Air-Fryer Taquitos are crispy, tasty rolls filled with your choice of meat, cheese, and veggies. They cook up quickly in the air fryer, making them a fun snack or meal any time!
These little bites are perfect for dipping into salsa or guacamole. I love making a big batch and enjoying them while catching up on my favorite shows. They disappear fast, trust me! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shredded Cooked Chicken: Shredded chicken is a great base for taquitos. You can easily use rotisserie chicken for convenience. If you’re in the mood for something different, cooked beef or even beans (for a vegetarian option) work well too.
Cheese: Cheddar brings sharpness, while Monterey Jack offers creaminess. You can mix them up! If you’re looking for dairy-free options, try a plant-based cheese that melts well.
Refried Beans: Feel free to omit these if you prefer a lighter filling. You can substitute with black beans, mashed avocado, or even skip beans entirely if they’re not your thing.
Taco Seasoning: This seasoning is key for flavor! You can easily make your own by mixing chili powder, cumin, paprika, and garlic powder if you don’t have a store-bought packet on hand.
Corn Tortillas: While corn tortillas are traditional, flour tortillas can also be used if you prefer. Just make sure to warm them before rolling for flexibility!
How Can I Prevent My Tortillas from Breaking?
The tortillas need to be soft and pliable to avoid breaking during rolling. Here are two effective methods:
- Microwave Method: Wrap a few tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave for 20-30 seconds until warm. This makes them easier to work with.
- Skillet Method: Heat a dry skillet over medium heat and warm each tortilla for about 10-15 seconds on each side until soft.
Whichever method you choose, getting them warm will really help them roll nicely without tearing. Enjoy your taquito-making adventure!
How to Make Air-Fryer Taquitos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (or beef)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar and/or Monterey Jack)
- 1/2 cup refried beans (optional)
- 1 teaspoon taco seasoning (adjust to taste)
- Salt, to taste
For the Taquitos:
- 10-12 small corn tortillas
- Cooking spray or olive oil
For Serving:
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup guacamole
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 10 minutes to cook in the air fryer. So, in total, you should plan for around 25 minutes to have these delicious taquitos ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken (or beef), shredded cheese, refried beans (if using), taco seasoning, and a pinch of salt. Use a fork or a spatula to mix everything together until it’s well combined. This will be your tasty filling!
2. Soften the Tortillas:
To make your corn tortillas easier to work with, heat them up for a few seconds in the microwave or on a skillet. This will soften them, allowing you to roll them without breaking. Just make sure they’re warm and pliable!
3. Roll the Taquitos:
Take about 2-3 tablespoons of the filling mixture and place it on the lower third of each tortilla. Fold the sides of the tortilla in and then roll it tightly from the bottom up. Make sure to roll them nicely so that the filling doesn’t spill out.
4. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for about 5 minutes. Preheating is important to get that perfect crispy texture!
5. Place in Air Fryer:
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush it with olive oil. Now, lay the taquitos seam-side down in the basket, but don’t overcrowd them to ensure they cook evenly.
6. Spray and Cook:
Give the tops of the taquitos a light spray with cooking spray or brush them with olive oil for added crispiness. Cook the taquitos in the air fryer for about 8-10 minutes, or until they look golden brown and crispy. If you have a smaller air fryer, you may have to do this in batches!
7. Enjoy Your Taquitos:
Once they’re cooked, carefully remove the taquitos from the air fryer and let them cool slightly. Serve them warm with salsa and guacamole on the side for dipping. Enjoy your delicious homemade air-fryer taquitos!
Can I Use Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Store-bought rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred the meat off the bones and use it in this recipe. It adds flavor and makes the preparation even quicker!
What If I Don’t Have Corn Tortillas?
No problem! You can use flour tortillas instead, just keep in mind that they may be softer and a bit less crispy. If you choose to go this route, consider air frying them for a minute or two longer to get the desired crispiness.
How to Keep My Taquitos from Getting Soggy?
To prevent sogginess, make sure the tortillas are warmed just enough to be pliable but not too hot, as overcooked tortillas can become fragile. Also, ensure the filling isn’t too wet. If you’re using refried beans, consider using a thicker variety or draining any excess liquid.
Can I Freeze These Taquitos?
Yes, you can freeze taquitos! After rolling them, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be air-fried directly from frozen; just add an extra 2-3 minutes to the cooking time.
