Chicken Pepper Jack Taquitos are a fun, flavorful snack or meal that bring together creamy, spicy cheese with tender chicken, all wrapped in a crispy tortilla. Let’s put together a detailed recipe guide you can follow:
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie works great)
- 1 cup shredded Pepper Jack cheese
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup salsa (or diced tomatoes with green chilies)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 12 small flour or corn tortillas
- Cooking spray or a little oil for crisping
Instructions
- Prepare the filling
- In a large bowl, mix shredded chicken, Pepper Jack cheese, cream cheese, salsa, and seasonings until well combined.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Assemble the taquitos
- Warm tortillas slightly (microwave for 20–30 seconds covered with a damp towel) to make them pliable.
- Place 2–3 tablespoons of filling along one edge of each tortilla, then roll tightly.
- Cook the taquitos
- Oven method: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place taquitos seam-side down on a baking sheet, lightly spray or brush with oil, and bake for 15–20 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Skillet method: Heat a thin layer of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry taquitos seam-side down until crisp, turning occasionally.
- Air fryer method: Spray taquitos lightly with oil and cook at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Serve
- Pair with sour cream, guacamole, or extra salsa for dipping.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro or jalapeño slices for extra kick.
Tips & Variations
- Swap Pepper Jack for cheddar if you prefer less heat.
- Add black beans or corn to the filling for extra texture.
- Make ahead: Assemble and freeze taquitos before cooking; bake straight from frozen, adding 5–7 minutes to the cook time.