Name: Crispy Chicken Taquitos
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese; 1 tsp chili powder; 1/2 tsp ground cumin; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/4 tsp onion powder; Salt and black pepper to taste; 16 small corn tortillas (or small flour tortillas); 2-3 cups high smoke point oil for frying (e.g., canola, vegetable, or peanut oil) OR olive oil spray for baking/air frying; Optional: Fresh cilantro, lime juice for filling; For serving: Guacamole, salsa, sour cream

Description

Learn how to make Crispy Chicken Taquitos with our easy step-by-step guide for the best flavor. These golden, crunchy beauties are packed with a creamy, savory chicken filling that’s truly irresistible.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese
1 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp onion powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
16 small corn tortillas (or small flour tortillas)
2–3 cups high smoke point oil for frying (e.g., canola, vegetable, or peanut oil) OR olive oil spray for baking/air frying
Optional: Fresh cilantro, lime juice for filling
For serving: Guacamole, salsa, sour cream

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken Filling: In a medium bowl, combine shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, shredded cheese, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and creamy.
2. Warm Tortillas: Wrap 5-6 tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave for 30-45 seconds, or heat individually in a dry skillet until pliable. This prevents cracking.
3. Fill and Roll Taquitos: Place 1-2 tablespoons of chicken filling in a line across one edge of a warm tortilla. Tightly roll the tortilla into a cylinder. Place seam-side down. Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling.
4. Cook Taquitos (Frying Method): Heat 1-2 inches of oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet to 350-375°F (175-190°C). Carefully place a few taquitos, seam-side down first, into the hot oil. Fry for 2-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy on all sides.
OR Cook Taquitos (Baking Method): Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray taquitos with oil and arrange on a baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
OR Cook Taquitos (Air Fryer Method): Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray taquitos with oil. Place in a single layer in the basket. Cook for 8-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
5. Drain and Serve: Transfer cooked taquitos to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve immediately with your favorite dips like guacamole, salsa, and sour cream.

Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins