Crispy Chicken Taquitos: The Ultimate Amazing Recipe

Crispy Chicken Taquitos are a delightful dish that will elevate your mealtime experience. These incredible taquitos are filled with seasoned chicken wrapped in a crispy shell that offers a satisfying crunch. When you savor the flavors of these taquitos, you’ll discover how perfect they are for gatherings, game days, or even a simple family dinner. Each bite is a burst of flavor that makes them utterly irresistible.
If you’re on the lookout for a dish that’s delicious and easy to prepare, then Crispy Chicken Taquitos are for you. They pair beautifully with various dips such as guacamole, salsa, or sour cream, enhancing their taste even further. This recipe is suitable for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs, making it accessible for everyone. The steps are straightforward, ensuring that you’ll achieve amazing results every time.
In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about making Crispy Chicken Taquitos. From why this recipe is beloved to preparation information, and, of course, the detailed steps to recreate these perfect bites at home. Dive in to discover the mouthwatering world of Crispy Chicken Taquitos!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy Chicken Taquitos capture the hearts of many for several reasons. Here are some compelling factors that make this recipe a must-try:
1. Quick and Easy – With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, these taquitos can be whipped up quickly.
2. Flavorful Filling – The seasoned chicken offers a tasty punch, keeping everyone coming back for seconds.
3. Customizable – You can easily swap out the chicken for beef or veggies, or even adjust the seasonings to your liking.
4. Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, these taquitos fit right in.
5. Crispy Texture – The exterior becomes perfectly crispy, creating a wonderful contrast to the tender filling inside.
6. Great for Meal Prep – They freeze beautifully, so you can make a big batch and enjoy them later.
You’ll find that crispy taquitos are more than just a meal; they are a delicious treat everyone will love!

Preparation and Cooking Time

Making Crispy Chicken Taquitos is relatively quick. Below is the time breakdown for preparation and cooking:
– Preparation Time: 20 minutes
– Cooking Time: 20 minutes
– Total Time: 40 minutes
This quick cooking time lets you enjoy a flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen!

Ingredients

– 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
– 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey jack, or a blend)
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– 10-12 corn tortillas
– Oil for frying
– Optional toppings: guacamole, salsa, sour cream, lettuce

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating Crispy Chicken Taquitos is straightforward when you follow these simple steps:
1. Prepare Chicken Filling: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cheese, diced onion, taco seasoning, and cilantro. Mix well until fully combined.
2. Soften Tortillas: Heat the corn tortillas in a skillet for about 30 seconds on each side. This helps make them pliable for rolling.
3. Fill Tortillas: Place about 2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture in the center of each tortilla. Roll it tightly, ensuring the filling is secure.
4. Secure the Taquitos: Use a toothpick to secure the taquitos if necessary to keep them rolled while cooking.
5. Heat Oil: In a frying pan, heat about 1 inch of oil over medium heat.
6. Fry Taquitos: Once the oil is hot, carefully place the rolled taquitos into the oil, seam-side down. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Drain Excess Oil: Remove the taquitos from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
8. Serve Immediately: While hot, serve with your choice of toppings such as guacamole, salsa, or sour cream.
These steps will guide you in creating amazing Crispy Chicken Taquitos effortlessly!

How to Serve

Serving Crispy Chicken Taquitos is as important as creating them. Here’s how to make the experience even more delightful:
1. Presentation: Arrange the taquitos on a large platter or a rustic serving dish for an inviting look.
2. Dips and Accompaniments: Offer a variety of dips such as guacamole, salsa, and sour cream. This will add flavor and allow guests to customize their experience.
3. Freshly Made Sides: Consider serving these taquitos alongside a fresh salad or some Mexican-style rice to complete the meal.
4. Garnish: Add a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or sliced jalapeños on top for a pop of color and extra flavor.
5. Beverage Pairing: Complement your taquitos with refreshing beverages like iced tea, Mexican beer, or a margarita for a festive touch.
By focusing on presentation and pairing, you will elevate the dining experience, impressing everyone around the table. Enjoy your Crispy Chicken Taquitos, and savor the fantastic flavors they bring!

Additional Tips

– Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and quality spices will enhance the flavor. Always start with freshly cooked chicken for the best results.
– Control the Heat: Make sure your oil is at the right temperature. If it’s too hot, the taquitos will burn; if it’s too cold, they will absorb too much oil.
– Experiment with Seasonings: Don’t hesitate to play around with the taco seasoning. Adding cumin, garlic powder, or chili powder can elevate the taste.
– Keep Tortillas Warm: While assembling, keep your tortillas warm in a clean towel or on a plate covered with aluminum foil to prevent them from cracking.
– Cook in Batches: To maintain the crispiness, fry the taquitos in small batches. This allows each taquito to cook evenly and become golden brown.

Recipe Variation

Mix things up with these creative variations:
1. Vegetarian Taquitos: Substitute shredded chicken with black beans, corn, and bell peppers for a hearty vegetarian option.
2. Beef Taquitos: Replace chicken with ground beef seasoned with taco spices for a different flavor.
3. Cheesy Spinach Taquitos: Add spinach and cream cheese to the chicken mixture for a creamy twist.
4. Spicy Taquitos: Incorporate diced jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce into the filling for an extra kick.
5. Sweet and Savory: Add a touch of sweet barbecue sauce to the chicken filling to create a uniquely flavored taquito.

Freezing and Storage

– Storage: Cooked taquitos can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
– Freezing: Freeze un-fried taquitos for up to 3 months. Lay them flat on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer bag once frozen. Cook from frozen, simply adding a few extra minutes to the frying time. You can fry or bake them directly after fully thawing as well.

Special Equipment

Having the right tools makes all the difference:
– Frying Pan: A deep skillet or a frying pan is necessary for frying.
– Tongs: Great for safely flipping the taquitos.
– Toothpicks: Useful for holding the taquitos together during frying, if necessary.
– Baking Sheet: If you decide to bake them instead of frying, a baking sheet is essential.
– Paper Towels: For draining excess oil after frying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Crispy Chicken Taquitos in the oven?
Yes! Preheat your oven to 425°F. Place the filled taquitos on a greased baking sheet and spray the tops with cooking spray. Bake for about 20 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
What can I serve with Crispy Chicken Taquitos?
These taquitos pair well with street corn salad, black bean salad, or nachos. You can also serve them with fresh fruit like mango for a nice balance.
How do I know when taquitos are done cooking?
They should be golden brown and crispy. You can test one by carefully cutting it in half to check that the filling is hot and bubbly.
Can I use gluten-free tortillas?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free corn tortillas for a gluten-free version of your Crispy Chicken Taquitos.
Can I bake these instead of frying them?
Yes! Baking is a healthier option. Just be sure to spray the taquitos lightly with oil for a crispy finish.

Conclusion

Crispy Chicken Taquitos are a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish perfect for any occasion. Their delicious flavor, satisfying crunch, and adaptable nature to various diets make them an ideal choice for family dinners, parties, or game day snacking. With these tips and variations, you can tailor the recipe to your preferences and impress everyone with your culinary skills. Enjoy the journey of creating these delightful bites, and watch them disappear from the plate!

Print