Print

Crunchy Chicken Taquitos Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 132 reviews

These Crunchy Taquitos are a delicious and easy-to-make Mexican-inspired appetizer or meal. Filled with a creamy, flavorful chicken mixture and baked until perfectly crispy, they make for a satisfying snack or dinner option. Perfectly paired with guacamole, sour cream, or salsa, these taquitos bring authentic flavors to your table with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Scale

Filling

  • 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
  • 1 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
  • 1/2 cup salsa (choose your preferred heat level)
  • 1 teaspoon taco seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Assembly

  • 10–12 small flour tortillas
  • Cooking spray or olive oil

Optional Toppings

  • Guacamole
  • Sour cream
  • Additional salsa
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Sliced jalapeños

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Prepare the Filling: In a medium mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, shredded cheese, salsa, taco seasoning, fresh lime juice, and chopped cilantro if using. Mix thoroughly until creamy and uniform. Season with salt and pepper to taste to enhance flavor.
  3. Assemble the Taquitos: Warm the flour tortillas in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to make them soft and pliable for rolling. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the chicken filling onto the center of each tortilla. Roll the tortillas tightly from one end to the other, ensuring the filling is secure. Place each rolled taquito seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet to keep them intact during baking.
  4. Coat with Oil: Lightly spray or brush the taquitos with cooking spray or olive oil on top to help them crisp up beautifully in the oven.
  5. Bake the Taquitos: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the taquitos are golden brown and crispy. For even cooking and crunch, flip the taquitos halfway through the baking time.
  6. Serve and Enjoy: Remove the taquitos from the oven and allow them to cool for a minute. Serve with your favorite toppings such as guacamole, sour cream, additional salsa, diced tomatoes, or sliced jalapeños for added flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Warming the tortillas before rolling prevents cracking and makes them easier to handle.
  • Use rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra flavor, or cook and shred your own chicken breast or thighs.
  • Feel free to customize the salsa heat level according to your preference.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute flour tortillas with corn tortillas that are flexible and pliable.
  • Flipping the taquitos halfway through baking ensures even crispiness on all sides.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.

Keywords: Crunchy Taquitos, Chicken Taquitos, Mexican Appetizer, Baked Taquitos, Crispy Taquitos, Easy Mexican Recipe

Find it online: https://cookwithlea.com/crunchy-chicken-taquitos-recipe/