Introduction
Welcome to the wonderful world of crispy chicken taquitos! These delightful little rolls pack a punch of flavor in every bite and are perfect for any occasion—be it a cozy family dinner, a fun game day snack, or even just a tasty treat to satisfy your cravings. With a filling that’s rich and creamy and a crispy exterior that shatters perfectly as you bite into it, these taquitos are sure to please everyone at your table.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup salsa
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 small corn or flour tortillas
- Oil for frying
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 12 taquitos
Directions and Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cheese, sour cream, salsa, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well until all the ingredients are fully blended into a creamy, savory filling.
- Heat a small amount of oil in a pan over medium heat. Gently warm the tortillas for about 30 seconds on each side, making them pliable and easy to roll.
- Place a generous spoonful of the chicken mixture onto the center of each tortilla and roll them tightly, ensuring the filling is securely tucked inside.
- In a deep pan, heat oil to 350°F (175°C). This is the magic temperature for achieving that perfect crispy texture!
- Carefully place the rolled taquitos in the hot oil, seam side down, and fry them until they transform into a golden brown hue and become crispy—around 3-4 minutes on each side.
- Once fried, remove the taquitos from the oil and let them drain on paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Serve them hot with additional salsa or creamy guacamole on the side for dipping.
Notes or Tips
For an added kick, feel free to mix in some chopped jalapeños or diced green chilies into the filling. If you’re looking to make these ahead of time, the filling can be prepared and stored in the refrigerator for a day or two, making meal prep a breeze.
Cooking Techniques
The key to achieving crispy taquitos is ensuring the oil temperature is just right. Too cool, and they’ll absorb oil and become soggy; too hot, and they can burn before the center is heated through. Use a thermometer for best results, or test with a small piece of batter—a good sizzle means the oil is ready!
FAQ
Can I bake these taquitos instead of frying?
Absolutely! To bake, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C), place the rolled taquitos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spray lightly with cooking oil, and bake for about 20-25 minutes until they are golden and crispy.
Can I use other proteins?
Yes, feel free to substitute the chicken with shredded beef, turkey, or even black beans for a vegetarian option!
Conclusion
These crispy chicken taquitos not only make a delicious meal but also bring joy to any gathering. With their delightful crunch and flavorful filling, they’re bound to become a favorite in your home. So gather your ingredients, get that oil bubbling, and enjoy the burst of flavors that make these taquitos truly irresistible!