Easy homemade Chicken Taquitos are the perfect dish for any occasion. These crispy, flavorful rolls filled with shredded chicken, creamy cheese, and zesty salsa are sure to please everyone at your table. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering, family dinner, or simply craving a tasty snack, Chicken Taquitos bring comfort and satisfaction in every bite. Plus, they can be baked or fried, making them versatile enough to suit your cooking style.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Make: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these delicious taquitos in no time.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of cream cheese, salsa, and spices creates a rich and savory filling that’s hard to resist.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients or adjust the spices to suit your tastes.
• Perfect for Sharing: Ideal as appetizers or finger foods for parties, these taquitos are always a hit among guests.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein from the chicken and fiber from spinach, these taquitos can be a wholesome choice.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing Chicken Taquitos even easier. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick griddle
• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet (for baked taquitos)
• Large skillet (for frying)
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick griddle: Ensures tortillas cook evenly without sticking, making them easy to handle.
• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl is essential for combining all the filling ingredients smoothly.
• Baking sheet: Perfect for baking taquitos to achieve that crispy texture without deep frying.
• Large skillet: Ideal for frying taquitos quickly and evenly when you crave that extra crunch.

Ingredients

Easy homemade Chicken Taquitos made with shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, and a creamy salsa blend rolled in tortillas and baked or fried until crispy.

For the Filling

• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (I use rotisserie)
• 6 ounces cream cheese (softened)
• 1/4 cup salsa (your favorite kind)
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup baby spinach leaves (chopped)
• 1/4 teaspoon cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
• salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

For the Tortillas

• 15-20 corn or flour tortillas

For Garnish

• Guacamole
• Sour cream
• Salsa
• Hot sauce

this recipe

How to Make Chicken Taquitos

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, salsa, and sour cream. Stir until smooth. Add in the shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, chopped spinach, cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Step 2: Prepare the Tortillas

If using corn tortillas:
– Heat a non-stick griddle over medium-high heat.
– Cook each tortilla for about 15-30 seconds on each side until soft and pliable.
– Place them on a plate covered with tinfoil to keep warm.

Step 3: Roll the Taquitos

Take a large spoonful of the filling mixture and place it in a line along each tortilla. Roll tightly from one end to another. Secure with toothpicks if necessary.

Step 4: Bake the Taquitos

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F. Spray the tops of your rolled taquitos with cooking spray or brush lightly with oil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Fry the Taquitos (Optional)

For those who prefer frying:
– Heat about 1½ inches of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
– Once hot (the tortillas should sizzle upon contact), fry small batches of taquitos for a few seconds on each side until golden brown.
– Transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 6: Serve

Serve your delicious Chicken Taquitos warm with guacamole, salsa, and sour cream on the side for dipping. Enjoy!

How to Serve Chicken Taquitos

Chicken Taquitos are a delightful dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a family dinner, these crispy treats pair well with different dips and sides.

With Dips

• Guacamole: A creamy avocado dip that adds richness and flavor.
• Salsa: Choose your favorite salsa for a fresh, zesty complement.
• Sour Cream: This tangy addition balances the spices in the taquitos.
• Hot Sauce: For those who enjoy an extra kick of heat.

As Part of a Platter

• Taco Bar: Offer an array of toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, and cheese for guests to customize their taquitos.
• Nachos: Serve alongside cheesy nachos for a fun, shareable meal.
• Salad: A fresh side salad can lighten the meal and add some crunch.

As a Snack

• Appetizer Bites: Cut taquitos into smaller pieces for easy snacking during parties.
• Lunch Box Treats: Pack them in lunchboxes with some dipping sauces for a tasty midday meal.

How to Perfect Chicken Taquitos

Perfecting Chicken Taquitos is all about attention to detail. With the right techniques, you can enhance their flavor and texture.

• Bold seasoning: Ensure you season your filling adequately for maximum flavor.
• Use fresh tortillas: Fresh tortillas yield better texture and flavor than stale ones.
• Don’t overfill: Avoid overstuffing the tortillas to prevent them from tearing during cooking.
• Crispy finish: Brush with oil or spray with cooking spray before baking or frying for extra crispiness.
• Heat properly: Ensure your oil is hot enough when frying to achieve that golden-brown color.
• Experiment with variations: Try different fillings like beans or peppers to switch things up.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Taquitos

Pairing side dishes with Chicken Taquitos enhances your meal experience. Here are some delicious options to consider:

1. Mexican Rice: A flavorful rice dish seasoned with spices that complements the taquitos perfectly.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy beans offer a hearty side that pairs well with the crunchy taquitos.
3. Corn Salad: A fresh salad made with corn, tomatoes, and lime adds brightness to your plate.
4. Chips and Salsa: Classic tortilla chips served with salsa provide an extra crunch and flavor contrast.
5. Black Bean Soup: A warm soup that can be enjoyed as an appetizer alongside your taquitos.
6. Grilled Vegetables: Roasted or grilled veggies add color and nutrition to your meal while balancing flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chicken Taquitos at home can be easy, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect your results.

• Using cold ingredients: Always ensure your cream cheese is softened before mixing. Cold ingredients can create a lumpy filling.
• Skipping the seasoning: Don’t forget to taste your filling. Adjust the spices to enhance flavor; bland filling leads to bland taquitos.
• Overfilling the tortillas: Be careful not to add too much filling. Overfilled taquitos can burst while cooking, creating a mess.
• Not warming tortillas: If using corn tortillas, warm them on a griddle first. This step prevents tearing and makes them easier to roll.
• Cooking at the wrong temperature: Baking or frying at inappropriate temperatures can lead to soggy or burnt taquitos. Always preheat your oven or oil properly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooked Chicken Taquitos in an airtight container.
• They will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Make sure they have cooled completely before sealing.

Freezing Chicken Taquitos

• Place unbaked or baked taquitos in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to airtight containers or freezer bags, removing as much air as possible.
• They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Chicken Taquitos

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the taquitos on a baking sheet and reheat for 10-15 minutes until crispy.
• Microwave: For quick reheating, place taquitos on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 30 seconds to 1 minute, but they may lose crispiness.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally until warmed through and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Chicken Taquitos ahead of time?

You can prepare the filling and assemble the taquitos ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking or frying.

How do I customize my Chicken Taquitos?

Feel free to add different vegetables or use another type of cheese. You can also spice it up with jalapeños or switch out the chicken for shredded beef.

What dipping sauces go best with Chicken Taquitos?

Popular options include guacamole, sour cream, salsa, and hot sauce. Each adds its own flavor profile that complements the taquitos well.

Can I bake my Chicken Taquitos instead of frying?

Yes! Baking is a healthier option that still yields deliciously crispy results when prepared correctly.

What is the best way to serve Chicken Taquitos?

Serve them warm with various dips on the side like fresh salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for added flavor and enjoyment.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Taquitos are a delightful dish that combines convenience and flavor. They are perfect for weeknight dinners or parties and offer plenty of room for customization based on your preferences. Try adding different proteins or vegetables to make this recipe uniquely yours!

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Chicken Taquitos

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• Author: Madison
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x

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Description

Easy homemade Chicken Taquitos are a crowd-pleasing dish that shines at any gathering, from casual family dinners to festive parties. These crispy rolled tortillas are filled with a delicious blend of shredded chicken, creamy cheese, and zesty salsa, delivering unbeatable flavor in every bite. Whether you choose to bake or fry them, Chicken Taquitos offer versatility and comfort that satisfies your cravings. Quick to prepare and customizable to your taste preferences, they make for an ideal appetizer or snack. Serve with guacamole, sour cream, and salsa for the ultimate dipping experience.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 6 ounces cream cheese
• 1/4 cup salsa
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup chopped baby spinach
• 15–20 corn or flour tortillas

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Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, salsa, and sour cream until smooth.
2. Stir in shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, spinach, cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper until well mixed.
3. Warm tortillas on a griddle for easier rolling.
4. Spoon filling onto each tortilla and roll tightly; secure with toothpicks if needed.
5. Bake at 425°F for 15-20 minutes or fry in oil until golden brown.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking/Frying
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 taquitos (100g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 14g
• Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: Customize by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. For added crispiness, lightly brush taquitos with oil before baking or frying.