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Crispy Chicken Taquitos

These crispy chicken taquitos are golden, cheesy, and totally addictive. Made with shredded chicken, cheese, and spices, they’re baked or air-fried to perfection. Perfect as a party snack, weeknight dinner, or freezer-friendly meal prep hero!
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Appetizer, Main Course, Snack
Cuisine Mexican-Inspired, Tex-Mex
Servings 4
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet or air fryer
  • Microwave (for softening tortillas)
  • Cooking spray or brush for oil
  • Spoon or spatula

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (e.g. rotisserie or leftovers)
  • 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar, pepper jack, or a mix
  • 1/3 cup cream cheese softened
  • 1/4 cup salsa your choice of heat level
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 8 –10 small flour tortillas
  • Olive oil spray or light cooking oil
  • Optional add-ins: diced jalapeños chopped cilantro, lime zest

Instructions
 

Make the Filling:

  • In a bowl, combine shredded chicken, cream cheese, shredded cheese, salsa, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Warm the Tortillas:

  • Microwave tortillas for 15–20 seconds under a damp paper towel to soften them.

Roll the Taquitos:

  • Place 2 tablespoons of filling near the edge of each tortilla. Roll tightly and place seam-side down on a tray or plate.

Crisp Them Up (Choose Your Method):

  • Oven-Baked: Preheat to 425°F (220°C). Place taquitos on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spray or brush with oil, and bake for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway.
  • Air Fryer: Preheat to 400°F (200°C). Place taquitos in a single layer in the basket. Spray lightly with oil and cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping once.
  • Pan-Fried: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry each taquito 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crispy.

Serve Hot:

  • Pair with guacamole, sour cream, salsa, or chipotle mayo. Enjoy immediately!

Notes

Freezer-friendly: Freeze rolled (uncooked) taquitos on a tray, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Bake or air fry directly from frozen—just add 3–5 mins to cook time.
Leftovers: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in air fryer or oven to maintain crispiness.
Customize: Swap chicken for beef, pork, or beans. Try different cheese blends or spice levels to suit your taste.
Keyword baked taquitos, crispy chicken taquitos