Chicken Taquitos Recipe

Chicken Taquitos are a crispy, savory delight perfect for a quick snack, lunch, or even a party appetizer. Made with tender shredded chicken, flavorful spices, and crispy tortillas, these taquitos are easy to prepare and loved by everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together with minimal prep time, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Customizable: Adjust the spices, fillings, or dipping sauces to suit your taste.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time for easy lunches or dinners during the week.
• Family-Friendly: Both kids and adults will love these crunchy, cheesy taquitos.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Shredded cooked chicken
• Corn tortillas
• Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or your choice)
• Diced green chiles
• Spices (cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder)
• Olive oil or cooking spray

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cheese, diced green chiles, and spices. Mix until well combined.
3. Warm the tortillas in the microwave for about 20 seconds to make them pliable.
4. Place a small amount of the chicken mixture onto the center of each tortilla. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling and secure it with a toothpick if needed.
5. Arrange the rolled taquitos seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush lightly with olive oil or spray with cooking spray.
6. Bake for 15–20 minutes or until the taquitos are golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces like salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes approximately 12 taquitos
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Protein Swaps: Use shredded beef, pork, or even beans for a vegetarian option.
• Cheese Choices: Experiment with different types of cheese such as pepper jack for added spice.
• Tortilla Options: Try flour tortillas or gluten-free options based on your dietary needs.
• Air Fryer Option: Cook the taquitos in an air fryer at 375°F for 10–12 minutes for a crispier texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover taquitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 375°F for 5–7 minutes to maintain crispiness, or use an air fryer for a quick reheat.
• Freezing: Place uncooked taquitos on a baking sheet and freeze. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

FAQs

1. Can I make chicken taquitos ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the taquitos ahead and freeze them uncooked. Bake when ready to serve.

2. What’s the best way to prevent the tortillas from cracking?

Warm the tortillas before rolling to make them pliable and less likely to crack.

3. Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a quick and flavorful option for this recipe.

4. How can I make these spicier?

Add diced jalapeños, spicy cheese, or extra chili powder to the filling.

5. Are chicken taquitos gluten-free?

They can be if you use gluten-free corn tortillas and ensure other ingredients are gluten-free.

6. What dipping sauces go well with taquitos?

Salsa, guacamole, sour cream, queso, or a creamy chipotle sauce are all great options.

7. Can I fry the taquitos instead of baking them?

Yes, fry them in hot oil until golden and crispy. Drain on a paper towel before serving.

8. What sides pair well with chicken taquitos?

Refried beans, Spanish rice, or a fresh salad are great sides.

9. How do I prevent the taquitos from unrolling during cooking?

Place them seam-side down on the baking sheet, or secure with a toothpick.

10. Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, shredded beef, pork, or turkey are excellent substitutes for chicken.

Conclusion

Chicken Taquitos are a versatile, crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With their crispy exterior and flavorful filling, they’re sure to become a favorite in your household. Try out different variations, and don’t forget the dipping sauces to take them to the next level!

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