Chicken Taquitos

Easy homemade Chicken Taquitos made with shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, and a creamy salsa blend rolled in tortillas and baked or fried until crispy are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a game night, preparing a quick weeknight meal, or craving a tasty snack, these taquitos deliver on flavor and simplicity. Their crispy exterior and cheesy filling make them a standout dish that everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have these delicious taquitos ready in no time.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of shredded chicken, cream cheese, and spices creates an irresistible filling that bursts with flavor.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve them baked for a healthier option or fried for that extra crunch; either way, they’re sure to please!
• Perfect for Sharing: Ideal as appetizers or snacks at gatherings, everyone will love grabbing these tasty bites.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or adjust the spices to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Chicken Taquitos, gather the essential tools you’ll need. Having everything ready will streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick griddle
• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet (for baking taquitos)
• Large skillet (for frying taquitos)
• Paper towels (for draining)

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick griddle: Perfect for warming tortillas without sticking, ensuring they stay pliable for filling.
• Mixing bowl: A wide bowl allows you to easily combine all the ingredients without mess.
• Baking sheet: Necessary for evenly baking the taquitos in the oven for that crispy finish.
• Large skillet: Essential for frying taquitos; it helps achieve that golden-brown color quickly.

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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 (to taste)

For Assembly

• 15-20 corn or flour tortillas

For Serving

• Guacamole
• Sour cream
• Salsa
• Hot sauce

How to Make Chicken Taquitos

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, add cream cheese, salsa, and sour cream. Stir until smooth.
2. Add shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, spinach, cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Toss to combine well. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 2: Warm the Tortillas

1. Heat a non-stick griddle over medium-high heat.
2. Cook each tortilla for about 15-30 seconds on each side until soft and pliable.
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 from one end to the other. Secure with a toothpick if needed.

Step 4: Bake or Fry the Taquitos

Baked Taquito Method

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

Fried Taquito Method

1. In a large skillet, heat about 1 1/2 inches of oil over medium-high heat.
2. Once hot (the tortillas should sizzle immediately), fry taquitos in small batches for a few seconds on each side until golden brown.
3. Place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Serve Enjoy!

Serve your delicious Chicken Taquitos with guacamole, salsa, sour cream, and hot sauce as desired!

How to Serve Chicken Taquitos

Chicken taquitos are a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply enjoying a family dinner, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

With Dips

• Guacamole: This creamy avocado dip adds richness and balances the flavors of the taquitos.
• Salsa: A fresh salsa provides a zesty kick that complements the savory filling.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream brings creaminess and coolness to each bite.
• Hot Sauce: For those who love heat, drizzle some hot sauce over your taquitos for extra spice.

As a Main Course

• Taco Salad: Serve your chicken taquitos on a bed of lettuce with diced tomatoes, cheese, and your favorite dressing for a fun twist.
• Rice and Beans: Pair them with seasoned rice and black beans for a hearty meal that’s full of flavor.

As Appetizers

• Mini Taquitos: Cut the tortillas into smaller pieces before filling them for bite-sized appetizers at parties.
• Platter Style: Arrange them on a platter with various dips for guests to enjoy while mingling.

How to Perfect Chicken Taquitos

To achieve the perfect chicken taquitos, follow these simple tips that will enhance both flavor and texture.

• Bold seasoning: Use enough spices like cumin and chili powder to infuse flavor throughout the chicken mixture.
• Warm tortillas: Always warm your tortillas before rolling to make them pliable and prevent cracking.
• Even filling distribution: Ensure you’re placing an even amount of filling in each tortilla to promote uniform cooking.
• Crispy finish: For baked taquitos, spray or brush oil on top to achieve that golden, crispy exterior.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Taquitos

When serving chicken taquitos, pairing them with delicious side dishes can enhance the overall meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices makes a perfect companion.
2. Black Beans: Seasoned black beans add protein and complement the taquito flavors well.
3. Corn Salad: A fresh corn salad with lime dressing brings sweetness and crunch to the table.
4. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with salsa offer an additional snacking option.
5. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans provide a savory base that balances the crispy taquitos.
6. Grilled Vegetables: Lightly seasoned grilled vegetables add color and nutrition to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Taquitos, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes and how to steer clear of them.

• Using Cold Cream Cheese: Always use softened cream cheese for a smooth filling. If it’s cold, it won’t mix well with the other ingredients.
• Overfilling the Tortillas: Avoid overstuffing your taquitos. Too much filling makes it difficult to roll and can lead to bursting during cooking.
• Skipping the Tortilla Prep: Don’t skip warming the tortillas. Heating them makes them pliable and prevents cracking when rolling.
• Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Taste your filling before sealing. Adding more spices can enhance flavor, so don’t hesitate to adjust to your preference.
• Not Preheating the Oven or Oil: Ensure your oven or oil is hot before cooking. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy texture you desire.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow taquitos to cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture build-up.

Freezing Chicken Taquitos

• Freeze uncooked taquitos on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
• Label the bag with the date for reference.

Reheating Chicken Taquitos

• Oven: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake taquitos for 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 30-60 seconds. Note that they may become soggy.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, turning frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Chicken Taquitos and their answers.

Can I use other meats in Chicken Taquitos?

You can definitely substitute chicken with beef, turkey, or lamb if you prefer a different flavor profile.

How do I make Chicken Taquitos spicier?

Add diced jalapeños or extra chili powder to your filling mixture for an added kick!

Can I bake Chicken Taquitos instead of frying?

Absolutely! Baking is a healthier option and still gives you a deliciously crispy result when done correctly.

What should I serve with Chicken Taquitos?

Pair them with guacamole, salsa, or sour cream for dipping. Fresh vegetables also make great sides!

Final Thoughts

Chicken Taquitos are a versatile dish perfect for gatherings or quick weeknight dinners. They can be customized with various fillings and toppings, making them suitable for every taste preference. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delightful crunch!