If you’re craving a dish that’s packed with flavor, offers that irresistible crunch, and feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than this Crispy Chicken Taquitos Recipe. It’s a delightful twist on a classic favorite that brings together tender shredded chicken, melty cheeses, and a blend of spices all wrapped up in a perfectly crisp tortilla. Whether you’re cooking for a casual weeknight dinner or hosting friends, these taquitos deliver satisfaction with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the foundation of any fantastic dish, and this recipe is no exception. These simple yet carefully chosen ingredients build the rich, creamy, and spicy layers that make these Crispy Chicken Taquitos truly irresistible.
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken: The star protein that provides a hearty, flavorful base for the filling.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds sharpness and gooey texture that keeps every bite deliciously cheesy.
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened: Brings a creamy smoothness to the filling and helps bind the mixture.
- 1/4 cup sour cream: Adds tanginess and moisture, enhancing the overall creaminess.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Gives a subtle warmth and depth.
- 1/2 tsp onion powder: Adds a touch of savory sweetness and complexity.
- 1/2 tsp cumin: Infuses earthy, warm notes essential to Mexican-inspired dishes.
- 1/4 tsp chili powder: Provides a gentle kick of smoky heat.
- Salt and pepper to taste: These basic seasonings bring balance, enhancing every other flavor.
- 10 small flour tortillas: The perfect soft wrapper that crisps up beautifully when fried.
- Vegetable oil for frying: Ensures that signature golden crunch without overpowering flavors.
- Optional toppings (salsa, guacamole, sour cream, chopped cilantro): Personalize your taquitos with fresh, vibrant additions.
How to Make Crispy Chicken Taquitos Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Filling
Start by combining the cooked shredded chicken with shredded cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, and sour cream in a large bowl. Stir until everything blends into a creamy, cheesy mixture. This combination forms a luscious filling that packs every taquito with flavor and moisture, preventing dryness during cooking.
Step 2: Season with Spices
Next, add garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the filling. Mixing the spices well ensures every bite has a balanced and lively taste. These spices are what give your taquitos that classic, comforting Mexican-inspired flavor.
Step 3: Assemble the Taquitos
Lay each small flour tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spoon about 2 to 3 tablespoons of the filling onto the lower third of the tortilla. The key here is not to overfill so the taquito can be rolled tightly without bursting, locking in all the deliciousness.
Step 4: Roll Them Up
Carefully roll each tortilla around the filling, making sure to tuck it tightly to avoid any filling spilling out during frying. Repeat this process with all the tortillas and filling. These little bundles of goodness are what will turn into crispy delights once fried.
Step 5: Heat the Oil
Pour about an inch of vegetable oil into a large skillet and heat it over medium-high heat. Properly heated oil is crucial to achieve that classic golden crust without making the taquitos greasy.
Step 6: Fry to Perfection
Place a few rolled taquitos seam-side down in the hot oil. Fry them for 2 to 3 minutes on each side or until they turn beautifully golden brown and crispy. The oil should be hot enough to crisp quickly but not so hot that it burns them.
Step 7: Drain Excess Oil
Remove the cooked taquitos carefully and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil. This step ensures your taquitos stay satisfyingly crunchy instead of oily.
Step 8: Serve Warm
Serve these crispy, cheesy, and spiced taquitos warm with your choice of optional toppings like salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or chopped cilantro for an extra burst of freshness and flavor.
How to Serve Crispy Chicken Taquitos Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes like a dollop of sour cream, fresh salsa, creamy guacamole, or a sprinkle of chopped cilantro instantly elevates your taquitos, bringing bright colors and varying textures. These toppings also add cooling and tangy elements that balance the spicy, crispy nature of the taquitos perfectly.
Side Dishes
To round out the meal, consider serving these taquitos alongside a fresh Mexican street corn salad, a light cabbage slaw, or a simple side of black beans and rice. These sides complement the richness and crunch of the taquitos, making your meal balanced and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice your taquitos crosswise into bite-sized pieces, and arrange them on a platter as party appetizers with a trio of dipping sauces. Alternatively, serve three or four whole taquitos stacked on a plate drizzled with sour cream and salsa, sprinkled with chopped cilantro for an inviting presentation that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover taquitos, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will stay fresh and crisp for up to 3 days, ready to be enjoyed as a quick snack or reheated meal. Just make sure to cool them completely before storing.
Freezing
These taquitos freeze beautifully! Arrange the rolled, uncooked taquitos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When you’re ready, fry them straight from the freezer, adding an extra minute or two to the cooking time to achieve peak crispiness.
Reheating
To reheat, place leftover or frozen taquitos in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid using the microwave as it makes the tortillas soggy and dulls their delightful crunch.
FAQs
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
Absolutely! Corn tortillas can be used for a more traditional flavor, but they tend to be less pliable than flour tortillas, so warming them properly before rolling helps prevent cracking during assembly and frying.
Is it possible to bake the taquitos instead of frying?
Yes, baking is a great alternative for a lighter version. Arrange the rolled taquitos on a greased baking sheet, spray them lightly with oil, and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp.
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
You can prepare the filling a day in advance and keep it refrigerated. This actually allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making your Crispy Chicken Taquitos Recipe even more flavorful when assembled.
What kind of cheese works best in this recipe?
Cheddar cheese is classic for its sharpness and meltability, but you can also experiment with Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend for a slightly different but equally tasty result.
How do I prevent the taquitos from unrolling while frying?
Rolling the tortillas as tightly as possible is key. Additionally, placing them seam-side down first in the hot oil helps seal the roll and keeps them intact during frying.
Final Thoughts
This Crispy Chicken Taquitos Recipe brings everything you love about crunchy, cheesy comfort food in one convenient, crowd-pleasing package. It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and delicious enough to become a staple in your cooking rotation. Don’t wait to dive in and share the joy of these tasty taquitos with those you care about!
Print
Crispy Chicken Taquitos Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 10 taquitos
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
These Crispy Chicken Taquitos are a delightful Mexican-inspired appetizer featuring tender shredded chicken mixed with creamy cheeses and spices, all wrapped in small flour tortillas and fried to golden perfection. Perfectly crunchy on the outside and savory on the inside, they make a delicious snack or party dish served with your favorite toppings like salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.
Ingredients
Filling
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/4 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Assembly
- 10 small flour tortillas
Frying
- Vegetable oil for frying (about 1 inch deep)
Optional Toppings
- Salsa
- Guacamole
- Sour cream
- Chopped cilantro
Instructions
- Prepare the filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, and sour cream. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well blended into a creamy filling.
- Season the mixture: Add garlic powder, onion powder, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the chicken-cheese mixture. Stir well to evenly distribute the spices throughout.
- Fill the tortillas: Lay one small flour tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spoon approximately 2 to 3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto the lower third portion of the tortilla.
- Roll the taquitos: Tightly roll the tortilla around the filling to form a small cylinder. Make sure the filling is secure inside. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and filling.
- Heat the oil: Pour vegetable oil into a large skillet so it is about 1 inch deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking, suitable for frying.
- Fry the taquitos: Carefully place several taquitos seam-side down in the hot oil. Fry them for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Drain excess oil: Remove the fried taquitos from the skillet using a slotted spoon or tongs and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Continue frying the remaining taquitos similarly.
- Serve: Serve the taquitos warm with optional toppings such as salsa, guacamole, sour cream, and chopped cilantro for added flavor and freshness.
Notes
- Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to get a crispy texture without absorbing excess oil.
- Use small flour tortillas to keep taquitos compact and easy to roll.
- You can substitute cooked shredded chicken with rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- For a healthier option, bake taquitos at 425°F (220°C) for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, instead of frying.
- Adjust seasoning according to taste, adding more chili powder or cumin for extra spice.
