How long do they take to cook?
Crispy Chicken Taquitos take about 20-25 minutes to bake in the oven or 10-15 minutes if air frying. This quick cook time makes them an excellent choice for a speedy meal or snack.

5. Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and roll the taquitos ahead of time. Store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. This way, they are ready to bake when you need them.

6. What dips pair well with taquitos?
The classic dips are guacamole and sour cream. However, you can also try salsa, queso, or a spicy ranch dressing. Fresh salsa or a tangy yogurt sauce can bring exciting flavors to your table.

Crispy Chicken Taquitos

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• Author: imrane
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten-Free (if using corn tortillas)

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Description

Delicious Crispy Chicken Taquitos filled with savory chicken and spices, perfect for family gatherings or parties.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups cooked Chicken
• 1/4 cup Salsa (mild or spicy)
• 1/2 tsp Garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp Chili powder
• 1/2 tsp Cumin
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 cups Cilantro, chopped
• 4 oz Cream cheese
• 1/2 cup Cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
• 8 small flour or corn tortillas
• Cooking spray or oil
• Guacamole for serving
• Sour cream for serving

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) or set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cilantro, garlic powder, salsa, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Spread a layer of cream cheese and a sprinkle of cheddar cheese on each tortilla.
4. Place a generous amount of the chicken mixture in the center of each tortilla.
5. Roll the tortillas tightly and secure with a toothpick if necessary.
6. Place the taquitos seam-side down on a baking sheet and spray or brush with cooking spray or oil.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or air fry for 10-15 minutes, until golden and crispy.
8. Serve warm with guacamole and sour cream on the side.

Notes

Allow to cool before storing. Can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 taquitos
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: taquitos, chicken, appetizer, crispy, Mexican