If you love the irresistible combo of creamy, spicy, and crispy bites, then you are in for a treat with this Jalapeno Popper Chicken Taquitos Recipe. Imagine tender shredded chicken blended perfectly with melted cheeses, zesty jalapenos, and fresh cilantro all wrapped in a crunchy golden tortilla. This dish brings all the flavors of those classic jalapeno poppers you adore but with a fun, handheld twist that’s perfect for parties, weeknight dinners, or whenever you want a seriously satisfying snack. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a staple in your recipe box!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Jalapeno Popper Chicken Taquitos Recipe calls for simple ingredients that work harmoniously to deliver bold flavor, delightful texture, and a vibrant pop of color. Each element plays a crucial role in creating that creamy, spicy, and crispy balance you’ll love.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The perfect protein base, tender and easy to shred.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the aromatics and adding a subtle fruitiness.
- 1/2 cup chopped onion: Adds sweetness and a touch of crunch when cooked.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings warmth and depth to the filling.
- 1-2 jalapenos, seeded and diced: The star spice for that signature popper heat – adjust to your liking!
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened: Creates a rich, creamy filling that binds everything together.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Sharpness and melty goodness combined in one.
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Adds a smooth, mild flavor and extra creaminess.
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise: Enhances moisture and silky texture.
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro: Bright herbal notes for freshness.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: A warm spice that complements the jalapeno’s heat.
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin: For earthiness and a subtle smoky aroma.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Boosts garlicky flavor without overpowering.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to balance all the flavors.
- 16-20 corn tortillas (6-inch size): The crispy, handheld vessel for the filling.
- Vegetable oil, for frying (about 2-3 cups): Needed to achieve that irresistible golden crunch.
- Sour cream, guacamole, salsa, chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes: Perfect accompaniments to jazz up your serving plate.
How to Make Jalapeno Popper Chicken Taquitos Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by cooking your chicken breasts until they’re perfectly tender. You can boil them gently in water until no longer pink inside or bake them for a fuss-free approach. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken works beautifully here, too. This step is crucial to ensure the chicken is juicy and easy to shred, which sets the foundation for the filling.
Step 2: Shred the Chicken
Once cooled slightly, shred the chicken using two forks or a stand mixer for effortless, uniform strands. This shredding process helps the meat absorb all those delicious flavors in the filling.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
In a hot skillet, sauté onion until it softens and sweetens, then add garlic and diced jalapenos to infuse their intense aroma. This flavorful base elevates the filling, creating a luscious blend that sings with every bite.
Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
Mix shredded chicken with the sautéed aromatics, cream cheese, cheddar, Monterey Jack, mayonnaise, and fresh cilantro in a large bowl. The cream cheese and mayo provide creamy richness, while the cheeses melt perfectly to bind everything together.
Step 5: Season the Filling
Add chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well and give it a taste test — adjusting spices as needed. This seasoning layer brings warmth and complexity to your taquitos.
Step 6: Chill the Filling (Optional)
If time allows, chilling the filling in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes makes it firmer and easier to handle during assembly, which can be a helpful trick for less mess and neater rolls.
Step 7: Warm the Tortillas
Warm tortillas until soft and pliable, either in the microwave wrapped with a damp paper towel, in the oven, or a dry skillet. This step prevents cracking when you roll your taquitos.
Step 8: Fill the Tortillas
Scoop about 2-3 tablespoons of the filling onto the center of each warmed tortilla. This amount ensures every bite is bursting with that fantastic cream cheese and jalapeno chicken goodness.
Step 9: Roll the Taquitos
Roll tortillas tightly from one end to the other to encase the filling, securing with toothpicks if needed. The tight roll is key to keeping everything inside during frying.
Step 10: Heat the Oil
Pour enough vegetable oil into a heavy-bottomed pot and heat it to 350°F (175°C). Maintaining the right temperature guarantees a crisp, golden finish without absorbing excess oil.
Step 11: Fry the Taquitos
Carefully place a few taquitos at a time into the hot oil without overcrowding. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn irresistibly golden brown and crunchy, the perfect texture contrast!
Step 12: Drain the Taquitos
Remove the crispy taquitos with a slotted spoon and set them on a rack lined with paper towels. This step drains excess oil, keeping your taquitos light and crispy.
Step 13: Repeat
Continue frying the remaining taquitos in batches until all are cooked and ready for your enjoyment.
How to Serve Jalapeno Popper Chicken Taquitos Recipe
Garnishes
These taquitos shine when adorned with fresh garnishes. A dollop of sour cream, a scoop of creamy guacamole, and a spoonful of vibrant salsa elevate each bite with cool, tangy, and fresh contrasts. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and diced tomatoes for eye-pleasing color and an extra layer of flavor.
Side Dishes
For a well-rounded meal, serve these taquitos alongside a crisp green salad or Mexican street corn. A simple black bean and corn salad or a refreshing cucumber lime salad also complement the spicy, creamy filling beautifully, balancing heat and coolness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting a gathering, arrange the taquitos upright in a rustic basket lined with colorful napkins for a festive vibe. Alternatively, slice the taquitos into bite-sized pieces for finger-food style appetizers. Pair with mini dipping bowls filled with your favorite sauces to encourage fun, interactive snacking.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover taquitos store wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Their flavor even deepens after resting, making for an excellent next-day snack or lunch.
Freezing
To freeze, place un-fried rolled taquitos on a baking sheet and flash freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. This method keeps them from sticking together and allows you to fry them straight from the freezer whenever a craving hits.
Reheating
Reheat fried taquitos in a hot oven or air fryer until they regain their crispiness—avoid the microwave if possible to prevent sogginess. This reheating method refreshes the crunch and melts the cheeses just right.
FAQs
Can I make this Jalapeno Popper Chicken Taquitos Recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap out the chicken for sautéed mushrooms, beans, or roasted vegetables, and use your favorite cheeses and jalapenos to keep all the creamy, spicy goodness intact.
How spicy will the taquitos be?
The heat level depends on how many jalapenos you include and whether you leave their seeds in. You can easily control the spice by adjusting the jalapeno quantity or substituting with milder peppers.
Can I bake the taquitos instead of frying them?
Yes! For a lighter version, bake the rolled taquitos on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 425°F (220°C) for about 20 minutes or until crispy, flipping halfway through to brown evenly.
What dipping sauces go best with this recipe?
Sour cream, guacamole, and fresh salsa are classic choices. You can also try chipotle mayo, queso dip, or a tangy cilantro-lime crema for exciting variations.
How long can I freeze the prepped taquitos?
Prepped but unfried taquitos can be frozen for up to 1 month for best quality. Just be sure to thaw slightly before frying or cook them straight from frozen for convenience.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting and joyous about crafting the perfect Jalapeno Popper Chicken Taquitos Recipe at home. From the creamy, cheesy filling to the satisfyingly crunchy exterior, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. So grab those ingredients and dive into making these irresistible taquitos – your family and friends will thank you for many delicious moments to come!
Print
Jalapeno Popper Chicken Taquitos Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 16-20 taquitos
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
Jalapeno Popper Chicken Taquitos are crispy, flavorful rolled tortillas filled with a creamy, cheesy mixture of shredded chicken, jalapenos, and spices. Perfectly fried until golden, these taquitos make a delicious appetizer or snack served with sour cream, guacamole, and salsa.
Ingredients
Chicken and Filling
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs total)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1–2 jalapenos, seeded and finely diced
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Taquitos and Frying
- 16–20 corn tortillas (6-inch size)
- Vegetable oil, for frying (about 2-3 cups)
Optional Toppings
- Sour cream
- Guacamole
- Salsa
- Chopped cilantro
- Diced tomatoes
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink inside. Alternatively, bake the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken.
- Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is cool enough to handle, shred it using two forks or a stand mixer with the paddle attachment on low speed.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and diced jalapenos and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, sautéed onion, garlic, and jalapenos. Add the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, mayonnaise, and chopped cilantro.
- Season the Filling: Add the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Mix everything together until well combined. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Chill the Filling (Optional): Chill the filling for about 30 minutes in the refrigerator to make it easier to work with.
- Warm the Tortillas: Wrap a stack of tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave for 30-60 seconds, or until they are warm and flexible. Alternatively, wrap a stack of tortillas in foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or heat each tortilla individually in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 15-20 seconds per side, until softened.
- Fill the Tortillas: Place about 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken filling in the center of each warmed tortilla.
- Roll the Taquitos: Tightly roll each tortilla around the filling, starting from one end and rolling towards the other. Secure the rolled taquito with a toothpick, if needed.
- Repeat: Continue filling and rolling the remaining tortillas until all the filling is used.
- Heat the Oil: Pour about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil into a large, heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches a temperature of 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the Taquitos: Carefully place a few taquitos into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Drain the Taquitos: Remove the fried taquitos from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Repeat: Continue frying the remaining taquitos in batches until they are all cooked.
Notes
- Adjust the number of jalapenos to control the heat level of the filling.
- Chilling the filling before assembling makes it easier to handle and prevents tortillas from tearing.
- Warm tortillas help prevent cracking when rolling the taquitos.
- Use a thermometer to monitor oil temperature for best frying results.
- Serve taquitos immediately with sour cream, guacamole, salsa, chopped cilantro, and diced tomatoes for extra flavor.
