Zesty Crunchy Chicken Taquitos
Are you ready to take your taste buds on a flavorful journey? Look no further than these Zesty Crunchy Chicken Taquitos! Perfectly crispy on the outside and bursting with spicy, cheesy goodness on the inside, these taquitos are not only easy to make but also perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, enjoying a cozy family night, or simply need a quick and delicious meal, these taquitos are bound to impress. What Makes Them Irresistible To create these mouthwatering taquitos, you’ll need a blend of simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:Shredded Cooked Chicken: The star of the show! You can use leftover rotisserie chicken or cook your own for the freshest flavor.Pepper Jack Cheese: This adds a delightful kick to the filling, enhancing the overall taste and texture.Spices: A harmonious mix of ground cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper will elevate the flavor profile.Corn Tortillas: These provide the perfect wrap for your filling and get deliciously crispy when baked.Optional Ingredients: For added flair, consider including chopped jalapeños, diced red onion, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken breast or thigh
- 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper for extra spice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12-16 corn tortillas
- Cooking spray or oil for coating
- Optional: chopped jalapeños diced red onion, fresh cilantro, lime juice (for added flavor)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures that your taquitos will turn out perfectly crispy.
Step 2: Prepare Your Ingredients
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, spices, and pepper jack cheese. If you're using any optional ingredients, mix those in as well. This blend of flavors is what will make your taquitos unforgettable!
Step 3: Warm the Tortillas
- Microwave the corn tortillas for about 30 seconds while wrapped in a damp paper towel. This makes them soft and pliable, preventing them from cracking when you roll them.
Step 4: Assemble the Taquitos
- Place a warmed tortilla flat on a surface. Spoon 2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto the lower third of the tortilla and roll it tightly around the filling. Place the rolled taquito seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
- Lightly coat the tops of the taquitos with cooking spray or brush them with oil. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. The aroma of baking taquitos will fill your kitchen, creating the perfect pre-dinner excitement!
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
- Once they’re out of the oven, let the taquitos cool slightly before serving. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces like salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for the ultimate experience.
Notes
Tips for Perfection
Make Ahead: You can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble and bake the taquitos.
Freezing: These taquitos freeze beautifully! Assemble them, flash freeze on a baking sheet, then store in an airtight container. Bake from frozen when you’re ready for a tasty snack!
Customise: Feel free to customise the filling with your favourite ingredients. Try adding black beans, corn, or even different types of cheese to make it your own.
Your Zesty Crunchy Chicken Taquitos are not just a meal; they’re an experience! Perfect for any occasion, these taquitos are a hit with both kids and adults alike. So gather your ingredients, invite your loved ones, and dive into the delicious world of homemade taquitos. With an explosion of flavors and a satisfying crunch, you’ll find it hard to stop at just one!
Nutrition
Calories: 73kcalCarbohydrates: 9gProtein: 6gFat: 2gSaturated Fat: 0.4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 13mgSodium: 23mgPotassium: 81mgFiber: 1gSugar: 0.2gVitamin A: 55IUVitamin C: 0.03mgCalcium: 19mgIron: 1mg
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