Chicken Taquitos: Crispy, Flavorful, and Easy to Make

If you’re looking for a fun and delicious dish that’s perfect for snacking, dinner, or a party, Chicken Taquitos are the way to go. These crispy rolled-up tortillas filled with seasoned chicken and cheese make for a tasty, easy-to-make meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re making them for Taco Tuesday or as a party appetizer, Chicken Taquitos are sure to be a hit.

In this blog post, we’ll walk you through how to make Chicken Taquitos, why they’re so popular, and provide some tips for making them even more delicious.

What Are Chicken Taquitos?

Chicken Taquitos are a popular Mexican dish made by filling small tortillas with seasoned shredded chicken and other ingredients like cheese, onions, or beans, and then rolling them up into tight cylinders. They’re then baked or fried until crispy and golden brown. Often served with dips like guacamole, sour cream, or salsa, Chicken Taquitos are a perfect snack or meal that’s full of flavor and texture.

The word “taquito” means “small taco” in Spanish, and these crispy delights are a smaller, rolled-up version of the traditional taco. While taquitos can be made with a variety of fillings, chicken is one of the most popular options due to its mild flavor and versatility.

Why Are Chicken Taquitos So Popular?

Crispy, Crunchy Texture

One of the reasons Chicken Taquitos are so beloved is their crispy, crunchy texture. The tortillas are either fried or baked until golden and crunchy, which contrasts perfectly with the tender, juicy chicken filling inside. That satisfying crunch with each bite is what makes taquitos so irresistible.

Packed with Flavor

The filling for Chicken Taquitos is seasoned with spices like cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder, giving it a rich, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the crispy tortilla shell. When you add cheese, the filling becomes even more indulgent and creamy.

Versatile and Customizable

Chicken Taquitos are incredibly versatile. You can adjust the filling to suit your tastes by adding beans, sautéed vegetables, or different types of cheese. Want it spicier? Add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling. You can also switch up the seasonings to match your preferences.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer for a party, a fun family dinner, or a quick weeknight meal, Chicken Taquitos are a great option. They’re easy to prepare and fun to eat, making them a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

Essential Ingredients for Chicken Taquitos

Making Chicken Taquitos is simple, and you don’t need a lot of ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chicken Filling

• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend)
• 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional, for extra flavor)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra depth)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)

For the Taquitos

• 10-12 corn tortillas (or flour tortillas, if you prefer)
• 1-2 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing the taquitos before baking or frying)
• Sour cream, salsa, guacamole, or any other desired toppings (for serving)

How to Make Chicken Taquitos

Making Chicken Taquitos is simple and quick. Here’s a step-by-step guide to preparing these delicious taquitos:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Filling

1. Shred the chicken: If you’re not using rotisserie chicken, cook and shred your chicken. You can cook it on the stovetop, in the oven, or even use a slow cooker. Once it’s cooked, shred it using two forks.
2. Season the chicken: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken with garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), and salt and pepper to taste. Add the chopped onion and cilantro (if using), and mix everything together. For extra creaminess, stir in the sour cream.

Step 2: Warm the Tortillas

To prevent the tortillas from breaking when you roll them, you’ll need to soften them. Here are two methods to warm your tortillas:

• Microwave method: Wrap a stack of 5-6 tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave for 20-30 seconds until soft and pliable.
• Stovetop method: Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Lightly heat each tortilla for 10-15 seconds on each side, just until they’re warm and pliable.

Step 3: Stuff the Taquitos

1. Fill the tortillas: Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture into the center of each tortilla.
2. Roll the taquitos: Roll the tortilla tightly around the chicken filling, making sure the edges are tucked in slightly. Be careful not to overstuff the taquitos, as this can cause them to break.

Step 4: Bake or Fry the Taquitos

• Baked Taquitos: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the stuffed taquitos seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. Brush the tops of the taquitos with olive oil to help them crisp up during baking. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the taquitos are golden brown and crispy.
• Fried Taquitos: Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot (around 350°F/175°C), carefully add the taquitos in batches, cooking them for about 2-3 minutes per side or until they are golden and crispy. Remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once the taquitos are cooked, serve them hot with your favorite toppings. Some great options include:

• Sour cream for dipping
• Guacamole for a creamy, avocado-packed flavor
• Fresh salsa or pico de gallo for a tangy, fresh contrast
• Lime wedges for a citrusy squeeze

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Taquitos

Chicken Taquitos are great on their own, but they also pair well with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas for serving them:

• Mexican Rice: Fluffy, flavorful rice seasoned with cumin, lime, and cilantro pairs perfectly with taquitos.
• Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans are a classic side that complements the crispy taquitos.
• Guacamole: A big bowl of freshly made guacamole adds a creamy, savory element that pairs perfectly with the taquitos.
• Chips and Salsa: Serve with crunchy tortilla chips and fresh salsa or a spicy queso dip for an extra treat.
• Corn Salad: A tangy corn salad with lime and cilantro provides a refreshing side that balances the richness of the taquitos.

Conclusion

Chicken Taquitos are the perfect balance of crispy, cheesy, and flavorful. Whether you’re making them for a quick weeknight meal, a fun snack, or a party appetizer, these taquitos are sure to be a hit. With their customizable fillings, easy prep, and delicious flavors, they’re an ideal dish for almost any occasion.

Whether baked or fried, Chicken Taquitos deliver the perfect combination of crunch and tenderness in every bite. Serve them with your favorite dips, and you’ve got a crowd-pleasing dish that will leave everyone coming back for more.

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FAQs

1. Can I make Chicken Taquitos ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the taquitos ahead of time, wrap them tightly, and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, just bake or fry them as usual. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes.

2. Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Simply shred the chicken and add it to the seasoning mixture. It’s a convenient option that still gives you great flavor.

3. Can I make these taquitos vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can use black beans, vegetables, or plant-based protein in place of chicken to make a delicious vegetarian version of taquitos.

4. Can I make these taquitos gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free tortillas to make the taquitos gluten-free. Be sure to check the ingredients in the seasoning mix or use a gluten-free version of taco seasoning.

5. Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?

Yes, you can use flour tortillas, but they may not crisp up as well as corn tortillas. If using flour tortillas, you may want to bake them for a bit longer to get them crispy.

6. Can I freeze leftover taquitos?

Yes, you can freeze leftover taquitos. Let them cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes.

7. How do I keep the taquitos from falling apart while frying?

To prevent taquitos from falling apart while frying, make sure to roll them tightly and seal the edges. If you’re using flour tortillas, they might need to be warmed slightly before rolling to prevent breakage.

8. Can I add cheese to the chicken filling?

Yes! You can mix shredded cheese into the chicken filling for an extra cheesy bite. Mozzarella or cheddar work well, or try a blend of your favorite cheeses.

9. How can I make these taquitos spicier?

Add diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or extra chili powder to the chicken filling for an added kick. You can also top the taquitos with spicy salsa or a drizzle of sriracha for an extra burst of heat.

10. Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes! You can use ground turkey, beef, or shredded pork as a substitute for chicken. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning to complement the type of meat you choose.