Crispy Air Fryer Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos Recipe
There’s something oh-so-satisfying about biting into a crispy taquito, especially when it’s filled with creamy, cheesy goodness! These Crispy Air Fryer Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are the perfect blend of flavors and textures, making them a go-to for quick weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or just a weekend snack. Using shredded rotisserie chicken means you can whip them up in no time, and the air fryer gives them that irresistible crunch without deep frying. Trust me, once you make these, they’ll become a staple in your recipe rotation!
Why you’ll love this dish
Why should you consider adding these taquitos to your recipe lineup? For starters, they are incredibly quick to prepare—ideal for those busy evenings when you want something delicious but don’t have a whole lot of time to spend in the kitchen. Budget-friendly? You bet! Using rotisserie chicken turns this dish into a wallet-friendly meal while delivering all the flavor you crave. Plus, they’re heroically kid-approved; kids can help assemble them, making dinner a fun family affair.
“I can’t believe how easy these were to make! My kids devoured them, and I couldn’t stop going back for seconds.” – A satisfied home cook
Preparing Crispy Air Fryer Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos
Making these taquitos is a breeze! You’ll combine a few tasty ingredients, fill your tortillas, and let your air fryer work its magic. This recipe’s simplicity makes it perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike. Ready to get started?
Gather these items:
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
- 1/4 cup salsa
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 10-12 small flour tortillas
- Cooking spray
- 1 tbsp ranch seasoning (this is your secret ingredient!)
Step-by-step instructions
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Mix the filling: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded chicken, Mexican cheese blend, salsa, garlic powder, cumin, and ranch seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Make sure everything is well mixed and the cream cheese is fully incorporated.
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Warm the tortillas: Microwave the small flour tortillas for about 15 seconds. This will make them nice and flexible, preventing any unwanted cracks when you roll them up.
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Fill and roll: Take 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture and place it in the center of each tortilla. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling and place it seam-side down in the air fryer basket.
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Air fry: Lightly coat the taquitos with cooking spray. Set your air fryer to 400°F and cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through. They should be golden brown and crispy when done.
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Serve: Once cooked, serve them warm with sides like sour cream, guacamole, or salsa for dipping. Enjoy every bite!
Best ways to enjoy it
Thinking about how to elevate your taquito experience? You can serve these crispy delights with a variety of sides. Pair them with a fresh side salad or some zesty Mexican rice for a complete meal. Salsas with different heat levels can also add an exciting twist—try a mango salsa for sweetness or a spicy salsa verde for a kick! Don’t forget the dipping sauces; they take these taquitos to the next level.
How to store & freeze
Leftover taquitos can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat them in the air fryer for about 3-5 minutes until crispy again, or you can use an oven. If you prefer to freeze them, lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months!
Pro chef tips
For an even more flavorful filling, you can experiment with adding black beans, corn, or diced bell peppers. Just make sure the total filling volume remains similar to keep the rolling process easy. Also, don’t skimp on the cooking spray; this ensures that your taquitos come out beautifully crispy.
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? Try changing up your cheese blend or adding different spices! For a Mexican twist, consider incorporating chorizo or swapping out the chicken for shredded beef or beans for a vegetarian option. Adding toppings like sliced jalapeños, fresh cilantro, or a drizzle of chipotle sauce can also kick things up a notch.
FAQ
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How long does it take to prepare these taquitos?
The entire process takes about 30 minutes, including prep and cooking! -
Can I substitute the cream cheese?
Yes! You can use Greek yogurt for a healthier option, though it will alter the flavor a bit. -
Are these taquitos freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! After making them, freeze them before cooking. When you’re ready to eat, air fry them straight from the freezer, just adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Give this crispy air fryer recipe a try, and you’re bound to impress your family and friends while enjoying delectable homemade taquitos!
