Crispy Chicken Taquitos – Golden, Crunchy, and Flavor-Packed 🌮
Crispy Chicken Taquitos are golden, crunchy, and filled with creamy, flavorful shredded chicken, perfect as a snack, appetizer, or quick dinner. Oven-baked or air-fried for healthier homemade enjoyment.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 taquitos
- Category: Appetizer, Dinner, Snack
- Method: Baking, Air Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works great)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- ¼ cup salsa (mild or spicy)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp cumin
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- Cooking spray or oil for brushing
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- In a large bowl, mix shredded chicken, cream cheese, shredded cheese, salsa, garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Warm tortillas in microwave for 20 seconds to make pliable.
- Spoon 2–3 tablespoons of filling onto one side of each tortilla and roll tightly.
- Place taquitos seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Lightly brush with oil or spray with cooking spray.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes or until golden and crispy; optionally broil 1–2 minutes for extra crispiness.
- Serve warm with optional toppings like sour cream, guacamole, or extra cheese.
Notes
- Use corn tortillas for a gluten-free option, warming them to prevent cracking.
- Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Taquitos can be frozen—assemble, freeze, and bake straight from frozen when ready.
- Air fryer option: cook at 400°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through.