If you’re like me, the sound of sizzling tortillas in the kitchen feels like an invitation to a fiesta. That’s exactly how I felt when I decided to whip up these homemade Spicy Chicken Taquitos. With just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes, you can transform ordinary chicken into a delightful snack that’s bursting with flavor and a kick of spice.
I love how versatile these taquitos can be—whether baked to perfection in the oven or air-fried for extra crunch, they cater to every craving. The creamy filling, made luscious with cream cheese and enhanced by chipotle, is a game-changer. Plus, you can tailor them to suit your pantry staples or personal taste!
So, the next time you find yourself yearning for a quick yet satisfying meal that’s way more exciting than takeout, this recipe will become your go-to. Grab your tortillas, and let’s get rolling!
Why Are Spicy Chicken Taquitos a Must-Try?
Crispy, homemade goodness: These taquitos are a delicious way to create a mouthwatering snack right in your own kitchen, far superior to anything store-bought.
Flavor-packed filling: The combination of chicken, cream cheese, and chipotle offers a creamy, spicy blend that’s downright addictive.
Versatility at its best: Whether baked or air-fried, you get to choose the method that fits your lifestyle and cooking preferences.
Quick and easy prep time: With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip these up in less than 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends!
Crowd-pleaser appeal: Serve them at your next gathering, and watch them disappear—everyone loves a tasty taquito!
Customize to your taste: Feel free to switch up the ingredients, like using turkey or adding veggies, making them suitable for any dietary need.
Spicy Chicken Taquitos Ingredients
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For the Filling
• Shredded Cooked Chicken – The hearty base of your taquitos; swap for shredded turkey or beans for a vegetarian delight.
• Cream Cheese – Adds a rich, creamy texture; you can opt for Neufchâtel for a lighter version.
• Chipotle in Adobo Sauce – Brings a delightful kick and depth; adjust the amount to match your heat preference or substitute with smoked paprika for milder flavors.
• Cumin & Chili Powder – Essential seasonings for warmth; feel free to use taco seasoning in its place.
• Kosher Salt & Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Key for enhancing the overall taste of your filling.
• Small Corn Tortillas – Provides the perfect base for your taquitos; flour tortillas can work if you prefer. -
For the Toppings and Sauce
• Shredded Cheddar & Pepper Jack – Offers a melty, flavorful kick; switch to any cheese you enjoy.
• Avocado – A vital component for your creamy sauce; substitute with Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
• Sour Cream – Enhances tanginess in the sauce; Greek yogurt can be used instead for a less fatty alternative.
• Cilantro, Garlic, Lime Juice – Freshen up your avocado cream sauce; if you’re not a fan, feel free to use lemon juice instead.
These Spicy Chicken Taquitos are not just a recipe; they’re an invitation to enjoy hands-on cooking with loved ones, and a delicious way to customize flavors to suit every palate!
How to Make Spicy Chicken Taquitos
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Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and lightly spray a baking sheet with cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure crispiness.
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Combine the filling: In a large bowl, mix together the shredded cooked chicken, softened cream cheese, chopped chipotle in adobo, cumin, chili powder, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper until everything is well blended and creamy.
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Warm the tortillas: Microwave the small corn tortillas for about 30 seconds, covering them with a damp paper towel. This will make them pliable and easier to roll without cracking.
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Assemble the taquitos: Place approximately 1/4 cup of the chicken filling and a sprinkle of shredded cheese on one end of each tortilla. Carefully roll them tightly and place seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
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Bake until crispy: Bake your taquitos in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy, turning halfway for even cooking.
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Prepare the avocado cream sauce: While the taquitos are baking, blend together the avocado, sour cream, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, lime juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
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Serve and enjoy: Serve your delicious Spicy Chicken Taquitos warm with the avocado cream sauce and garnish with your favorite toppings like pico de gallo or queso fresco.
Optional: For an extra kick, drizzle with hot sauce before serving!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These delicious Spicy Chicken Taquitos are perfect for meal prep, saving you time on busy weeknights! You can assemble the taquitos and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. To maintain their crispy texture, keep the taquitos tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container. If you’d like to prep further ahead, you can freeze unbaked taquitos for up to 4 months. Just layer them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a ziplock bag. When ready to cook, bake or air fry from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. Enjoy homemade flavors with less hassle!
How to Store and Freeze Spicy Chicken Taquitos
Room Temperature: Enjoy freshly baked taquitos warm; they’re best eaten immediately for maximum crunch. If left out, consume within 2 hours.
Fridge: Store leftover taquitos in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven to restore crispness, about 10-15 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
Freezer: Assemble unbaked taquitos and freeze them on a baking tray. Once frozen, transfer to a ziplock bag for up to 4 months. Bake or air fry from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating: To reheat previously baked taquitos, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until crispy. Enjoy with your favorite dips for a quick snack!
Spicy Chicken Taquitos Variations
Feel free to get creative with these taquitos and personalize them to fit your taste buds or dietary needs!
- Veggie Delight: Swap shredded chicken for a mix of sautéed bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms for a delightful vegetarian fill.
- Cheesy Boost: Add cream cheese mixed with jalapeños or pepper jack cheese into the filling for an extra cheesy, spicy twist that brings warmth in every bite.
- Tortilla Swap: Use whole wheat or spinach tortillas instead of corn for a healthier option that still holds up to baking.
- Salsa Verde: Pair the taquitos with a zesty salsa verde instead of the avocado cream for a fresh and tangy alternative that adds a burst of flavor.
- Buffalo Style: Toss your shredded chicken in buffalo sauce for a zippy twist; serve with blue cheese dressing for dipping!
- Crunchy Toppings: Crumble tortilla chips over the taquitos before baking for an irresistible crunch and added texture.
- Savory Meat Mix: Combine chicken with ground beef or chorizo for a heartier filling that packs a flavorful punch.
- Herb Infusion: Mix fresh herbs like oregano or thyme into your filling for a garden-fresh taste that enhances each bite.
Embrace the art of customization—there’s no wrong way to enjoy these flavorful goodies!
Expert Tips for Spicy Chicken Taquitos
- Warm Tortillas: Keeping your tortillas warm is crucial to prevent cracking during rolling. Microwave with a damp paper towel for best results.
- Don’t Overfill: Filling your taquitos just right (about 1/4 cup) ensures they roll easily and cook evenly without bursting.
- Crispiness Hack: For that extra crunch, use an air fryer instead of baking; it only takes a little more time to achieve a perfect crispy texture.
- Season to Taste: Adjust the spice levels to your preference by modifying the chipotle in adobo. You can even mix in different spices for variety.
- Keep an Eye on Baking: Ovens can vary, so monitor your taquitos closely. They’re ready when they’re golden brown and crispy, usually around 15-20 minutes.
- Customize for Everyone: Feel free to swap in different proteins or veggies to cater to dietary needs, making these Spicy Chicken Taquitos suitable for everyone!
What to Serve with Spicy Chicken Taquitos?
Create a delightful spread that complements the taquitos beautifully, making each bite even more exciting!
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Lime Cilantro Rice: The refreshing citrus notes of lime paired with fragrant cilantro provide a perfect balance to the spicy taquitos. It’s a light and zesty side that enhances the overall meal experience.
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Guacamole: Rich and creamy, guacamole offers a cool contrast to the spicy kick! Its velvety texture makes it an ideal dipping companion, adding an extra layer of indulgence.
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Pico de Gallo: This fresh tomato salsa infused with lime and cilantro can brighten up the flavors of your taquitos. Each bite brings a fresh crunch that complements the softness of the filling.
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Black Bean Salad: A protein-packed side dish, this salad with black beans, corn, and fresh veggies adds a hearty element to your meal. The vibrant colors and flavors create an appealing, nutritious addition that fills you up!
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Corn on the Cob: Grilled or roasted corn sprinkled with chili powder and lime evokes summertime vibes while offering a sweet, smoky flavor to round out the spice of your taquitos.
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Classic Margaritas: A chilled margarita is a perfect drink pairing, its tangy citrus taste cutting through the flavors of the taquitos. The chill of a margarita complements the warmth of the dish wonderfully.
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Churros: For a sweet ending, serve churros dusted with cinnamon sugar! Their crisp exterior and soft center provide a delicious contrast after enjoying your savory taquitos, making it an unforgettable meal experience.
Spicy Chicken Taquitos Recipe FAQs
What kind of chicken can I use for the filling?
Absolutely! You can use shredded cooked chicken, which is perfect for this recipe. If you prefer, feel free to substitute with shredded turkey for a slightly different flavor, or even black beans for a vegetarian option.
How should I store leftover taquitos?
The best way to store leftover taquitos is in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, I recommend reheating them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore that wonderful crispiness!
Can I freeze the taquitos?
Very easily! To freeze unbaked taquitos, simply lay them out on a baking tray in a single layer. Once they are frozen solid, transfer them to a ziplock bag, where they can be stored for up to 4 months. When you’re ready to bake, you can cook them directly from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What’s the best way to prevent the tortillas from cracking?
To prevent your tortillas from cracking, microwave them with a damp paper towel for about 30 seconds before rolling. This makes them much more pliable, which helps them hold the filling without breaking. It’s a little trick that makes a big difference in assembling your taquitos!
Can I make these taquitos healthier?
Certainly! You can lighten up these Spicy Chicken Taquitos by using Neufchâtel cream cheese instead of regular cream cheese, opting for Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, and even adding more veggies to the filling to boost the nutritional value. Don’t hesitate to get creative with substitutions based on your dietary preferences!
How do I know when my taquitos are fully cooked?
You’ll know your taquitos are done when they turn golden brown and crispy, which typically takes about 15-20 minutes in the oven. Make sure to keep an eye on them, as oven temperatures can vary. If you check them and they look deliciously crispy, it’s time to dig in!
Crispy Spicy Chicken Taquitos with Avocado Cream Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and lightly spray a baking sheet with cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, mix together the shredded cooked chicken, softened cream cheese, chopped chipotle in adobo, cumin, chili powder, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper until well blended and creamy.
- Microwave the small corn tortillas for about 30 seconds, covering them with a damp paper towel.
- Place approximately 1/4 cup of the chicken filling and a sprinkle of shredded cheese on one end of each tortilla. Carefully roll them tightly and place seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the taquitos in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, turning halfway for even cooking.
- While the taquitos are baking, blend together the avocado, sour cream, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, lime juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Serve the taquitos warm with the avocado cream sauce and garnish with your favorite toppings such as pico de gallo or queso fresco.