Are you a fan of crispy, crunchy chicken taquitos, but want to skip the deep-frying process? Look no further than this easy air fryer chicken taquitos recipe!
With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you can have a delicious and healthier version of this classic snack ready in no time.
The air fryer perfectly crisps up the tortillas and chicken filling, giving you that sought-after crunch without the added oil. Plus, with customizable spice levels and optional dipping sauces, these taquitos are sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering. So, dust off your air fryer and get ready to impress your taste buds with this tasty recipe!
As someone who uses their air fryer every day, I can confidently say that this little gadget is one of my favorite kitchen tools.
Not only is it super convenient for cooking up crispy and delicious taquitos, but it also has tons of nutritional benefits.
By using an air fryer, you're able to enjoy all the crunch and flavor of fried foods but with much less oil and fat. It's no wonder why the air fryer has quickly become a popular item in kitchens everywhere because it truly revolutionizes the way we cook and eat.
So, go ahead and give our recipe a try – your taste buds and your health will thank you!
3 Reasons Why You Will Love This Macro Friendly Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos Recipe
- Healthier alternative to frying: By air frying instead of deep-frying, you'll be cutting out unnecessary calories and reducing your intake of saturated fats. Plus, your taquitos will be crispy on the outside and perfectly cooked on the inside!
- Protein packed and filling: Made with a filling combination of juicy chicken, Mexican spice, and creamy cheese, these taquitos are a satisfying way to get your protein fix.
- Perfect for appetizer or meal: Whether you're serving them as an appetizer or a main course, you're sure to love this recipe.
Ingredients
- Corn tortillas: Make sure to grab the street-size tortilla. I used the brand Mission. These are smaller in size and perfect for the authentic taquito taste!
- Shredded chicken: You will need about 2 cups of shredded chicken for this recipe. You can make it yourself or go the convenience route, and use rotisserie chicken!
- Taco Sauce: I used Ortega mild taco sauce to help flavor the shredded chicken. I could literally drink this stuff! You can use traditional salsa too if you don’t mind the salsa chunks.
- Shredded cheese: I opted for Kroger Queso Quesadilla cheese. You can use whatever cheese you prefer. Shredded Monterey jack or pepper jack would be great!
- Cooking spray: I used olive oil cooking spray. This will help to give the taquitos that golden color without actually frying them.
Kitchen Tools Required
- Air Fryer
- Microwave
- Spoon
- Medium mixing bowl
- Serving platter
How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos
- Toss the shredded chicken with taco sauce.
- Place the tortillas on a plate and microwave for 15-20 seconds. This will help to make the tortilla easier to work with.
- Working quickly, spray each tortilla with cooking spray, then flip it over and fill with about 1 tablespoon of chicken filling. Tightly roll the tortilla. Place the taquito with the seam side down to help secure it. Repeat process for the remaining taquitos.
- Air fry at 376°F for 6 minutes, then flip the taquitos and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until lightly toasted and crispy.
- Plate taquitos and serve with your desired dips. Enjoy!
Swaps or Alternatives
If you're looking to mix up your air fryer chicken taquitos recipe, there are plenty of swaps and alternatives to try out. Instead of chicken, consider using ground beef or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey jack or pepper jack for added flavor. As for dips, skip the traditional sour cream and instead use Greek yogurt or avocado for a creamy addition. The possibilities are endless when it comes to creating a delicious and personalized chicken taquitos recipe in your air fryer.
Quick Tip(s)
To make the best air fryer chicken taquitos, there are a few tips to keep in mind. First, make sure to fully cook and shred the chicken before assembling the taquitos. This will ensure that the filling is flavorful and well-distributed throughout the taquitos. Additionally, be sure to lightly spray the taquitos with cooking oil before air frying to ensure they come out crispy and golden brown. Finally, don't forget to serve with your favorite condiments, like salsa or guacamole, for an extra burst of flavor.
FAQ’s
How do I store taquitos?
The good news is that chicken taquitos in the air fryer are just as easy to reheat as they are to make. To store them, simply place the taquitos in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy, simply place them back in the air fryer for a quick reheating to crispy perfection.
Can I make air fryer chicken taquitos ahead of time?
Yes! Preparing these delicious bites in advance can save you time and hassle, whether you're meal-prepping for the week or hosting a party. Simply assemble the taquitos, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you're ready to cook, place them in the air fryer for 8-10 minutes and enjoy crispy, flavorful taquitos without any fuss.
Help, I don’t have an air fryer! How can I make this recipe in the oven?
No problem. You can still make delicious air fryer chicken taquitos in the oven. Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Follow the recipe as is and place rolled taquitos on a baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the tortillas are crispy and the filling is heated through.
What dipping sauces go well with air fryer chicken taquitos?
Air fryer chicken taquitos are a delicious and crispy snack that pair perfectly with a variety of dipping sauces. While everyone's taste buds are different, some popular options for dipping sauces include guacamole, sour cream, and salsa. The creaminess of guacamole and sour cream compliments the crunchy texture of the taquitos, while salsa adds a tangy and spicy flavor to the mix. For those who like an extra kick, hot sauce or chipotle aioli can also be great choices.
What are some serving suggestions for air fryer chicken taquitos?
While the taquitos are the star of the show, it's essential to pair them with some sides to make the meal truly complete. Adding some black beans or Spanish rice will also help to balance out the flavors and make for a filling meal. Other fun options could be street corn or Southwestern-inspired salad!
Macros & Nutrition Information
Serving Size: 1 taquito
| Macros | Nutrition |
|---|---|
| Calories | 72 |
| Protein | 5.9g |
| Carbs | 6.8g |
| Fat | 2.2g |
Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos
Equipment
- 1 Air fryer
- 1 Microwave
- 1 Spoon
- 1 Medium mixing bowl
- 1 Serving platter
Ingredients
- 20 street corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded chicken
- 4 tbsp taco sauce
- ¾ cup shredded queso cheese
Instructions
- Toss the shredded chicken with taco sauce.
- Place the tortillas on a plate and microwave for 15-20 seconds.
- Working quickly, spray each tortilla with cooking spray, then flip it over and fill with about 1 tablespoon of chicken filling. Tightly roll the tortilla. Place the taquito with the seam side down to help secure it. Repeat process for the remaining taquitos.
- Air fry at 376°F for 6 minutes, then flip the taquitos and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until lightly toasted and crispy.
- Plate taquitos and serve with your desired dips. Enjoy!
Notes
- Nutrition information may vary depending on brand and ingredient varieties used.
- Nutrition information does not include dips.
