Homemade Chicken Taquitos
Description
Crispy, flavorful, and easy to make, these Homemade Chicken Taquitos are a perfect meal or snack for any occasion. Shredded chicken, cheese, and seasonings are wrapped in corn tortillas and baked or fried until golden brown. Serve them with guacamole, sour cream, or salsa for a delicious, crowd-pleasing dish!
Ingredients (Makes 12 Taquitos, Serves 4-6)
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie or boiled)
- ½ cup cream cheese (softened)
- ½ cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- ¼ cup salsa or diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp cumin
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- 12 small corn tortillas
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter (for brushing)
Optional Toppings & Dips:
- Guacamole
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Salsa or pico de gallo
- Chopped cilantro
Instructions
1. Prepare the Filling
- In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, cream cheese, shredded cheese, salsa, and spices.
- Mix until well combined.
2. Warm the Tortillas
- Lightly heat tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave for 20-30 seconds to make them pliable.
3. Roll the Taquitos
- Place 2 tbsp of the chicken mixture onto one side of each tortilla.
- Roll tightly and place seam-side down on a lined baking sheet.
4. Cook the Taquitos
Baking Method:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Brush taquitos with olive oil or melted butter.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
Frying Method:
- Heat ½ inch oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Fry taquitos for 2-3 minutes per side until crispy and golden brown.
- Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
5. Serve & Enjoy!
- Serve warm with your favorite dips and toppings.
Notes & Tips
- Make-Ahead Option: Assemble and freeze before baking. Bake directly from frozen at 400°F for 20-25 minutes.
- Prevent Cracking: Warm tortillas before rolling to prevent breaking.
- Air-Fryer Option: Cook at 380°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free cheese and omit cream cheese.
- Spicy Variation: Add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the filling.
Servings & Nutritional Info (Per 2 Taquitos)
- Calories: ~250
- Protein: ~18g
- Carbohydrates: ~20g
- Fat: ~12g
- Fiber: ~2g
- Sugar: ~1g
(Values depend on ingredients used.)
Health Benefits of Chicken Taquitos
- High in Protein: Chicken provides lean protein for muscle repair.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use 100% corn tortillas for a gluten-free dish.
- Lower in Fat (When Baked): Baking instead of frying reduces oil intake.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make a batch and freeze for easy meals.
- Customizable: Add more veggies like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrients.
Q&A (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Can I use flour tortillas instead?
Yes! Flour tortillas work, but they will be softer and less crispy.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Q: Can I use canned chicken?
Yes, but fresh shredded chicken has better texture and flavor.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat taquitos?
Reheat in an oven at 375°F for 10 minutes or air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.
Q: What can I serve with taquitos?
Great sides include Mexican rice, refried beans, salad, or roasted vegetables.
These Homemade Chicken Taquitos are crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor—perfect for a quick meal or party snack. Want to add a unique twist? Let me know!