Easy homemade Chicken Taquitos are the perfect crowd-pleaser for any occasion, whether it’s a game day snack, a family dinner, or a fun party appetizer. These delicious taquitos are filled with shredded chicken, creamy cheese, and vibrant spices that create a burst of flavor in each crispy bite. You can bake them for a healthier option or fry them for that irresistible crunch. With their versatility and ease of preparation, Chicken Taquitos are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these taquitos in no time!
- Flavor-Packed Filling: The combination of shredded chicken, cream cheese, and spices offers an explosion of taste.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve them with guacamole, salsa, or sour cream for added flavor and texture.
- Kid-Friendly: Perfect for picky eaters; the creamy filling makes them irresistible to children.
- Baked or Fried: Enjoy your taquitos baked for a lighter meal or fried for that classic crispy texture.
Tools and Preparation
To make these Chicken Taquitos successfully, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that help streamline the cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Non-stick griddle
- Large skillet
- Baking sheet
- Tongs
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl is essential for combining your creamy filling ingredients smoothly.
- Non-stick griddle: This tool helps you warm the tortillas without sticking, ensuring they remain pliable for rolling.
- Large skillet: Necessary for frying the taquitos evenly and achieving that golden-brown color.
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 the Taquitos
- 15-20 corn or flour tortillas
- Guacamole, sour cream, salsa, hot sauce
How to Make Chicken Taquitos
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
- In a mixing bowl, add cream cheese, salsa, and sour cream. Stir until smooth.
- Add remaining filling ingredients (shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, spinach, and spices). Toss to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 2: Warm the Tortillas
- For corn tortillas, heat a non-stick griddle over medium-high heat.
- Cook each tortilla for about 15 – 30 seconds on each side until soft and pliable.
- Remove tortillas to a plate covered with foil to keep warm.
Step 3: Roll the Taquitos
- Place a large spoonful of filling in a line along each tortilla.
- Roll tightly and secure with a toothpick if needed.
Step 4: Bake the Taquitos
- Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F.
- Spray the tops of the taquitos with cooking spray or brush lightly with oil.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until shells are crispy.
Step 5: Fry the Taquitos
- Add about 1 1/2 inches of oil to a large skillet and heat to medium-high.
- Fry taquitos in small batches for a few seconds on each side until golden brown and crispy.
- Place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
Step 6: Serve
Serve your Chicken Taquitos hot with guacamole, salsa, and sour cream on the side! Enjoy!
How to Serve Chicken Taquitos
Chicken Taquitos are a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your taquito experience.
Classic Dips
- Guacamole – Creamy and flavorful, guacamole complements the crunch of taquitos perfectly.
- Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream adds a cool and tangy touch that balances the spices.
- Salsa – Choose your favorite salsa for an added kick of flavor; fresh or store-bought works well.
Fresh Sides
- Chopped Salad – A refreshing salad with lettuce, tomatoes, and avocado provides a crisp contrast.
- Mexican Rice – Fluffy rice seasoned with lime and cilantro pairs wonderfully with the taquitos.
- Refried Beans – Serve warm refried beans on the side for a hearty addition that enhances the meal.
Creative Plating
- Taquito Platter – Arrange taquitos on a large plate with various dips in small bowls for sharing.
- Taco Bar – Set up a taco bar where guests can customize their own taquito toppings and sides.
How to Perfect Chicken Taquitos
Making perfect Chicken Taquitos is all about technique and ingredients. Follow these tips to ensure your taquitos turn out crispy and delicious every time.
- Use Fresh Tortillas – Freshly made tortillas tend to be more pliable and hold the filling better than stale ones.
- Don’t Overfill – Adding too much filling can lead to breakage; stick to a few tablespoons per tortilla for easy rolling.
- Preheat Your Oven or Oil – Ensure your oven is hot enough or your oil is heated before cooking; this helps achieve that crispy texture.
- Experiment with Spices – Customize the spice level by adding more chili powder or using different types of salsa for variety.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken Taquitos
Pairing side dishes with Chicken Taquitos can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider.
- Mexican Street Corn Salad – This vibrant salad features corn, lime, and cheese for a zesty complement.
- Black Bean Salad – A protein-packed salad made with black beans, corn, peppers, and cilantro for freshness.
- Cilantro Lime Rice – Fluffy rice infused with cilantro and lime zest brings brightness to your plate.
- Pico de Gallo – Fresh tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, and lime create a refreshing topping option for taquitos.
- Queso Dip – A creamy cheese dip adds richness that pairs well with crunchy taquitos.
- Grilled Veggies – Charred vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini add color and nutrition to the meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Chicken Taquitos can be easy, but a few common mistakes can lead to less than perfect results.
- Boldly skip the seasoning: Some may forget to season the filling adequately. Always taste and adjust the spices to enhance flavors.
- Boldly overlook tortilla preparation: Failing to warm your tortillas might result in tearing. Heat them until they are soft and pliable for easy rolling.
- Boldly overstuffing: Adding too much filling can make it hard to roll the taquitos. Use a large spoonful but ensure you can still seal them properly.
- Boldly ignoring cooking time: Cooking taquitos for too long or not long enough can affect their texture. Keep an eye on them while baking or frying for that perfect crispness.
- Boldly forgetting accompaniments: Skipping dips like guacamole or salsa means missing out on delicious flavor contrasts. Always prepare sides to elevate your dish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Chicken Taquitos in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Chicken Taquitos
- Place uncooked taquitos on a baking sheet and freeze until solid before transferring them to a freezer bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Chicken Taquitos
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
- Microwave: Place taquitos on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in increments of 30 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and cook for about 5 minutes per side until warmed through and crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding Chicken Taquitos that may help you in your cooking journey.
How do I make Chicken Taquitos healthier?
You can use whole grain tortillas and add more vegetables, like bell peppers or zucchini, to the filling for added nutrition.
Can I use leftover chicken for making Chicken Taquitos?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken is perfect for this recipe, saving time while adding great flavor.
What dipping sauces go well with Chicken Taquitos?
Guacamole, sour cream, or salsa are excellent choices that complement the flavors of Chicken Taquitos perfectly.
Can I customize my Chicken Taquitos?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese or add beans and corn for variety in your filling.
How can I make Chicken Taquitos spicier?
Add fresh jalapeños or extra chili powder to the filling for an added kick. Adjust according to your taste preference!
Final Thoughts
Chicken Taquitos are a delightful blend of flavors that offer versatility for any meal occasion. You can customize them easily by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting spices. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!
Chicken Taquitos
Indulge in the crispy, flavor-packed goodness of homemade Chicken Taquitos! Perfect for game day, family dinners, or casual gatherings, these delightful rolls are filled with succulent shredded chicken, creamy cheese, and a medley of vibrant spices. You can choose to bake them for a healthier twist or fry them for that irresistible crunch. With just 10 minutes of prep time and a few simple ingredients, you’ll have an easy-to-make appetizer that’s sure to impress. Serve with your favorite dips like guacamole, salsa, or sour cream for an extra burst of flavor. Get ready to make these Chicken Taquitos a staple in your recipe repertoire!
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 15 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 6 ounces cream cheese
- 1/4 cup salsa
- 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)
- 15–20 corn or flour tortillas
- Guacamole, sour cream, salsa, hot sauce
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, salsa, and sour cream until smooth.
- Stir in shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, spinach, and spices. Mix well and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Warm tortillas on a non-stick griddle for about 15 seconds per side.
- Place filling on each tortilla and roll tightly; secure with toothpicks if necessary.
- Bake at 425°F for 15-20 minutes or fry in hot oil until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve hot with guacamole, salsa, or sour cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking/Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 taquito
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 30mg