Chicken Taquitos

Crispy, cheesy, and full of bold, savory flavors, Chicken Taquitos are a snack, appetizer, or meal that everyone will devour. There’s something so satisfying about biting into a perfectly golden, crunchy tortilla that hides a warm, cheesy, spiced chicken filling. The aroma of chili, cumin, and garlic fills the kitchen as you fry them, making it nearly impossible to wait until they’re plated. Trust me, this recipe is a total crowd-pleaser, and once you try it, these taquitos will be a regular in your rotation.

Recipe Origin

Chicken Taquitos are a beloved Mexican-inspired dish, perfect for casual family dinners, parties, or game-day snacks. They take simple ingredients—chicken, cheese, spices, and tortillas—and turn them into handheld, flavorful bites that everyone loves.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

You’ll need a large mixing bowl, a skillet or deep frying pan, tongs, a spatula, measuring spoons, and toothpicks to hold your rolled taquitos together. A plate lined with paper towels will help drain excess oil after frying.

Why You’ll Love Chicken Taquitos

This recipe isn’t just about filling tortillas—it’s about creating irresistible, crunchy, cheesy bites that make every meal feel special.

Versatile
Serve as a party appetizer, a game-day snack, or a quick dinner. They pair beautifully with dips like sour cream, guacamole, or salsa, making them perfect for any occasion.

Budget-Friendly
Using shredded rotisserie chicken makes this recipe simple, flavorful, and easy on your wallet. The other ingredients are pantry staples you probably already have.

Quick and Easy
Once the filling is mixed, rolling and frying is straightforward. Even beginner cooks will find these taquitos easy and fun to make.

Customizable
Add extra spices for heat, or swap Monterey Jack for cheddar or pepper jack for a cheesy twist. You can also bake them for a lighter version.

Crowd-Pleasing
Crispy, cheesy, and flavorful, these taquitos are a hit with both kids and adults. The combination of spices, chicken, and cheese makes them irresistible.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Make sure your tortillas are soft to avoid cracking while rolling. Fry in batches to prevent overcrowding, and keep them warm in the oven while finishing the rest. Use toothpicks to secure the rolls to keep the filling inside.

Ingredients

Here’s what makes these Chicken Taquitos so flavorful:

Chili Powder
Gives a warm, smoky heat that defines the flavor of the filling.

Kosher Salt
Enhances all the spices and ingredients, bringing out their natural flavors.

Ground Cumin
Adds a deep, earthy note that complements the chicken beautifully.

Garlic Powder
Aromatic and savory, it adds richness to the filling.

Onion Powder
Boosts flavor and balances the spices.

Ground Black Pepper
Adds a subtle kick to round out the filling’s flavor.

Shredded Rotisserie Chicken
Tender, juicy, and ready to use, it’s the main protein that makes these taquitos hearty.

Shredded Monterey Jack Cheese
Melts beautifully and adds creamy, cheesy richness.

Chopped Green Chiles
Adds mild heat and a subtle tang, enhancing the flavor profile.

Soft Flour Tortillas
Flexible enough to roll without cracking, forming the perfect shell for the filling.

Toothpicks
Hold the taquitos together during frying to prevent the filling from spilling.

Canola Oil
For frying, providing a golden, crisp exterior.

Sour Cream, Guacamole, and Salsa
Classic dipping sauces that complement the taquitos perfectly.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s make these crispy, cheesy taquitos step by step:

Prepare the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, cheese, chopped green chiles, chili powder, salt, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix until evenly combined.

Assemble the Taquitos
Lay a tortilla flat and spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of filling onto one edge. Roll tightly and secure with a toothpick. Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling.

Heat the Oil
Pour canola oil into a skillet to about ¼ inch depth and heat over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking.

Fry the Taquitos
Carefully add taquitos to the hot oil, a few at a time, turning occasionally until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per batch.

Drain and Serve
Remove taquitos from oil and place on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Remove toothpicks before serving.

Serve and Enjoy
Serve warm with sour cream, guacamole, and salsa for dipping. Each bite is crispy, cheesy, and packed with bold, savory flavors.

Nutrition Facts
Servings: 20 taquitos
Calories per serving: Varies depending on size and toppings
Preparation Time Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

How to Serve Chicken Taquitos

Party Appetizers
Cut them in half and serve with multiple dips for guests to enjoy.

Family Dinner
Pair with rice, beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Game-Day Snacks
Perfect for watching football or casual gatherings with friends.

Standalone Treat
They are flavorful and filling enough to enjoy on their own, straight from the frying pan.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Prep Ahead
Assemble taquitos ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to fry.

Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until crispy.

Variations to Try
Use cheddar or pepper jack for different cheese flavors. Add diced jalapenos or hot sauce to the filling for extra heat. Bake instead of frying for a lighter option.

Additional Tips
Don’t overcrowd the skillet to ensure even frying. Make sure the tortillas are soft to prevent cracking. Taste the filling before assembling to adjust seasonings.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I bake these instead of frying?
A1: Yes, bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes until crispy, flipping halfway.

Q2: Can I make them ahead and freeze?
A2: Yes, assemble and freeze before frying. Fry from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.

Q3: Can I use corn tortillas?
A3: Flour tortillas work best for rolling without cracking, but lightly warmed corn tortillas can work.

Q4: Can I use cooked chicken other than rotisserie?
A4: Absolutely, any shredded cooked chicken will do.

Q5: Can I make these spicy?
A5: Add diced jalapenos, cayenne, or hot sauce to the filling for extra heat.

Q6: How do I keep them crispy after frying?
A6: Place on a wire rack instead of paper towels to prevent sogginess.

Q7: Can I make mini taquitos?
A7: Yes, adjust cooking time slightly for smaller sizes.

Q8: Can I add vegetables to the filling?
A8: Diced bell peppers, onions, or spinach can be folded into the filling.

Q9: What’s the best oil for frying?
A9: Canola, vegetable, or peanut oil all work well.

Q10: Can I serve them with other dips?
A10: Absolutely, ranch, queso, or pico de gallo are great options.

Conclusion

Chicken Taquitos are crispy, cheesy, and packed with bold flavors that make them perfect for any occasion. Easy to assemble, quick to fry, and fun to eat, they are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The combination of spiced chicken, melty cheese, and tender tortillas creates a bite that’s irresistible. Serve with your favorite dips, and watch them disappear fast. Once you try this recipe, you’ll want to make them again and again for parties, family dinners, or casual snacks. These taquitos prove that simple ingredients can create something extraordinary and utterly delicious.

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