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Crispy Chicken Taquitos

crispy chicken taquitos - featured image

These crispy chicken taquitos feature tender, flavorful shredded chicken wrapped in a golden, crunchy tortilla, perfect for quick dinners, snacks, or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese
  • 12 small corn or flour tortillas
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • About 1 cup vegetable oil or canola oil for frying (or cooking spray if baking)
  • Optional: finely chopped jalapeños, chopped cilantro, or a squeeze of lime juice

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Filling (10 minutes): In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken with shredded cheese. Add chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, smoked paprika (optional), salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly. Add jalapeños or lime juice if desired.
  2. Warm the Tortillas (5 minutes): Wrap tortillas in a damp towel and microwave for 30 seconds or heat individually on a dry skillet for 15 seconds per side to prevent cracking.
  3. Fill and Roll (10 minutes): Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture near one edge of each tortilla. Roll tightly, folding in sides gently. Secure with toothpicks if needed.
  4. Cook the Taquitos: For frying, heat about 1 inch of oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry taquitos seam side down for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels. For baking, preheat oven to 425°F (220°C), place taquitos seam side down on a wire rack over a baking sheet, lightly oil spray, and bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway.
  5. Serve and Enjoy (5 minutes): Remove toothpicks if used, plate taquitos, and serve with toppings like guacamole, sour cream, or salsa.

Notes

Roll taquitos tightly to prevent unrolling during cooking. Warm tortillas before rolling to avoid cracking. Maintain oil temperature at 350°F for frying. Use a wire rack when baking for even crisping. Taquitos can be made ahead and refrigerated or frozen before cooking.

Nutrition

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