🌮 Homemade Chicken Taquitos Recipe 🍗
Chicken taquitos are a delightful, crunchy treat that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a game day snack. This recipe combines the savory flavors of rotisserie chicken, cream cheese, and salsa to create a mouthwatering filling that’s rolled up in tortillas and fried to golden perfection. Simple to make and absolutely delicious, these chicken taquitos are sure to be a hit!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Using a rotisserie chicken makes this recipe incredibly quick to prepare.
- Customizable: Feel free to swap out the cheese or add extra spices to suit your taste.
- Perfect for Sharing: This recipe makes a great appetizer or snack for parties.
Ingredients You’ll Need
-
1 rotisserie chicken, shredded (approximately 4.98 lbs) 🍗
The key to quick and easy taquitos is using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken, which is both flavorful and convenient. -
1 block of cream cheese 🧀
Cream cheese adds richness and creaminess to the filling, making it irresistibly smooth. -
1/3 cup sour cream 🥛
Sour cream provides a tangy flavor that balances the richness of the cream cheese. -
1/2 cup salsa 🍅
Salsa adds a bit of spice and a burst of flavor to the filling. Choose your favorite salsa, whether mild or spicy. -
1/2 cup shredded cheese (your choice) 🧀
You can use cheddar, Monterey Jack, or any cheese you prefer. Cheese adds that gooey, melty goodness. -
Tortillas 🌯
Flour or corn tortillas work great in this recipe. Choose smaller ones for appetizer-sized taquitos or larger ones for a more filling meal. -
Oil for frying 🍳
Use a neutral oil like vegetable or canola for frying to achieve a crispy, golden brown exterior. -
Sour cream or salsa for serving 🌶️🥣
These make the perfect dipping sauces, adding extra flavor to each bite.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded rotisserie chicken, cream cheese, sour cream, salsa, and shredded cheese. Mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated. The mixture should be creamy and well blended, with the salsa adding a nice pop of color and flavor.
Step 2: Warm the Tortillas
To make the tortillas easier to roll, warm them in the microwave for 20-30 seconds. This softens them, preventing them from cracking when you roll them around the filling.
Step 3: Assemble the Taquitos
Spoon 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture into the center of each tortilla. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling, tucking in the ends as you go. Secure each taquito with a toothpick to keep it from unrolling during frying.
Step 4: Fry the Taquitos
In a large skillet, heat enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the taquitos in the skillet, seam side down. Fry each side for 2-3 minutes, or until the taquitos are golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the skillet, as this can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy taquitos.
Step 5: Drain and Serve
Once fried, transfer the taquitos to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Remove the toothpicks before serving. Serve the taquitos warm, with additional sour cream or salsa on the side for dipping.
Tips for Making the Perfect Taquitos
- Prevent Unrolling: Be sure to roll the taquitos tightly and secure them with a toothpick before frying. This will keep the filling from spilling out and help the taquitos hold their shape.
- Don’t Overfill: Using too much filling can cause the tortillas to split. Stick to 2-3 tablespoons of filling per taquito for the best results.
- Oil Temperature: Make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the taquitos. If the oil isn’t hot enough, the taquitos will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
- Baking Option: For a healthier alternative, you can bake the taquitos. Place them on a baking sheet, brush them lightly with oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make these taquitos ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the taquitos ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before frying. This makes them a convenient option for parties and gatherings.
2. Can I freeze taquitos?
Absolutely! To freeze, assemble the taquitos but do not fry them. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Fry directly from frozen, adding an extra 1-2 minutes to the frying time.
3. What kind of cheese works best in taquitos?
Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend of cheeses are all great options. They melt well and add a delicious flavor to the filling.
4. Can I bake the taquitos instead of frying?
Yes, baking is a healthier alternative. Brush the taquitos with oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes until golden and crispy.
5. What can I serve with chicken taquitos?
Chicken taquitos are great served with guacamole, pico de gallo, or a side of rice and beans for a complete meal.
6. How can I make these taquitos spicier?
To add some heat, you can mix in chopped jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or use a spicier salsa in the filling.
These homemade chicken taquitos are a delicious and easy way to enjoy a satisfying meal or snack. Perfectly crispy on the outside and packed with creamy, cheesy chicken filling on the inside, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Serve them up with your favorite dipping sauces and enjoy every crunchy bite!