Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos Recipe

Shredded cooked chicken: Pre-cooked chicken that is shredded into small pieces, perfect for filling the taquitos.

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

Garlic powder: Provides a subtle, savory garlic flavor without the need for fresh garlic.

Cumin: A spice that adds a warm, earthy flavor to the chicken mixture.

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

Olive oil: Brushed on the taquitos to help them crisp up in the air fryer.

To ensure your taquitos are evenly crispy, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. This allows hot air to circulate around each taquito, cooking them uniformly. If necessary, cook in batches to maintain the perfect texture.

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

• shredded cooked chicken - Substitute with shredded cooked tofu: For a vegetarian option, tofu provides a similar texture and can absorb the spices well.

• shredded cheese - Substitute with shredded vegan cheese: For a dairy-free option, vegan cheese melts similarly and provides a comparable flavor.

• shredded cheese - Substitute with queso fresco: This Mexican cheese offers a mild flavor and crumbly texture that works well in taquitos.

• garlic powder - Substitute with minced fresh garlic: Fresh garlic provides a more intense and aromatic flavor.

• garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder can provide a similar depth of flavor if garlic is unavailable.

• cumin - Substitute with chili powder: Chili powder offers a different but complementary flavor profile with a bit of heat.

• cumin - Substitute with ground coriander: Ground coriander has a citrusy and slightly sweet flavor that can enhance the dish.

• small tortillas - Substitute with large tortillas: Simply cut them in half or quarters to achieve the desired size.

• small tortillas - Substitute with lettuce leaves: For a low-carb option, lettuce leaves can be used to wrap the filling.

• olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it a good alternative for air frying.

• olive oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used for its high smoke point and slight sweetness, though it will impart a mild coconut flavor.

• Allow the taquitos to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make them soggy.

• Place the cooled taquitos in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. If stacking them, separate each layer with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

• Store the taquitos in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes to regain their crispiness.

• For freezing, arrange the cooled taquitos in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours.

• Transfer the frozen taquitos to a resealable freezer bag or airtight container. Label with the date and contents.

• Freeze the taquitos for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, reheat them directly from the freezer in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.

• 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, or until they are heated through and the edges are crispy.

• Use your air fryer to bring back that delightful crunch. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the taquitos in a single layer in the basket, making sure they don't touch. Air fry for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating.

• For a quick fix, the microwave can be your friend. Place the taquitos on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes. Note: This method may result in softer taquitos, so it's best for when you're in a hurry.

• If you have a toaster oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the taquitos directly on the rack or on a baking sheet. Toast for 10-12 minutes, or until they are heated through and crispy.

• For those who prefer the stovetop, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter. Place the taquitos in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are heated through and crispy.

• Air fryer: This is essential for cooking the taquitos to a golden and crispy perfection without deep frying.

• Mixing bowl: Use this to combine the shredded chicken, cheese, garlic powder, and cumin evenly.

• Brush: This is needed to apply the olive oil onto the taquitos for a crispy finish.

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

• Measuring spoons: These ensure you get the right amount of garlic powder and cumin in your mixture.

• Measuring cup: Useful for measuring the shredded chicken and cheese accurately.

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

• Knife: If needed, to cut the tortillas or any other ingredients to the desired size.

• Serving platter: Perfect for presenting the hot, crispy taquitos with your favorite dipping sauce.

Prepare the filling ahead: Mix the shredded chicken, cheese, garlic powder, and cumin the night before and store in the fridge.

Use pre-cooked chicken: Save time by using rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken.

Warm tortillas: Microwave the tortillas for a few seconds to make them easier to roll.

Batch cooking: Cook multiple taquitos at once in the air fryer to save time.

Preheat the air fryer: Ensure the air fryer is preheated so the taquitos cook evenly and quickly.