Chicken Taquitos
Are you ready to indulge in a delightful Mexican classic? Chicken taquitos are crispy, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Perfect as an appetizer or a main dish, these rolled tortillas filled with seasoned chicken will surely impress your family and friends. With a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll create a dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Ingredients
– 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
– 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
– 1/2 cup salsa
– 1 tsp taco seasoning
– 12 small corn tortillas
– Oil for frying
– Optional toppings: guacamole, sour cream, diced tomatoes
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes approximately 12 taquitos. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 taquito) contains approximately:
– Calories: 150
– Protein: 10g
– Carbohydrates: 15g
– Fat: 7g
– Fiber: 2g
This nutritional value is based on one taquito.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, cheese, salsa, and taco seasoning.
2. Heat the corn tortillas in a skillet until warm and pliable.
3. Place about 2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture on one end of each tortilla.
4. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling.
5. Secure with a toothpick if needed.
6. Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat.
7. Carefully place the rolled taquitos seam-side down in the hot oil.
8. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
9. Remove and drain on paper towels.
10. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute the chicken with shredded beef or black beans for a vegetarian option. You can also use flour tortillas instead of corn if preferred. Experimenting with different cheeses can add unique flavors as well.
Serving and Pairings
Chicken taquitos pair wonderfully with guacamole, sour cream, and fresh salsa. They make a great appetizer or can be served as a main dish alongside a fresh salad or Mexican rice for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover taquitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy. They can also be frozen before frying for up to 2 months.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t overfill the tortillas, or they may burst while frying.
– Ensure the oil is hot enough to fry; otherwise, taquitos will absorb too much oil.
– Use fresh tortillas for better rolling and frying results.
– Avoid crowding the pan; fry in batches for even cooking.
– If using frozen taquitos, do not defrost before frying.
Helpful Tips
– Use a thermometer to check oil temperature (around 350°F).
– For extra crunch, consider baking instead of frying.
– Experiment with different fillings, like vegetables or cheese.
– Serve with a variety of dipping sauces for added flavor.
FAQs
Can I make taquitos in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and roll the taquitos ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator until ready to fry.
What kind of tortillas are best for taquitos?
Corn tortillas are traditional and provide a nice texture, but flour tortillas can also be used if preferred.
Can I bake taquitos instead of frying?
Absolutely! Brush them with oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes until crispy.
How do I keep taquitos from getting soggy?
Make sure to fry them until golden brown and drain excess oil on paper towels. Serve immediately for the best texture.
What can I serve with chicken taquitos?
They pair well with guacamole, sour cream, salsa, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Chicken taquitos are a delightful addition to any meal, bringing the flavors of Mexico right to your kitchen. With their crispy shells and savory fillings, they are sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy them with your favorite toppings for an unforgettable culinary experience.
Chicken Taquitos
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1 tsp taco seasoning
- 12 small corn tortillas
- Oil for frying
- Optional toppings: guacamole sour cream, diced tomatoes
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, cheese, salsa, and taco seasoning.
- Heat the corn tortillas in a skillet until warm and pliable.
- Place about 2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture on one end of each tortilla.
- Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling.
- Secure with a toothpick if needed.
- Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat.
- Carefully place the rolled taquitos seam-side down in the hot oil.
- Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Serve hot with your favorite toppings.