Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos Recipe

Air fryer chicken taquitos have become a staple in our household, and for good reason! Weeknight dinners can often feel like a chore, but this recipe has been a game-changer. From the moment I first tried whipping up a batch, the aroma of crispy, savory goodness filled the kitchen, and my family was hooked. Even my pickiest eater couldn’t resist the crunchy tortillas enveloping a flavorful chicken and cheese filling. What I love most is how incredibly simple and quick they are to make. Forget takeout – these air fryer taquitos are faster, healthier, and undeniably more delicious. The air fryer works its magic, creating that perfect golden-brown crispiness without the need for deep frying, making them a guilt-free treat we can all enjoy. Whether it’s a busy evening meal, a fun appetizer for guests, or even a satisfying snack, these air fryer chicken taquitos are always a hit. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be adding them to your regular recipe rotation too!

Ingredients

To embark on your air fryer chicken taquito journey, you’ll only need a handful of readily available ingredients. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need, along with some helpful insights and suggestions to ensure your taquitos are nothing short of perfect.

• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (use rotisserie chicken for ease): The star of our taquito filling is undoubtedly the chicken. Pre-cooked, shredded chicken is the key to speed and convenience, making this recipe ideal for busy weeknights. Rotisserie chicken from your local grocery store is an absolute lifesaver here. It’s already cooked, seasoned, and incredibly flavorful, saving you a significant amount of time and effort. The pre-shredded nature also means you can jump right into mixing the filling. If you prefer to cook your own chicken, you can easily bake, boil, or even poach chicken breasts or thighs. Just ensure it’s fully cooked and shredded before you begin. For optimal flavor and moisture, chicken thighs tend to be a bit more forgiving and flavorful than breasts, but either will work wonderfully. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of cooked chicken too. Leftover grilled chicken or even smoked chicken can add a unique depth of flavor to your taquitos.
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend): Cheese is the melty, gooey glue that binds our taquito filling together and adds a delightful cheesy flavor. Cheddar cheese is a classic choice, offering a sharp and tangy taste that pairs wonderfully with chicken and salsa. A Mexican blend cheese, often containing a mix of cheddar, Monterey Jack, queso quesadilla, and sometimes asadero, provides a more complex and authentically Mexican flavor profile. The blend of different cheeses ensures a great melt and a richer taste. Feel free to explore other cheese options as well! Monterey Jack offers a mild and creamy melt, while Pepper Jack can add a spicy kick if you’re looking to turn up the heat. For a bolder flavor, consider using a sharp cheddar or even a cotija cheese for a saltier, more crumbly texture – though cotija is best used sparingly or in combination with a melting cheese. Pre-shredded cheese is convenient, but for the absolute best melt, shredding your cheese fresh from a block is always recommended. Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose to prevent clumping, which can sometimes hinder its melting ability.
• 1/2 cup salsa: Salsa is the flavor booster and moisture provider for our chicken taquito filling. It adds a vibrant, tangy, and slightly spicy element that perfectly complements the chicken and cheese. The type of salsa you choose can significantly impact the final flavor profile of your taquitos. A classic chunky salsa adds texture and a fresh, tomato-forward flavor. A smoother salsa verde, made with tomatillos, will bring a brighter, more herbaceous tang. For those who enjoy a smoky flavor, a chipotle salsa would be an excellent choice. If you prefer milder flavors, opt for a mild salsa or even a pico de gallo, which is a fresh, uncooked salsa with diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and jalapeños (or without jalapeños for no heat). You can also adjust the amount of salsa to your liking. If you prefer a drier filling, start with slightly less salsa. For a more moist and saucy filling, you can increase the amount of salsa, just be mindful not to make it too wet, as this can make the tortillas soggy and harder to roll.
• 8 small flour tortillas: Flour tortillas are the traditional and most commonly used choice for taquitos. Their soft and pliable texture makes them easy to roll and they crisp up beautifully in the air fryer. Small, taco-sized tortillas are ideal for taquitos, as they create a manageable and perfectly portioned snack or meal. Look for tortillas that are fresh and soft for the best results. If your tortillas are a bit stiff or dry, warming them slightly (as instructed in the recipe) is crucial to prevent them from cracking when rolled. While flour tortillas are classic, you can also experiment with corn tortillas for a gluten-free option and a more authentic Mexican flavor. However, corn tortillas are naturally less pliable and more prone to cracking. To use corn tortillas successfully, you’ll need to warm them for a bit longer and possibly steam them slightly to make them more flexible. Even then, they may be more prone to cracking than flour tortillas, so handle them gently. Consider using white corn tortillas for a milder flavor or yellow corn tortillas for a more robust corn taste.
• Cooking spray: Cooking spray is essential for achieving that perfect golden-brown and crispy exterior on your air fryer taquitos without adding excess oil. It helps to promote browning and prevents the taquitos from sticking to the air fryer basket. Any type of cooking spray will work, whether it’s olive oil, canola oil, or avocado oil spray. A light coating is all you need to ensure optimal crispiness. Don’t overspray, as too much oil can lead to soggy taquitos. If you don’t have cooking spray, you can lightly brush the taquitos with a small amount of oil instead, but cooking spray is generally more convenient and provides a more even coating.
• Optional: avocado or sour cream for serving: While the air fryer chicken taquitos are delicious on their own, adding toppings and serving accompaniments elevates them to another level. Avocado and sour cream are classic and incredibly versatile toppings that complement the savory taquito filling perfectly. Avocado provides a creamy, rich, and slightly nutty flavor that balances the spiciness of the salsa and the richness of the cheese. Sliced avocado, diced avocado, or guacamole all work wonderfully. Sour cream adds a cool, tangy, and creamy element that is especially refreshing alongside the warm, crispy taquitos. You can use plain sour cream, Mexican crema (which is thinner and tangier), or even Greek yogurt for a slightly healthier option with a similar tang. These are just suggestions, and the possibilities for toppings and serving accompaniments are endless. Consider other options like:
  • Pico de gallo: For a fresh and vibrant salsa topping.
  • Guacamole: For extra creamy avocado goodness.
  • Hot sauce: For those who like an extra kick of spice.
  • Chopped cilantro: For a fresh, herbaceous garnish.
  • Lime wedges: To squeeze over the taquitos for a burst of citrusy flavor.
  • Queso dip: For a cheesy and indulgent dipping sauce.
  • Ranch dressing: A surprisingly delicious and creamy dipping option.

By gathering these simple yet flavorful ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating mouthwatering air fryer chicken taquitos that are sure to impress. Remember, feel free to adjust and customize the ingredients to your personal preferences and dietary needs. The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility and ability to be tailored to your taste!

Instructions

Crafting these delectable air fryer chicken taquitos is a breeze, even for novice cooks. The step-by-step instructions below are designed to be clear, concise, and easy to follow, ensuring your taquito-making experience is smooth and successful. Let’s get cooking!

1. In a bowl, mix shredded chicken, cheese, and salsa until combined: This is where the magic begins! Grab a medium-sized mixing bowl – one that provides ample space to comfortably combine all the filling ingredients. Add your shredded cooked chicken, shredded cheese, and salsa to the bowl. Now, using a spoon or spatula, gently mix these ingredients together until they are evenly distributed and well combined. You want the cheese and salsa to be incorporated throughout the chicken, creating a cohesive and flavorful filling. Don’t overmix, just ensure everything is nicely combined. At this stage, you can also taste the filling and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you want a bit more spice, you can add a pinch of chili powder, cumin, or a dash of hot sauce. If you prefer a saltier filling, you can add a pinch of salt, but be mindful that the cheese and salsa already contain salt, so taste first before adding more. This simple step is crucial for creating a flavorful and well-balanced filling that will make your taquitos irresistible.
2. Warm tortillas in the microwave for 20 seconds to make them pliable: This step is often overlooked but is absolutely essential for preventing your tortillas from cracking and tearing when you roll them. Cold tortillas, especially flour tortillas, can be quite stiff and brittle. Warming them briefly in the microwave softens them up, making them much more pliable and easy to work with. Stack your tortillas and wrap them in a damp paper towel or place them in a tortilla warmer if you have one. Microwave them on high for about 20 seconds. The exact time may vary slightly depending on your microwave and the freshness of your tortillas. You want them to be warm and flexible, but not hot or steaming. Overheating can make them too soft and sticky. If you don’t have a microwave, you can also warm tortillas in a dry skillet or comal over medium heat for a few seconds per side, or even steam them briefly. The key is to gently warm them just enough to make them pliable without cooking them. This simple step will save you from frustration and ensure your taquitos roll up beautifully without breaking.
3. Spoon a small amount of the chicken mixture onto each tortilla and roll tightly: Now for the fun part – assembling the taquitos! Take one warmed tortilla and lay it flat on a clean surface. Spoon a small amount of the chicken and cheese mixture onto the center of the tortilla, near one edge. The amount of filling will depend on the size of your tortillas and your preference, but generally, about 2-3 tablespoons of filling per small tortilla is a good starting point. Don’t overfill the tortillas, as this can make them difficult to roll and prone to bursting during air frying. Once you’ve placed the filling, start rolling the tortilla tightly from the edge with the filling towards the opposite edge, like you’re rolling a cigar or a burrito. Tuck in the sides as you roll to create a neat and compact taquito. Roll them as tightly as possible without tearing the tortilla. A tight roll will help the taquitos hold their shape during air frying and prevent the filling from leaking out. Repeat this process for all the remaining tortillas and filling. If you find that your tortillas are still cracking despite warming, you may need to warm them for a few seconds longer or use fresher, more pliable tortillas.
4. Place rolled taquitos seam side down in the air fryer basket: Arranging the taquitos properly in the air fryer basket is important for even cooking and crisping. Place the rolled taquitos seam side down in the air fryer basket. Placing them seam down helps to seal the taquitos and prevents them from unrolling during cooking. Make sure to arrange them in a single layer, without overcrowding the basket. Overcrowding can hinder proper air circulation and result in unevenly cooked and less crispy taquitos. If necessary, cook the taquitos in batches to ensure they are all arranged in a single layer. If your air fryer basket is prone to sticking, you can line it with air fryer parchment paper or lightly spray it with cooking spray before placing the taquitos. However, with cooking spray directly on the taquitos, parchment paper may not be needed and might even hinder browning on the bottom.
5. Spray the taquitos lightly with cooking spray: This step is crucial for achieving that signature golden-brown and crispy taquito exterior. Lightly spray the tops of the rolled taquitos with cooking spray. As mentioned before, any type of cooking spray will work. The cooking spray helps to promote browning and crisping in the air fryer, mimicking the effect of frying in oil but with significantly less fat. Ensure you spray them evenly, but don’t overspray. A light coating is sufficient. If you prefer not to use cooking spray, you can lightly brush the taquitos with a small amount of oil, but cooking spray is generally easier and provides a more even coating. This step is what transforms the soft tortillas into wonderfully crispy and satisfying taquito shells.
6. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes or until golden and crispy: Now it’s time for the air fryer to work its magic! Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and air fry the taquitos for 8-10 minutes. The exact cooking time may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model and the desired level of crispiness. Start checking for doneness around 8 minutes. You’re looking for the taquitos to be golden brown and crispy on the outside. The tortillas should be nicely browned and slightly firm to the touch. Avoid overcooking, as this can make the tortillas too dry and brittle. If you want them extra crispy, you can air fry them for a minute or two longer, but keep a close eye on them to prevent burning. If you’re unsure if they’re done, you can carefully remove one taquito and check the color and crispiness. Once they are golden brown and crispy to your liking, they are ready to be served!
7. Serve with avocado or sour cream if desired: The final step is the best part – enjoying your delicious air fryer chicken taquitos! Carefully remove the cooked taquitos from the air fryer basket and arrange them on a serving plate. Serve them immediately while they are hot and crispy. As suggested, avocado and sour cream are classic and delicious accompaniments. You can serve them whole, sliced, or diced, and offer a dollop of sour cream alongside for dipping. Remember to consider other serving suggestions mentioned earlier, such as salsa, guacamole, hot sauce, cilantro, lime wedges, queso dip, or ranch dressing. Set out a variety of toppings and dipping sauces to allow everyone to customize their taquitos to their liking. These air fryer chicken taquitos are perfect as a quick and easy meal, a fun appetizer for parties, or a satisfying snack any time of day. Enjoy the crispy, cheesy, and flavorful goodness you’ve created!

Following these simple instructions will lead you to perfectly cooked, crispy, and flavorful air fryer chicken taquitos every time. Don’t be afraid to practice and adjust cooking times to your specific air fryer and preferences. Happy cooking and enjoy your taquitos!

Nutrition Facts

Understanding the nutritional content of your meals is important for making informed dietary choices. Here’s a breakdown of the nutrition facts for these air fryer chicken taquitos, providing you with valuable information per serving.

(Per taquito):

• Calories: 150: At just 150 calories per taquito, these are a relatively light and guilt-free option, especially compared to traditional fried taquitos which can be significantly higher in calories due to the oil absorption from deep frying. This calorie count makes them a great choice for a snack or a lighter meal, allowing you to enjoy a flavorful and satisfying treat without overdoing it on calories.
• Protein: 10g: These taquitos are a good source of protein, boasting 10 grams of protein per taquito. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle growth, and keeping you feeling full and satisfied. Including protein in your meals and snacks can help to manage hunger and prevent overeating. The chicken filling is the primary source of protein in this recipe, making these taquitos a nutritious and energy-boosting option.
• Fat: 8g: Each taquito contains 8 grams of fat. While fat is often demonized, it’s an essential nutrient that plays a vital role in energy production, hormone regulation, and nutrient absorption. The fat content in these taquitos primarily comes from the cheese and the small amount of oil from the cooking spray. Compared to deep-fried taquitos, which can be very high in fat, these air fryer taquitos are significantly lower in fat, making them a healthier choice. The type of fat is also important; the fat in cheese and chicken is primarily saturated and monounsaturated fat.
• Carbohydrates: 14g: These taquitos contain 14 grams of carbohydrates per serving. Carbohydrates are the body’s primary source of energy. The carbohydrates in this recipe mainly come from the flour tortilla and a small amount from the salsa. While carbohydrates are essential, it’s important to choose complex carbohydrates over refined carbohydrates whenever possible. Flour tortillas, while providing carbohydrates, are not considered a complex carbohydrate source. However, for a quick and convenient recipe, they are a common and acceptable choice.
• Fiber: 1g: Each taquito provides 1 gram of fiber. Fiber is crucial for digestive health, promoting regularity, and helping to control blood sugar levels. While 1 gram of fiber per taquito is not a high amount, it’s a start. You can increase the fiber content by choosing whole wheat tortillas instead of white flour tortillas. Adding vegetables to the filling, such as black beans, corn, or diced bell peppers, can also boost the fiber content.

Servings and Calories per Serving:

This recipe, as written, yields 8 taquitos, considering the use of 8 small flour tortillas. Therefore, the nutritional information provided is per single taquito, which constitutes one serving. If you consume two taquitos, you would simply double the nutritional values listed above.

Important Note: These nutrition facts are estimates and can vary slightly based on the specific brands and types of ingredients you use. Factors such as the fat content of your cheese, the type of salsa, and the size of your tortillas can all influence the final nutritional values. For the most accurate nutritional information, you can use a nutrition calculator app or website and input the specific ingredients you use. However, these estimates provide a good general understanding of the nutritional profile of these air fryer chicken taquitos, highlighting them as a relatively light, protein-rich, and lower-fat alternative to traditional fried taquitos. Enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Preparation Time

One of the greatest appeals of this air fryer chicken taquito recipe is its incredibly short preparation time. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a quick and satisfying meal or snack, the prep time is minimal, getting you from craving to crispy taquitos in no time.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes: The active preparation time for this recipe is a mere 10 minutes. This includes the time it takes to:
  • Shred the chicken (if not using pre-shredded rotisserie chicken): If you’re starting with whole cooked chicken breasts or thighs, you’ll need to shred them. This can be done quickly with two forks or by using a stand mixer with a paddle attachment. However, using pre-shredded rotisserie chicken eliminates this step entirely, saving you even more time.
  • Shred the cheese (if not using pre-shredded cheese): While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, shredding your own cheese from a block will result in a better.

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