Chicken Taquitos

There’s something undeniably comforting about Chicken Taquitos. I remember the first time I tried them at a friend’s gathering. The aroma of crispy tortillas filled with flavorful chicken wafting through the air was simply irresistible. Everyone was gathered around the table, dipping the taquitos into creamy guacamole and tangy salsa, and it instantly became the highlight of the evening. Since then, I’ve made Chicken Taquitos a staple in my kitchen. They’re easy to prepare, packed with taste, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether for a casual weeknight dinner or a lively gathering, these taquitos never fail to impress!

Main Ingredients for Chicken Taquitos

The ingredients for Chicken Taquitos come together to create a delightful blend of flavors and textures. Each component plays an essential role, from the crispy tortillas to the savory filling. The combination of ground chicken, spices, and cheese harmoniously melds into a mouthwatering experience.

• Olive oil spray: This is essential for crisping up your taquitos in the oven, giving them that golden-brown finish.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a rich, aromatic flavor that elevates the dish.
• 1 ½ teaspoons cumin: Brings a warm, earthy note that pairs beautifully with the chicken.
• 1 ¼ teaspoons kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors, making each bite more delicious.
• 1 teaspoon chili powder: Adds a subtle kick that balances the richness of the cheese.
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano: Provides a hint of herbal flavor, complementing the spiciness.
• 1 pound 93% lean ground chicken: The star of this recipe, offering a lean protein that’s easy to cook.
• ½ small yellow onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the filling.
• ½ 8-ounce can tomato sauce (4 ounces): Keeps the filling moist and adds flavor.
• ¼ cup water: Helps in cooking the filling and blending the flavors.
• 16 6-inch flour tortillas: The foundation of your taquitos, providing a perfect wrap.
• 4 ounces Mexican cheese blend (1 cup): Melts beautifully, adding richness and creaminess.
• 4 cups shredded iceberg lettuce: For a refreshing crunch when serving.
• 1 cup pico de gallo, drained: Adds a fresh, zesty element that brightens the dish.
• Guacamole or sour cream: Optional toppings that enhance the flavor profile.

Making This Chicken Taquitos

Creating Chicken Taquitos is an enjoyable process that yields mouthwatering results. Let’s walk through the steps together to make sure you get those perfect crispy taquitos.

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a sheet pan with foil and spray it with cooking spray. This will help your taquitos achieve that wonderful crispiness.
2. In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, cumin, kosher salt, chili powder, and dried oregano. This seasoning mix will infuse the ground chicken with fantastic flavor.
3. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and spray it with olive oil. Once hot, add the ground chicken. Cook it until it’s no longer pink, breaking it into smaller pieces as it cooks. This should take around 5 to 7 minutes. Look for a nice golden color.
4. Once the chicken is cooked through, add the seasoning mix from the bowl. Stir well to combine, ensuring that all the chicken is coated with those wonderful spices.
5. Next, add in the yellow onion, tomato sauce, and water. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
6. Now it’s time to prepare the tortillas. Working in batches, place three 6-inch flour tortillas between two paper towels and microwave them for 30 seconds. This step makes them warm and pliable.
7. On a clean, dry surface, place one tortilla and spread 2 tablespoons of the chicken filling onto the bottom third. Top with 1 tablespoon of the Mexican cheese blend. This will help the filling stay intact.
8. Carefully roll the tortilla from the bottom to encase the filling, forming a tube. Once it’s rolled, place it seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas and filling.
9. Spray the tops of the rolled taquitos with olive oil and bake them in the preheated oven for approximately 15 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t burn.

Things Worth Knowing

Make It Your Own

One of the best parts of cooking is making a recipe your own. Here are some ideas to tailor Chicken Taquitos to your taste:

• Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze assembled but unbaked taquitos. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months.
• Pairing: Serve your taquitos with a side of black beans and rice for a complete meal.
• Variations: Experiment with fillings by using ground turkey or adding vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.
• Toppings: Try different toppings such as shredded cheese, sliced jalapeños, or fresh cilantro for an added flavor boost.

Serving Ideas for Chicken Taquitos

When it comes to serving Chicken Taquitos, the possibilities are endless. Here are some ideas to enhance your dining experience:

• Appetizer Style: Serve your taquitos as appetizers at parties alongside a variety of dips such as guacamole, salsa, and sour cream.
• Family Dinner: Pair them with a fresh salad and some warm tortillas, making a delightful family meal that everyone will enjoy.
• Game Day Treat: These taquitos are perfect for game days. Set up a taco bar with various toppings so guests can customize their own.
• Lunch Box: Pack them in lunch boxes for a fun and filling midday meal that kids and adults will love.
• Seasonal Pairing: During summer, serve with a refreshing corn salad or coleslaw for a light, vibrant meal.
• Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them properly. Wrap them in foil and keep them in the fridge for quick snacks or lunches.

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, Chicken Taquitos are a delightful dish that brings joy to any gathering. Their crispy exterior and flavorful filling make them a beloved choice for many. I encourage you to give them a try for your next meal. You won’t be disappointed!

Chicken Taquitos

The ultimate comfort food, Chicken Taquitos are crispy, flavorful, and perfect for easy weeknight dinners. With a delicious filling of seasoned chicken and cheese wrapped in a warm tortilla, they’re sure to satisfy your cravings. Make them tonight for a delightful family meal!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Mexican

Calories: 320

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 can Olive oil spray
• 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
• 1.5 teaspoons Cumin
• 1.25 teaspoons Kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon Chili powder
• 0.5 teaspoon Dried oregano
• 1 pound 93% Lean ground chicken
• 0.5 small Yellow onion
• 4 ounces Tomato sauce (4 ounces)
• 0.25 cup Water
• 16 6-inch Flour tortillas , or corn tortillas, check labels for GF
• 4 ounces Mexican cheese blend (1 cup)
• 4 cups Shredded iceberg lettuce
• 1 cup Pico de gallo , drained
• Guacamole or sour cream optional for serving

Equipment

• Sheet pan

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a sheet pan with foil and spray it with cooking spray. This will help your taquitos achieve that wonderful crispiness.
2. In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, cumin, kosher salt, chili powder, and dried oregano. This seasoning mix will infuse the ground chicken with fantastic flavor.
3. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and spray it with olive oil. Once hot, add the ground chicken. Cook it until it’s no longer pink, breaking it into smaller pieces as it cooks. This should take around 5 to 7 minutes. Look for a nice golden color.
4. Once the chicken is cooked through, add the seasoning mix from the bowl. Stir well to combine, ensuring that all the chicken is coated with those wonderful spices.
5. Next, add in the yellow onion, tomato sauce, and water. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
6. Now it’s time to prepare the tortillas. Working in batches, place three 6-inch flour tortillas between two paper towels and microwave them for 30 seconds. This step makes them warm and pliable.
7. On a clean, dry surface, place one tortilla and spread 2 tablespoons of the chicken filling onto the bottom third. Top with 1 tablespoon of the Mexican cheese blend. This will help the filling stay intact.
8. Carefully roll the tortilla from the bottom to encase the filling, forming a tube. Once it’s rolled, place it seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas and filling.
9. Spray the tops of the rolled taquitos with olive oil and bake them in the preheated oven for approximately 15 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t burn.

Notes

• To serve immediately: Place 1 cup shredded lettuce on each plate and top with 2 taquitos, ¼ cup pico de gallo and optional guacamole and sour cream on each.
• To freeze: Allow taquitos to cool completely then place in an airtight container or Ziploc bag. Transfer to freezer. Freeze for up to 3 months.
• To reheat in oven: Preheat oven to 400°F. Place frozen taquitos on a sheet pan and cook 15 to 18 minutes, or until heated through.
• To reheat in air-fryer: Preheat for 3 minutes. Set air fryer to 380°F and cook frozen taquitos 8 minutes, flipping halfway through.

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Meet Isla Banks

We eat with our eyes first, so I strive to make every dish look as bountiful as it tastes. I work on every stage of the process, from sourcing the freshest ingredients to styling the final shot. I tested this recipe repeatedly to provide you with the visual inspiration and reliability you need to cook with confidence.