Crispy Chicken Taquitos
Are you ready to elevate your next snack game with crispy, cheesy delight? Crispy chicken taquitos are a fantastic way to use up leftover rotisserie chicken, transforming it into a mouthwatering treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering, looking for an easy weeknight dinner, or simply craving something savory, these taquitos deliver on both flavor and satisfaction.
Why you’ll love this dish
One reason to try this recipe is its undeniable versatility. You can whip these crispy bites up on a busy weekday or serve them at a festive gathering; they fit right in at any table. They’re budget-friendly, taking advantage of simple ingredients you may already have at hand, and they’re sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. Plus, the fact that you can customize the fillings makes them even more appealing.
"These crispy chicken taquitos were a hit at our family game night! They disappeared in minutes, and everyone loved that they were so easy to make."
How this recipe comes together
Making crispy chicken taquitos is a breeze. First, you’ll prepare the filling by mixing shredded chicken, cream cheese, and your favorite spices—all in one bowl! Then, you’ll simply warm the tortillas, fill them, roll them up tight, and bake until crispy. It’s a hands-on recipe that doesn’t take much time or effort, making it perfect for busy lives.
What you’ll need
Gathering your ingredients is the first step. Here’s what you’ll need to create these delightful taquitos:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- ¼ cup salsa (mild or spicy)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp cumin
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- Cooking spray or oil (for brushing)
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
- Sour cream and guacamole for serving
- Extra shredded cheese, if desired
Feel free to swap in other types of cheese or add beans for more protein!
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it lightly.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, shredded cheese, salsa, garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well until everything is blended.
- Warm the tortillas in the microwave for about 20 seconds. This makes them easier to handle.
- Spoon 2–3 tablespoons of the filling onto one side of each tortilla, then roll tightly.
- Place the rolled taquitos seam-side down on your prepared baking sheet.
- Lightly brush the taquitos with oil or spray with cooking spray.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes, until they are golden brown and crispy. For an extra crunch, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end.
- Serve warm with sour cream, guacamole, and any of your favorite toppings.
Best ways to enjoy it
Crispy chicken taquitos are fantastic on their own, but you can elevate your presentation! Serve them on a platter lined with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for a pop of color. Pair them with a side of Mexican rice or a crisp salad for a complete meal. Don’t forget the dips—sour cream and guacamole are classic choices that complement the flavors beautifully.
Keeping leftovers fresh
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked taquitos individually, wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag. When you’re ready for another crispy treat, simply reheat in the oven or air fryer until heated through.
Helpful cooking tips
To ensure your taquitos are as crispy as possible, make sure your baking sheet is preheated. This helps to create that golden crust. Additionally, if you prefer a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or switch to a spicy salsa variant in your filling mix. Lastly, don’t skip the broiling step if you like an extra crunchy texture!
Creative twists
Feel free to experiment with your fillings! Try adding black beans for extra fiber or switch up the cheeses for a different flavor. You can even go vegetarian by substituting the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or roasted veggies. The possibilities are endless!
Your questions answered
Q: How long do these taquitos take to prepare?
A: The prep time is about 15 minutes, with an additional 15-20 minutes of baking time.
Q: Can I use gluten-free tortillas?
A: Absolutely! Just make sure to choose your favorite gluten-free tortilla brand to keep this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Q: What should I do with leftovers?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage as mentioned above.
Q: How can I make these spicier?
A: You can add more chili powder, use a spicier salsa, or mix in diced jalapeños for an extra kick!
Enjoy crafting your crispy chicken taquitos, and remember to share with friends—though you might want to keep a few for yourself!
Crispy Chicken Taquitos
Ingredients
For the filling
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works great)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- ¼ cup salsa (mild or spicy)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp cumin
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For assembly
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- Cooking spray or oil (for brushing)
For garnish and serving
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
- Sour cream and guacamole for serving
- Extra shredded cheese (if desired)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it lightly.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, shredded cheese, salsa, garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well until everything is blended.
- Warm the tortillas in the microwave for about 20 seconds to make them easier to handle.
Assembly
- Spoon 2–3 tablespoons of the filling onto one side of each tortilla, then roll tightly.
- Place the rolled taquitos seam-side down on your prepared baking sheet.
- Lightly brush the taquitos with oil or spray with cooking spray.
Baking
- Bake for 15–20 minutes, until they are golden brown and crispy. For an extra crunch, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end.
Serving
- Serve warm with sour cream, guacamole, and any of your favorite toppings.
