Name: Delicious Crispy Chicken Taquitos
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon cumin; 1/4 teaspoon oregano; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 16 corn tortillas; Vegetable oil, for frying

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Ever craved a satisfying, crispy meal that’s both easy to make and bursting with flavor? These Delicious Crispy Chicken Taquitos are your answer! Imagine sinking your teeth into a golden-brown, perfectly crispy tortilla filled with tender, savory chicken and melty cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun party appetizer, these taquitos are inspired by the heart of home-style Mexican cooking. Let’s dive into this easy and delicious recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Taquitos Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with these amazing Delicious Crispy Chicken Taquitos! They are:

Quick and Easy: Ready in under 45 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Incredibly Flavorful: Layers of savory spices and creamy cheese create an irresistible taste.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit at parties and gatherings.
Customizable: Easily adaptable to your favorite toppings and flavors.
Comfort Food: Warm, crispy, and utterly satisfying.
Beginner-Friendly: Simple enough for even novice cooks to master.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to create these delectable Delicious Crispy Chicken Taquitos. For precise results, follow these tips:

For the Chicken Taquitos Filling:

Chicken Breasts: 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Opt for fresh, plump breasts for the best flavor.
Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon. Extra virgin olive oil adds a rich flavor; regular olive oil works too.
Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped (about 1 cup). Choose a firm onion.
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced. Freshly minced garlic provides the best aroma and flavor.
Chili Powder: 1 teaspoon. Use your favorite brand for consistent results.
Cumin: 1/2 teaspoon. Toast the cumin lightly in a dry pan for enhanced flavor.
Oregano: 1/4 teaspoon, dried. Mexican oregano is especially flavorful.
Salt: 1/4 teaspoon. Sea salt or kosher salt are great choices.
Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon, freshly ground. Freshly ground pepper adds a bolder taste.
Chicken Broth: 1/2 cup (120ml). Use low-sodium broth to control the saltiness.
Cream Cheese: 1/4 cup (60g), softened. Ensure it’s fully softened for smooth mixing.
Cheddar Cheese: 1/2 cup (115g), shredded. Sharp cheddar adds a delicious bite.

For the Taquitos

Corn Tortillas: 16 corn tortillas. Fresh, pliable tortillas are essential to prevent cracking.
Vegetable Oil: Enough for frying (about 1/2 inch in a large skillet). Canola or sunflower oil also work.

Optional Toppings:

Sour cream
Guacamole
Salsa
Shredded lettuce
Diced tomatoes

For the spices, toasting them lightly in a dry skillet before adding them to the recipe unlocks deeper, richer flavors. You can find fresh herbs at local farmers’ markets for the best quality.

Essential Equipment List

Make sure you have these key tools ready to create the perfect Delicious Crispy Chicken Taquitos:

Large Pot: Essential for boiling and shredding the chicken.
Large Skillet: For sautéing the aromatics and combining the filling; a 12-inch skillet is ideal.
Fork: To easily shred the cooked chicken.
Microwave: To warm and soften the tortillas, preventing them from cracking.
Paper Towels: To drain excess oil from the fried taquitos.
Toothpicks (Optional): To secure the taquitos if needed while frying.

Recipe Details

Crispy chicken taquitos stacked on a plate.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 16 taquitos
Difficulty: Easy

Scale up this Delicious Crispy Chicken Taquitos recipe for a party, or halve it for a smaller group!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed steps to create perfect Delicious Crispy Chicken Taquitos every time. Don’t worry it will be delicious :

Prepare the Chicken

In a large pot, cover the chicken breasts with water.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Shred the chicken with two forks and set aside.

Ensure the chicken is fully cooked before shredding for food safety.

Sauté Aromatics

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.

Cooking the spices briefly enhances their aroma and flavor.

Combine Filling

Add the shredded chicken to the skillet.
Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine.
Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Simmering helps the chicken absorb the flavors of the spices and broth.

Add Cheese

Stir in the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened for a smooth, creamy filling.

Warm Tortillas

Wrap the corn tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave for 30-60 seconds, or until pliable. This will prevent them from cracking when rolled.

Warming the tortillas is crucial for easy rolling.

Assemble Taquitos

Place about 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken filling onto each tortilla.
Roll tightly and secure with a toothpick, if needed.

Don’t overfill the tortillas to prevent them from bursting during frying.

Fry Taquitos

Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Once the oil is hot, carefully place the taquitos in the skillet, seam-side down.
Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet.

Maintain a consistent oil temperature for even frying.

Drain and Serve

Remove the taquitos from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Remove toothpicks before serving.

Draining the taquitos ensures they are perfectly crispy and not greasy.

Serve

Golden-brown taquitos filled with chicken.

Serve with your favorite toppings such as sour cream, guacamole, salsa, shredded lettuce, and diced tomatoes.

Top with your favorite garnishes for added flavor and presentation.

For extra depth, deglaze the pan with a splash of broth after sautéing the aromatics to capture all those flavorful browned bits.

CHECK OUT: Easy Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice – A comforting and satisfying dish that complements the crispy taquitos perfectly.

Tips for Success

Here are some expert tips to make your Delicious Crispy Chicken Taquitos even better:

Prevent Soggy Taquitos: Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying.
Avoid Cracking: Warm the tortillas thoroughly in the microwave.
Enhance Flavor: Toast the spices lightly before adding them to the skillet.
Control Saltiness: Use low-sodium chicken broth and adjust salt accordingly.
Get Creative: Customize the filling with your favorite cheeses and vegetables.

Beginners: Pre-measure all your ingredients to streamline the cooking process. A heavy skillet retains heat best, ensuring even cooking.

Variations & Substitutions

Customize your Delicious Crispy Chicken Taquitos with these fun twists!

Spicy Taquitos: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the filling.
Cheesy Taquitos: Mix in Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese for extra flavor.
Vegetarian Taquitos: Use black beans or seasoned potatoes instead of chicken.
Baked Taquitos: For a healthier option, bake the taquitos at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Use honey for a sweeter touch—remember it’s stickier. Add cumin for an earthy flavor boost! For gluten-free options, use rice flour.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings with Chicken Taquitos

Complete your meal with these delicious pairings:

Sides: Serve with a crisp green salad, Mexican rice, or creamy coleslaw.
Drinks: Pair with a refreshing limeade, sparkling water, or horchata.
Occasions: Perfect for game day, family gatherings, or a casual weeknight dinner.

Stack the taquitos high and drizzle with your favorite sauce for an appealing presentation. The mint lemonade cuts the richness perfectly.

Health Benefits

These Delicious Crispy Chicken Taquitos offer several health benefits:

Protein-Rich: Chicken provides essential amino acids for muscle building and repair.
Nutrient-Dense: Spices like cumin and chili powder offer antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
Balanced Macros: Provides a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats for sustained energy.

One serving rivals a multivitamin! Enjoy the fiber from the tortillas, which aids digestion; the protein fuels you throughout the day. These could be low-carb for keto fans, if you select to bake the taquitos.

Storage & Reheating

Maximize the life of your Delicious Crispy Chicken Taquitos with these tips:

Storage: Store leftover taquitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. You can also use a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes per side.
Freezing: Freeze uncooked taquitos on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Fry directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Cool completely before sealing. The glass container in the fridge will last for 4 days! Portion and wrap tightly for freezing and they’ll last 2 months. Oven reheating retains the crunch best.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, you can easily double this recipe. Just ensure you have a large enough skillet to fry the taquitos in batches.

How do I prevent the tortillas from cracking?

Warming the tortillas in a damp paper towel in the microwave is crucial. If they are still cracking, try steaming them for a few minutes.

Can I bake these taquitos instead of frying?

Yes, baking is a healthier alternative. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), brush the taquitos with oil, and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

What kind of cheese works best in these taquitos?

Cheddar, Monterey Jack, and pepper jack are all great choices. You can also use a blend of cheeses for a more complex flavor.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the taquitos ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to fry. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Many readers ask about substitutions, so don’t be shy to make these taquitos your own!

Close-up of a single crispy chicken taquito.

Nutritional Information

Serving Size: 2 taquitos
Calories: 350
Total Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 75mg
Sodium: 400mg
Total Carbohydrate: 25g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 2g
Protein: 20g

Exact stats need a nutrition calculator! Carbs: 25g from the tortilla and veggies.These estimates can help to keep you on track.

More Delicious Dishes to Explore

Craving more tasty recipes? Try these other gems!

Easy Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice – A comforting and satisfying dish that complements the crispy taquitos perfectly.
Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe – Another easy chicken recipe with a delightful sweet and spicy flavor.
Chicken Fajita Rice Casserole – A vibrant and flavorful casserole that brings the taste of fajitas to a comforting dish.

YOU MIGHT LOVE: Easy Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice – A zesty twist for spice lovers.

Conclusion

These Delicious Crispy Chicken Taquitos are fast, flavorful, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Whip them up tonight and tag us with your masterpiece!

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Delicious Crispy Chicken Taquitos