Creamy Pulled Chicken Taquitos fuse tender, shredded chicken with a luscious cheese filling, wrapped snugly in crispy tortillas. These golden bites offer a delicious crunch balanced by a smooth, cheesy interior, making them perfect for family dinners or lively gatherings with friends.
With just a few simple ingredients and quick preparation, you can create this crowd-pleasing Mexican-inspired dish. Garnish with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, or creamy avocado to elevate every bite with vibrant flavors.
- Quick and easy to make with only 25 minutes from start to finish.
- Perfectly crispy outside paired with a rich and creamy chicken-cheese filling.
- Versatile appetizer or main dish that can be customized with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients
- Corn or Flour Tortillas (8 oz): Soft and pliable tortillas that provide the perfect base for wrapping and frying the filling to a crispy finish.
- Cooked Chicken, Chopped (2 cups): Tender shredded chicken lends hearty texture and protein to the creamy mixture.
- Cream Cheese (8 oz): Adds a smooth, rich creaminess that binds the filling and enhances flavor.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1 cup): Sharp cheddar provides richness and a melty texture inside the taquitos.
- Corn (1 cup, fresh or frozen): Adds natural sweetness and a slight crunch, balancing the creamy filling.
- Avocado Oil (1/2 cup): A neutral oil perfect for frying, giving the taquitos their golden, crispy exterior without overpowering flavors.
- Onion Powder (1 tsp): Supplies a subtle depth of flavor enhancing the overall taste of the filling.
- Garlic Powder (1 tsp): Infuses a fragrant savoriness to complement the cheeses and chicken.
- Salt (to taste): Brings out the other flavors and season the filling evenly.
Instructions
- Mix the Chicken Filling
In a mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the chopped chicken, cream cheese, shredded cheddar, corn, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt. This ensures every roll is packed with evenly distributed, creamy, and flavorful filling.
- Fill and Roll Tortillas
Place about ½ cup of the filling onto each tortilla, spreading it evenly before rolling tightly. Securing the filling helps maintain shape during frying and creates a satisfying bite.
- Heat the Avocado Oil
Preheat avocado oil in a skillet over medium-low heat. This temperature allows the taquitos to crisp thoroughly without burning, resulting in that perfect golden crust.
- Fry the Taquitos
Carefully place rolled taquitos seam side down in the hot oil. Fry each side for 2 to 3 minutes until golden brown and crispy. The seam-side frying seals the rolls, preventing the filling from spilling out.
- Drain Excess Oil
Transfer the cooked taquitos onto a towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil. This keeps them crunchy and less greasy for a pleasant eating experience.
- Use fresh or well-cooked chicken for the best texture and flavor in the filling.
- Ensure oil temperature is medium-low to avoid burning the tortillas before the filling warms through.
- Feel free to substitute cheddar with Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend for variation.
Storage Tips
Store leftover taquitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven to retain their crispiness instead of microwaving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these taquitos alongside fresh salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or a squeeze of lime for bright, complementary flavors. A simple side salad or Mexican rice pairs beautifully to round out the meal.
- Warm tortillas slightly before filling to prevent cracking during rolling.
- Fry in batches to maintain oil temperature and avoid soggy taquitos.
- Try baking the taquitos for a healthier version, brushing them lightly with oil before oven baking at 400°F until crisp.
FAQs
- Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Yes, rotisserie chicken is an excellent shortcut that provides tender, flavorful meat perfect for the filling.
- What is the best type of tortilla to use?
Corn tortillas offer authentic flavor and crisp well, but flour tortillas are softer and easier to roll without cracking.
- Can I prepare the taquitos ahead of time?
You can assemble the taquitos and refrigerate them before frying. Fry just before serving for best texture.
- Is there a way to make these taquitos gluten-free?
Using certified gluten-free corn tortillas ensures the recipe remains gluten-free.
- How can I store leftovers to keep them crispy?
Reheat taquitos in an oven or air fryer instead of the microwave to preserve their crisp exterior.
- Can I bake these instead of frying?
Absolutely, bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway until golden and crisp for a healthier alternative.
- What toppings go well with creamy pulled chicken taquitos?
Fresh cilantro, diced avocado, lime wedges, sour cream, and salsa all complement these taquitos beautifully.
Creamy Pulled Chicken Taquitos
Equipment
- 1 skillet for frying the taquitos
- 1 mixing bowl
Ingredients
- 8 oz corn or flour tortillas
- 2 cups cooked chicken chopped
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup corn fresh or frozen
- ½ cup avocado oil
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp salt
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine cooked chicken, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, corn, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt until evenly mixed.
- Place about ½ cup of the filling onto each tortilla and roll tightly.
- Heat avocado oil in a skillet over medium-low heat.
- Fry the taquitos seam side down until golden brown, about 2 to 3 minutes per side.
- Drain the fried taquitos on a towel-lined plate to remove excess oil before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen corn according to availability.
- Customize toppings with cilantro, lime, and avocado.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container refrigerated for up to 2 days.
