Name: Crispy Chicken Taquitos Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 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; Sour cream; Guacamole; Extra shredded cheese

Introduction

Crispy Chicken Taquitos are a delicious and easy-to-make snack or meal perfect for any occasion. Filled with a flavorful blend of shredded chicken, cheese, and spices, these rolled tortillas bake up golden and crunchy in the oven. Serve them with your favorite toppings for a satisfying bite every time.

A close-up of five rolled enchiladas placed side by side on a black baking tray. Each enchilada has a light golden-brown baked layer on top with slightly bubbly melted cheese and some melted bits that add texture. Small green herb pieces are sprinkled evenly over the top, adding a pop of color against the creamy cheese. The edges of each enchilada are soft and smooth while the ends show a creamy filling inside with small bits of meat or vegetables visible. The tray sits on a white marbled surface, giving a clean and bright background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

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 (optional)

Sour cream (for serving)

Guacamole (for serving)

Extra shredded cheese (for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream cheese, shredded cheese, salsa, garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

Step 3: Warm the tortillas in the microwave for about 20 seconds to make them more pliable and easier to roll.

Step 4: Spoon 2 to 3 tablespoons of the filling onto one side of each tortilla. Roll the tortillas tightly around the filling.

Step 5: Place the rolled taquitos seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet to prevent them from unrolling during baking.

Step 6: Lightly brush the taquitos with oil or spray them with cooking spray to help achieve a crispy texture.

Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. For extra crispiness, broil the taquitos for 1 to 2 minutes at the end, watching carefully to avoid burning.

Step 8: Serve the taquitos warm with sour cream, guacamole, chopped cilantro, and extra shredded cheese as desired.

Tips & Variations

For a spicier kick, use spicy salsa or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling.

Try using corn tortillas for a gluten-free option, but be sure to warm them well to prevent cracking.

Leftover taquitos can be pan-fried for a few minutes in a little oil to restore crispiness.

Add diced jalapeños or chopped green chilies to the filling for extra flavor.

FAQs

Can I freeze these chicken taquitos?

Yes, you can freeze uncooked taquitos by placing them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen with a few extra minutes added to the baking time.