If you’ve been searching for that perfect snack or appetizer to wow your friends and family, this Crispy Chicken Taquitos Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine perfectly crunchy rolled tortillas packed with a luscious blend of seasoned shredded chicken, melted cheeses, and creamy fillings, fried to a golden brilliance that just can’t be beaten. Whether for a casual game day, a cozy movie night, or an impromptu gathering, these taquitos offer an unbeatable combination of satisfying textures and comforting flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting everything just right starts with simple, fresh, and flavorful ingredients. Each element in this recipe plays a crucial role: the tender shredded chicken for heartiness, a trio of cheeses for that irresistible creaminess, and a medley of spices that add warmth and depth to every bite.
- Cooked shredded chicken (2 cups): The star protein, offering juicy, lean meat that soaks up all the spices beautifully.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Melts perfectly to add sharp, gooey richness.
- Cream cheese, softened (1/2 cup): Provides silky texture and helps bind the filling.
- Sour cream (1/4 cup): Adds tanginess and creaminess to balance the spices.
- Garlic powder (1/2 tsp): Infuses subtle savory undertones.
- Onion powder (1/2 tsp): Adds a mild, sweet depth.
- Cumin (1/2 tsp): Brings earthy warmth essential for Mexican flavors.
- Chili powder (1/4 tsp): Gives a gentle kick of heat without overpowering.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances all the other flavors.
- Small flour tortillas (10): The perfect vessel to roll and crisp up perfectly.
- Vegetable oil for frying: Ensures the taquitos become golden and crispy on the outside.
- Optional toppings: Salsa, guacamole, sour cream, and chopped cilantro for freshness and extra flavor layers.
How to Make Crispy Chicken Taquitos Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Filling Ingredients
Start by mixing the cooked shredded chicken with cheddar cheese, cream cheese, and sour cream in a large bowl. This blend creates a creamy, cheesy base that’s bursting with flavor and ready to be seasoned perfectly.
Step 2: Season the Mixture
Next, add garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Stir everything together thoroughly so that each morsel of chicken is infused with the warm, fragrant spices that make this taquito filling unforgettable.
Step 3: Prepare the Tortillas
Lay each small flour tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spoon 2 to 3 tablespoons of your luscious chicken filling onto the lower third of the tortilla, making sure to keep your portions consistent for even cooking and rolling.
Step 4: Roll Them Up Tight
Roll each tortilla tightly around the filling, sealing it with a gentle press so the taquito stays securely rolled and the filling won’t spill out during frying. Repeat until all the filling and tortillas are used up—this part is almost therapeutic!
Step 5: Heat the Oil
Pour about 1 inch of vegetable oil into a large skillet and heat it over medium-high. Achieving the right oil temperature is key here: too hot and they burn, too cool and they soak up too much oil. You’re aiming for that sweet spot where the taquitos sizzle upon contact.
Step 6: Fry Until Golden and Crispy
Place the taquitos seam-side down carefully into the hot oil. Fry for about 2 to 3 minutes per side until they develop a beautiful golden brown and a satisfyingly crispy texture. Don’t overcrowd the skillet so the heat stays consistent for perfect frying.
Step 7: Drain Excess Oil
Once fried, transfer taquitos onto paper towels to drain off the excess oil. This step ensures they stay crunchy and not greasy, keeping that ideal texture every time you bite in.
Step 8: Serve Warm and Enjoy
Serve immediately with your favorite toppings like fresh salsa, creamy guacamole, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro. Each addition lifts the taquitos to new heights of flavor and enjoyment.
How to Serve Crispy Chicken Taquitos Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes turns simple taquitos into a feast for the eyes and taste buds. Cool, creamy dollops of sour cream contrast beautifully with tangy salsa, while bright green cilantro adds a fresh pop of herbal brightness that complements the warmth of the spices perfectly.
Side Dishes
Pair your taquitos with a crisp salad, Mexican rice, or even a side of refried beans for a complete meal. These sides add variety in texture and flavor, making your meal feel even more satisfying and well-rounded.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your taquitos standing upright in a mason jar or arranged on a colorful platter next to vibrant dipping sauces. Or stack them like mini tacos with a rainbow of toppings for a playful, Instagram-worthy presentation that’s just as fun to eat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep them crispy, avoid stacking taquitos directly on top of one another and consider placing parchment paper between layers.
Freezing
You can freeze un-fried rolled taquitos by placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and flash freezing until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months and can be fried or baked directly from frozen.
Reheating
To revive crispiness, reheat leftover or frozen taquitos in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through and crisp again. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make them soggy.
FAQs
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
Absolutely! Corn tortillas can be used for a more traditional flavor and are naturally gluten-free, but take care when rolling as they tend to be less pliable and more prone to cracking.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you don’t have cream cheese, you can use ricotta or even more sour cream to bind your filling, but cream cheese adds a unique tangy richness that really enhances the texture and flavor.
Is it possible to bake these instead of frying?
Yes! Baking is a great alternative if you prefer a lighter option. Brush the rolled taquitos lightly with oil and bake at 425°F (220°C) for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway, until crisp and golden.
Can I make these vegetarian?
Definitely! Swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms, black beans, or seasoned jackfruit for a delicious vegetarian version that still boasts incredible flavor and texture.
How can I make these less spicy for kids?
To keep things mild, simply reduce or omit the chili powder and use only a pinch of cumin. The cheesy filling still provides plenty of flavor, making them kid-friendly and tasty for everyone.
Final Thoughts
This Crispy Chicken Taquitos Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings together the perfect balance of textures and bold flavors in every bite. Whether you’re serving it up at your next gathering or simply craving a comforting snack, I promise these taquitos will become a fast favorite. So go ahead, roll up those tortillas and dive into a plate of golden, crunchy joy! Your taste buds will thank you.
Print
Crispy Chicken Taquitos Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 10 taquitos
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
These Crispy Chicken Taquitos are a delicious and easy-to-make Mexican-inspired snack featuring a flavorful chicken and cheese filling wrapped in small flour tortillas and fried to golden perfection. Perfect as an appetizer or main dish, they offer a satisfying crunch and a rich blend of spices, ideal for serving with 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 cumin
- 1/4 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Wraps and Frying
- 10 small flour tortillas
- Vegetable oil for frying (about 1 inch deep in skillet)
Optional Toppings
- Salsa
- Guacamole
- Additional sour cream
- Chopped cilantro
Instructions
- Prepare the filling mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, and sour cream. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and creamy.
- Season the filling: Add garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the mixture. Stir well to evenly distribute the spices throughout the filling.
- Assemble the taquitos: Lay a small flour tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spoon 2 to 3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto the lower third of the tortilla, ensuring not to overfill for easy rolling.
- Roll the taquitos tightly: Carefully roll the tortilla around the filling, starting from the bottom where the filling is placed, to form a tight cylinder. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and filling.
- Heat the oil: Pour vegetable oil into a large skillet to about 1 inch depth. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it is hot but not smoking, suitable for frying.
- Fry the taquitos: Place a few rolled taquitos seam-side down into the hot oil carefully. Fry for approximately 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and develop a crispy texture.
- Drain excess oil: Using tongs, remove the taquitos from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil. Repeat frying with the remaining taquitos.
- Serve: Serve the crispy chicken taquitos warm accompanied by optional toppings such as salsa, guacamole, extra sour cream, or chopped cilantro for added flavor and freshness.
Notes
- You can substitute cooked shredded chicken with leftover rotisserie chicken for ease.
- Ensure oil is hot enough before frying to achieve a crispy exterior without absorbing too much oil.
- Work in batches when frying to avoid overcrowding the skillet, which can reduce crispiness.
- For a lighter version, bake the taquitos at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes instead of frying.
- Use corn tortillas if preferred, but ensure they are warmed and flexible to prevent cracking when rolling.
