Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos Recipe

Cooked shredded chicken: Provides the main protein and base for the taquitos.

Shredded cheese: Adds a creamy, melty texture and rich flavor.

Garlic powder: Enhances the overall taste with a hint of garlic.

Cumin: Brings a warm, earthy flavor to the dish.

Chili powder: Adds a bit of heat and depth of flavor.

Small tortillas: Used to wrap the chicken mixture, creating the taquito shape.

Olive oil: Helps to crisp up the taquitos in the air fryer.

To ensure the taquitos stay tightly rolled during cooking, you can use a toothpick to secure them before placing them in the air fryer. Just remember to remove the toothpicks before serving. This helps maintain their shape and ensures even cooking.

• cooked shredded chicken - Substitute with cooked shredded turkey: Turkey has a similar texture and flavor profile, making it a great alternative.

• cooked shredded chicken - Substitute with cooked shredded pork: Pork can provide a slightly different but still delicious flavor.

• shredded cheese - Substitute with shredded mozzarella: Mozzarella melts well and has a mild flavor that complements many dishes.

• shredded cheese - Substitute with shredded Monterey Jack: Monterey Jack has a creamy texture and mild flavor, similar to many other cheeses used in Mexican cuisine.

• garlic powder - Substitute with minced garlic: Minced garlic provides a fresh and potent garlic flavor, though you might need to adjust the quantity.

• garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder can add a different but complementary flavor to the dish.

• cumin - Substitute with ground coriander: Ground coriander has a citrusy and slightly sweet flavor that can mimic some of the earthiness of cumin.

• cumin - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika adds a smoky depth that can enhance the overall flavor profile.

• chili powder - Substitute with paprika: Paprika provides a mild heat and vibrant color, making it a good alternative.

• chili powder - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper adds more heat, so use it sparingly to achieve the desired spice level.

• small tortillas - Substitute with large tortillas: Large tortillas can be cut in half or rolled tighter to achieve a similar size.

• small tortillas - Substitute with lettuce wraps: For a low-carb option, lettuce wraps can provide a fresh and crunchy alternative.

• olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it a great substitute for olive oil.

• olive oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can add a subtle sweetness and works well for frying or air frying.

• Allow the taquitos to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation from making them soggy.
• Place the cooled taquitos in an airtight container. If stacking, separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freezing is recommended.
• To freeze, arrange the taquitos in a single layer on a baking sheet and place in the freezer for 1-2 hours until solid. This prevents them from sticking together.
• Once frozen, transfer the taquitos to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date for easy tracking.
• When ready to enjoy, reheat the taquitos directly from the freezer in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or until heated through and crispy.
• For a quick snack, microwave the frozen taquitos for 1-2 minutes, then crisp them up in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes.
• Serve with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy the convenience of homemade taquitos anytime!

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover taquitos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-15 minutes until they are heated through and crispy.

• Use your air fryer for a quick reheat. Set it to 350°F (175°C) and cook the taquitos for 5-7 minutes. This method keeps them crispy without drying them out.

• For a stovetop method, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil and place the taquitos in the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are heated through and crispy.

• If you're in a hurry, you can use the microwave. Place the taquitos on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes. Note that this method may make them less crispy.

• For an extra crispy finish, combine methods. Start by microwaving the taquitos for 1 minute to heat the inside, then transfer them to the air fryer or oven for a few minutes to crisp up the outside.

• Air fryer: This is the main appliance used to cook the taquitos, making them crispy without the need for deep frying.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the shredded chicken, cheese, and spices thoroughly.

• Measuring spoons: Essential for accurately measuring the garlic powder, cumin, and chili powder.

• Basting brush: Used to brush olive oil onto the rolled taquitos to help them crisp up in the air fryer.

• Tongs: Helpful for placing the taquitos in the air fryer basket and removing them once they are cooked.

• Cutting board: Provides a clean surface to roll up the taquitos.

• Knife: Useful for any additional prep work, such as cutting the tortillas if needed.

• Serving plate: Used to serve the hot taquitos once they are cooked.

• Measuring cup: Used to measure the shredded chicken and cheese accurately.

Prepare the filling: Mix the shredded chicken and cheese with spices ahead of time and store in the fridge.

Use rotisserie chicken: Save time by using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of cooking and shredding your own.

Preheat the air fryer: Preheat your air fryer while you assemble the taquitos to save a few minutes.

Batch cooking: Make a double batch and freeze the extra taquitos for a quick meal later.

Assembly line: Set up an assembly line with your tortillas, filling, and olive oil to speed up the process.