Chicken Taquitos

Name: Chicken Taquitos
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked shredded chicken; 6 ounces cream cheese (softened); 1/4 cup salsa; 1/4 cup sour cream; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 15-20 corn or flour tortillas; Seasonings: cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper

Recipe By:

Natalia

Posted:

July 21, 2025

Updated:

July 21, 2025

Pin1

1 Shares

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Easy homemade Chicken Taquitos are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner, game night, or a casual get-together with friends. These tasty bites combine shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, and a creamy salsa blend, all wrapped in tortillas and baked or fried until crispy. The delicious flavors and satisfying crunch of Chicken Taquitos make them a standout dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these Chicken Taquitos in no time.
Bursting with Flavor: The creamy salsa blend and spices create a mouthwatering filling that packs a punch.
Versatile Options: Whether you prefer baked or fried taquitos, this recipe caters to your cooking style.
Perfect for Sharing: Ideal as appetizers or finger foods for parties and gatherings.
Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or adjust the spice levels to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process of Chicken Taquitos, gather the necessary tools to make your experience seamless.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Non-stick griddle
Skillet (for frying)
Baking sheet (for baking)
Toothpicks (optional)
Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: Essential for combining all the creamy ingredients and ensuring even flavor distribution.
Non-stick griddle: Helps in warming tortillas without sticking, making them easier to roll.
Skillet: Used for frying the taquitos to achieve that perfect crispy texture.

Ingredients

Easy homemade Chicken Taquitos made with shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, and a creamy salsa blend rolled in tortillas and baked or fried until crispy.

Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (I use rotisserie)
– 6 ounces cream cheese (softened)
– 1/4 cup salsa (your favorite kind)
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup baby spinach leaves (chopped)
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
– salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
– 15-20 corn or flour tortillas
– guacamole, sour cream, salsa, hot sauce

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Chicken Taquitos

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Add cream cheese, salsa, and sour cream to a mixing bowl and stir until smooth.
Add remaining ingredients (except the tortillas) and toss to combine. Taste and add more seasoning if needed.

Step 2: Warm the Tortillas

For corn tortillas, heat a non-stick griddle over medium-high heat. Cook tortillas for about 15 – 30 seconds on each side until soft and pliable. Remove tortillas to a plate covered with tinfoil to keep them warm.

Step 3: Roll the Taquitos

Place a large spoonful of filling in a line along each tortilla. Roll tightly and secure with a toothpick if needed.

Step 4: Bake the Taquitos (Optional)

Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. Spray the tops of the taquitos with cooking spray or brush them lightly with oil. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crispy.

Step 5: Fry the Taquitos (Alternative Method)

Add about 1 1/2 inches of oil to a large skillet and heat to medium-high. Once hot (the tortillas should sizzle immediately), fry the taquitos in small batches for a few seconds on each side until golden brown. Place them on paper towel-lined plates.

Step 6: Serve with Your Favorite Dips

Serve your Chicken Taquitos with guacamole, salsa, and sour cream for an irresistible treat!

How to Serve Chicken Taquitos

Chicken taquitos are a delightful and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet night in, these crispy delights pair perfectly with an array of dips and sides.

With Dips

Guacamole: Creamy and flavorful, guacamole adds a fresh taste that complements the chicken.
Salsa: A zesty salsa can enhance the flavors of your taquitos, adding a refreshing kick.
Sour Cream: Cool and creamy, sour cream balances the spice and richness of the filling.
Hot Sauce: For those who love heat, hot sauce provides an extra layer of flavor.

As a Meal

Rice: Serve alongside Mexican rice for a complete meal that satisfies hunger.
Beans: Black beans or refried beans add protein and fiber, making your meal more filling.
Salad: A light salad can provide freshness and crunch, balancing the richness of the taquitos.

On Game Day

Nachos: Pair taquitos with loaded nachos for a fun and shareable snack during the game.
Veggie Platter: Include colorful veggies for dipping to offer a healthful option alongside the indulgence.

How to Perfect Chicken Taquitos

To ensure your chicken taquitos are crispy on the outside and bursting with flavor on the inside, follow these simple tips.

Use Soft Tortillas: Warm your tortillas before filling; this prevents cracking when rolling them up.
Don’t Overfill: Use just enough filling to avoid tearing the tortillas while rolling.
Seal Properly: Make sure to secure your taquitos well, using toothpicks if necessary to keep them closed during cooking.
Crispy Finish: For extra crunch, brush or spray the taquitos with oil before baking or frying.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste your filling mixture before rolling; adjust seasoning for optimal flavor.
Serve Immediately: Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or fryer for the best texture.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Taquitos

Pairing side dishes with chicken taquitos elevates your meal experience. Here are some perfect options to consider.

Mexican Rice: Flavorful rice cooked with tomatoes and spices makes a hearty complement.
Refried Beans: Creamy beans provide protein and balance out the crispy texture of taquitos.
Corn Salad: A refreshing corn salad adds crunch and sweetness alongside savory taquitos.
Pico de Gallo: Fresh pico de gallo brings brightness and acidity, enhancing each bite of taquito.
Cilantro Lime Rice: This fragrant rice dish adds zestiness that pairs well with chicken flavors.
Elote (Mexican Street Corn): Grilled corn topped with cheese, chili powder, and lime is a crowd favorite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chicken Taquitos at home can be easy and fun, but there are some common pitfalls to watch for.

Using Cold Cream Cheese: Starting with cold cream cheese can make mixing difficult. Ensure it is softened to blend smoothly with the salsa and sour cream.
Overfilling Tortillas: Adding too much filling can lead to messy taquitos. Use just enough filling to roll them tightly without breaking the tortillas.
Skipping Seasoning: Neglecting to taste the filling before rolling can result in bland taquitos. Always check for seasoning and adjust according to your preference.
Not Preheating the Oven or Oil: Cooking in an unheated oven or oil can lead to soggy taquitos. Always preheat for optimal crispiness.
Using the Wrong Tortillas: Not all tortillas hold up well when fried or baked. Choose corn or flour tortillas that are suitable for your cooking method.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover Chicken Taquitos in an airtight container.
They can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chicken Taquitos

Place uncooked, rolled taquitos on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag; they will keep for up to 3 months.

Reheating Chicken Taquitos

Oven: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, but note that they might not stay crispy.
Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of oil and warm each side for about 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

You can definitely substitute shredded beef, pork, or even beans for a vegetarian option.

How do I make Chicken Taquitos spicy?

To add heat, mix in diced jalapeños or use a spicier salsa when preparing the filling.

Can I bake Chicken Taquitos instead of frying?

Yes! Baked Chicken Taquitos are delicious and healthier. Just follow the baking instructions provided.

What dipping sauces pair well with Chicken Taquitos?

Guacamole, sour cream, and salsa are excellent choices that complement the flavors beautifully.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Taquitos are a versatile dish perfect for any occasion. They’re easy to customize with various fillings and sauces, making them a crowd-pleaser. Whether baked or fried, these taquitos offer a delightful crunch and flavor that everyone will enjoy. Give this recipe a try, and don’t hesitate to experiment with different ingredients!