The sizzle of spicy chicken filling combined with the crunch of a perfectly fried or baked tortilla is enough to make any food lover’s heart skip a beat. Recently, I was rummaging through my pantry, looking for something to soothe my craving for a satisfying snack when I stumbled upon this easy Spicy Chicken Taquitos recipe. With just a handful of ingredients, I transformed an ordinary dinner into a fiesta of flavors that brought friends and family together.
Whether you prefer them crisped to golden perfection in the oven or fried for that classic texture, these taquitos are a treat that suits any occasion—from cozy nights at home to lively game days. And the best part? They’re endlessly customizable! Mix and match toppings to accommodate any palate, ensuring that every bite is a delight. Dive into this comforting recipe that’ll elevate your weeknight meals and impress at gatherings, proving that homemade always tastes best.
Why are Spicy Chicken Taquitos a Must-Try?
Crunchy Texture: Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch, whether baked or fried, that elevates your snacking experience.
Endless Customization: Tailor these taquitos with toppings—from creamy guacamole to zesty salsa—ensuring everyone finds their perfect combination.
Easy Preparation: With minimal prep time, creating these flavorful delights is as simple as mixing a few ingredients.
Impressive Flavor: The smoky chipotle and savory spices come together for a taste that will wow your family and friends.
Delightful Versatility: Swap protein options or fill with veggies for a personal twist, making them suitable for all diets!
Spicy Chicken Taquitos Ingredients
• Get ready for flavor-packed taquitos!
For the Filling
- Chicken Breast – Use skinless, boneless chicken breast for shredding or swap with pork for variation.
- Chipotle Peppers in Adobo – Adds heat and smokiness; substitute with canned jalapeños for a milder flavor.
- Low Sodium Chicken Broth – Provides moisture and seasoning; stock or vegetable broth can serve as a substitute.
- Dark Chili Powder – Delivers depth of flavor; regular chili powder works as an alternative.
- Smoked Paprika – Enhances smoky notes; use regular paprika if smoked is unavailable.
- Ground Cumin – Adds earthy undertones; omit for a milder flavor if preferred.
- Dried Oregano – Imparts herbal notes; thyme can be a suitable alternative.
- Granulated Garlic – A must for flavor; fresh minced garlic can be substituted (about 1 clove).
- Kosher Salt – Essential seasoning; sea salt works well in the same quantity.
For the Taquitos
- Corn Tortillas – Perfect for wrapping; flour tortillas can replace them for flautas.
- Shredded Monterey Jack Cheese – Provides creamy texture and flavor; cheddar or pepper jack can be used for a twist.
- Oil – Required for baking (2 tablespoons) or frying (2 cups); avocado oil or vegetable oil are good alternatives.
For Garnishing
- Garnishes – Include shredded lettuce, diced Roma tomato, Mexican crema, fresh cilantro, and cotija cheese for serving.
Now you’re set to create these delicious Spicy Chicken Taquitos that will wow everyone at your table!
How to Make Spicy Chicken Taquitos
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Prepare Spicy Shredded Chicken: Place the skinless chicken breasts into your crockpot along with chipotle peppers, low sodium chicken broth, and all the spices. Cook on low for about 3 hours, then shred the chicken once fully cooked.
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Assemble Taquitos: Warm the corn tortillas slightly in the microwave to make them pliable. Spoon a generous amount of the spicy chicken filling and a sprinkle of Monterey Jack cheese onto each tortilla, then roll them tightly, sealing the edges.
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Cook Taquitos:
- Baking: Preheat your oven to 425°F. Brush the rolled taquitos with a bit of oil and bake on a baking sheet for about 20 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
- Frying: Heat about 2 cups of oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the taquitos until they’re golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Serve Freshly Made: Arrange the taquitos on a serving platter and garnish with your preferred toppings like shredded lettuce, diced Roma tomato, Mexican crema, fresh cilantro, and cotija cheese.
Optional: Serve with a side of homemade guacamole for an extra flavor boost!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Spicy Chicken Taquitos are a fantastic choice for meal prep, making your busy weeknights hassle-free! You can prepare the spicy shredded chicken up to 24 hours in advance—simply cook, shred, and refrigerate it in an airtight container. Additionally, you can assemble the taquitos (without baking or frying) and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain their quality and prevent sogginess, place parchment paper between the taquitos when stacking. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake them directly from the fridge for about 20 minutes at 425°F, and enjoy warm, crispy, restaurant-style results with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Spicy Chicken Taquitos
Room Temperature: Enjoy freshly made taquitos right away, but if left out, they’re best consumed within 2 hours to ensure freshness.
Fridge: Store leftover spicy chicken taquitos in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to retain their crispiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, fully cool your taquitos, then place them in freezer-safe bags. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to eat, thaw the frozen taquitos in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 400°F for 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
What to Serve with Spicy Chicken Taquitos?
Delight in the culinary adventure these taquitos bring to your table, and complete the experience with harmonious pairings.
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Creamy Guacamole: The smooth, rich avocado complement balances the spicy kick, enhancing every crunchy bite. It’s a must-have for any taquito feast.
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Zesty Salsa: Fresh, tangy salsa adds a burst of flavor that cuts through the savory filling, making each taquito pop with freshness. Try a roasted salsa for an extra punch!
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Mexican Street Corn: Sweet, charred corn dressed in creamy sauce and spices brings a delightful texture to the meal and pairs well with the crispy taquitos.
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Pico de Gallo: This vibrant mix of tomatoes, onions, and cilantro provides a refreshing contrast to the taquitos’ spiciness. It adds brightness and a crunchy texture!
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Refried Beans: Smooth, savory refried beans amplify the flavor profile while adding a delicious creaminess to your table spread. They are the perfect sidekick to the crispiness.
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Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice infused with lime and cilantro brings a light, aromatic essence that complements the taquitos beautifully, creating a well-balanced plate.
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Fresh Margaritas: A chilled margarita offers a refreshing zing that offsets the richness of the taquitos. It’s the ultimate drink choice for celebrating a beautiful meal.
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Churros: End your meal on a sweet note with crispy churros drizzled in chocolate! These golden desserts pair delightfully after spicy dishes, providing the perfect contrast.
Tips for the Best Spicy Chicken Taquitos
- Chicken Cooking: Ensure your chicken is thoroughly cooked and tender before shredding; this guarantees a mouthwatering filling for your spicy chicken taquitos.
- Tortilla Preparation: Warm your corn tortillas slightly before filling to prevent them from cracking when rolled; pliable tortillas make for easier assembly.
- Oil Choice: Use oil with a high smoke point, like avocado or vegetable oil, for frying, ensuring you achieve the perfect golden crisp without burning.
- Garnish Wisely: Don’t skimp on the garnishes! Toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and Mexican crema elevate the flavor and presentation of your taquitos.
- Batch Cooking: Consider making extra taquitos and freezing them; they reheat beautifully for quick meals without sacrificing taste!
- Baked vs. Fried: Remember, baking is a healthier option and yields less mess; however, frying delivers that irresistible traditional crunch. Choose your method wisely!
Spicy Chicken Taquitos Variations
Customize these taquitos to make them uniquely yours and savor every delicious twist!
- Pork Alternative: Swap chicken with shredded pork for a rich, smoky flavor. Achieve the same tender result in your crockpot.
- Vegetarian Delight: Use black beans or refried beans in place of meat. Add spices and a sprinkle of cheese for a hearty filling.
- Gluten-Free Option: Opt for gluten-free corn tortillas to keep it safe for those with dietary restrictions while enjoying the same great taste.
- Cheese Twist: Experiment with different cheeses like feta or pepper jack for an exciting flavor boost that adds a kick to your taquitos.
- Air Fryer Diversity: Try air frying your assembled taquitos for a healthier alternative. They still turn out delightful and crispy!
- Spicy Kick: Add extra jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken filling for added heat and depth. Perfect for heat lovers!
- Fancy Fillings: Introduce sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or zucchini for a crunchy texture and vibrant color, making each bite a surprise.
- Zesty Finishes: Top with homemade pico de gallo or avocado salsa for a refreshing contrast to the spicy filling, perfect for balancing flavors.
Spicy Chicken Taquitos Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for the filling?
I recommend using skinless, boneless chicken breasts for the best results. They shred easily after cooking and absorb the seasonings beautifully. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can swap the chicken for shredded pork, which works wonderfully in this recipe!
How should I store leftover taquitos?
Store leftover spicy chicken taquitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat them, simply place them in the oven at 400°F for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crispy texture.
Can I freeze taquitos, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your taquitos, let them cool completely first. Then, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven as mentioned above.
What should I do if my taquitos split while cooking?
If your taquitos split while cooking, it may be because the tortillas were not warm enough or the filling was too much for them to handle. Make sure to warm your tortillas slightly before filling them, and when rolling, don’t overfill! A couple of tablespoons of filling per tortilla is usually perfect.
Are these taquitos gluten-free?
Yes! By using corn tortillas, these spicy chicken taquitos can easily cater to a gluten-free diet. If someone at your table has gluten allergies, just ensure that any ingredient substitutions you make, like the broth, are also gluten-free.
What toppings can I use to customize my taquitos?
The more, the merrier! Top your spicy chicken taquitos with shredded lettuce, diced Roma tomatoes, Mexican crema, fresh cilantro, cotija cheese, or even your favorite salsa. You can mix and match to create a personalized flavor profile for everyone in your family!
Spicy Chicken Taquitos: Your New Go-To Crunchy Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Spicy Shredded Chicken: Place the skinless chicken breasts into your crockpot along with chipotle peppers, low sodium chicken broth, and all the spices. Cook on low for about 3 hours, then shred the chicken once fully cooked.
- Assemble Taquitos: Warm the corn tortillas slightly in the microwave to make them pliable. Spoon a generous amount of the spicy chicken filling and a sprinkle of Monterey Jack cheese onto each tortilla, then roll them tightly, sealing the edges.
- Cook Taquitos: Baking: Preheat your oven to 425°F. Brush the rolled taquitos with a bit of oil and bake on a baking sheet for about 20 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Frying: Heat about 2 cups of oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the taquitos until they're golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Serve Freshly Made: Arrange the taquitos on a serving platter and garnish with your preferred toppings.