When it comes to crowd-pleasing appetizers or quick weeknight dinners, homemade chicken taquitos are a winner every time. Crispy on the outside and filled with savory goodness on the inside, these rolled-up delights are sure to become a family favorite. With a creamy chicken filling seasoned to perfection and fried to golden perfection, they’re the ultimate comfort food treat. Join us as we explore how to make these irresistible homemade chicken taquitos from scratch.
Ingredients:
- 6 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 4.5 ounce can green chiles, well drained
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup finely shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup finely shredded pepper jack cheese
- 2 cups finely diced cooked chicken
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 8 8-inch flour or corn tortillas (see notes)
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, well-drained green chiles, ground cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Add the Chicken and Cheese:
- Stir in the finely shredded cheddar and pepper jack cheeses, along with the diced cooked chicken. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Assemble the Taquitos:
- Spoon a generous portion of the chicken and cheese filling onto each tortilla, then roll them up tightly. Secure the seam with toothpicks to prevent them from unraveling during frying.
- Fry the Taquitos:
- In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the rolled taquitos seam side down into the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the taquitos are cooked to perfection, remove them from the oil and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces such as salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Baking Option: For a healthier alternative, you can bake the taquitos in a preheated 400°F (200°C) oven for 20-25 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and add extra veggies such as diced bell peppers, onions, or black beans for a vegetarian-friendly option.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder and green chiles to suit your taste preferences. For a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce or diced jalapenos to the filling mixture.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version:
- Substitute the flour tortillas with low-carb tortillas or lettuce wraps to reduce the carb content.
- Use full-fat cream cheese and sour cream to maintain the keto-friendly aspect of the filling.
- Ensure that the chicken is cooked without any sugary marinades or sauces.
Low-Carb Version:
- Follow the keto version substitutions above, focusing on reducing carbs and using low-carb alternatives where possible.
- Opt for cheese with lower lactose content, such as aged cheddar or Swiss cheese, to further reduce carb intake.
In conclusion, homemade chicken taquitos are a delightful snack or meal option that’s easy to make and incredibly satisfying to eat. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or looking for a quick and tasty dinner idea, these crispy rolled treats are sure to please. With a creamy and flavorful filling encased in a crunchy tortilla shell, they’re a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for more. So why not whip up a batch of homemade chicken taquitos today and treat yourself to a taste sensation that’s simply irresistible?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I make these taquitos ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the taquitos ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to fry or bake. Just be sure to cover them tightly with plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out.
Q: Can I freeze leftover taquitos? A: Absolutely! Once the taquitos are fried or baked, allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply bake them in a preheated oven until heated through and crispy.
