Craving something crispy and delicious? These air fryer chicken taquitos are the perfect solution. They are easy to make, packed with flavor, and a healthier alternative to traditional fried taquitos. Whether you're serving them as an appetizer or a main dish, they are sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.
Most of the ingredients for this recipe are common pantry staples. However, if you don't regularly cook with cumin, you might need to pick some up at the supermarket. Cumin adds a warm, earthy flavor that complements the shredded chicken and shredded cheese perfectly. Make sure to also grab some tortillas if you don't have any on hand.

Ingredients For Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos
Shredded chicken: Cooked and shredded chicken is the base of the filling, providing a hearty and protein-rich component.
Shredded cheese: Cheese adds a creamy and melty texture to the filling, enhancing the overall flavor.
Cumin: This spice adds a warm, earthy flavor that pairs well with the chicken and cheese.
Garlic powder: Garlic powder adds a subtle, savory depth to the filling mixture.
Tortillas: These are used to wrap the filling, creating the taquito shape.
Olive oil: Brushing the taquitos with olive oil helps them become golden and crispy in the air fryer.
Technique Tip for Making Chicken Taquitos
When preparing the tortillas for your taquitos, warm them slightly in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This will make them more pliable and easier to roll without cracking.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
shredded chicken - Substitute with shredded turkey: Shredded turkey provides a similar texture and flavor profile, making it a great alternative.
shredded chicken - Substitute with shredded tofu: For a vegetarian option, shredded tofu can mimic the texture of chicken while absorbing the spices well.
shredded cheese - Substitute with vegan cheese: Vegan cheese can be used for those who are lactose intolerant or following a vegan diet.
shredded cheese - Substitute with queso fresco: Queso fresco offers a mild flavor and crumbly texture that works well in taquitos.
cumin - Substitute with chili powder: Chili powder provides a different but complementary spice profile that can enhance the flavor.
cumin - Substitute with coriander: Coriander has a slightly citrusy flavor that can add a unique twist to the dish.
garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder offers a similar depth of flavor and can be used in equal amounts.
garlic powder - Substitute with fresh garlic: Fresh garlic provides a more intense flavor and aroma, though you may need to adjust the quantity.
tortillas - Substitute with lettuce wraps: For a low-carb option, lettuce wraps can provide a fresh and crunchy alternative.
tortillas - Substitute with whole wheat tortillas: Whole wheat tortillas offer a healthier option with more fiber and nutrients.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it a good alternative for air frying.
olive oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can add a subtle sweetness and is also suitable for high-heat cooking.
Alternative Recipes Similar to Chicken Taquitos
How to Store and Freeze Your Taquitos
Allow the taquitos to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy.
Place the cooled taquitos in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. If stacking, separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing.
To freeze, arrange the taquitos in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This prevents them from sticking together.
Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about 1-2 hours, or until the taquitos are frozen solid.
Transfer the frozen taquitos to a resealable freezer bag or an airtight container. Label with the date for easy tracking.
Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When ready to reheat, preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
Place the frozen taquitos in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Do not overcrowd.
Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. If reheating from the refrigerator, reduce the cooking time to 5-7 minutes.
Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
How to Reheat Leftovers
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover taquitos in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Heat for 3-5 minutes, or until they are warmed through and crispy again.
For a quick oven method, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the taquitos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are hot and crispy.
If you prefer using a microwave, place the taquitos on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to keep them from drying out. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are evenly heated.
For a stovetop method, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil to the pan. Place the taquitos in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are heated through and crispy.
To reheat in a toaster oven, preheat the toaster oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the taquitos on the toaster oven tray and heat for 8-10 minutes, turning once, until they are hot and crispy.
Essential Tools for Making Chicken Taquitos
Air fryer: Used to cook the taquitos to a golden and crispy perfection.
Mixing bowl: Used to combine the shredded chicken, shredded cheese, cumin, and garlic powder.
Brush: Used to apply olive oil on the taquitos before cooking.
Tongs: Helpful for placing and removing the taquitos from the air fryer basket.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the cumin and garlic powder accurately.
Measuring cup: Used to measure the shredded chicken and shredded cheese.
Cutting board: Provides a surface to roll up the tortillas with the filling.
Knife: Useful for cutting the tortillas if needed.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Chicken Taquitos
Prepare the filling in advance: Mix the shredded chicken, shredded cheese, cumin, and garlic powder ahead of time and store it in the fridge.
Use pre-cooked chicken: Save time by using rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken.
Warm the tortillas: Heat the tortillas briefly in the microwave to make them more pliable and easier to roll.
Batch cooking: Make a large batch of taquitos and freeze them. Reheat in the air fryer when needed.
Efficient air frying: Arrange the taquitos in a single layer to ensure even cooking and avoid overcrowding.

Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups Shredded Chicken
- 1 cup Shredded Cheese
- 1 teaspoon Cumin
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 8 pieces Tortillas
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, shredded cheese, cumin, and garlic powder.
- Place a small amount of the mixture onto each tortilla and roll them up tightly.
- Brush the taquitos with olive oil.
- Place the taquitos in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Nutritional Value
Keywords
Suggested Appetizers and Desserts
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