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Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos Recipe with Easy Creamy Avocado Salsa

crispy air fryer chicken taquitos - featured image

A quick and easy recipe for crispy chicken taquitos made in the air fryer, paired with a creamy avocado salsa that adds a cool, tangy flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great for time-saving)
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, your choice)
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 12 small corn tortillas
  • Cooking spray or a light brush of olive oil
  • 1 ripe avocado
  • 1/4 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream (or coconut yogurt for dairy-free)
  • 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
  • 1 small jalapeño, seeded and chopped (optional)
  • 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Salt to taste
  • Water, as needed for thinning

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, shredded cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until evenly combined.
  2. Warm tortillas one at a time in a dry skillet over medium heat for 15 seconds per side or microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel for 20 seconds. Keep them covered with a kitchen towel to stay pliable.
  3. Place about 2 tablespoons of the chicken filling near the edge of each tortilla. Roll tightly but gently to avoid tearing. Arrange seam side down on a plate.
  4. Lightly spray or brush the outside of each rolled tortilla with cooking spray or olive oil.
  5. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes.
  6. Place rolled taquitos in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overcrowding. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crisp and golden brown.
  7. While the taquitos cook, combine avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, jalapeño, cilantro, and salt in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth, adding water one tablespoon at a time to reach desired consistency.
  8. Plate the hot, crispy taquitos with a generous bowl of creamy avocado salsa on the side. Garnish with extra cilantro or a wedge of lime if desired.

Notes

Warm tortillas before rolling to prevent cracking. Use a light coating of oil on the taquitos for crispiness. Cook in a single layer and flip halfway through cooking. The creamy avocado salsa can be made ahead and kept chilled for up to 2 days. For baking, cook at 425°F (220°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken taquitos, air fryer, crispy taquitos, avocado salsa, easy snack, Mexican recipe, quick dinner