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Homemade Taquitos

Crispy, comforting rolls filled with shredded chicken and cheese, perfect for a quick dinner or a festive gathering.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 500

Ingredients
  

For the filling
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded Can swap with shredded turkey, beef or a veggie filling.
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese Or use a dairy-free alternative.
  • 1/2 cup finely diced onion Soak in cold water for 10 minutes for a milder taste.
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika Optional for a warm, smoky note.
  • to taste Salt and fresh cracked pepper
  • 12 small corn or flour tortillas Corn for traditional crisp; flour yields a softer chew.
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil for brushing Can swap with olive oil for a richer flavor.
Optional toppings
  • chopped cilantro
  • lime wedges
  • salsa
  • guacamole
  • sour cream

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) if baking. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly brush with oil. If frying, heat 1/2 inch oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  2. In a bowl, combine shredded chicken, cheese, diced onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until everything is evenly coated and aromatic.
  3. Heat the tortillas for 15–20 seconds on each side in a dry skillet or a microwave wrapped in a damp towel.
Assembly and Cooking
  1. Place about 2 tablespoons of filling near the bottom edge of a tortilla. Tightly roll the tortilla around the filling and place it seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with remaining tortillas.
  2. Brush each rolled taquito lightly with oil. Bake for 15–20 minutes, turning once, until golden and crisp, or fry for 1–2 minutes per side until deeply golden and crisp.
  3. Let taquitos rest for 2 minutes, then garnish with cilantro and a squeeze of lime. Serve with warm salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.

Notes

For a vegetarian twist, use seasoned black beans and roasted sweet potato. For a festive treat, add crumbled queso fresco and a sprinkle of chili powder.