Crispy air fryer taquitos make for a delightful meal or snack, combining the goodness of savory fillings wrapped in tortillas and cooked to perfection in an air fryer. This cooking method allows you to achieve that satisfying crunch without the excess oil often associated with frying. If you’re ready to explore tasty flavors and textures in a quick and health-conscious way, these taquitos are the answer.
Why We Love This Crispy Air Fryer Taquitos
Crispy air fryer taquitos stand out as a versatile dish that appeals to many tastes. The convenience of the air fryer means you can whip up a batch in no time, making them perfect for parties, game days, or a simple family dinner. You can customize the filling with your favorite ingredients, whether you prefer classic chicken, spicy beef, or a hearty vegetable mix. The air fryer elevates these taquitos with a delightful crunch while keeping the filling moist and flavorful. Additionally, as a healthier alternative to traditional frying, these taquitos let you enjoy all the taste with less guilt, making them truly irresistible.
Ingredients for Crispy Air Fryer Taquitos
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken or your preferred filling
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- Cooking spray or olive oil
- Sour cream or guacamole, for serving
Directions
- Begin by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (204°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, shredded cheese, black beans, corn, and taco seasoning. Mix well until all ingredients are fully combined.
- To assemble your taquitos, take a tortilla and place about 2-3 tablespoons of the filling on one side. Roll tightly, securing the filling inside the tortilla.
- Once all tortillas are filled and rolled, spray the air fryer basket lightly with cooking spray or drizzle a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Place the taquitos in the basket in a single layer, making sure they don’t touch to ensure even cooking. You may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Spray the tops of the taquitos lightly with cooking spray or brush with olive oil for extra crispiness.
- Air fry for about 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Turn them halfway through cooking for even browning.
- Remove the taquitos from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving.
How to Serve Crispy Air Fryer Taquitos
Crispy air fryer taquitos pair wonderfully with a range of dips and sides. Consider serving them with sour cream, guacamole, or a fresh salsa for a flavorful experience. For a well-rounded meal, add a side of Mexican rice or a fresh salad topped with cilantro and lime dressing. You can also create a festive platter by arranging your taquitos on a large dish and surrounding them with assorted toppings, such as chopped tomatoes, lettuce, or jalapeños, allowing everyone to customize their bites. For an exciting twist, try serving them with a creamy queso dip or spicy ranch dressing. These combinations can elevate your taquito experience, making the dish not just delicious but also visually appealing.
Expert Tips for Crispy Air Fryer Taquitos
To ensure your taquitos come out perfectly crispy and delicious, keep these expert tips in mind. First, make sure to use tortillas that are pliable; warming them in a microwave for a few seconds can help with rolling. Avoid overstuffing your taquitos, as this can lead to bursting during the cooking process. If you want added flavor, consider marinating your filling or adding spices based on your preference. To achieve extra crispiness, give the taquitos a light spray of cooking oil before air frying, and don’t hesitate to flip them halfway through cooking to ensure an even crunch on all sides. Finally, feel free to experiment with different fillings; they can be tailored to fit whatever ingredients you have on hand, making these taquitos not only tasty but also an excellent way to use leftovers.
How to Store Crispy Air Fryer Taquitos
If you have leftover crispy air fryer taquitos, storing them correctly will help keep them fresh. Allow the taquitos to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. You can store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Place the cooled taquitos in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, you can enjoy them later without sacrificing texture or flavor. When you’re ready to eat frozen taquitos, simply air fry them directly from the freezer for about 10-12 minutes, adjusting the time as needed until they are hot and crispy.
Variations of Crispy Air Fryer Taquitos
The beauty of crispy air fryer taquitos lies in the endless possibilities for customization. You can easily switch up the fillings to suit your tastes or dietary needs. For a vegetarian option, fill your taquitos with a mixture of sautéed peppers, onions, and black beans, or try adding some creamy avocado and cheese for richness. If you like heat, consider spicy fillings with jalapeños or using a zesty taco sauce in the mix. For a fun twist, you can use different types of proteins like ground turkey, shredded beef, or fish. Another popular variation includes adding different spices such as chipotle or cayenne pepper for a smoky or extra-spicy kick. Don’t hesitate to get creative with cheeses too, as various flavors can enhance the overall experience.
FAQ about Crispy Air Fryer Taquitos
What are crispy air fryer taquitos?
Crispy air fryer taquitos are rolled tortillas filled with savory ingredients and cooked in an air fryer, giving them a crunchy texture without deep frying. They are a healthier alternative to traditional fried taquitos.
Can I use corn or flour tortillas for taquitos?
Yes, you can use either corn or flour tortillas for making taquitos. Corn tortillas offer a more traditional flavor, while flour tortillas can be more pliable for rolling.
How do I prevent my taquitos from bursting?
To prevent bursting, avoid overstuffing the taquitos and ensure you roll them tightly. Warming the tortillas slightly can also help them stay wrapped during cooking.
Can I make taquitos ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the taquitos ahead of time, store them in the fridge, and air fry them just before serving. Alternatively, you can freeze them and air fry from frozen for a quick meal later.
What should I serve with crispy air fryer taquitos?
Crispy air fryer taquitos pair well with sour cream, guacamole, salsas, or a mixed salad. You can also offer a variety of dips on the side for a fun, interactive eating experience.
Crispy Air Fryer Taquitos
Ingredients
For the filling
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken or your preferred filling You can use any filling of your choice.
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella) Choose your favorite cheese for added flavor.
- 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed Optional ingredient.
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned) Add corn for extra sweetness and texture.
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning You can use store-bought or homemade seasoning.
For Assembly
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas Use pliable tortillas; warm them slightly if necessary.
- Cooking spray or olive oil Cooking spray or olive oil Use to prevent sticking and enhance crispiness.
For Serving
- to taste Sour cream or guacamole For dipping or topping.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (204°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, shredded cheese, black beans, corn, and taco seasoning. Mix well until all ingredients are fully combined.
- To assemble your taquitos, take a tortilla and place about 2-3 tablespoons of the filling on one side. Roll tightly, securing the filling inside the tortilla.
Cooking
- Once all tortillas are filled and rolled, spray the air fryer basket lightly with cooking spray or drizzle a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Place the taquitos in the basket in a single layer, making sure they don’t touch to ensure even cooking.
- Spray the tops of the taquitos lightly with cooking spray or brush with olive oil for extra crispiness.
- Air fry for about 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Turn them halfway through cooking for even browning.
- Remove the taquitos from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving.
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