Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos: 5 Irresistible Reasons to Indulge

Name: Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos: 5 Irresistible Reasons to Indulge
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded cooked chicken; 1 cup shredded cheese; 1/2 cup salsa; 1 tsp taco seasoning; 10 small tortillas; Cooking spray

By:

Christina R. Jones

June 22, 2025

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If you’re looking for a quick, delicious meal that packs a flavor punch, let me introduce you to my go-to recipe for Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos! These crispy little delights are filled with perfectly seasoned chicken, melty cheese, and a hint of salsa that makes every bite a fiesta for your taste buds. Honestly, I can’t remember the last time I made these without everyone in my family lining up for seconds (or thirds!). I vividly recall the first time I whipped these up for a game night with friends; the air fryer worked its magic, and within minutes, we had a platter of golden taquitos that disappeared faster than I could say “dinner’s ready!” Whether you’re prepping for a cozy night in or a fun gathering, these Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos will be your new favorite. Trust me, you’ll love how simple they are to make and how they deliver on the crispy factor every time!

Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos - detail 1

Ingredients List

Let’s gather what you need for these mouthwatering Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos! Here’s a simple rundown:

2 cups shredded cooked chicken: Use rotisserie chicken for a quick option or cook your own and shred it.
1 cup shredded cheese: I love using a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack for that melty goodness!
1/2 cup salsa: Choose your favorite brand or make your own for an extra kick.
1 tsp taco seasoning: This adds that essential flavor; feel free to adjust based on your spice preference.
10 small tortillas: Corn or flour tortillas work well; just make sure they’re pliable.
Cooking spray: A light spray ensures your taquitos come out crispy and golden without sticking.

How to Prepare Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos

Making Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos is a breeze, and I’m here to walk you through it step by step! You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can have these crispy treats on your table. So, let’s dive in!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the air fryer: First things first, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial because it helps achieve that perfect crispiness. While it warms up, you can prep your filling!
Mix the filling: In a medium-sized bowl, combine your shredded cooked chicken, shredded cheese, salsa, and taco seasoning. I like to use a fork to mix everything together until it’s well combined. The flavors meld beautifully, and it smells fantastic!
Prepare the tortillas: Take your small tortillas and lay them flat on a clean surface. If they’re a bit stiff, you can warm them slightly in the microwave for about 10 seconds to make them pliable. This will prevent them from cracking when you roll them up.
Fill and roll: Spoon a small amount of the filling onto each tortilla, typically about 2 tablespoons. Don’t overfill, or you’ll have a messy situation! Roll them up tightly, tucking in the sides as you go to keep the filling secure.
Spray for crispiness: Once all your taquitos are rolled, place them seam-side down in the air fryer basket. Give them a light spray of cooking spray. This step is key to getting that golden-brown crispiness we all love!
Air fry to perfection: Cook the taquitos in the air fryer for 8-10 minutes. About halfway through, I like to give the basket a little shake to ensure they cook evenly. Keep an eye on them, as cooking times can vary based on the air fryer model.

And there you have it! Once they’re crispy and golden, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool for a minute before serving. Trust me, the anticipation will be worth it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have these delicious Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos on the table in no time!
Easy Cooking: The air fryer does all the work, giving you perfectly crispy taquitos without the mess of frying.
Incredible Flavor: Each bite bursts with seasoned chicken, melty cheese, and zesty salsa that will keep you coming back for more.
Healthy Option: Air frying cuts down on oil, making these taquitos a healthier choice without sacrificing taste.
Versatile: Customize the filling to suit your taste—add beans, veggies, or different spices for a fun twist!

Tips for Success

To ensure your Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos turn out perfectly every time, here are my top tips! First, don’t skimp on the seasoning; a good taco seasoning will elevate the flavor significantly. Also, make sure your tortillas are fresh and pliable to avoid cracking while rolling. If you notice they’re a bit stiff, a quick microwave warm-up does wonders!

Keep an eye on the cooking time—8-10 minutes is usually perfect, but air fryer models can vary, so check for that golden crispiness. And remember, a light spray of cooking oil is essential for that crunchy texture, so don’t skip it!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos, you’ll be pleased to know they can fit into a balanced diet! Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional values per taquito:

Calories: 150
Fat: 7g
Protein: 10g
Carbohydrates: 15g

These values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used or portion sizes. So, if you’re counting calories or just want to keep track of your meals, these taquitos are a satisfying option that won’t weigh you down. Enjoy guilt-free snacking!

Frequently Asked Questions

Got questions about making Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos? I’ve got answers! Here are some of the most common queries I hear:

Can I use frozen chicken for the filling? Absolutely! Just make sure to cook and shred it first. Frozen cooked chicken works great; just thaw it in the microwave before mixing.

What’s the best way to store leftovers? Store any leftover taquitos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They reheat beautifully in the air fryer!

Can I make these taquitos vegetarian? Yes! Just swap the chicken for a mix of black beans, corn, and cheese. It’s a delicious alternative that still packs a flavor punch!

How can I make them spicier? If you like heat, add jalapeños or use a spicy salsa in the filling. Adjust the taco seasoning too for an extra kick!

Can I prepare these ahead of time? Definitely! You can assemble the taquitos and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. Just remember to spray them with cooking oil right before air frying.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your leftover Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos is super easy! Simply place them in an airtight container and pop them in the fridge, where they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, the air fryer is your best friend for reheating. Just preheat it to 400°F (200°C) and cook the taquitos for about 5-7 minutes, or until they’re heated through and crispy again. This method keeps them deliciously crunchy, just like when they were first made! Trust me, you won’t be disappointed with the results!

For more delicious recipes, check out my Pinterest page!