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Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos: A Quick and Delicious Delight

In the ever-evolving world of culinary delights, the air fryer has become a staple in modern kitchens. Its ability to create crispy, golden dishes with a fraction of the oil used in traditional frying makes it an ideal tool for health-conscious food enthusiasts. One dish that lends itself beautifully to this cooking method is the taquito, a classic Mexican street food filled with flavour and an array of fillings. Today, we’ll explore how to create mouth-watering air fryer chicken taquitos that are not only simple to make but are also packed with taste.

What Are Taquitos?

Taquitos, often referred to as flautas, are rolled tortillas filled with a variety of ingredients, typically including meat, cheese, and spices. These delicious bites are then fried until crispy, delivering a satisfying crunch with every bite. Air frying provides an innovative alternative, allowing you to achieve that desired crispiness without all the excess oil.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Taquitos:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works perfectly)
• 1 cup grated cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack are great choices)
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon chilli powder (adjust according to your spice preference)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8-10 small corn or flour tortillas
• Cooking spray or olive oil for misting

For Serving:

• Guacamole
• Salsa
• Sour cream
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, grated cheese, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, chilli powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until the chicken is well-coated with the seasoning and the cheese is evenly distributed.

Step 2: Assemble the Taquitos

Heat your tortillas slightly. This can be done by microwaving them for about 20-30 seconds or warming them in a dry frying pan. Softening the tortillas makes them easier to roll without cracking.

Place a couple of spoonfuls of the chicken mixture onto the lower third of a tortilla. Roll it tightly away from you, tucking in the sides as you go to create a secure envelope. Repeat this process for the remaining tortillas and filling.

Step 3: Air Fry the Taquitos

Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (around 390°F). Once preheated, lightly mist the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the rolled taquitos seam-side down in the basket, making sure they are not overcrowded—this will ensure they cook evenly.

Mist the tops of the taquitos with a little more cooking spray to encourage that crisp, golden finish. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure both sides are beautifully browned and crispy.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Once done, carefully remove the taquitos from the air fryer and allow them to cool for a minute before serving. They pair wonderfully with guacamole, salsa, and a dollop of sour cream for dipping. For an extra touch, sprinkle with freshly chopped cilantro.

Tips for Perfection

• Experiment with Fillings: While chicken is a popular choice, feel free to get creative with other proteins such as beef, pork, or even beans for a vegetarian option.
• Make Ahead: Taquitos can be prepared in advance and frozen. Just make sure to freeze them in a single layer before transferring them to a storage bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Garnish Wisely: Customise your toppings and sides to suit your taste. Sliced jalapeños, diced tomatoes, or shredded lettuce can add an extra flair.

Conclusion

Air fryer chicken taquitos are a quick, delicious, and healthier alternative to traditional fried taquitos. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even a main dish, they are sure to impress family and friends alike. With their versatility and ease of preparation, they embody the spirit of homemade cooking in a modern, healthy way. So, why not fire up your air fryer and give these delightful taquitos a go? Taste the joy of crispy goodness in every bite!