Make sure to try my Chicken Flautas recipe too, especially if you are a flour tortilla lover!
Chicken Taquitos Are Easy To Make Family Favorite Dinner Idea!
Chicken taquitos are a popular Mexican dish that are loved for their crispy texture, flavorful filling, and easy-to-eat size. Taquitos are perfect for appetizers, snacks, or even as a main course. If you’re a fan of Tex-Mex or simply looking to try something new, making chicken taquitos at home is a fantastic option. I’m going to walk you through the step-by-step process, and don’t be afraid to customize the filling or dipping sauce to suit your taste preferences.
Chicken Taquitos Are Easy To Make Family Favorite Dinner Idea!Special Tools You’ll Need:Chicken Taquito Ingredients:Step-by-Step Cooking InstructionsHow To Prevent the Tortillas From CrackingCan You Bake Chicken Taquitos?Chicken Taquito Air Fryer Instructions:Tips and VariationsCan You Prep Chicken Taquitos Ahead?How To Store/Freeze:How To Reheat Chicken Taquitos:Love Tex-Mex? Here Are A Few More Recipes To Try:Get the Recipe
Special Tools You’ll Need:
A skillet to fry. I like using my cast iron skillet because it’s well seasoned and it heats very evenly. Toothpicks. These come in handy to hold the taquitos together while they fry. They have a tendency of opening up while they cook you can hold them in the oil with tongs, but I find that toothpicks are much easier. Damp paper towels. I use these to keep the tortillas warm moist while I am prepping so they don’t crack. I have a whole section below talking all about how to prevent your tortillas from cracking! Metal tongs. I find that metal tongs are the easiest way to grab anything out of hot oil!
Chicken Taquito Ingredients:
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s take a closer look at the ingredients you’ll need to make chicken taquitos:
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Now that you have gathered all the ingredients, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of making chicken taquitos. Follow these simple steps for a delicious outcome:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Filling
Shred your chicken, breaking or cutting it in to small pieces. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the cream cheese, grated cheese, salsa, and spices. Mix everything together until well combined.
Step 2: Assemble the Chicken Taquitos
Warm up the tortillas in the microwave for a few seconds or on a hot griddle for a few seconds on each side to make them more pliable. (see below for all the tips and tricks for preventing your tortillas from cracking) Working in batches (6 at a time) place a spoonful of the chicken mixture onto each tortilla, spreading it out but not to the edges. As you roll up the taquitos the filling will spread, but you don’t want it overflowing, otherwise it will spill out when frying. I like to do 6 at a time because it’s easy to keep 6 tortillas warm. Roll up the tortilla tightly around the filling, securing with a toothpick if needed and repeat the process with the remaining tortillas and filling until all the taquitos are assembled.
Step 3: Fry the Taquitos
Heat about 1/2 inch of oil in a large skillet or medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F. Carefully place the taquitos seam side down into the hot oil. Fry the taquitos in the hot oil for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Flipping halfway for even cooking. Once the taquitos are golden, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Remove the toothpicks and enjoy!
How To Prevent the Tortillas From Cracking
Corn tortillas (even flour tortillas) can be prone to cracking as you roll them up. My stepmom is from Mexico and she has taught me a few ways to keep the tortillas malleable, so as you roll up your taquitos they don’t crack and spill the filling!
Can You Bake Chicken Taquitos?
Yes sure! Baking chicken taquitos is a great alternative to frying. It lowers the fat and calorie content and also lowers the hands-on time these take to cook. Placing all the taquitos on a large baking sheet can be easier than standing over the stovetop and frying. Although, you and I both know frying just produces an extra crispy and delicious taquito.
Assemble all the taquitos as stated in the recipe. Preheat the oven to 425°F. Place the assembled taquitos (with toothpicks to hold) on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, brush them or lightly spray them with oil or nonstick cooking spray, and bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until they are crispy and golden brown. Cool slightly before serving.
Chicken Taquito Air Fryer Instructions:
Tips and Variations
Add Veggies: You can add onions, bell peppers, jalapeños, black beans, or even cooked rice for additional texture and flavor. Use Different Cheeses: You can also use different types of cheese, such as cheddar cheese, pepper jack or queso fresco, for a unique twist. Play Around With Spices: Try adding chili powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika. You could even add in a little adobo sauce from a can of chipotles in adobo for a smoky/spicy twist! Dipping Sauce Variations: Experiment with different dipping sauces to accompany your chicken taquitos. Try a creamy ranch dressing, Avocado Salsa, or a smoky chipotle mayo for a delicious twist.
Can You Prep Chicken Taquitos Ahead?
You can prepare the chicken filling and assemble the taquitos ahead of time, and refrigerate them until ready to fry or bake. The prep time including assembly on this is half the battle, so doing as much in advance of serving makes things really easy and an especially convenient option for parties or gatherings.
How To Store/Freeze:
If I have leftovers I store my taquitos airtight in a zip-top bag for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them in an airtight freezer container for up to 30 days for best freshness.
How To Reheat Chicken Taquitos:
To preserve the crispy texture of the taquitos, it’s best to use the oven or air fryer method or oven as they can help to retain the crispiness. The microwave method is quicker, but the taquitos may be softer. Whichever method you choose, be sure to keep an eye on the taquitos to avoid overcooking or burning.
Love Tex-Mex? Here Are A Few More Recipes To Try:
Carne Asada Fries Beergarita Pulled Chicken Taco Rice
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