Creamy Pulled Chicken Taquitos

These Creamy Pulled Chicken Taquitos are the perfect blend of flavor and convenience, making them ideal for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a game day watch party, preparing a family dinner, or simply craving a tasty snack, these taquitos will impress everyone at the table. With tender chicken and a creamy, cheesy filling wrapped in crispy tortillas, they offer a delightful crunch and richness that stands out among typical appetizers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cook time, you can whip up these taquitos in no time.
• Flavorful Filling: The combination of chicken, cheese, and spices creates a deliciously satisfying bite.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as an appetizer, main course, or party snack—great for various occasions.
• Crowd-Pleaser: These taquitos are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
• Customizable Toppings: Serve with fresh cilantro, lime, or avocado to elevate your taquito experience.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Creamy Pulled Chicken Taquitos successfully, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to streamline the process.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large deep skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Towel-lined plate
• Spatula or tongs

Why These Tools Matter

• Large deep skillet: This tool allows for even cooking of your taquitos while providing enough space to fry multiple at once.
• Mixing bowl: A good mixing bowl ensures that you can combine all your ingredients thoroughly without mess.
• Towel-lined plate: This is essential for draining excess oil from the taquitos after frying.
• Spatula or tongs: These tools help you flip the taquitos safely without damaging them.

Ingredients

These Creamy Pulled Chicken Taquitos feature tender, slow-cooked chicken wrapped in crispy tortillas, filled with a rich, cheesy, and spiced creamy blend.

• 8 oz 12 corn or flour tortillas
• 2 cups cooked chicken, chopped (I used a rotisserie)
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/8 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 8 oz cream cheese (room temperature)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
• 1/2 cup avocado oil or vegetable oil (approximately)
• Toppings: fresh cilantro, lime, avocado

How to Make Creamy Pulled Chicken Taquitos

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, diced green chiles (if using), onion powder, garlic powder, kosher salt, shredded cheddar cheese, and corn. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.

Step 2: Assemble the Taquitos

Place approximately ½ cup of the chicken mixture onto each tortilla. Roll each tortilla tightly around the filling to ensure it stays intact during cooking.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

Place a large deep skillet over medium-low heat. Pour in enough oil to completely cover the base of the pan. Allow it to heat until shimmering but not smoking.

Step 4: Fry the Taquitos

Once the oil is hot, carefully place the rolled taquitos in the skillet seam side down. Cook each side until golden brown for approximately 2-3 minutes per side.

Step 5: Drain Excess Oil

Remove the taquitos from the skillet using tongs or a spatula and place them on a towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Allow them to cool for about 5 minutes before serving.

Step 6: Serve with Toppings

Serve your Creamy Pulled Chicken Taquitos with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and sliced avocado for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy!

How to Serve Creamy Pulled Chicken Taquitos

Serving Creamy Pulled Chicken Taquitos is all about enhancing their delicious flavors and textures. Here are some creative ways to make your taquitos even more enjoyable.

Fresh Toppings

• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbal note that complements the richness of the taquitos.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime juice brings a zesty kick that balances the creamy filling.
• Sliced Avocado: Creamy avocado slices enhance the texture and add healthy fats.

Dipping Sauces

• Sour Cream: A classic choice, it provides a cool contrast to the warm, crispy taquitos.
• Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa adds a burst of flavor with its combination of tomatoes, onions, and cilantro.
• Guacamole: Rich and creamy, guacamole pairs perfectly with the savory chicken.

Salads

• Mexican Street Corn Salad: Sweet corn mixed with lime, chili powder, and cheese makes for a delightful side.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette offers freshness alongside the taquitos.

How to Perfect Creamy Pulled Chicken Taquitos

To elevate your Creamy Pulled Chicken Taquitos, consider these helpful tips for perfection.

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: This saves time and ensures tender, flavorful chicken for your filling.
• Warm Tortillas: Heating tortillas before filling makes them more pliable and easier to roll without tearing.
• Don’t Overfill: Be mindful not to add too much filling; this helps maintain the shape of the taquito during cooking.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: Ensure your oil is hot enough before frying to achieve a crispy exterior without sogginess.
• Let Them Drain: Placing cooked taquitos on paper towels helps remove excess oil for a lighter dish.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Pulled Chicken Taquitos

Pairing sides with your Creamy Pulled Chicken Taquitos can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options.

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice flavored with spices complements the flavors of the taquitos beautifully.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans add protein and richness to balance the crispy texture of taquitos.
3. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with salsa provide an excellent appetizer or snack option.
4. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and crunch to your meal.
5. Black Bean Salad: A refreshing salad with black beans, corn, and peppers offers a nutritious side packed with flavor.
6. Queso Dip: Warm cheese dip is perfect for dipping both chips and taquitos alike.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Creamy Pulled Chicken Taquitos, it’s easy to make certain missteps. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Incorrect tortilla choice: Using the wrong type of tortillas can lead to a soggy or broken taquito. Opt for corn or flour tortillas that are pliable and fresh.
• Overfilling the taquitos: Filling the tortillas too much can cause them to burst while frying. Use about ½ cup of the chicken mixture for each tortilla to ensure they roll easily.
• Not heating the oil properly: Cooking in oil that isn’t hot enough can result in greasy taquitos. Make sure the oil is hot before adding the taquitos; they should sizzle upon contact.
• Skipping the cooling step: Allowing the taquitos to cool on a towel-lined plate helps drain excess oil. Skipping this step can leave you with soggy taquitos.
• Neglecting toppings: While delicious on their own, fresh toppings enhance the flavor of your taquitos. Don’t forget to add cilantro, lime, and avocado for an extra burst of taste.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store taquitos in an airtight container.
• Keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Creamy Pulled Chicken Taquitos

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

Reheating Creamy Pulled Chicken Taquitos

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place taquitos on a baking sheet and heat for 10-15 minutes until crispy.
• Microwave: Heat individually on a microwave-safe plate for about 30 seconds, but this may result in softer taquitos.
• Stovetop: Heat a small amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until heated through and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Creamy Pulled Chicken Taquitos?

Creamy Pulled Chicken Taquitos are rolled tortillas filled with tender chicken, spices, and creamy cheese. They are then fried until crispy.

Can I use different meats in Creamy Pulled Chicken Taquitos?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with beef, turkey, or lamb according to your preference or dietary needs.

How do I customize my Creamy Pulled Chicken Taquitos?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach into the filling or try different cheeses for varied flavors.

Can I make Creamy Pulled Chicken Taquitos ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare them ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer as mentioned above.

Conclusion

Creamy Pulled Chicken Taquitos are not only delicious but also versatile and easy to customize based on your preferences. With their crispy exterior and creamy filling, they make an excellent choice for any meal. Give this recipe a try and enjoy making it your own!