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. These taquitos are perfect for parties, game day, or a quick weeknight dinner. Their delightful crunch and flavorful filling make them a standout dish that everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up delicious Chicken Taquitos that are ready to serve in no time.
• Flavorful Filling: The combination of cream cheese, salsa, and spices creates a rich and savory filling that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these taquitos as an appetizer, main course, or snack. They pair perfectly with guacamole and sour cream for dipping.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to switch up the fillings based on your family’s preferences—add vegetables or different cheeses for variety!
• Baked or Fried: Choose your cooking method! Whether you prefer healthier baked taquitos or crispy fried versions, this recipe has you covered.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Chicken Taquitos effortlessly, having the right tools is essential. Gather the following items to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick griddle
• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Large skillet
• Cooking spray or oil brush
• Toothpicks (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick griddle: Perfect for warming tortillas without them sticking, ensuring they remain pliable for rolling.
• Mixing bowl: A good-sized bowl allows you to easily mix all ingredients together with minimal mess.
• Baking sheet: Ideal for baking the taquitos evenly so they turn out crispy on every side.

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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 (for taste)

For Assembly

• 15-20 corn or flour tortillas
• 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 cooked shredded chicken, chopped spinach, cheddar cheese, cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until well combined. 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 warmed tortillas to a plate covered with tinfoil to keep them warm.

Step 3: Fill the Tortillas

1. Place a large spoonful of filling in a line along each tortilla.
2. Roll each tortilla tightly around the filling. If needed, secure with a toothpick.

Step 4: Bake the Taquitos

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

Step 5: Fry the Taquitos

1. Add about 1 1/2 inches of oil to a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Once hot (the tortillas should sizzle when added), fry taquitos in small batches for several seconds on each side until golden brown.
3. Remove from oil and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 6: Serve

Serve your delicious Chicken Taquitos with guacamole, salsa, sour cream, and hot sauce on the side for dipping! Enjoy!

How to Serve Chicken Taquitos

Chicken taquitos are a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Their crispy texture and flavorful filling make them perfect for various dipping sauces and sides. Here are some delicious serving suggestions.

With Dipping Sauces

• Guacamole: A creamy avocado dip that adds richness and pairs perfectly with the spices in the taquitos.
• Sour Cream: A classic choice, sour cream provides a cool contrast to the warm, crispy taquitos.
• Salsa: Choose your favorite salsa for an added burst of flavor. Fresh salsa or a roasted version works well.
• Hot Sauce: For those who enjoy heat, a drizzle of your preferred hot sauce elevates the taste experience.

As a Meal

• With Rice: Serve your chicken taquitos alongside a bowl of seasoned rice for a complete meal.
• With Salad: A fresh green salad complements the richness of the taquitos while adding crunch and nutrition.

For Parties or Gatherings

• As Appetizers: Cut the taquitos into smaller pieces and serve them as bite-sized appetizers at your next gathering.
• On a Platter: Arrange them neatly on a platter with various dips for an inviting presentation that guests will love.

How to Perfect Chicken Taquitos

To ensure your chicken taquitos turn out crispy and flavorful every time, follow these simple tips.

• Use fresh tortillas: Fresh corn or flour tortillas are more pliable and will hold up better when filled and rolled.
• Don’t overfill: While it’s tempting to load up on filling, too much can cause the tortillas to break. Aim for about 2 tablespoons per tortilla.
• Adjust baking time: Keep an eye on your taquitos while baking. Cooking times may vary based on oven differences; look for golden brown color.
• Fry in batches: If frying, do so in small batches to maintain oil temperature, ensuring even cooking and crispiness.
• Experiment with fillings: Feel free to mix different cheeses or add veggies like bell peppers or onions for extra flavor.
• Let them rest briefly before serving: Allowing cooked taquitos to sit for a minute helps them firm up slightly, making them easier to handle.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Taquitos

Complement your chicken taquitos with these tasty side dishes that enhance the overall meal experience.

1. Mexican Rice: Flavored with spices and tomatoes, this dish makes a hearty addition to your meal.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans provide protein and pair well with the crispiness of taquitos.
3. Corn Salad: A fresh corn salad with lime dressing adds brightness and crunch, balancing the richness of the taquitos.
4. Chips and Salsa: Classic tortilla chips served with salsa make for great finger food alongside your main dish.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Charred veggies like zucchini and bell peppers bring smoky flavors that complement chicken well.
6. Cabbage Slaw: A tangy cabbage slaw adds freshness and texture, cutting through the richness of the taquitos.
7. Queso Dip: This cheesy dip is perfect for scooping with leftover tortillas or chips while enjoying your meal together.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Taquitos, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Using Cold Ingredients: Start with room temperature cream cheese and other ingredients for a smoother filling. Cold ingredients can lead to lumps.
• Not Softening Tortillas: Skipping the tortilla softening step can result in cracks when rolling. Always warm tortillas to keep them pliable.
• Overfilling the Taquitos: Adding too much filling makes it hard to roll and increases the chance of spilling during cooking. Use just enough to fill the tortilla comfortably.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Forgetting to taste the filling can leave your taquitos bland. Always taste and adjust seasoning before assembling.
• Skipping the Cooking Spray: Not using cooking spray or oil on baked taquitos can result in sogginess instead of crispiness. Ensure they’re well coated before baking.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Chicken Taquitos in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chicken Taquitos

• Freeze taquitos before cooking for best results.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating Chicken Taquitos

• Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through and crispy.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes. This method may make them less crispy.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Chicken Taquitos that can help you perfect your dish.

Can I use leftovers for Chicken Taquitos?

Yes! Shredded leftover chicken is perfect for making these delicious taquitos.

How do I make Chicken Taquitos gluten-free?

Use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas for a gluten-free option that still tastes great!

Can I bake my Chicken Taquitos instead of frying?

Absolutely! Baking is a healthier alternative that still results in crispy taquitos.

What dips go well with Chicken Taquitos?

Salsa, guacamole, and sour cream pair wonderfully with baked or fried taquitos.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Taquitos are not only delicious but also versatile! You can easily customize them with various fillings or toppings based on what you have at home. Whether baked or fried, they’re sure to be a hit at your next meal. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delightful crunch!