Are you ready for a tasty treat? These Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Taquitos are packed with flavor and super easy to make. You’ll love the mix of shredded chicken, zesty barbecue sauce, and cheese, all wrapped up in a crispy tortilla. Perfect for a quick snack or a fun party dish, these taquitos will be a hit. Let’s dive into how to create this delicious snack together!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients List
– 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
– 1 cup barbecue sauce
– 1 cup shredded cheese
– 1/2 cup corn
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
For this recipe, I start with cooked shredded chicken. You can use leftover chicken or buy pre-cooked. I love the flavor of barbecue sauce, so I pick my favorite brand. Shredded cheese adds creaminess. I like using cheddar or Monterey Jack for the best taste. Corn gives a sweet crunch. Chopped green onions add a fresh touch.
Tortilla Options
– Flour tortillas
– Corn tortillas
You can use either flour or corn tortillas. Flour tortillas are soft and easy to roll. Corn tortillas have a great flavor and texture. I often choose based on what I have at home. Both work well and will hold the filling nicely.
Optional Garnishes
– Sour cream
– Avocado
– Cilantro
Garnishes can make a big difference! I love adding sour cream for creaminess. Fresh avocado brings a rich taste. Cilantro adds a burst of freshness. You can mix and match these garnishes to suit your own taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Filling
To make the filling, start with a large bowl. Add 2 cups of cooked shredded chicken. Then, pour in 1 cup of your favorite barbecue sauce. Next, mix in 1 cup of shredded cheese, like cheddar or Monterey Jack. Then, add 1/2 cup of corn. You can use frozen or canned corn, but make sure to drain it. Finally, toss in 1/4 cup of chopped green onions. Mix everything well until fully combined. This filling will add great taste to your taquitos.
Air Fryer Preparation
Next, it’s time to prepare the air fryer. Preheat it to 375°F (190°C). Let it heat for about 5 minutes. This step is important. A hot air fryer helps the taquitos cook evenly and get crispy.
Assembling the Taquitos
Now, grab a tortilla. Place 2–3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture in the center. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling. Tuck in the sides as you roll to keep the filling inside. Repeat this for all 8 tortillas. Make sure they are secure. This helps prevent any spillage during cooking.
Cooking the Taquitos
Once all the taquitos are rolled, lightly brush or spray them with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. This adds crispiness. Place the taquitos in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd them; cook in batches if needed. Air fry for 8-10 minutes. Flip them halfway through for even cooking. They should turn golden brown and crispy. After cooking, let them cool for a couple of minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Enjoy your delicious snack!
Tips & Tricks
Ensuring Crispiness
To make your taquitos crispy, oil is key. I always spray or brush each taquito with olive oil. This helps them get that golden brown color. It also adds a nice crunch. Without oil, they may turn out soft or soggy. Make sure to coat all sides evenly for the best results.
Flavor Enhancements
You can switch up the taste by using different barbecue sauces. Try a spicy or smoky sauce for a kick! You can also change the cheese. Cheddar adds a sharp flavor, while Monterey Jack melts beautifully. Mixing sauces or cheeses can create new flavor profiles. Get creative, and find what you love!
Serving Suggestions
These taquitos are great with dips or side dishes. I love serving them with sour cream for a creamy touch. Avocado adds a fresh taste, while cilantro brings brightness. You can pair them with a simple salad or some chips. This makes for a fun snack or meal that everyone will enjoy!
Variations
Protein Alternatives
You can change the protein in these taquitos. Try using ground beef or pulled pork. Both options add tasty flavors. If you want a vegetarian choice, use black beans or lentils. Mix them with the barbecue sauce. This makes a hearty filling that everyone will enjoy.
Spice Level Adjustments
Want some heat? Add diced jalapeños to your filling. This gives a nice kick to your taquitos. You can also use a spicy barbecue sauce. This will make the dish even more exciting. Just be careful; not everyone likes super spicy food.
Gluten-Free Options
If you need gluten-free taquitos, choose gluten-free tortillas. Many brands offer great choices. Always check your barbecue sauce too. Some sauces contain gluten. Pick one that is marked gluten-free to be safe. This way, everyone can enjoy these tasty snacks.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your taquitos fresh, store them in an airtight container. Make sure they cool down first. You can refrigerate them for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze taquitos, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, don’t thaw them. Just cook from frozen for the best crunch.
Reheating Methods
You can reheat taquitos in the air fryer or the oven. For the air fryer, set it to 350°F (175°C) and heat for 5-7 minutes. This method keeps them crispy. If using the oven, preheat to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes. Both methods work well, but the air fryer gives that extra crunch.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought shredded chicken?
Yes, you can use store-bought shredded chicken. It saves time and effort. Just make sure it’s plain and not flavored. This lets the BBQ sauce shine. It also helps keep the recipe quick and easy. I love using rotisserie chicken for this. It gives great taste and cuts prep time in half.
What can I substitute for barbecue sauce?
If you want a different flavor, try using salsa or hot sauce. You can also use a homemade sauce. A mix of ketchup and honey gives a sweet touch. Or try a spicy chipotle sauce for a kick. These options can bring a new twist to the taquitos. Don’t be afraid to experiment!
How long do these taquitos last in the fridge?
These taquitos can last about 3-4 days in the fridge. Make sure to store them in an airtight container. This helps keep them fresh. If they start to dry out, adding a little extra sauce can help. Enjoy them cold or reheat them in the air fryer. They taste great either way!
These taquitos are easy to make with basic ingredients. You mix cooked chicken, barbecue sauce, cheese, corn, and green onions. You can use flour or corn tortillas and add your favorite garnishes. Air frying gives them a crispy texture.
Remember, you can swap proteins and spices to suit your taste. Store any leftovers properly and enjoy them later. The options are endless, making these taquitos a perfect dish for any meal. Now, get cooking and enjoy your tasty creation!
