There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a perfectly crispy taquito filled with tender, flavorful chicken. It’s one of those dishes that feels indulgent but doesn’t have to be heavy or overly complicated. As someone who loves experimenting in the kitchen, I’ve found that the air fryer is a game-changer for making taquitos. It gives them that irresistible crunch without the need for deep frying, making them a healthier option without sacrificing taste.
I’ve always been a fan of Mexican-inspired dishes, and these air fryer chicken taquitos are no exception. They’re quick to prepare, versatile, and perfect for everything from weeknight dinners to party appetizers. Plus, they’re a great way to use up leftover chicken! Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, these taquitos are sure to be a hit. Let me walk you through everything you need to know to make them perfectly every time.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Chicken: The star of the show! You can use shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience or cook and shred your own. The chicken provides a hearty, protein-packed base for the taquitos.
Tortillas: Corn tortillas are traditional for taquitos, and they crisp up beautifully in the air fryer. Make sure to warm them slightly before rolling to prevent cracking.
Cheese: A blend of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack works wonders here. The cheese adds creaminess and helps bind the filling together.
Spices: A mix of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika gives the filling its bold, smoky flavor. These spices are essential for creating that authentic taquito taste.
Salsa: Use your favorite store-bought or homemade salsa. It adds moisture and a tangy kick to the filling.
Lime Juice: A splash of fresh lime juice brightens up the flavors and balances the richness of the cheese and chicken.
Cooking Spray: A light spritz of oil helps the taquitos achieve that golden, crispy exterior in the air fryer.
Ingredients List
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 8-10 small corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- Cooking spray
- Optional toppings: guacamole, sour cream, or extra salsa
How to Make Crispy and Flavorful Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, salsa, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika, and lime juice. Mix everything thoroughly until the chicken is evenly coated with the spices and cheese.
Step 2: Warm the Tortillas
To make the tortillas pliable, wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 20-30 seconds. Alternatively, you can heat them in a skillet for a few seconds on each side.
Step 3: Assemble the Taquitos
Place about 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto each tortilla, spreading it in a line down the center. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling and place it seam-side down on a plate. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
Step 4: Air Fry the Taquitos
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the taquitos with cooking spray to help them crisp up. Place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they aren’t touching. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the taquitos from the air fryer and let them cool slightly. Serve with your favorite toppings like guacamole, sour cream, or extra salsa.
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Warm Your Tortillas: Cold tortillas are more likely to crack when rolling. Warming them makes them flexible and easier to work with.
- Don’t Overfill: Use just enough filling to roll the taquitos tightly without overflowing. Overfilling can cause them to burst open during cooking.
- Spray Lightly: A light coating of cooking spray is all you need for that perfect crispiness. Too much oil can make them greasy.
- Work in Batches: If your air fryer is small, cook the taquitos in batches to ensure they crisp up evenly.
- Customize the Filling: Add black beans, corn, or diced jalapeños for extra flavor and texture.
FAQs
Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?
Yes, you can use flour tortillas, but they won’t get as crispy as corn tortillas. If you prefer flour, make sure to spray them well with oil.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the taquitos and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before air frying. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months—just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if frying from frozen.
What dipping sauces go well with taquitos?
Guacamole, sour cream, salsa, or a creamy chipotle sauce are all great options.
Can I bake these instead of using an air fryer?
Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover taquitos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore their crispiness.
Enjoy making these crispy and flavorful air fryer chicken taquitos—they’re sure to become a favorite in your household!