Chicken Taquitos are the ultimate go-to recipe, perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even a meal, these golden, rolled tortillas filled with tender, seasoned chicken are a delicious way to satisfy your cravings.
What Are Chicken Taquitos?
Chicken taquitos, also known as flautas in some regions, are small, rolled tortillas filled with shredded chicken and fried or baked until crispy. Originating from Mexican cuisine, they’ve become a beloved dish worldwide, thanks to their irresistible combination of crunch and savory filling.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Chicken Taquitos
- Shredding the Chicken: Use a hand mixer or two forks to shred cooked chicken quickly. Rotisserie chicken is an excellent shortcut for this recipe.
- Warm the Tortillas: Heat the tortillas in a damp paper towel in the microwave for about 20 seconds. This prevents cracking when rolling.
- Don’t Overfill: Stick to about 2 tablespoons of filling per taquito to avoid overstuffing, which can lead to them unrolling during cooking.
- Seal the Edges: Use a toothpick or a small dab of flour paste (flour and water mix) to keep the taquitos securely rolled.
- Cooking Methods: While frying gives the crispiest texture, baking or air-frying is a healthier alternative that doesn’t skimp on crunch.
Variations
Chicken taquitos are endlessly adaptable. Here are some popular twists:
- Cheesy Chicken Taquitos: Mix shredded cheese like Monterey Jack, cheddar, or queso fresco into the chicken filling for a creamy, melty surprise.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños, chipotle in adobo, or hot sauce to the filling for some heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with seasoned black beans, mashed sweet potatoes, or sautéed vegetables for a meatless alternative.
- Buffalo Chicken Taquitos: Toss the chicken in buffalo sauce and pair it with blue cheese crumbles for a tangy twist.
How to Serve Chicken Taquitos
- Classic Dips: Serve with guacamole, sour cream, or salsa for dipping.
- On a Platter: Arrange taquitos on a platter with toppings like shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes, and sliced olives for a taquito “nacho” experience.
- As a Meal: Pair with Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh side salad.
- Kid-Friendly: Offer alongside ketchup or mild queso dip for little ones.
How to Store and Reheat Chicken Taquitos
- Refrigeration: Store leftover taquitos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Let cooked taquitos cool completely, then place them on a baking sheet in the freezer until solid. Transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.
Recipe FAQs
1. Can I make chicken taquitos ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare and roll the taquitos, then refrigerate or freeze them before cooking. This makes them perfect for meal prep or entertaining.
2. What’s the best tortilla to use for taquitos?
Corn tortillas are traditional and get the crispiest results. However, small flour tortillas can be used for a softer texture.
3. Can I bake taquitos instead of frying them?
Yes! Bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes, turning halfway through, or air-fry them at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes. Brush them with oil for extra crispiness.
4. What can I do if my tortillas keep cracking?
Warming the tortillas and keeping them covered with a damp towel as you work will prevent them from drying out and cracking.
5. What fillings work best in taquitos?
Aside from shredded chicken, shredded beef, pulled pork, or even leftover turkey are great options. Add in your favorite spices and toppings for variety.
Chicken Taquitos
Chicken Taquitos are the ultimate go-to recipe, perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even a meal, these golden, rolled tortillas filled with tender, seasoned chicken are a delicious way to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients
Filling:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works great!)
- 1/4 tsp cumin, 1/4 tsp garlic powder, 1/4 tsp chili powder
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 oz softened cream cheese
- 1/4 cup salsa (your favorite kind)
- 1 cup chopped baby spinach leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Tortillas:
- 15–20 corn or flour tortillas
For Serving:
- Guacamole, sour cream, salsa, hot sauce
Instructions
- Mix cream cheese, salsa, and sour cream in a bowl until smooth. Stir in the chicken, spices, spinach, and cheese. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Warm tortillas on a griddle for 15–30 seconds each to make them pliable. Keep them warm under foil.
- Add a spoonful of filling along each tortilla, roll tightly, and secure with a toothpick if needed.
- Baked: Preheat oven to 425°F. Lightly oil or spray the taquitos, bake for 15–20 minutes until crispy.
- Fried: Heat 1.5 inches of oil in a skillet on medium-high. Fry taquitos in batches, turning until golden and crispy.
- Plate your taquitos with guacamole, salsa, and sour cream. Dig in!
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Amount Per Serving Calories 560
Conclusion
Chicken taquitos are more than just a snack—they’re a versatile, crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to make and full of flavor. Whether you prefer them fried, baked, or air-fried, these crispy rolls are sure to become a favorite in your household. With endless variations, serving options, and storage tips, there’s no reason not to whip up a batch today.
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