Chef Mitchell preparing Crispy Chicken Taquitos
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered the joy of making Crispy Chicken Taquitos during a family gathering, where they quickly became a favorite. After perfecting the recipe over the years, I realized that the key to great taquitos is in the seasoning and the frying technique. The crispy texture and savory filling can turn any meal into a celebration. Now, I love sharing this recipe with friends and family!"

With over a decade of experience in the culinary world, I specialize in Mexican cuisine and have a passion for creating delicious dinner recipes. My journey began in culinary school, where I fell in love with the vibrant flavors and techniques of Mexican cooking. I love sharing my knowledge and inspiring others to enjoy the art of cooking.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Crispy Chicken Taquitos served on a plate

Why This Crispy Chicken Taquitos Recipe Works

This recipe stands out because it combines simple ingredients with bold flavors, resulting in a dish that pleases everyone. The use of fresh herbs and spices not only enhances the taste but also adds nutrition. Plus, the crispy texture created during frying makes every bite satisfying. These taquitos are perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home.

The technique of frying the taquitos until golden brown ensures that they are crispy on the outside while remaining juicy on the inside. Using corn tortillas adds an authentic touch, and warming them beforehand makes them easier to roll. With a little practice, you can achieve restaurant-quality taquitos right in your own kitchen.

💡 Professional Tip

For the crispiest taquitos, ensure your oil is hot enough before frying. This helps to seal the tortillas quickly and prevents them from absorbing too much oil. Additionally, do not overcrowd the pan; fry in batches for even cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the filling and roll the taquitos ahead of time. Keep them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before frying. This makes it easy to have a quick dinner ready to go. Just fry them right before serving for that fresh, crispy texture.

You can use shredded beef, turkey, or even a mix of beans for a vegetarian option. Just make sure to season your substitute well to achieve a delicious flavor. Cooked quinoa can also work well if you're looking for a lighter option.

Taquitos are done when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. You can also check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (75°C) for chicken to ensure it's fully cooked. The filling should be hot and bubbling when you bite into it.

Yes, you can freeze the assembled but uncooked taquitos. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Fry them straight from frozen, simply adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Crispy Chicken Taquitos pair well with a variety of sides and dips. Consider serving them with guacamole, fresh salsa, or a zesty sour cream dip. A simple side salad or Mexican street corn can complement the meal perfectly.

Crispy Chicken Taquitos can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store them in an airtight container to maintain their crispiness. Reheat them in an oven to restore some of their crunch before serving.

Yes, you can assemble the taquitos a day ahead and store them in the fridge. Just fry them before serving. This is a great way to save time, especially when entertaining guests or on busy weeknights.

The best way to reheat taquitos is to place them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This will help restore their crispiness. You can also use an air fryer for a quicker option, heating them at 350°F (175°C) for about 7-8 minutes.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: The taquitos may be dry if the chicken filling contains too little moisture.

Solution: To remedy this, consider adding a bit of chicken broth or sour cream to the filling mixture to enhance moisture content. Avoid overcooking the filling as well.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: If the taquitos aren't crispy enough, they may not have been fried at a high enough temperature.

Solution: Ensure your oil is hot enough before frying. You can test the oil by dropping a small piece of tortilla in; if it sizzles immediately, it's ready. Fry in batches to maintain the oil temperature.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: Taquitos can become overcooked if fried for too long.

Prevention: To prevent this, watch them closely while frying and remove them as soon as they turn golden brown. Adjust your heat if they are browning too quickly.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: If the insides are cold or not heated through, the taquitos may be undercooked.

Recovery: Ensure that your filling is pre-cooked and heated before rolling the taquitos. Fry them longer on lower heat if necessary to heat the filling properly.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: If the outside is burnt while the insides remain uncooked.

Prevention: Keep the oil temperature consistent and avoid frying too many taquitos at once, which can lower the oil temperature. Use a thermometer for precise temperature control.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the filling is too sweet, add a bit of lime juice or extra spices to balance it out.

Too Salty: If the filling is too salty, try adding more filling ingredients to dilute the saltiness or serve with a refreshing side.

Bland: If the flavor is bland, increase seasoning with more spices like cumin or chili powder, or serve with a zesty salsa.

Fresh ingredients for Crispy Chicken Taquitos

Essential Ingredients for Crispy Chicken Taquitos

The key ingredients for Crispy Chicken Taquitos include shredded chicken, cheese, and an array of spices that bring out the authentic Mexican flavor. The combination of these ingredients creates a savory filling that pairs perfectly with the crispy corn tortillas. Using fresh herbs like cilantro adds a burst of freshness that elevates the dish.

It's essential to use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor and texture. Opt for freshly shredded cheese and organic chicken if possible. Fresh spices will enhance the overall taste of the taquitos, making them irresistibly delicious. The right balance of moisture and seasoning is key to achieving the perfect filling.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Shredded Chicken: For the best flavor, use cooked chicken that has been seasoned well. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or cook your own. Shred it finely to ensure it mixes well with other ingredients.
  • Cheese: Using a blend of cheeses can enhance flavor and melting quality. A mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack is particularly delicious. Ensure the cheese is freshly grated for optimal melting.
  • Corn Tortillas: Fresh corn tortillas provide a better texture than flour. They’re more authentic and will fry up crispier. Warming them before rolling prevents cracking and makes them easier to handle.
Cooking process for Crispy Chicken Taquitos

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Making Crispy Chicken Taquitos is a straightforward process that involves filling, rolling, and frying. Start by preparing the filling with shredded chicken and spices. After prepping the filling, warm the tortillas to make them pliable. This ensures the taquitos roll up tightly and hold their shape during frying.

Frying the taquitos at the right temperature is crucial for achieving the perfect crispy texture. Keep an eye on them while frying, turning them as needed, and making sure they don't burn. With practice, you'll master the technique and impress everyone with your homemade taquitos.

Key Technique for Perfect Crispy Chicken Taquitos

The key to perfect Crispy Chicken Taquitos lies in the frying technique. Ensure the oil is at the right temperature before adding the taquitos. Frying at too low a temperature can lead to greasy taquitos, while too high can burn them. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain even cooking and crispiness.

Crispy Chicken Taquitos

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup sour cream
    For dipping
  • 1 cup salsa
    For serving

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs shredded cooked chicken
    Cooked and shredded
  • 1 cup shredded cheese
    Cheddar or Mexican blend
  • 1/2 cup diced onion
    For flavor
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
    For freshness
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
    For seasoning
  • 1 tsp cumin
    For depth of flavor
  • 1 tsp chili powder
    For spice
  • 12 corn tortillas
    To hold the filling
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
    For frying
  • Salt and pepper
    To taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken Filling

    In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, cheese, onion, cilantro, garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

  2. Warm the Tortillas

    Heat corn tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side until warm and pliable.

  3. Fill the Tortillas

    Spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto each tortilla. Roll tightly and secure with a toothpick if necessary.

  4. Heat the Oil

    In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking.

  5. Fry the Taquitos

    Add the rolled taquitos seam-side down in batches, frying until golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.

  6. Drain Excess Oil

    Once golden brown, transfer the taquitos to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

  7. Serve

    Serve hot with sour cream and salsa for dipping.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store leftover Crispy Chicken Taquitos, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain their crispiness, reheat them in the oven or air fryer rather than the microwave.

Serving Suggestions

These Crispy Chicken Taquitos are best served hot with a side of guacamole, sour cream, or your favorite salsa. For a complete meal, pair them with a fresh salad or Mexican rice to balance the flavors.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to customize the filling of your taquitos! You can add black beans, corn, or diced peppers for extra flavor and texture. For a spicy kick, add jalapeños or switch to pepper jack cheese.