Introduction
These crispy chicken taquitos are a delightful, crowd-pleasing snack that will transport your taste buds straight to flavor town! Perfectly golden brown on the outside, these little rolls are packed with a rich and creamy filling that combines tender shredded chicken, zesty cheese, and just the right amount of kick from seasonings. Whether you’re hosting a party, watching a game, or just indulging in a cozy night at home, these taquitos are sure to satisfy everyone’s cravings.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 small corn or flour tortillas
- Oil for frying
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Salsa or guacamole (for serving)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 12 taquitos
Directions and Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, shredded cheese, softened cream cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Use a spatula to mix everything together until well combined and creamy.
- Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side, or until they become warm and pliable.
- Spoon roughly 2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto the lower third of each tortilla.
- Carefully roll the tortilla tightly around the filling, tucking in the sides as you go. If necessary, secure with a toothpick to hold the shape.
- In a large skillet, heat enough oil over medium-high heat, ensuring it’s hot enough for frying. You want the oil to shimmer but not smoke.
- Once the oil is hot, gently place the taquitos seam-side down in the skillet. Fry until they are deep golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes on each side. Watch carefully to avoid burning!
- Remove the fried taquitos carefully and place them on paper towels to drain off any excess oil.
- Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve warm with your favorite salsa or guacamole for dipping.
Notes or Tips
- If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the taquitos in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes until crispy and golden.
- For added flavor, consider mixing in some diced jalapeños or green chiles into the filling.
- These taquitos freeze beautifully! Just store them in an airtight container after frying and reheat them in the oven or air fryer before serving.
Cooking Techniques
The key to achieving perfectly crispy taquitos lies in the frying technique. Make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the taquitos — this will help form that glorious crunch. If baking, lightly brush the taquitos with oil for a golden finish. Enjoy experimenting with different cheeses and spices to personalize your taquitos!
FAQ
Can I use raw chicken instead of cooked chicken?
Yes! You can cook the chicken first by boiling or roasting it. Just make sure to shred it before mixing it with the other ingredients.
What type of tortillas work best for taquitos?
Both corn and flour tortillas work well, but corn tortillas often give a more authentic taquito experience.
How can I make these vegetarian?
Simply substitute the chicken with black beans or a mixture of sautéed vegetables and cheese for a delicious vegetarian version!
Conclusion
These crispy chicken taquitos are sure to become a favorite in your home. With their satisfying crunch and flavorful filling, they make for a fantastic appetizer or snack any time of day. Whether enjoyed during gatherings or as a quick weekday treat, you’ll love how easy and delicious they are to whip up. So grab those tortillas and start rolling; a tasty adventure awaits!