Taquitos Chicken or Beef

Taquitos, also known as rolled tacos, are a beloved Mexican dish featuring crispy, golden tortillas wrapped around a flavorful filling—most commonly shredded chicken or seasoned beef. Fried or baked to perfection, these crunchy bites are served with fresh toppings like guacamole, salsa, and sour cream.

Whether you’re hosting a party, craving a hearty snack, or planning a fun family dinner, taquitos are the perfect combination of crispy, savory, and satisfying flavors. They’re easy to make, freeze beautifully, and always a crowd-pleaser!

Why I Love This Recipe

I love taquitos because they bring together everything I enjoy about Mexican cuisine—bold spices, crispy textures, and customizable fillings. The best part is how versatile they are: use leftover chicken, ground beef, or even beans for a vegetarian twist. Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch followed by a burst of flavor from the seasoned filling.

They’re great for meal prep, easy to reheat, and perfect for dipping in guacamole or salsa. Whether baked or fried, taquitos always feel like a festive treat!

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

You must try this taquito recipe because it’s simple yet incredibly flavorful. It’s perfect for weeknights when you want something fun but don’t want to spend hours cooking. These taquitos can be made ahead, frozen, and cooked straight from the freezer—ideal for busy families or game-day gatherings.

Plus, they’re healthier when baked and just as delicious! Whether you prefer chicken or beef, this recipe is a guaranteed hit for all ages.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Servings: 4 (makes about 12 taquitos)

Calories: ~230 kcal per serving (3 taquitos)

Course: Appetizer / Main Course

Cuisine: Mexican

Ingredients

For the Filling (Choose Chicken or Beef):

• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken or 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• ½ tsp paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• ½ cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
• ¼ cup salsa or enchilada sauce (optional for moisture)

For Assembly:

• 12 corn tortillas (6-inch size)
• Oil for frying or brushing (if baking)
• Toothpicks (optional, for securing rolls)

For Serving (Optional):

• Sour cream
• Guacamole
• Salsa or pico de gallo
• Shredded lettuce
• Fresh cilantro

Cooking Directions

1. Prepare the filling:
   In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil. Add onion and garlic; sauté until fragrant.
   Add chicken or beef, along with spices, and cook until heated through and well seasoned.
   Stir in cheese and salsa (if using). Mix well and let cool slightly.
2. Soften tortillas:
   Warm tortillas in a damp paper towel in the microwave for 30–40 seconds, or until pliable.
3. Assemble the taquitos:
   Spoon about 2 tablespoons of filling onto one edge of each tortilla, then roll tightly. Secure with a toothpick if needed.
4. Cook:
   • Frying: Heat ½ inch of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry taquitos seam-side down for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
   • Baking: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place taquitos seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet, brush lightly with oil, and bake for 15–18 minutes until crisp.
5. Serve:
   Remove from heat, drain on paper towels (if fried), and serve warm with your favorite dips.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Cook and season your filling (either chicken or beef).
Step 2: Warm tortillas to make them flexible.
Step 3: Place filling on one end of each tortilla and roll tightly.
Step 4: Fry or bake until crisp and golden.
Step 5: Serve hot with dips and garnishes.

How to Serve This Recipe

Serve taquitos hot and crispy with cooling dips like guacamole, sour cream, or salsa verde. They pair beautifully with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a simple salad. For a party platter, arrange them on a large serving tray with small bowls of dipping sauces and sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for a festive touch.

Recipe Tips

• Keep tortillas warm and soft while rolling to prevent cracking.
• Avoid overfilling; too much filling can cause taquitos to burst open while cooking.
• To make them extra crispy when baking, brush lightly with oil or cooking spray.
• Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature and even browning.

Variations

1. Vegetarian Taquitos: Use black beans, corn, and sautéed peppers instead of meat.
2. Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the filling.
3. Cheesy Chicken Taquitos: Mix cream cheese with shredded chicken for a creamy interior.
4. Baked Taquitos: Skip frying for a lighter option—just bake until golden.
5. Breakfast Taquitos: Fill with scrambled eggs, bacon, and cheese for a morning twist.

Freezing and Storage Time

• Refrigeration: Store leftover taquitos in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.
• Freezing: Assemble taquitos (uncooked) and freeze in a single layer on a tray. Once solid, transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They keep for up to 2 months.
  • To cook from frozen: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes until crispy and heated through.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large skillet
• Baking sheet (for oven method)
• Tongs or slotted spoon (for frying)
• Paper towels for draining excess oil
• Toothpicks (optional)

Conclusion

Taquitos are the perfect blend of crunch, spice, and comfort—everything you love about Mexican food in one bite-sized roll. Whether you choose chicken or beef, these golden delights are simple to make and endlessly satisfying. They’re freezer-friendly, fun to customize, and always a hit at gatherings or family dinners. Serve them hot with fresh toppings and dips for a delicious, crowd-pleasing experience every time.