Crispy Jalapeño Popper Chicken Taquitos Recipe

Introduction

Crispy Jalapeño Popper Chicken Taquitos are a flavorful and easy-to-make snack or meal. Combining spicy jalapeños with creamy cheeses and tender chicken, these taquitos offer a delicious twist on a classic favorite that’s perfect for sharing.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1-2 jalapeños, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
• 8-10 small tortillas
• Oil spray, for crisping

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and chopped jalapeños until well mixed.
2. Step 2: Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the mixture onto each tortilla and roll tightly, securing the filling inside.
3. Step 3: Arrange the rolled taquitos seam-side down on a baking sheet. Lightly spray them with oil to help achieve a crispy texture.
4. Step 4: Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes or until golden and crispy. Alternatively, air fry at 400°F for around 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through.

Tips & Variations

• To reduce heat, remove the seeds from the jalapeños before chopping.
• Try adding a sprinkle of garlic powder or smoked paprika to the filling for extra flavor.
• Use flour or corn tortillas depending on your preference; corn tortillas may need to be softened before rolling to prevent cracking.
• Serve with sour cream or salsa for dipping.

Storage

Store leftover taquitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these taquitos ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the taquitos ahead and keep them covered in the refrigerator for a few hours before baking. For longer storage, freeze them uncooked and bake directly from frozen with a few extra minutes added to the cooking time.

What other cheeses work well in this recipe?

Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese can be great alternatives or additions for a different flavor profile. They melt well and complement the spiciness of the jalapeños.

Crispy Jalapeño Popper Chicken Taquitos Recipe

Print Recipe

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4.4 from 141 reviews

These Crispy Jalapeño Popper Chicken Taquitos are a flavorful and crunchy snack or appetizer featuring tender chicken mixed with creamy cheeses and spicy jalapeños, all rolled in tortillas and cooked until golden and crispy. Perfect for game days, parties, or a tasty bite anytime.

• Author: Ria
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 25-30 minutes
• Yield: 8 taquitos 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Filling

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped

Wrap

• 8 small flour or corn tortillas

For Cooking

• Cooking oil spray (such as vegetable or olive oil spray)

Instructions

1. Prepare the filling: In a medium bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and finely chopped jalapeños. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
2. Fill and roll the tortillas: Lay out each tortilla flat. Spoon an even amount of the chicken and cheese mixture onto one end of each tortilla, then tightly roll it up to enclose the filling. Make sure to roll firmly so the taquitos hold their shape during cooking.
3. Arrange on baking sheet: Place each rolled taquito seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. This prevents them from unrolling while cooking.
4. Prepare for cooking: Lightly spray the tops of the taquitos with cooking oil spray to help them crisp up nicely in the oven or air fryer.
5. Cook until crispy and golden: For oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and bake taquitos for 15-20 minutes or until they are crispy and golden brown. For air fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook the taquitos for 8-10 minutes, turning halfway through, until crispy and golden.

Notes

• You can adjust the number of jalapeños based on your preferred spice level or substitute with milder peppers.
• For extra crispiness in the oven, flip the taquitos halfway through baking.
• Use corn tortillas for a gluten-free option if needed.
• Leftover filling can be used as a dip or in quesadillas.
• Serve with sour cream, guacamole, or salsa for added flavor.

Keywords: jalapeño popper, chicken taquitos, crispy taquitos, baked taquitos, appetizer, snack, Mexican appetizer