These Homemade Chicken Taquitos are crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making them a perfect go-to meal or snack. Whether you’re using flour or corn tortillas, this recipe is flexible and easy to make with ingredients you probably already have at home. For this version, we’re using rotisserie chicken, cream cheese, and salsa to create a rich, creamy filling. These taquitos can be fried to perfection in just a few minutes and served with your favorite dipping sauces.
If you’re a fan of Buffalo chicken, you’re in luck—we’re planning to try that version next! In the meantime, enjoy this classic take on chicken taquitos.
Ingredients:
- 1 rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 1 block (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- ⅓ cup sour cream
- ½ cup salsa (your favorite kind)
- 1½ cups shredded cheese (any variety—cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend work well)
- Flour or corn tortillas (as many as needed)
- Oil for frying
- Toothpicks (optional, to secure the taquitos)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the shredded rotisserie chicken, cream cheese, sour cream, salsa, and shredded cheese. Mix until all ingredients are well combined and smooth.
- Warm the Tortillas: To make the tortillas easier to roll, warm them in the microwave for 20-30 seconds.
- Assemble the Taquitos: Place 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture in the center of each tortilla. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling and, if necessary, secure it with a toothpick to prevent it from unrolling.
- Fry the Taquitos: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a thin layer of oil. Fry each taquito for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden and crispy. Once cooked, place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Serve: Serve the taquitos warm with extra sour cream, salsa, guacamole, or any dipping sauce of your choice.
Tips and Variations:
- Baked Option: If you want to cut down on oil, you can bake the taquitos instead of frying them. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the rolled taquitos on a baking sheet, and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
- Buffalo Chicken Version: For a spicy twist, try making Buffalo chicken taquitos by swapping out the salsa for ½ cup of Buffalo sauce. Add blue cheese crumbles for extra flavor and serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
- Add Veggies: Mix in some finely chopped vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or onions into the chicken filling for extra nutrition.
- Use Different Meats: While rotisserie chicken is convenient, you can use shredded beef, pork, or even ground turkey in place of the chicken.
- Cheese Variations: For a creamier filling, you can use a combination of cheeses like pepper jack, mozzarella, or Colby jack, depending on your taste preference.
How to Store:
- Refrigerate: Leftover taquitos can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
- Freeze: You can freeze uncooked taquitos for a quick snack later. Roll them up as directed, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze for about an hour. Once frozen, transfer the taquitos to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to eat, fry or bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
FAQs:
- Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
- Yes! Corn tortillas work great for taquitos and are more traditional. Just be sure to warm them slightly before rolling to avoid cracking.
- How do I keep the taquitos from unrolling?
- If you’re worried about the taquitos unrolling during frying, secure them with toothpicks. Be sure to remove the toothpicks before serving.
- Can I make these taquitos ahead of time?
- Yes, you can assemble the taquitos ahead of time and either refrigerate or freeze them until ready to cook. If refrigerating, cook them within 24 hours. If freezing, they can last up to 3 months.
- What can I serve with taquitos?
- Taquitos pair perfectly with dipping sauces like sour cream, salsa, guacamole, or queso. For a heartier meal, serve them with a side of Mexican rice or refried beans.
- Can I air fry the taquitos?
- Yes, for a healthier option, you can air fry the taquitos at 375°F for 8-10 minutes, turning them halfway through until crispy and golden.
These Homemade Chicken Taquitos are a fun and tasty dish that can be customized in many ways to suit your preferences. Whether you like them fried, baked, or air-fried, they’re guaranteed to be a hit with family and friends! Enjoy experimenting with different flavors and fillings for this versatile recipe.