Crispy Chicken Taquitos

Few things are as satisfying as biting into a perfectly crispy taquito with a creamy, flavorful filling inside. These Crispy Chicken Taquitos are golden, crunchy, and packed with seasoned shredded chicken and melty cheese, making them a hit with both kids and adults. They’re easy to make, quicker than you’d expect, and far healthier than store-bought frozen taquitos. Whether you need a fun weeknight dinner, a crowd-pleasing appetizer, or a snack for game day, this homemade chicken taquitos recipe fits right in.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy and golden without deep frying
• Made with simple, everyday ingredients
• Great for dinner, snacks, or parties
• Easy to bake or air fry
• Freezer-friendly and meal-prep approved

Ingredients

• Cooked shredded chicken – The hearty, protein-packed base; rotisserie chicken works perfectly
• Cream cheese – Makes the filling rich, creamy, and smooth
• Shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese – Adds melty, savory flavor
• Salsa – Brings moisture and a punch of tomato-forward flavor
• Garlic powder – Adds subtle savory depth
• Chili powder – Provides mild warmth and color
• Cumin – Gives the filling a warm, earthy note
• Salt and black pepper – Balance and enhance all the flavors
• Small flour or corn tortillas – Hold everything together and crisp up beautifully
• Cooking spray or oil – Helps the taquitos turn golden and crunchy

Optional Toppings

• Chopped fresh cilantro
• Sour cream
• Guacamole
• Extra shredded cheese

How to Make Crispy Chicken Taquitos

Prep the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

Make the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, shredded cheese, salsa, garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix until everything is well combined and creamy.

Warm the Tortillas

Warm the tortillas in the microwave for about 20 seconds to make them soft and pliable. This helps prevent cracking when rolling.

Assemble the Taquitos

Spoon 2–3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto one side of each tortilla. Roll them up tightly and place seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake Until Crispy

Lightly brush the taquitos with oil or spray them with cooking spray. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. For extra crunch, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end, watching closely.

Serve

Serve warm with sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or your favorite toppings.

Tips for Success

• Warm tortillas well before rolling to avoid splitting
• Don’t overfill, or the taquitos may open while baking
• Place seam-side down to keep them tightly rolled
• For extra crispiness, use a light coating of oil

Equipment Needed

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or cooking spray
• Large mixing bowl
• Spoon or spatula
• Microwave (for warming tortillas)

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Chicken Taquitos: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the filling
• Cheesy Taquitos: Increase the shredded cheese or add pepper jack for more heat
• Low-Carb Option: Use low-carb tortillas or serve the filling in lettuce wraps
• Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos: Cook at 400°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through

Serving Suggestions

Serve these crispy chicken taquitos with Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh green salad. They’re also great alongside chips and salsa for a fun appetizer spread.

FAQs

Can I freeze chicken taquitos?
Yes, assemble the taquitos, freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
Are corn tortillas better than flour?
Corn tortillas give a more traditional flavor and are gluten-free, but they need to be warmed well to prevent cracking.
Can I use leftover chicken?
Absolutely. Any cooked, shredded chicken works well.
How do I store leftovers?
Store baked taquitos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven or air fryer.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble them a day ahead and bake just before serving.

Final Thoughts

These Crispy Chicken Taquitos are everything you want in a homemade comfort food: crunchy, creamy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you bake them for a quick family dinner or air fry them for a snack, this easy chicken taquitos recipe is sure to become a regular favorite. Give them a try and don’t forget to customize them with your favorite toppings.

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