Chicken Taquitos Recipe

why make this recipe

Chicken taquitos are a delicious and easy meal option that’s perfect for any day of the week. They are crispy on the outside and filled with creamy, cheesy goodness on the inside. This recipe is not only flavorful, but it’s also a great way to use up leftover chicken. With minimal ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can whip up a batch of taquitos that will please your family and friends.

how to make Chicken Taquitos

Ingredients :

6 ounces cream cheese, softened
¼ cup sour cream
1 (4.5-ounce) can green chiles, well-drained
½ teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon chili powder
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon onion powder
1 cup finely shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup finely shredded pepper jack cheese
2 cups finely diced cooked chicken
Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper, to taste
8 (8-inch) flour or corn tortillas (see notes)
Vegetable oil for frying

Directions :

In a large bowl, mix together the cream cheese, sour cream, green chiles, ground cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, shredded cheddar cheese, shredded pepper jack cheese, and diced chicken. Season with kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste.
Spoon the mixture in a line across the top third of a tortilla. Roll the tortilla tightly and secure it with a toothpick.
Heat 1-1½ inches of oil in a cast iron skillet or heavy pot like a Dutch oven. Using tongs, carefully add a few taquitos and fry for about 3 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Work in batches and remove to a paper towel-lined plate or platter as they are fried. Carefully remove the toothpicks.

how to serve Chicken Taquitos

Serve your chicken taquitos hot, straight from the fryer. They go well with fresh salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for dipping. You can also add toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, or sliced olives for extra flavor.

how to store Chicken Taquitos

If you have leftovers, let the taquitos cool completely before storing them. Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for about 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat them in the oven for a crispy texture or in the microwave for a quicker option.

tips to make Chicken Taquitos

Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the taquitos to get that perfect crispy texture.
Don’t overfill the tortillas to prevent them from breaking when rolling.
Feel free to adjust the spices based on your taste preferences. More chili powder can add extra kick.

variation

You can easily switch up the fillings by using shredded beef or beans instead of chicken. Adding different types of cheese or seasoning can also change the flavor profile for a fun twist.

FAQs

Q: Can I bake Chicken Taquitos instead of frying them?
A: Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the rolled taquitos on a baking sheet, brush them with oil, and bake for about 20 minutes or until golden and crispy.

Q: Can I prepare the filling in advance?
A: Absolutely! You can make the filling a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready, just fill the tortillas and fry or bake them.

Q: What can I use instead of cream cheese?
A: If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute Greek yogurt for the cream cheese. It will change the flavor slightly but still taste great!