Description
Taquitos are crispy, rolled tortillas filled with flavorful ingredients and fried or baked to perfection. These handheld delights are a staple in Mexican cuisine, known for their crunchy exterior and savory fillings. Whether stuffed with shredded chicken, beef, or beans, taquitos are easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Serve them with guacamole, salsa, or sour cream for a delicious, satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 small corn tortillas
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (or beef, beans, or cheese)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- ¼ cup salsa or enchilada sauce
- Toothpicks (if frying)
- Oil for frying (if deep-frying)
- Cooking spray (if baking)
Ingredient Highlights
- Corn Tortillas: Traditional taquitos use corn tortillas for the best texture and flavor.
- Shredded Chicken: A classic filling, but you can substitute beef, beans, or cheese.
- Spices: Chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder add rich, smoky flavor.
- Cheese: Melts inside the taquito for a creamy, gooey texture.
- Salsa: Enhances the filling with extra moisture and flavor.
Instructions
Prepare the Filling:
- Warm the Tortillas: Heat tortillas on a dry skillet or in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to make them pliable.
- Season the Filling: In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken (or beef, beans, or cheese) with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, cheese, cilantro, and salsa. Stir to combine.
Assemble the Taquitos:
- Fill and Roll: Spoon about 2 tablespoons of filling onto each tortilla. Roll tightly and place seam-side down. Secure with a toothpick if frying.
- Choose Your Cooking Method:
- Frying: Heat about ½ inch of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry taquitos in batches for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
- Baking: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place taquitos seam-side down on a baking sheet, spray lightly with cooking spray, and bake for 15-20 minutes until crispy.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 200-250 kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Protein: 10g