Introduction
There’s something irresistibly delightful about indulging in crispy chicken taquitos. These little rolls of joy are packed with a savory filling and fried to golden perfection, making them the ultimate comfort food for any occasion. Whether it’s game day, a party, or a cozy night in, these taquitos are sure to bring smiles to the table. Serve them with a side of sour cream and guacamole, and you’ve got yourself a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 10-12 small corn or flour tortillas
- Cooking oil for frying
- Sour cream and guacamole for serving
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 10-12 taquitos
Directions and Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cheese, salsa, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined, creating a savory filling that bursts with flavor.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat, enough to cover the bottom of the pan generously for frying.
- Wrap the tortillas in a damp cloth and microwave for 30-60 seconds, until they are warm and pliable — this will make them easier to roll.
- Spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto the lower third of each tortilla. The filling should be heaped just enough to give you that satisfying bite without spilling out.
- Roll the tortillas tightly around the filling, securing them closed with toothpicks if necessary, to ensure they hold their shape while frying.
- Carefully place the rolled taquitos into the hot oil, seam side down, and fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes on each side. Keep an eye on them to achieve that perfect crisp!
- Remove the taquitos from the oil and let them drain on paper towels to absorb any excess oil, ensuring they stay crispy.
- Serve hot with a side of sour cream and guacamole, and enjoy the crunchy texture paired with the creamy dips!
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to customize the filling! You can add your favorite spices or sautéed vegetables for an extra flavor boost.
- For a healthier version, try baking the taquitos in the oven at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway for even crispness.
- If you have leftovers, store any unfilled tortillas wrapped in plastic to keep them soft for your next batch.
Cooking Techniques
Frying is the key technique here, giving the taquitos that beloved crispy exterior. Be sure to maintain a consistent temperature in the oil; too hot and they’ll burn, too cold and they’ll absorb too much oil. For baking, brush the taquitos lightly with oil before placing them on a lined baking sheet to achieve that desired crispiness without deep frying.
FAQ
- Can I use frozen chicken? Absolutely! Just make sure it’s fully cooked and shredded before mixing it with the other ingredients.
- What other spices can I add? Consider adding smoked paprika, onion powder, or crushed red pepper for a bit of heat!
- How can I store leftovers? Store any leftover taquitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best crispiness.
Conclusion
These crispy chicken taquitos are more than just a snack; they’re a delightful experience that brings joy to every bite. With their satisfying crunch and delicious filling, they’re perfect for gatherings or a cozy evening at home. So gather your loved ones, serve these golden treats, and enjoy the smiles they bring! Happy cooking!