Chicken Taquitos

These crispy, golden Chicken Taquitos are a crowd-pleasing favorite, stuffed with taco-seasoned shredded chicken and melty mozzarella cheese. Perfect for any occasion, they’re a delightful bite-sized snack or appetizer.

Fried to perfection, these taquitos offer a satisfying crunch with each bite, making them ideal for parties or casual gatherings. Serve with fresh toppings like shredded lettuce, sour cream, and guacamole for an irresistible combination.

Quick and easy to make, this recipe delivers both flavor and convenience. With minimal prep time, you’ll have a platter of savory taquitos ready to impress your guests in no time.

Chicken Taquitos Ingredients

Shredded chicken serves as the flavorful base, infused with taco seasoning for a zesty kick. Mozzarella adds a rich, melty texture that complements the crispy corn tortillas. Fresh iceberg lettuce, sour cream, and guacamole bring vibrant freshness and creaminess, while pico de gallo adds a burst of tangy, juicy flavor. These ingredients come together to create the perfect balance of textures and tastes in each crispy taquito.

Chicken Taquitos Recipe Tips

1. Keep the Tortillas Flexible
   The key to perfectly rolled taquitos lies in the flexibility of the tortillas. To avoid cracking when rolling, warm the tortillas in the microwave, wrapped in a kitchen towel. This makes them pliable, ensuring they hold their shape and don’t break during the frying process. Be sure to cover any unused tortillas with a damp towel to keep them soft.
2. Customize the Filling
   While the classic combination of shredded chicken, mozzarella, and taco seasoning is delicious, you can make these taquitos your own. Add ingredients like diced onions, bell peppers, or black beans for extra flavor and texture. For a spicier kick, try mixing in chopped jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce into the filling before rolling the tortillas.
3. Achieve Crispy Perfection
   The secret to crispy, golden taquitos is maintaining the right oil temperature. If the oil is too hot, the taquitos may burn on the outside before the filling heats through. If the oil is too cold, they will absorb too much grease. Heat the oil to a medium-high temperature (around 350°F) and fry in small batches, turning occasionally for even cooking. Once they’re golden and crispy, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

What to Serve with Chicken Taquitos

1. Mexican Rice
   A side of fluffy Mexican rice is a perfect accompaniment to these taquitos. Its light, aromatic flavor balances the richness of the taquitos and adds a comforting, hearty touch. You can make it with tomatoes, onions, and a hint of cumin for a flavorful side that complements the taquitos’ crispy texture.
2. Refried Beans
   Smooth, creamy refried beans pair wonderfully with Chicken Taquitos. Their mild flavor and creamy texture offer a nice contrast to the crunchy taquitos. Whether served plain or topped with cheese, a side of refried beans adds substance and a satisfying element to your meal.
3. Crisp, Fresh Salad
   To keep the meal balanced and fresh, serve the taquitos with a simple salad made of mixed greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes. A tangy lime dressing will add a zesty contrast to the rich flavors of the taquitos. The crispness of the salad is a light, refreshing counterpoint to the fried richness of the taquitos.

FAQ

1. Can I make Chicken Taquitos ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the taquitos ahead of time by assembling them and storing them in the refrigerator for up to 4 hours before frying. Just be sure to cover them with a damp towel to prevent the tortillas from drying out. When ready, fry as instructed for a quick and easy meal.
2. Can I bake these taquitos instead of frying?
   Absolutely! To bake the taquitos, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush them lightly with oil and bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes or until golden and crispy. This method provides a healthier alternative to frying while still delivering a satisfying crunch.
3. Can I freeze leftover taquitos?
   Yes, you can freeze the taquitos after frying. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1 hour. After freezing, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. To reheat, bake them at 400°F for 15-20 minutes or until crispy.
4. Can I use a different cheese for the filling?
   While mozzarella is the classic choice for its meltiness, feel free to experiment with other cheeses. Cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese will work beautifully, adding extra flavor. For a sharper taste, try using a mix of cheddar and queso blanco.

Chicken Taquitos

These homemade Chicken Taquitos are filled with seasoned shredded chicken and gooey mozzarella, offering a crispy, golden exterior that’s perfect for any party or gathering. Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch with a deliciously flavorful filling, making them a crowd favorite.

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 6 People

Ingredients

  

• 12 corn tortillas 6-inch
• 4 cups shredded chicken
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tablespoon taco seasoning store-bought or homemade
• 1 ½ cups vegetable oil for frying
• 2 cups shredded iceberg lettuce
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup guacamole store-bought or homemade
• 1 cup pico de gallo store-bought or homemade

Instructions

 

• Begin by warming the tortillas. Wrap them in a kitchen towel and microwave them for about 1 minute, or until they become pliable and easy to handle.
• In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mozzarella, and taco seasoning. Take one tortilla at a time and place ⅓ cup of the chicken mixture along the center. Carefully roll the tortilla tightly around the filling, securing it with a toothpick to hold it in place. For best results, cover the rolled taquitos with a damp towel to prevent the tortillas from cracking.
• Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the taquitos in small batches, turning them occasionally for even cooking. Fry for 1-2 minutes on each side until golden brown. This process should take about 10 minutes. Once cooked, transfer the taquitos to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
• Serve the taquitos immediately, garnished with shredded iceberg lettuce, sour cream, guacamole, and pico de gallo or salsa.

Notes

For larger batches, you can keep the finished taquitos warm by placing them on a baking sheet in a 250°F oven until ready to serve.

Keyword Chicken Taquitos