Air Fryer Taquitos

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Air Fryer Taquitos are the perfect combination of crispy, flavorful, and easy to make. These rolled tacos are packed with a delicious filling, wrapped in corn tortillas, and air-fried to golden perfection. Unlike traditional deep-fried taquitos, this air fryer version delivers all the crunch without the excess oil, making them a healthier yet equally satisfying option. Whether you’re looking for a quick appetizer, a fun dinner idea, or a party snack, these taquitos will be a hit with everyone.

One of the best things about making taquitos in the air fryer is how effortlessly they come together. The high heat circulation ensures an even crisp on all sides while keeping the inside warm and flavorful. Plus, they’re highly customizable—you can stuff them with shredded chicken, beef, beans, or cheese, depending on your preference. Serve them with fresh toppings like guacamole, salsa, sour cream, and chopped cilantro for a restaurant-quality meal at home.

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Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Taquitos Recipe

• Crispy Without the Grease – Enjoy the crunch of deep-fried taquitos without the extra oil.
• Quick & Easy – Ready in under 20 minutes, making them a great option for busy nights.
• Customizable Fillings – Use your favorite protein, cheese, or vegetarian alternatives.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – Make a batch and store them for quick meals throughout the week.
• Kid-Friendly & Crowd-Pleasing – A great snack or meal for both kids and adults alike.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Making air fryer taquitos is simple, but having the right tools can make the process even smoother. Here’s what you’ll need and why each tool is important:

• Air Fryer – The star of the show! It crisps up the taquitos evenly with minimal oil, making them perfectly golden.
• Tongs – Essential for flipping the taquitos halfway through cooking without burning your hands.
• Brush or Spray Bottle for Oil – A light coating of oil helps achieve an extra crispy texture.
• Damp Paper Towels – Used to soften tortillas, preventing them from cracking when rolled.
• Mixing Bowl – For combining the filling ingredients before assembling the taquitos.
• Toothpicks (Optional) – These help keep the taquitos tightly rolled while cooking.

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Preparation Tips

• Warm the Tortillas First – Corn tortillas can break if they’re too stiff. Wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 20-30 seconds to make them more pliable.
• Don’t Overfill – Too much filling can cause the taquitos to burst open while cooking. Keep it to about 2 tablespoons per taquito.
• Roll Tightly – This ensures the filling stays in place and gives you a nice, uniform shape.
• Seal with a Little Oil – Brushing or spraying a light layer of oil helps keep the taquitos sealed and makes them extra crispy.
• Avoid Overcrowding the Air Fryer – Cook in batches if needed to allow air circulation for even crisping.

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Ingredients for This Air Fryer Taquitos Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make these crispy and delicious air fryer taquitos:

For the Taquitos:

• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (or beef, beans, or cheese for variations)
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
• 12 small corn tortillas (or flour tortillas if preferred)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for brushing or spraying)

For Serving (Optional Toppings):

• Guacamole
• Salsa or pico de gallo
• Sour cream
• Fresh chopped cilantro
• Diced tomatoes
• Sliced jalapeños

These ingredients create a flavorful and crispy taquito, but feel free to adjust based on your taste preferences!

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Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken (or your preferred filling) with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed. Stir in the shredded cheese to help bind the filling together.

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Step 2: Warm the Tortillas

To prevent the tortillas from cracking while rolling, wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 20-30 seconds until they become soft and pliable. This step is crucial, especially when using corn tortillas.

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Step 3: Assemble the Taquitos

Lay a tortilla flat and place about 2 tablespoons of the filling along one edge. Tightly roll the tortilla around the filling and place it seam-side down. If needed, secure it with a toothpick to keep it from unrolling. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.

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Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat for a couple of minutes. This helps the taquitos cook evenly and crisp up nicely.

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Step 5: Arrange and Brush with Oil

Lightly spray or brush the taquitos with vegetable oil for extra crispiness. Arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching to allow proper air circulation. If making a large batch, cook in multiple rounds.

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Step 6: Air Fry to Crispy Perfection

Cook the taquitos at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through. They should be golden brown and crispy when done. If needed, add another minute or two for extra crunch.

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Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Carefully remove the taquitos from the air fryer and let them cool slightly. Serve with your favorite toppings like guacamole, salsa, sour cream, and fresh cilantro. Enjoy them while they’re warm and crispy!

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Notes

• Protein Variations – Swap the shredded chicken for ground beef, pulled pork, or a vegetarian option like black beans and cheese.
• Cheese Choices – Monterey Jack, cheddar, or a Mexican cheese blend work great for added flavor.
• Make-Ahead Option – Assemble the taquitos in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before air frying.
• Extra Crispy Tip – A light spray of oil before cooking ensures a golden, crunchy texture.
• Baking Alternative – If you don’t have an air fryer, bake the taquitos at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping once halfway through.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overstuffing the Tortillas – Too much filling can cause the taquitos to burst open while cooking. Keep the filling amount to about 2 tablespoons.
• Skipping the Warming Step – Cold corn tortillas tend to crack when rolled, so always warm them first.
• Not Rolling Tightly – If the tortillas aren’t snug around the filling, they may come undone in the air fryer.
• Overcrowding the Air Fryer – Cook in batches to ensure even crisping. Overlapping taquitos won’t crisp up properly.
• Using Too Much Oil – A light spray is enough! Excess oil can make them soggy instead of crispy.
• Neglecting the Flip – Turn them halfway through cooking for even browning on all sides.

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What to Serve With Air Fryer Taquitos?

Air fryer taquitos are delicious on their own, but pairing them with complementary sides and dips takes them to the next level. Here are some great options to serve alongside them:

8 Tasty Pairings:

1. Guacamole

A creamy and refreshing dip that balances the crunchiness of the taquitos with a smooth texture and fresh avocado flavor.

2. Pico de Gallo

A fresh and zesty tomato-based salsa with onions, cilantro, lime, and jalapeños that adds a vibrant touch.

3. Mexican Rice

Fluffy, seasoned rice with tomato, garlic, and spices makes a filling and flavorful side.

4. Refried Beans

A creamy, savory side that pairs perfectly with crispy taquitos, offering a great mix of textures.

5. Sour Cream or Crema

A cool and tangy dip that complements the seasoned filling of the taquitos beautifully.

6. Cheese Dip (Queso Blanco)

A warm, melty cheese dip is always a crowd-pleaser and adds extra indulgence to each bite.

7. Shredded Lettuce & Avocado Slices

A simple, fresh side that adds crunch and a creamy contrast to the crispy taquitos.

8. Chips and Salsa

A classic Mexican restaurant-style side that keeps things fun and flavorful.

With these pairings, your air fryer taquitos will feel like a full meal bursting with bold flavors!

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Storage Instructions

Air fryer taquitos store well, making them a great option for meal prep or leftovers. Here’s how to keep them fresh:

Refrigeration:

• Let the taquitos cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• To reheat, air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes or bake at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes until crispy again.

Freezing:

• Arrange the cooked taquitos in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours.
• Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and store them for up to 3 months.
• Reheat directly from frozen in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – 2 Taquitos)

• Calories: ~250
• Protein: ~15g
• Carbohydrates: ~20g
• Fat: ~12g
• Fiber: ~2g
• Sodium: ~350mg

(Note: These values are estimates and can vary based on the ingredients used.)

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?

Yes! Flour tortillas work just as well and tend to be easier to roll. They may take an extra minute or two to crisp up in the air fryer.

2. How do I keep my taquitos from unrolling?

Rolling them tightly and placing them seam-side down helps. You can also use a small toothpick to keep them in place while cooking.

3. Can I make these taquitos ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble them in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before air frying. For longer storage, freeze them before cooking.

4. Do I need to spray oil on the taquitos?

A light spray of oil enhances crispiness, but it’s not necessary. If you want a lower-fat option, you can skip it, though they may not be as golden brown.

5. Can I make these taquitos vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the chicken for black beans, refried beans, or a mix of beans and cheese for a tasty vegetarian option.

6. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

The air fryer is the best method! Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes to restore crispiness. You can also use an oven, but avoid the microwave as it will make them soft.

7. Can I add more filling?

It’s best to keep the filling to about 2 tablespoons per taquito. Overfilling can cause them to burst open while cooking.

8. What other dipping sauces can I try?

Besides guacamole and salsa, try chipotle mayo, avocado crema, or even a spicy ranch dressing for extra flavor.

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Conclusion

Air fryer taquitos are a game-changer—crispy, flavorful, and easy to make with minimal oil. Whether you fill them with chicken, beef, or a vegetarian option, they’re always a hit. Plus, with their quick cooking time and easy storage, they make the perfect meal or snack for busy days. Try them with your favorite toppings and sides for a fun and delicious dish everyone will love!

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