Contents
Introduction
Quick Chicken Taquitos are a delightful way to repurpose leftover rotisserie chicken into a crispy and savory dish. These taquitos are easy to prepare and packed with flavor, making them an excellent choice for appetizers, snacks, or even a main meal. With a filling that combines tender chicken, melty cheese, and zesty spices, you’ll love how simple yet delicious they are.
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
3 cups leftover shredded rotisserie chicken
1 (4-ounce) can diced green chilies
4 ounces extra-sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
4 ounces Pepper Jack cheese, shredded
½ cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves
2 teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon hot sauce, or more, to taste
12 (6-inch) corn tortillas, warmed
6 cups canola oil
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Total Time
25 minutes
Yield
12 taquitos
Try these Quick Chicken Taquitos for a fun and satisfying meal that the whole family will enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, diced green chilies, shredded cheddar and Pepper Jack cheeses, chopped cilantro, chili powder, ground cumin, and hot sauce. Mix thoroughly to ensure the ingredients are well incorporated.
Assemble the Taquitos
Place a warmed tortilla on a clean work surface. Spoon approximately 1/3 cup of the chicken mixture onto the center of the tortilla. Tightly roll the tortilla over the filling from the bottom edge to the top, ensuring a snug roll. Secure the rolled tortilla with wooden picks to prevent it from unrolling during frying. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and filling.
Heat the Oil
In a large stockpot or Dutch oven, pour in the canola oil and heat it over medium heat until it reaches a temperature of 375 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s important to maintain this temperature for optimal frying results.
Fry the Taquitos
Once the oil is heated, carefully add the prepared taquitos to the pot in batches, avoiding overcrowding. Fry each batch until the taquitos are evenly golden and crispy, which should take about 2 to 3 minutes. Use tongs to turn them as needed for even cooking.
Drain and Serve
After frying, transfer the taquitos to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Once they are cool enough to handle, remove the wooden picks. Serve the taquitos immediately, accompanied by guacamole, pico de gallo, and a dollop of sour cream for dipping.
Notes
Customization Options
Feel free to adjust the spices and sauces according to your taste preferences. You can add more hot sauce for extra heat or substitute different types of cheese.
Storage Tips
Leftover taquitos can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through and crispy again.
Freezing Instructions
If you plan to freeze taquitos, do not fry them first. Roll and secure the taquitos, then place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag. Fry directly from frozen, adjusting the cooking time as necessary.
Cook Techniques
Preparing the Filling
Incorporate ingredients by mixing shredded chicken, diced green chilies, cheeses, cilantro, spices, and hot sauce in a large bowl. Mixing thoroughly ensures even distribution of flavors.
Assembling the Taquitos
Warm the tortillas for easy rolling. Spoon the filling onto the center and tightly roll the tortilla, securing with wooden picks to maintain shape during frying.
Heating the Oil
Use a stockpot or Dutch oven to heat canola oil to 375 degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring the temperature is maintained for optimal frying and crispiness.
Frying the Taquitos
Fry taquitos in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry until golden brown and crispy, turning as necessary for even cooking.
Draining and Serving
Transfer fried taquitos to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Remove wooden picks once cool enough to handle, and serve with dips like guacamole and sour cream.
FAQ
Can I use chicken other than rotisserie for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any cooked chicken, such as grilled or poached, as long as it is shredded.
What can I do if I don’t have corn tortillas?
You can substitute flour tortillas, but keep in mind they may result in a slightly different texture when fried.
How can I prevent the taquitos from unrolling during frying?
Make sure to roll them tightly and use wooden picks to secure them in place.
Can I make these taquitos ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the taquitos ahead of time, then refrigerate them until you are ready to fry.
What dips pair well with chicken taquitos?
Taquitos are delicious with guacamole, pico de gallo, sour cream, or salsa.
Conclusion
The Quick Chicken Taquitos recipe is a delicious and efficient way to transform leftover rotisserie chicken into a crispy, flavorful dish. This easy preparation yields a fantastic appetizer or main course, making it perfect for gatherings or family meals. The blend of cheeses and spices creates a delightful taste that will please any palate. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces for an ultimate experience.
Spicy Beef Taquitos
Use ground beef seasoned with taco spices in place of chicken, along with cheese and jalapeños for an extra kick.
Vegetarian Taquitos
Substitute the chicken with black beans, corn, and diced bell peppers, mixed with spices and cheese for a hearty vegetarian option.
Breakfast Taquitos
Fill the tortillas with scrambled eggs, chorizo, and cheese, and serve them with salsa or avocado for a perfect breakfast treat.
BBQ Chicken Taquitos
Mix shredded rotisserie chicken with barbecue sauce and cheese for a smoky twist on traditional taquitos, best served with ranch dressing.
Buffalo Chicken Taquitos
Combine shredded chicken with buffalo sauce and cream cheese for a spicy version, served with blue cheese dressing for dipping.
