There’s nothing quite like the irresistible crunch of a freshly baked taquito, is there? The first time I took a bite of spicy chicken taquitos, I was whisked away to a bustling street market where the sizzle of food mingled with laughter and joyful chatter. Inspired by that memory, I set out to create a homemade version that’s just as satisfying but easy enough to whip up any day of the week.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering, prepping snacks for the kids, or simply looking to indulge in a delightful treat, these crispy baked taquitos are perfect for you. With a filling that’s bursting with flavor from shredded chicken, creamy cheese, and a hint of smoky chipotle, every bite is a celebration of taste. Plus, they’re completely customizable—air fry them for a healthier option or load them up with your favorite toppings. Let’s dive in and transform your kitchen into the ultimate taquito factory!
Why are Spicy Chicken Taquitos a must-try?
Crispy texture: These taquitos are baked to perfection, delivering a satisfying crunch with each bite, making them a great alternative to greasy takeout.
Bold flavors: The combination of shredded chicken, creamy cheese, and smoky chipotle creates a robust and unforgettable taste that will have everyone coming back for more.
Customizable options: Feel free to swap in any protein or cheese you prefer, or experiment with different toppings to make them your own!
Quick to prepare: This easy recipe comes together in less than an hour, perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous get-togethers.
Make-ahead friendly: Assemble and freeze unbaked taquitos for a hassle-free meal solution ready to bake whenever you want.
With all these delicious advantages, these Spicy Chicken Taquitos will quickly become a household favorite!
Spicy Chicken Taquitos Ingredients
For the Taquitos
• Cooking Spray – Helps keep your taquitos from sticking during baking; olive oil is a great substitute.
• Shredded Cooked Chicken – Provides essential protein; feel free to use leftovers or store-bought rotisserie chicken.
• 8-oz. Block Cream Cheese (softened) – Adds richness and creaminess; low-fat options work well if you’re watching calories.
• Chipotle in Adobo Sauce (chopped, plus 1 tbsp sauce) – Gives a smoky, spicy kick; swap with canned diced jalapeños for less heat.
• Cumin – Lends an earthy flavor; ground coriander can replace this if needed.
• Chili Powder – Adds mild spice and depth; adjust to taste or try taco seasoning for a twist.
• Kosher Salt & Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Essential for flavor; any preferred salt can be used.
• Small Corn Tortillas – Perfect for wrapping; flour tortillas offer a gluten-free option.
• Shredded Cheddar & Pepper Jack Cheese – Delivers a delightful cheesy flavor; mozzarella can be used for a milder taste.
For Serving
• Pico de Gallo – Bright and fresh, this topping adds a zesty kick; any salsa acts as a good alternative.
• Queso Fresco – Contributes a creamy, crumbly texture; cotija cheese can substitute nicely.
For the Avocado Cream Sauce
• Large Avocado (pitted) – The base for a smooth, rich sauce; guacamole is a quick swap if you’re short on time.
• Sour Cream – Adds creaminess to the sauce; Greek yogurt makes for a healthier alternative.
• Packed Cilantro Leaves – Enhances freshness; feel free to omit if you’re not a fan of cilantro.
• Clove Garlic – Provides aromatic depth; garlic powder can work in a pinch.
• Juice of Lime – Adds acidity and balances flavors; vinegar works as a substitute if needed.
With this ingredient lineup for your spicy chicken taquitos, you’re just a few steps away from a delightful homemade treat that’s customizable and oh-so-satisfying!
How to Make Spicy Chicken Taquitos
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Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and generously spray a baking sheet with cooking spray. This ensures your taquitos have a nice, crispy finish without sticking.
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Mix the filling in a large bowl by combining shredded cooked chicken, softened cream cheese, chopped chipotle with sauce, cumin, and chili powder. Season it all with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking.
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Warm the tortillas in the microwave for about 30 seconds while covered with a damp paper towel. This step makes the tortillas pliable and easier to roll without tearing.
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Assemble the taquitos by placing approximately 1/4 cup of the chicken filling and a sprinkle of cheese at one end of a tortilla. Roll it tightly and lay seam-side down on the baking sheet. Repeat for the remaining tortillas.
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Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the taquitos are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them, as the perfect timing will give you that delightful crunch!
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Prepare the avocado cream sauce by blending the avocado, sour cream, cilantro leaves, garlic, and lime juice in a food processor until smooth. Adjust the seasoning to taste, and make sure it’s creamy and zesty!
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Serve the freshly baked spicy chicken taquitos with your favorite toppings like pico de gallo and queso fresco, and drizzle the zesty avocado cream sauce on top. Enjoy every bite!
Optional: Add sliced jalapeños for an extra kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Spicy Chicken Taquitos
Fridge: Store leftover baked spicy chicken taquitos in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and convenient for quick snacks!
Freezer: Unbaked, assembled taquitos can be frozen for up to 4 months. Flash freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag for easy access.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, bake frozen taquitos straight from the freezer at 425°F (220°C) for an additional 5-7 minutes. This ensures they’re hot and crispy!
Wrapping: If storing in the fridge, ensure taquitos are well-wrapped to prevent them from getting soggy or absorbing any odors.
Expert Tips for Spicy Chicken Taquitos
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Shredded Chicken Magic: Ensure your chicken is finely shredded for an even distribution of filling. Large chunks can make rolling difficult.
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Crispy Finish: For an extra crispy texture, lightly brush the taquitos with olive oil before placing them in the oven. This will elevate their crunchiness!
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Avoid Overfilling: Be cautious not to add too much filling per tortilla; it will make rolling and baking a challenge. Stick to about 1/4 cup for perfect results.
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Freezer Friendly: Assemble your spicy chicken taquitos in advance and freeze them unbaked. Cook straight from frozen by adding a few minutes to the baking time for an easy, quick meal.
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Topping Variations: Get creative with toppings! Try fresh herbs or different salsas for more flavor, and customize according to your taste preferences.
What to Serve with Spicy Chicken Taquitos?
Delight your taste buds with an array of delicious accompaniments that perfectly elevate your taquito experience.
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Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa adds a burst of vibrant flavors and brightness that beautifully complements the spicy filling.
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Guacamole: Creamy and rich, avocado-based guacamole balances the heat of the taquitos, making each bite a smooth, delightful experience.
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Mexican Street Corn Salad: With its crunchy corn and zesty lime, this dish adds an exciting contrast in texture while staying true to the Mexican theme.
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Refried Beans: Creamy and hearty, refried beans are a fantastic side that blends well with the spicy chicken, providing protein-packed richness.
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Margaritas: For a refreshing drink choice, margaritas serve as the perfect pairing—this classic cocktail enhances the celebration of flavors as you savor each bite.
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Churros: For a sweet finish, serve crispy churros dusted with cinnamon sugar. They offer a delightful contrast to the savory taquitos, rounding out your meal with a sweet note.
Spicy Chicken Taquitos Variations
Feel free to get creative with these taquitos and make them truly your own; there’s a world of flavor waiting for you!
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Vegetarian Option: Swap shredded chicken for black beans or sautéed bell peppers for a delightful meatless alternative.
Embrace the veggies! You can add mushrooms or corn for even more texture and flavor. -
Source of Heat: Add sliced jalapeños or diced serrano peppers to the filling for an extra kick.
Spice lovers unite! This simple tweak turns up the heat without overwhelming the dish. -
Cheese Blend: Experiment with cheese options by using a blend of mozzarella and pepper jack for a melty twist.
Cheese lovers rejoice! Each bite will offer a gooey experience that brings warmth to your taste buds. -
Flavor Twists: Incorporate taco seasoning into the filling for an added layer of flavor complexity.
Transform your taquitos with this simple addition—it elevates the taste and keeps things exciting. -
Nutty Touch: Add some crushed nuts like toasted almonds or walnuts into the filling for extra crunch.
This unique twist not only adds flair but also a satisfying bite that elevates your taquitos’ texture. -
Air Frying: Prepare these taquitos in an air fryer for a healthier, crunchier finish without losing flavor.
Enjoy all that crispy goodness in a fraction of the time—perfect for those on the go! -
Drenched in Sauce: Drizzle your favorite hot sauce over the baked taquitos before serving for a flavor explosion.
This will not only enhance each bite but also offer a contrast that makes the dish stand out! -
Salsa Variations: Top these taquitos with different salsas, like mango salsa, for a sweet and spicy fusion.
Pairing flavors is key! This unexpected twist will surprise and delight your taste buds with each bite.
Make Ahead Options
These Spicy Chicken Taquitos are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can assemble the taquitos up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate them (make sure to cover tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out). For longer storage, freeze unbaked taquitos for up to 4 months; just place them on a baking sheet to flash freeze before transferring to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake them straight from frozen, adding about 5-7 extra minutes to the cooking time. This way, you can indulge in a delicious, homemade snack with minimal effort—just as crispy and flavorful!
Spicy Chicken Taquitos Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best chicken for my taquitos?
Absolutely! Using shredded cooked chicken is key. You can use store-bought rotisserie chicken for convenience or leftover chicken from previous meals. Just ensure it’s fully cooked and shredded into small pieces for an even filling distribution. Dark meat adds more flavor, but white meat works beautifully too!
How should I store leftover baked taquitos?
To keep your taquitos fresh, simply place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This makes them easy to snack on later! Reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain that crispy texture.
Can I freeze unbaked spicy chicken taquitos?
Yes, you absolutely can! To freeze assembled taquitos, lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet until they are frozen solid (about 1-2 hours). Then, transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 4 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake them straight from the freezer at 425°F (220°C) for about 20-25 minutes, adding a few minutes if they’re not crispy enough!
What if my taquitos aren’t crispy after baking?
If the taquitos don’t turn out crispy, it may be due to overcrowding on the baking sheet or not enough cooking time. Make sure to give them space to breathe on the sheet; this allows the hot air to circulate. If you’re air frying, reduce the quantity per batch for optimal crispiness. You can also lightly brush them with oil before baking for extra crunch!
Are there any dietary considerations for my taquitos?
Absolutely! For those with dietary restrictions, feel free to swap the cream cheese for a dairy-free alternative and use gluten-free tortillas. If you have a nut allergy, ensure your cooking spray is nut-free. Additionally, watch the chipotle if spice is a concern—opting for milder options like diced jalapeños can be a great substitute for less heat.
What are some tasty toppings I can add?
The more the merrier! Besides the classic pico de gallo and queso fresco, consider adding sliced avocado, fresh jalapeños for heat, shredded lettuce, or even a drizzle of hot sauce for a punch. You can also get creative with different salsas or fresh herbs like cilantro for an extra layer of flavor!
Enjoy your cooking adventure with these Spicy Chicken Taquitos!
Spicy Chicken Taquitos with Zesty Avocado Cream Drizzle
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and generously spray a baking sheet with cooking spray.
- Mix the filling in a large bowl by combining shredded cooked chicken, softened cream cheese, chopped chipotle with sauce, cumin, and chili powder. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Warm the tortillas in the microwave for about 30 seconds while covered with a damp paper towel.
- Assemble the taquitos by placing approximately 1/4 cup of the chicken filling and a sprinkle of cheese at one end of a tortilla. Roll it tightly and lay seam-side down on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the taquitos are golden brown and crispy.
- Prepare the avocado cream sauce by blending avocado, sour cream, cilantro leaves, garlic, and lime juice in a food processor until smooth.
- Serve the freshly baked taquitos with toppings like pico de gallo and queso fresco, and drizzle with the avocado cream sauce.