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Chicken taquito being dipped in guacamole with salsa on the side

Spicy Cheesy Chicken Taquitos


  • Author: Emma
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 35 minutes 1x

Description

These Spicy Cheesy Chicken Taquitos are packed with bold flavors, featuring shredded chicken, melted cheese, and a creamy, spicy kick from jalapeños and chipotle seasoning. Perfect for a crispy appetizer, party snack, or an easy dinner! They can be baked, fried, or air-fried for a crunch you’ll love.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Filling:

  • 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
  • ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 3 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ¼ cup salsa verde or diced green chilies
  • 1 tablespoon chipotle sauce or adobo sauce
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon cumin
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon chopped jalapeños (optional for extra spice)

For Assembly:

  • 12 small corn tortillas
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable or avocado oil (for brushing or frying)

For Serving:

  • Sour cream or Mexican crema
  • Guacamole
  • Salsa or pico de gallo
  • Fresh cilantro and lime wedges

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

  1. In a large bowl, mix shredded chicken, Monterey Jack, and cheddar cheese.
  2. Add cream cheese, salsa verde, and chipotle sauce, stirring until well combined.
  3. Season with garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  4. Stir in jalapeños for an extra spicy kick.

Step 2: Warm the Tortillas

  1. Heat the tortillas in a microwave for 15-20 seconds or on a dry skillet until soft. This prevents cracking.

Step 3: Roll the Taquitos

  1. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of filling onto one side of each tortilla.
  2. Tightly roll each tortilla and place seam-side down. Use a toothpick if needed to hold them together.

Step 4: Cook the Taquitos

Baking Method:
8. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
9. Arrange taquitos seam-side down on a baking sheet, brush with vegetable oil, and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and crispy.

Frying Method:
10. Heat 1 inch of oil in a skillet over medium heat.
11. Fry taquitos for 2-3 minutes per side, then drain on paper towels.

Air Frying Method:
12. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
13. Place taquitos in a single layer and cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Serve with sour cream, guacamole, and salsa. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for extra flavor!

Notes

  • Use flour tortillas for a softer, slightly chewier taquito.
  • Adjust the spice level by adding or reducing chipotle sauce and jalapeños.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze before baking for up to 3 months—bake straight from frozen at 400°F for 25-30 minutes.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Cuisine: Mexican, Tex-Mex

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 5 People
  • Calories: 220 calories per 2 taquitos

Keywords: Chicken Taquitos Recipe, spicy taquitos, cheesy taquitos, baked taquitos, crispy chicken taquitos, Mexican taquitos, homemade taquitos