Description
These crispy homemade taquitos are filled with seasoned shredded chicken and cheese, then baked or fried until golden and crunchy. They’re perfect as a snack, appetizer, or family dinner and pair wonderfully with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.
Ingredients
Filling
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican cheese blend
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Taquito Assembly
- 10 small corn tortillas
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for baking) or oil for frying
Serving
- Salsa, sour cream, and guacamole for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the filling: In a medium bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, shredded cheddar or Mexican cheese blend, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to evenly distribute the spices and cheese throughout the chicken.
- Warm the tortillas: Warm the small corn tortillas in a skillet or microwave until they are soft and pliable, which will make them easier to roll without cracking.
- Roll the taquitos: Place 2 to 3 tablespoons of the prepared filling onto each warmed tortilla. Tightly roll up each tortilla around the filling, making sure to keep the seam side down to help them stay closed during cooking.
- Cook the taquitos: For baking, arrange the rolled taquitos seam-side down on a baking sheet and brush them lightly with vegetable oil. Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 15 to 20 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy. Alternatively, heat oil for frying in a skillet and fry the taquitos until golden and crisp on all sides. Drain excess oil on paper towels if fried.
- Serve: Serve the crispy taquitos hot with salsa, sour cream, and guacamole on the side for dipping and enhanced flavor.
Notes
- Ground beef or black beans make excellent substitutes for chicken, catering to different tastes or dietary preferences.
- For a lighter option, air fry the taquitos at 400°F (200°C) for 8 to 10 minutes until crispy.
- Leftover taquitos can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or air fryer for best texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
