Air Fryer Taquitos are a crispy, golden, and flavorful twist on the classic Mexican snack. These rolled tortillas are filled with seasoned meat, cheese, and optional vegetables, then cooked in an air fryer for a perfectly crunchy exterior and warm, savory interior. Unlike traditional deep-fried versions, air fryer taquitos are lighter, less greasy, and just as satisfying, making them an ideal snack, appetizer, or even a quick meal.
What makes this recipe special is how simple it is to prepare while still achieving restaurant-quality results. The air fryer ensures an even, golden crisp on the tortillas without excess oil, and the fillings remain juicy and flavorful. They are also highly customizable, allowing you to cater to different tastes or dietary preferences.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s fast, easy, and incredibly versatile. The air fryer creates perfectly crispy taquitos without the mess of deep frying, and the filling can be adjusted to suit any preference—from shredded chicken to beef or even a vegetarian version. They are fun to make, easy to share, and always a hit at parties or family dinners.
Why This Is a Must-Try Dish
This is a must-try dish because it transforms simple tortillas and fillings into a crunchy, flavorful snack that everyone will love. It’s healthier than traditional fried taquitos, cooks in a fraction of the time, and can be customized to fit any taste. Perfect for snacking, entertaining, or meal prep, these air fryer taquitos are a delicious and versatile option.
Preparation Time, Cooking Time, Servings, and Nutrition
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: 25–27 minutes
Servings: 4 (about 12 taquitos)
Calories: Approximately 250 calories per serving (3 taquitos)
Course: Snack / Appetizer / Light Meal
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Ingredients
- 12 small flour or corn tortillas
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (or beef)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
- ½ cup finely chopped bell peppers or onions (optional)
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp olive oil or cooking spray
Optional Dipping Sauces: Salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or crema
Cooking Directions
Mix the filling ingredients, roll them into tortillas, brush or spray lightly with oil, cook in the air fryer until golden brown and crispy, and serve with desired dipping sauces.
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
Step 1: Preheat the air fryer to 180°C (350°F) for 3–5 minutes.
Step 2: In a bowl, combine shredded chicken (or beef), cheese, optional vegetables, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix until well incorporated.
Step 3: Warm tortillas slightly in the microwave or on a skillet to make them pliable.
Step 4: Spoon 2–3 tablespoons of the filling along one edge of each tortilla. Roll tightly and secure with a toothpick if needed.
Step 5: Lightly brush or spray each rolled taquito with olive oil.
Step 6: Place taquitos in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they do not touch.
Step 7: Cook for 8–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tortillas are golden brown and crispy.
Step 8: Remove from the air fryer, discard toothpicks if used, and let cool for 1 minute. Serve immediately with dipping sauces.
How to Serve This Recipe
Serve Air Fryer Taquitos hot with sides like salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or a fresh pico de gallo. They are perfect as a party appetizer, snack, or a quick lunch option. Arrange them on a platter for easy sharing.
Recipe Tips
Tip: Do not overfill the tortillas to ensure they roll easily and cook evenly.
Tip: Pre-warming the tortillas helps prevent cracking during rolling.
Tip: Flip halfway through cooking for uniform crispiness.
Tip: Use toothpicks if necessary to keep the taquitos tightly rolled.
Variations
Cheesy Beef Taquitos: Substitute chicken with cooked ground beef seasoned with taco spices.
Vegetarian Taquitos: Use black beans, corn, bell peppers, and cheese as the filling.
Spicy Taquitos: Add jalapeños, hot sauce, or chipotle seasoning to the filling.
Breakfast Taquitos: Fill with scrambled eggs, cooked bacon or sausage, and cheese.
Tex-Mex Style: Add cooked rice, beans, and shredded cheese for a hearty version.
Freezing and Storage
Storage: Store cooked taquitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer for 2–3 minutes to restore crispiness.
Freezing: Assemble taquitos without cooking and wrap individually in plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 1 month. Cook directly from frozen in the air fryer, adding 1–2 minutes to the cooking time.
Special Equipment Needed
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula or tongs
- Knife and cutting board for chopping vegetables
- Brush or spray bottle for oil
Conclusion
Air Fryer Taquitos are a quick, easy, and crispy snack or meal that’s packed with flavor. Perfect for parties, snacks, or quick meals, they are healthier than deep-fried versions while delivering the same satisfying crunch. With versatile fillings, easy preparation, and minimal cleanup, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves Mexican-inspired dishes.
Air Fryer Taquitos
Air Fryer Taquitos are a crispy, golden, and flavorful twist on the classic Mexican snack. These rolled tortillas are filled with seasoned meat, cheese, and optional vegetables, then cooked in an air fryer for a perfectly crunchy exterior and warm, savory interior.
Ingredients
Optional Dipping Sauces: Salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or crema
Instructions
-
Step 1: Preheat the air fryer to 180°C (350°F) for 3–5 minutes.
-
Step 2: In a bowl, combine shredded chicken (or beef), cheese, optional vegetables, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix until well incorporated.
-
Step 3: Warm tortillas slightly in the microwave or on a skillet to make them pliable.
-
Step 4: Spoon 2–3 tablespoons of the filling along one edge of each tortilla. Roll tightly and secure with a toothpick if needed.
-
Step 5: Lightly brush or spray each rolled taquito with olive oil.
-
Step 6: Place taquitos in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they do not touch.
-
Step 7: Cook for 8–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tortillas are golden brown and crispy.
-
Step 8: Remove from the air fryer, discard toothpicks if used, and let cool for 1 minute. Serve immediately with dipping sauces.
