Easy Homemade Chicken Taquitos
Chicken taquitos are a delicious and easy meal that can be made at home. Perfect for busy weeknights, game days, or parties, these crispy rolled tortillas filled with chicken and cheese are sure to please everyone. They are quick to prepare and can easily be customized to fit your taste.
Why Make This Recipe
Making chicken taquitos at home is a great way to enjoy a popular snack or meal without needing to order takeout. They are simple to make, cost-effective, and can be filled with your favorite ingredients. Plus, making them yourself means you can control the spices and flavors. Enjoy them fresh and golden brown or freeze them for a quick meal later!
How to Make Easy Homemade Chicken Taquitos
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cheese, grated (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- Oil for frying
Directions
- In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cheese, onion, cilantro, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Warm tortillas in the microwave or on a skillet to make them pliable.
- Place a few tablespoons of the chicken mixture on each tortilla and roll them up tightly.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Fry the taquitos until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Drain on paper towels and serve with your favorite salsa or guacamole.
How to Serve Easy Homemade Chicken Taquitos
Serve these chicken taquitos hot with a side of salsa, guacamole, or sour cream. They are also great as an appetizer or snack at parties. You can even make a platter for sharing, adding some extra toppings like diced tomatoes or lettuce for a fresh touch.
How to Store Easy Homemade Chicken Taquitos
If you have leftover taquitos, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat or in the oven until warmed through. You can also freeze un-fried or cooked taquitos wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored in a freezer bag. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer.
Tips to Make Easy Homemade Chicken Taquitos
- For extra flavor, add more spices like chili powder or smoked paprika to the chicken mixture.
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the taquitos to ensure they fry evenly.
- Use fresh tortillas for the best flavor and texture; you can warm them briefly to make rolling easier.
Variation
Try adding black beans or corn to the filling for added texture and flavor. You can also experiment with different types of cheese or add jalapeños for some heat.
FAQs
Can I bake the taquitos instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake the taquitos. Place them on a baking sheet, spray them with cooking oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until golden.
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic option since it’s already cooked and adds great flavor.
How can I make these taquitos vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, simply substitute the chicken with your favorite veggies, beans, or tofu, and add similar spices.
Chicken Taquitos
Ingredients
Filling Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded Use leftover or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- 1 cup cheese, grated (cheddar or Monterey Jack) Choose your favorite type of cheese.
- 1/2 cup diced onion Red or white onion can be used.
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro Optional, can substitute with parsley.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder Can be substituted with fresh minced garlic.
- 1 teaspoon cumin Adds a warm flavor.
- to taste Salt and pepper Adjust according to preference.
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas Ensure they are pliable.
- as needed Oil for frying Vegetable or canola oil works well.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cheese, onion, cilantro, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Warm tortillas in the microwave or on a skillet to make them pliable.
- Place a few tablespoons of the chicken mixture on each tortilla and roll them up tightly.
Cooking
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Fry the taquitos until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Drain on paper towels and serve with your favorite salsa or guacamole.
