Golden crispy air fryer chicken taquitos served on a plate.

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos Recipe

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why make this recipe

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos are the perfect snack or meal option for families and gatherings. They are easy to make, packed with flavor, and healthier than traditional fried taquitos thanks to the air fryer. This recipe is ideal for using leftover chicken, and you can customize the filling to suit your taste. Whether it’s for a game day treat, a quick weeknight dinner, or a fun party appetizer, these taquitos are sure to impress.

how to make Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos

Ingredients:

For the Taquitos:

  • 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken (about 1 lb, from a rotisserie chicken or boiled chicken breasts)
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1/2 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend (or Monterey Jack, Cheddar)
  • 1/4 cup salsa (your favorite kind, mild, medium, or hot)
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice, freshly squeezed
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
  • 18-20 corn tortillas (6-inch size)
  • Olive oil spray or other cooking spray

For Serving (Optional):

  • Salsa
  • Guacamole
  • Sour cream or Mexican Crema
  • Queso fresco or cotija cheese, crumbled
  • Shredded lettuce
  • Diced tomatoes

Directions:

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded chicken, shredded cheese blend, salsa, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix all the ingredients together until well combined. The mixture should be creamy and thick. Taste and adjust the seasonings if needed.

  2. To prevent the corn tortillas from cracking, wrap a stack of 5-6 tortillas in damp paper towels. Microwave them for 30-45 seconds, or until they are warm and pliable. Work in batches to keep the tortillas warm.

  3. Lay a warm tortilla on a clean, flat surface. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the chicken filling down the center of the tortilla, leaving a small border at each end. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling to form a cylinder. Place it seam-side down on a baking sheet or plate. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.

  4. Lightly spray the surface of each taquito with olive oil spray. This helps them become crispy and golden brown.

  5. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes. Place the taquitos in the air fryer basket in a single layer, seam-side down. Do not overcrowd the basket; leave space between each taquito for air to circulate. You will probably need to cook in 2-3 batches.

  6. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 7-9 minutes, flipping them halfway through. The taquitos are ready when they are deeply golden brown and very crispy.

  7. Remove the taquitos from the air fryer and serve hot with your favorite dips and toppings.

how to serve Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos are best served right out of the air fryer. You can offer a variety of dips such as salsa, guacamole, and sour cream on the side. For added flavor, sprinkle with crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese, shredded lettuce, and diced tomatoes.

how to store Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos

If you have leftover taquitos, let them cool completely. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 3-5 minutes until heated through and crispy.

tips to make Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos

  • Ensure the tortillas are warm before rolling to prevent cracking.
  • Don’t overload the air fryer basket; cooking in batches yields better results.
  • Experiment with different fillings such as black beans, corn, or other vegetables.
  • Adjust the spice level by using different salsas or adding more chili powder.

variation

For a vegetarian version, swap shredded chicken with black beans or a mix of roasted vegetables. You can also use flour tortillas for a different texture.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use frozen chicken?
A1: Yes, you can use cooked, shredded frozen chicken. Just ensure it is fully thawed and warmed before mixing with the other ingredients.

Q2: Can I air fry other fillings?
A2: Absolutely! You can fill the taquitos with cheese, beans, or vegetables. Just make sure the filling is cooked.

Q3: How can I make these taquitos spicier?
A3: Add more chili powder, use hotter salsa, or include jalapeños or diced green chiles in the mixture for extra heat.

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