Name: Crispy Chicken Taquitos Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great); 4 oz cream cheese, softened; ½ cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese; ¼ cup salsa (mild or spicy); ½ tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp chili powder; ½ tsp cumin; Salt and black pepper to taste; 8 small flour or corn tortillas; Cooking spray or oil (for brushing); Chopped cilantro; Sour cream; Guacamole; Extra shredded cheese

Introduction

Crispy Chicken Taquitos are a delicious and easy-to-make snack or meal that combines tender shredded chicken with melty cheese and flavorful spices, all wrapped in a crispy tortilla. Perfect for parties or a quick dinner, these taquitos bake to golden perfection and pair wonderfully with guacamole and sour cream.

The image shows five narrow rolled tortillas placed closely side by side on a white rectangular tray. Each tortilla is covered with a golden-brown melted cheese layer that has some darker toasted spots and sprinkles of finely chopped green herbs. Inside the rolled tortillas, a creamy white filling is visible at the open ends. The tray is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)

4 oz cream cheese, softened

½ cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese

¼ cup salsa (mild or spicy)

½ tsp garlic powder

½ tsp chili powder

½ tsp cumin

Salt and black pepper to taste

8 small flour or corn tortillas

Cooking spray or oil (for brushing)

Chopped cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Sour cream (for serving)

Guacamole (for serving)

Extra shredded cheese (optional, for topping)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Step 2: In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, cream cheese, shredded cheese, salsa, garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.

Step 3: Warm the tortillas in the microwave for about 20 seconds to make them pliable and easier to roll.

Step 4: Spoon 2–3 tablespoons of the filling onto one side of each tortilla, then roll tightly to enclose the filling.

Step 5: Place the rolled taquitos seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet to prevent them from unrolling during baking.

Step 6: Lightly brush the taquitos with oil or spray with cooking spray for a crispy exterior.

Step 7: Bake for 15–20 minutes or until taquitos are golden brown and crispy. For extra crispiness, you can broil them for 1–2 minutes at the end of baking—watch carefully to avoid burning.

Step 8: Serve warm topped with chopped cilantro, sour cream, guacamole, and extra shredded cheese if desired.

Tips & Variations

Use rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut or cook your own chicken breast and shred it for freshness.

Try adding finely chopped jalapeños to the filling for a spicier kick.

For a gluten-free option, use corn tortillas, but warm them well to avoid cracking when rolling.

Serve with a variety of dipping sauces like salsa verde or chipotle mayo for more flavor options.

FAQs

Can I freeze these taquitos?

Yes, you can freeze unbaked taquitos on a baking sheet and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Bake directly from frozen at 425°F (220°C), adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time until crispy and heated through.

What type of salsa works best in this recipe?

Any mild or spicy salsa works well depending on your preference. If you prefer a smoother texture, use a thinner salsa. Chunkier salsas add more texture and bite to the filling.