Homemade Chicken Taquitos Recipe
These homemade chicken taquitos are crispy on the outside, cheesy on the inside, and bursting with flavor! Perfect for a snack, appetizer, or a delicious meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 8 small flour tortillas
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the chicken filling: In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, salsa, cumin, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together until the mixture is well-combined and creamy.
- Assemble the taquitos: Place each tortilla flat on a surface and spoon the chicken mixture evenly down the center of each tortilla. Be sure not to overstuff to avoid spills while rolling. Then, roll the tortilla tightly around the filling to form a taquito.
- Brush with olive oil: Lightly brush each taquito with olive oil to ensure they turn golden and crispy during baking.
- Bake: Place the taquitos on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they’re spaced apart so they bake evenly. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the taquitos are golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Once baked, remove the taquitos from the oven. Allow them to cool slightly before serving with your favorite dipping sauce, like guacamole, sour cream, or salsa.
Q&A Section
Q1: Can I use a different type of cheese for the taquitos?
A1: Yes! You can substitute the cheddar cheese with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Mexican blend cheese, or pepper jack for a spicier kick. The choice of cheese depends on your personal preference.
Q2: Can I make the chicken filling in advance?
A2: Absolutely! You can make the chicken filling a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the taquitos. This makes the preparation even quicker when you’re ready to bake them.
Q3: Can I fry these taquitos instead of baking them?
A3: Yes, you can! If you prefer a fried version, heat some oil in a pan and fry the taquitos for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Be sure to drain the excess oil on paper towels before serving.
Q4: What type of tortillas should I use for this recipe?
A4: Small flour tortillas work best for this recipe as they roll tightly and crisp up nicely in the oven. You can also use corn tortillas if you prefer a gluten-free option, but keep in mind that corn tortillas may not roll as easily and could crack.
Q5: Can I add vegetables to the filling?
A5: Absolutely! Feel free to add ingredients like sautéed onions, bell peppers, or corn to the chicken mixture to customize the flavor and texture of your taquitos.
Q6: How do I store leftover taquitos?
A6: To store leftovers, let the taquitos cool completely, then place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F for 5-7 minutes until they are crispy again.
Q7: Can I freeze the taquitos?
A7: Yes! You can freeze the taquitos before baking. Arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to cook, bake straight from the freezer at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes.
Conclusion:
These Homemade Chicken Taquitos are a fun and delicious way to enjoy a crunchy, cheesy snack or meal. They’re easy to make, customizable, and perfect for serving at parties, family dinners, or for meal prep. Try this recipe today, and don’t forget to pair them with a tasty dipping sauce! Enjoy! 🌮