Shredded Chicken Taquitos

If you’ve ever had a long day and just needed a little comfort food, then Shredded Chicken Taquitos are the answer. I still remember the first time I made these delicious bites of crispy goodness. It was a rainy Saturday afternoon, and I wanted something quick yet satisfying. With a handful of ingredients, I transformed humble chicken into something magical. As I rolled each tortilla, I could feel the anticipation building. Would these taquitos live up to my expectations? Spoiler alert: they exceeded them! Each bite was filled with a warm, cheesy filling that reminded me of cozy family dinners.

These taquitos have become a staple in my kitchen because they are not only easy to make but also delightful to eat. Whether you’re hosting a game night, looking for a fun dinner option, or simply craving a snack, these taquitos always hit the spot. They’re crispy on the outside, with a creamy filling that makes every bite worth savoring. And the best part? You can customize the dipping sauces to suit your mood—whether it’s guacamole, sour cream, or zesty salsa. I love to whip these up when friends come over; there’s just something about sharing a plate of warm taquitos that brings everyone together.

As I serve them up, I can’t help but feel proud of my creation. The smiles on my friends’ faces as they take their first bites tell me everything I need to know. Making Shredded Chicken Taquitos is more than just cooking; it’s about creating memories and sharing good times with the people I care about. So grab some tortillas and let’s start rolling!

What to Buy for Shredded Chicken Taquitos

When making Shredded Chicken Taquitos, the quality of your ingredients can make all the difference. The combination of fresh chicken, creamy cheese, and zesty spices creates a flavor explosion that everyone will love. Each component plays a crucial role in delivering that authentic taste that we’re all seeking.

• 3 cups shredded cooked chicken: The star of the show, packed with protein and flavor.
• 1½ cups shredded Mexican blend cheese: For that creamy, melty goodness.
• 10 ounces diced tomatoes with green chilies: Adds a nice tangy kick.
• 1 tablespoon lime juice: Freshens up the flavor profile.
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano: For an earthy undertone.
• ½ teaspoon chili powder: Brings a warmth that complements the dish.
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin: Adds depth and smokiness.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder: For that extra punch of flavor.
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for seasoning.
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper: A touch of spice.
• ⅛ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper: Optional, if you like heat.
• Vegetable oil: Necessary for frying.
• 20 (6-inch) corn tortillas: The base for our delicious taquitos.
• Sour cream: A classic dipping sauce.
• Guacamole: Creamy and rich, pairs perfectly.
• Salsa: For a refreshing contrast.
• Cheese sauce: Extra cheesy goodness!

The Method for Shredded Chicken Taquitos

Making Shredded Chicken Taquitos is a delightfully engaging process that will have your kitchen buzzing with excitement. Follow these steps closely for crispy, golden taquitos that are bursting with flavor.

1. Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with paper towels and set a metal rack over the top; set aside.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the chicken, shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, lime juice, oregano, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined. You should achieve a cohesive mixture that is fragrant and inviting.
3. In a deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat about ½ inch of vegetable oil to a temperature of 325°F to 350°F. Using a thermometer is helpful here; the oil should shimmer but not smoke.
4. While the oil is heating, take 4-5 of the corn tortillas and place them on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel and microwave for 30 seconds on HIGH. Flip the stack and microwave for an additional 30 seconds. This makes them pliable for rolling.
5. Once softened, set one tortilla on a flat surface. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture about 1 inch from one edge of the tortilla.
6. Form the filling into a tube shape and begin rolling the tortilla tightly starting from the edge closest to the filling. Secure it with toothpicks if needed. This helps maintain the shape while frying.
7. Repeat the rolling process with the remaining tortillas, making sure not to overfill them; this prevents tearing.
8. Fry 4-5 rolled tortillas at a time in the hot oil, seam side down, for about 3 to 5 minutes until they’re golden brown. Flip them halfway through to ensure even cooking.
9. Once they’re perfectly golden, use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried taquitos to the prepared metal rack, allowing excess oil to drain.
10. Continue frying the remaining rolled tortillas, keeping an eye on the oil temperature to ensure it remains at 350°F. This is key for achieving that crispy texture.
11. After frying, carefully remove the toothpicks from the taquitos and serve them hot alongside your favorite toppings like sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or cheese sauce.

Tips and Variations

Making Shredded Chicken Taquitos can be enhanced with a few tricks and variations. Here are some great tips to elevate your dish.

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
• Freezing: You can freeze the filled and rolled taquitos before frying. Just place them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer bag. Fry from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Pairing: These taquitos go wonderfully with a side of Mexican rice or a fresh green salad to balance the meal.
• Spice it up: For a kick, add some diced jalapeños or use spicy cheese in the filling.
• Oven/Baking option: Preheat your oven to 425°F and bake for 15 to 20 minutes instead of frying. Spray with cooking oil for a crisp finish.
• Air Fryer option: Preheat your Air Fryer to 400°F and cook the taquitos for about 4 minutes on each side for a healthier alternative.

Great Combinations for Shredded Chicken Taquitos

When it comes to serving Shredded Chicken Taquitos, the possibilities are boundless. Here are some great ideas to make your meal even more special:

• Fresh Salsas: Make a vibrant tomato salsa or mango salsa to serve alongside for a fresh, zesty element.
• Crunchy Slaw: Serve with a crunchy cabbage slaw seasoned with lime for an extra layer of texture.
• Game Day Snacks: These taquitos are perfect for game day! Serve them alongside chips and guacamole for a crowd-pleaser.
• Family Dinners: Pair with Spanish rice or refried beans for a hearty family dinner that everyone will enjoy.
• Special Occasions: Ideal for birthday parties or casual get-togethers. You can even set up a DIY taquito bar with various toppings!
• Seasonal Pairings: In summer, serve with fresh corn salad, or in winter, pair them with a warm tomato soup for a cozy feel.

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, Shredded Chicken Taquitos are a delightful dish that brings together crispy tortillas and a savory filling, making them a crowd favorite. They are easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive gathering. I encourage you to give them a try and experience the joy they bring to your table. Your friends and family will be thanking you for it!

Shredded Chicken Taquitos

The ultimate comfort food, Shredded Chicken Taquitos are crispy, creamy, and packed with flavor. Perfect for game nights or casual dinners, these easy-to-make taquitos will have everyone begging for seconds. Don't wait—make them tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 45 minutes mins

Cook Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Mexican

Servings 20 taquitos

Calories 300 kcal

Equipment

• Dutch Oven
• Deep Fryer
• Deep Fry Oil Thermometer

Ingredients

  

• 3 cups shredded cooked chicken
• 1.5 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
• 10 ounces diced tomatoes with green chilies (1 can, drained)
• 1 tablespoon lime juice (from ½ lime)
• 0.5 teaspoon dried oregano
• 0.5 teaspoon chili powder
• 0.5 teaspoon ground cumin
• 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
• 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt
• 0.25 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 0.125 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
• vegetable oil (for frying)
• 20 (6-inch) corn tortillas
• sour cream
• guacamole
• salsa
• cheese sauce

Instructions

 

• Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with paper towels and set a metal rack over the top; set aside.
• In a large bowl, mix together the chicken, shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, lime juice, oregano, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined. You should achieve a cohesive mixture that is fragrant and inviting.
• In a deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat about ½ inch of vegetable oil to a temperature of 325°F to 350°F. Using a thermometer is helpful here; the oil should shimmer but not smoke.
• While the oil is heating, take 4-5 of the corn tortillas and place them on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel and microwave for 30 seconds on HIGH. Flip the stack and microwave for an additional 30 seconds. This makes them pliable for rolling.
• Once softened, set one tortilla on a flat surface. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture about 1 inch from one edge of the tortilla.
• Form the filling into a tube shape and begin rolling the tortilla tightly starting from the edge closest to the filling. Secure it with toothpicks if needed. This helps maintain the shape while frying.
• Repeat the rolling process with the remaining tortillas, making sure not to overfill them; this prevents tearing.
• Fry 4-5 rolled tortillas at a time in the hot oil, seam side down, for about 3 to 5 minutes until they’re golden brown. Flip them halfway through to ensure even cooking.
• Once they’re perfectly golden, use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried taquitos to the prepared metal rack, allowing excess oil to drain.
• Continue frying the remaining rolled tortillas, keeping an eye on the oil temperature to ensure it remains at 350°F. This is key for achieving that crispy texture.
• After frying, carefully remove the toothpicks from the taquitos and serve them hot alongside your favorite toppings like sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or cheese sauce.

Notes

• Don’t overfill: When filling your tortillas, keep it to about 2 tablespoons of filling to avoid tearing.
• Quick rolling: Roll quickly to prevent the tortillas from tearing. If some do tear, it’s okay; they will still fry well.
• Batch frying: Fry the taquitos in batches to ensure they cook evenly without overcrowding the pan.
• Temperature check: Monitor the oil temperature during frying. It should return to 350°F between batches for the best results.
• Keep warm: If you’re making a large batch, keep the finished taquitos warm in a single layer on a baking sheet in a 200°F oven.

Keyword Chicken Taquitos, Crispy Taquitos, Easy Taquitos Recipe, Mexican Appetizers

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Meet Maya Carlson

I believe that every dish tells a story through its colors and textures. I apply my artistic eye to everything we make. I love being hands-on with every recipe, helping to plate a savory stew just as beautifully as a dessert. I enjoy the challenge of making every single genre of food look as good as it tastes. If we are cooking, I am right there in the mix, styling and seasoning until it’s perfect.