Jalapeno Popper Chicken Taquitos
These taquitos are filled with a creamy, cheesy jalapeno-chicken mixture and packed into golden-crisp tortillas. They’re the perfect fusion of comfort food and finger food — spicy, rich, and totally irresistible.
Total Time: 35 minutes
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Servings: 12 taquitos
Ingredients:
For the Filling:
1½ cups cooked shredded chicken
4 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese
1 jalapeno, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat)
2 tbsp chopped green onions or red onion
¼ tsp garlic powder
Salt & pepper to taste
Optional: 2 tbsp cooked crumbled bacon for extra richness
For the Taquitos:
12 small flour or corn tortillas
Oil for brushing or frying
Optional toppings: sour cream, salsa, guacamole, chopped cilantro
Instructions:
1. Make the Filling:
In a bowl, combine cream cheese, shredded chicken, cheddar, jalapeno , green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
2. Assemble the Taquitos:
Warm tortillas slightly to prevent cracking.
Spoon 2–3 tablespoons of filling onto the lower third of each tortilla and roll tightly.
3. Cook the Taquitos:
To Bake:
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
Place taquitos seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Lightly brush or spray with oil.
Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
To Air-Fry:
Spray taquitos with oil. Air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
To Fry:
Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Fry taquitos seam-side down until golden on all sides, 2–3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
4. Serve:
Serve warm with sour cream, salsa, or ranch for dipping.
Notes & Tips:
For extra spice, add a few dashes of hot sauce or use pickled jalapenos.
Shredded rotisserie chicken makes this super quick.
Add spinach or black beans for a flavor/texture twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make these ahead?
A: Yes! Assemble the taquitos and refrigerate for up to 2 days or freeze before baking.
Q: Can I freeze them?
A: Absolutely. Freeze before or after cooking. Reheat in the oven or air fryer until crisp and heated through.
Q: Are flour or corn tortillas better?
A: Flour tortillas are softer and roll easier, but corn tortillas give a more traditional crisp. Either works great!
Nutritional Information
Calories: 170
Protein: 10g
Carbs: 10g
Fat: 10g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 280mg