Chicken Taquitos (Baked or Fried)
User Reviews
5
Chicken Taquitos (Baked or Fried)
Description
This recipe employs cooked shredded chicken seasoned with salt, pepper, chili powder, garlic powder, and cumin to build a flavorful filling. The blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses adds richness and a pleasing meltiness. The seasoned mixture is rolled inside warmed corn tortillas, secured with toothpicks to hold their shape during cooking.
Cooking options include frying in hot oil to obtain a deep golden crisp or baking at a high temperature with cooking spray for a lighter crisp texture. After cooking, toothpicks should be removed before serving. The crunchy exterior contrasts with a tender, cheesy, and well-seasoned chicken interior.
Leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken can be used, offering convenience without sacrificing flavor. Avoid using pre-shredded cheeses with additives as they may not melt properly. Nutritional information varies depending on cooking method; baking results in less oil absorption.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups chicken cooked shredded
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin ground
- 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
- 1/2 cup Monterey jack cheese shredded
- 12 small corn tortillas
- oil if frying
- cooking spray if baking
Instructions
- Place the chicken, salt, pepper, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese in a bowl. Stir until combined.
- Wrap the tortillas in a damp paper towel and place on a plate. Microwave for 1 minute or until tortillas are warm and pliable.
- Lay out the tortillas on a flat surface and divide the chicken and cheese mixture among the 12 tortillas. Roll up each tortilla tightly and secure with a toothpick.
- To fry the taquitos: Heat 3/4 inch of oil in a deep pan to 350 degrees F. Add 3-4 taquitos and fry until crisp and golden brown, 3-5 minutes. Repeat with remaining taquitos.
- To bake the taquitos: Preheat the oven to 425 degrees. Place the taquitos in a single layer on a sheet pan coated with cooking spray. Spray the tops of the taquitos with the cooking spray. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
- Remove toothpicks, then serve.
Notes
- Use leftover cooked or store-bought rotisserie chicken for convenience and flavor.
- Remove toothpicks after cooking to avoid hazards before serving.
- Avoid pre-shredded cheeses with preservatives for better melting and texture.
- Baking yields a less oily but still crispy taquito compared to frying.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 6Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 314 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 314kcal | 16% |
| Carbohydrates | 24g | 8% |
| Protein | 23g | 46% |
| Fat | 14g | 22% |
| Saturated Fat | 7g | 35% |
| Cholesterol | 73mg | 24% |
| Sodium | 365mg | 15% |
| Potassium | 277mg | 6% |
| Fiber | 3g | 12% |
| Vitamin A | 480IU | 10% |
| Calcium | 261mg | 26% |
| Iron | 1.4mg | 8% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.