Chicken Taquitos with Queso

These Chicken Taquitos with Queso are a delightful treat for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a lively game night. Stuffed with a creamy blend of shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, and zesty diced tomatoes with chilies, these taquitos are fried to perfection for a crispy finish. Their versatility makes them perfect for serving as an appetizer or snack, and they are sure to impress your guests with their bold flavors and satisfying crunch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these delicious taquitos in no time.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of creamy cheese and spicy tomatoes creates a mouthwatering filling that’s irresistible.
• Versatile: Serve them as an appetizer, snack, or even a main dish; they’re perfect for any occasion.
• Crispy Delight: Frying the taquitos gives them a satisfying crunch that perfectly complements the creamy filling.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves finger foods, making these taquitos ideal for parties or casual gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare these tasty chicken taquitos.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large mixing bowl
• Skillet
• Paper towels
• Serving platter

Why These Tools Matter

• Large mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to easily mix all your ingredients without spills.
• Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking and browning of your taquitos.
• Paper towels: These are crucial for draining excess oil after frying to keep your taquitos crispy.
• Serving platter: Presenting your dish beautifully makes it more inviting when serving guests.

Ingredients

These chicken taquitos are stuffed with a creamy mix of shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, and diced tomatoes with chilies, then fried until perfectly crispy. They’re simple, flavorful, and ideal for satisfying snack cravings or serving as a fun dinner option.

• 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded)
• 10 oz Red Gold Diced Tomatoes & Green Chilies
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 8 oz cream cheese (room temperature)
• ¼ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 8 tortillas (flour or corn)
• ½ cup vegetable oil (for frying)

How to Make Chicken Taquitos with Queso

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:
1. Shredded chicken
2. Cheddar cheese
3. Garlic powder
4. Onion powder
5. Kosher salt
6. Black pepper
7. Diced tomatoes with chilies
8. Room temperature cream cheese

Mix everything well until thoroughly combined.

Step 2: Roll the Taquitos

1. Take one tortilla and spoon about 1/4 cup of the filling mixture onto it.
2. Roll up the tortilla tightly to form a taquito.
3. Repeat this process until all tortillas are filled and rolled.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

In a large skillet over medium-low heat, add vegetable oil. Allow it to heat until it shimmers but does not smoke.

Step 4: Fry the Taquitos

1. Carefully place the taquitos in the hot oil.
2. Cook each side for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
3. Once cooked, remove them from the skillet and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Serve

To plate your taquitos, consider adding refried beans to the bottom of a bowl, pouring queso on top, then placing your crispy taquitos into the queso. Garnish with diced tomatoes and cilantro for an extra touch!

How to Serve Chicken Taquitos with Queso

Serving chicken taquitos with queso can elevate your meal or snack time. These delicious bites can be paired with various sides and toppings for a complete experience.

Add Fresh Toppings

• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds a tangy flavor that complements the richness of the taquitos.
• Guacamole: Creamy guacamole brings freshness and a smooth texture that enhances each bite.
• Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of herbal flavor and color, making the dish visually appealing.

Serve with Dips

• Queso Dip: Pour melted queso over the taquitos for an indulgent twist that cheese lovers will adore.
• Salsa Verde: This green salsa offers a zesty kick that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
• Pico de Gallo: A fresh tomato salsa adds crunch and brightness, balancing the flavors of the taquitos.

Create a Fun Platter

• Refried Beans: Layer refried beans at the bottom of your serving dish for added protein and creaminess.
• Vegetable Sticks: Serve crunchy carrot and cucumber sticks on the side for a refreshing crunch that complements the dish.

How to Perfect Chicken Taquitos with Queso

To achieve crispy, flavorful chicken taquitos, follow these helpful tips for perfect results every time.

• Bold Ingredients: Use high-quality shredded chicken and fresh ingredients to enhance flavor.
• Temperature Matters: Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying; this prevents sogginess and ensures crispiness.
• Don’t Overfill: Avoid overstuffing your taquitos to ensure they roll tightly and cook evenly.
• Roll Tightly: Rolling them tightly helps maintain their shape during frying, preventing any filling from escaping.
• Drain Properly: Place cooked taquitos on paper towels to absorb excess oil for a less greasy finish.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust spices according to your taste preferences or try adding new ones for variety.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Taquitos with Queso

Pairing side dishes with chicken taquitos can make your meal more satisfying. Here are some great options:

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice flavored with tomatoes and spices complements the flavors of the taquitos perfectly.
2. Black Bean Salad: A refreshing salad made with black beans, corn, and lime dressing adds fiber and color to your meal.
3. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob brushed with butter makes for a sweet side that pairs well with savory dishes.
4. Chips and Salsa: Crispy tortilla chips served with your favorite salsa provide a crunchy contrast to the soft taquitos.
5. Coleslaw: A light coleslaw offers a crunchy texture and tangy flavor that balances out the richness of queso.
6. Mixed Greens Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, avocado, and vinaigrette adds freshness to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making chicken taquitos with queso, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the Shredding: Using large chunks of chicken can lead to uneven distribution in the taquitos. Always shred your cooked chicken for a better texture and flavor.
• Overfilling the Tortillas: Adding too much filling can cause the taquitos to burst during cooking. Stick to about 1/4 cup of filling per tortilla for best results.
• Under-seasoning the Mixture: Failing to season your filling can result in bland taquitos. Make sure to add enough spices and taste as you go.
• Not Preheating the Oil: If the oil isn’t hot enough, the taquitos will absorb too much oil and become greasy. Always preheat your oil before frying.
• Using Cold Cream Cheese: Cold cream cheese can create lumps in your filling. Let it sit at room temperature until softened before mixing.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooked taquitos in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chicken Taquitos with Queso

• Place uncooked or cooked taquitos in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be stored for up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Chicken Taquitos with Queso

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place taquitos on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until crispy.
• Microwave: Heat individually on a microwave-safe plate for 30-45 seconds. Note that they may not stay crispy.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of oil. Cook each side for about 2-3 minutes until heated through and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Chicken Taquitos with Queso healthier?

You can use whole wheat tortillas, reduce cheese, or add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini into the filling.

Can I use leftover chicken for Chicken Taquitos with Queso?

Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works great and saves time.

What kind of cheese is best for Chicken Taquitos with Queso?

Shredded cheddar cheese is commonly used, but you can also try Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for added flavor.

How do I serve Chicken Taquitos with Queso?

Serve them warm with dipping sauces like salsa, guacamole, or additional queso on the side for extra flavor.

Can I bake these Chicken Taquitos instead of frying?

Yes! Brush them lightly with oil and place them on a baking sheet. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes until golden.

Conclusion

These chicken taquitos with queso are not only delicious but also versatile. Perfect as appetizers, snacks, or dinner options, they can easily be customized with your favorite ingredients. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the satisfying crunch paired with creamy queso!