Crispy Air Fryer Taquitos: A Healthier Twist on a Mexican Classic!

Air fryer taquitos are the perfect combination of crispy, crunchy, and flavorful—without the mess and excess oil of deep frying.

These little rolled-up tortillas filled with savory ingredients like seasoned chicken, cheese, or beans are a delicious snack, appetizer, or even a meal.

The air fryer provides a healthier alternative to traditional frying, offering the same satisfying crisp texture, but with a fraction of the oil. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a quick dinner, air fryer taquitos are an easy and versatile choice.

In this recipe, you’ll learn how to make these tasty taquitos from start to finish.

The process is simple, quick, and requires minimal ingredients—perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers.

Let’s dive into why using an air fryer is the best method for making these golden delights!

Why Make Taquitos in the Air Fryer?

Healthier and Lighter Than Traditional Frying

When it comes to making taquitos, the traditional method involves deep-frying, which can add a lot of unnecessary calories and fat. The air fryer, however, uses hot air circulation to cook the taquitos, producing a crispy outer layer with little to no oil. This not only results in a healthier version of the dish but also saves time and effort since there’s no need to heat a large pot of oil.

Quick and Convenient

One of the biggest benefits of using an air fryer for taquitos is how fast it is. Unlike oven baking, where you may need to wait for preheating and longer cook times, the air fryer cooks your taquitos in a fraction of the time. It’s ideal for those moments when you want something crispy and satisfying, but don’t have the time to deep-fry or bake for extended periods.

Crispy Texture Without the Oil

Air fryers are renowned for creating that perfect crispy texture—something you typically get only from frying. With air fryer taquitos, you can enjoy that golden crunch on the outside, while keeping the inside soft and flavorful, all without the greasy feel that comes from traditional frying. The air fryer achieves the same results with less oil, making it a win-win for both taste and health.

Perfect for Customizing

The air fryer is also great for customizing your taquitos. Whether you prefer chicken, beef, pork, or even a vegetarian filling, the air fryer adapts to your preferences. Plus, with the ability to cook in batches, you can make different varieties for different tastes in less time than conventional methods.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Air Fryer Taquitos

To make your air fryer taquitos, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that come together to create a delicious and satisfying snack. The beauty of this recipe is its versatility—you can customize the fillings to suit your tastes. Here’s what you’ll need for a basic version:

Basic Ingredients for the Taquitos:

• Tortillas: Flour tortillas work best for a soft yet crisp texture in the air fryer, but you can also use corn tortillas for a more traditional taste.
• Cooked Chicken: Shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken is a great option) is the most popular filling. You can also use ground beef, pork, or even black beans for a vegetarian option.
• Shredded Cheese: A good melty cheese, like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend, makes the taquitos even more delicious.
• Seasoning: Taco seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and chili powder add flavor to your filling.

Optional Add-Ins for More Flavor:

• Sour Cream or Cream Cheese: For a creamy filling, you can mix in some sour cream or cream cheese to make the mixture even more decadent.
• Salsa: Add a bit of your favorite salsa to the filling for an extra burst of flavor.
• Green Chiles or Jalapeños: For a spicy kick, you can add diced green chiles or jalapeños to your filling mixture.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Air Fryer Taquitos

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Start by preparing your filling. If you’re using chicken, shred it into small pieces. In a bowl, combine the chicken with your taco seasoning, cheese, and any other optional ingredients, like sour cream or salsa. Stir everything together until evenly mixed. For a smooth filling, you can add a little extra sour cream or a dash of water.

Step 2: Assemble the Taquitos

Once your filling is ready, it’s time to roll the taquitos. Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface, then spoon a generous amount of the filling in a line along the center of the tortilla. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling, securing the ends as you go. If you have trouble with the tortillas breaking, you can warm them slightly in the microwave to make them more pliable.

Step 3: Air Frying the Taquitos

Now it’s time to cook! Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the taquitos with cooking oil to help them crisp up. Arrange the taquitos in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. Air fry the taquitos for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crisping. They should be golden and crispy when done.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Once the taquitos are crispy and golden, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool for a minute or two. Serve your air fryer taquitos with your favorite dipping sauces, such as guacamole, sour cream, or salsa. These taquitos are perfect for snacking, as a meal, or as part of a larger spread.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Taquitos

Choose the Right Tortillas

Flour tortillas work best for air fryer taquitos because they’re more flexible and can hold the filling well. If you prefer corn tortillas, be sure to warm them slightly to prevent cracking when you roll them. The key is to use tortillas that can handle the stuffing without tearing.

Don’t Overfill Your Taquitos

While it’s tempting to add a lot of filling, overfilling the taquitos can make them difficult to roll and can cause the filling to leak out during cooking. Stick to a moderate amount of filling for the best results.

Spray with Oil for Crispy Results

Spraying the taquitos with a thin layer of cooking oil before air frying is essential for that perfect crispiness. Don’t skip this step, as it helps achieve that golden, crunchy texture you crave.

Flip Halfway for Even Crisping

To ensure your taquitos are evenly crispy, make sure to flip them halfway through the cooking process. This helps both sides get that beautiful golden color and ensures a consistent texture.

Make Ahead and Freeze for Later

If you’re preparing taquitos in advance, you can freeze them before cooking. Simply roll up the taquitos, arrange them on a baking sheet, and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to cook, just place them directly in the air fryer—no need to thaw.

Storage and Reheating Air Fryer Taquitos

How to Store Leftover Taquitos

If you happen to have leftover air fryer taquitos, storing them properly is key to maintaining their crispness. Let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store the taquitos in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to 2-3 months.

How to Reheat Air Fryer Taquitos

To bring your leftover taquitos back to their crispy glory, the air fryer is the best option. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and place the taquitos in the basket in a single layer. Air fry for 3-5 minutes or until they are heated through and crispy. This method works wonders, ensuring that the taquitos stay crisp, just like when they were first cooked.

For a quicker option, you can also reheat taquitos in a conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, but the air fryer remains the best choice for preserving that perfect crunch.

Conclusion

Air fryer taquitos are a game-changer when it comes to quick, crispy, and delicious snacks or meals. By using the air fryer, you can enjoy these delightful rolled-up treats with less oil and less mess. Whether you’re preparing them for a party or a weeknight dinner, the air fryer ensures that each taquito comes out perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

Feel free to get creative with the fillings, toppings, and sauces to suit your preferences. The best part? They’re fast, easy, and healthier than traditional fried taquitos—without sacrificing flavor. Try them today and see how simple it is to make a satisfying snack or meal right in your air fryer!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make vegetarian air fryer taquitos?

Yes! Simply use black beans, roasted vegetables, or even tofu as your filling. Add cheese and seasonings to taste, and you’ve got a delicious vegetarian alternative!

2. What type of tortillas should I use for air fryer taquitos?

Flour tortillas are the best choice for air fryer taquitos because they’re soft and flexible, making them easier to roll. However, corn tortillas can also be used, though they may need to be warmed first to prevent cracking.

3. How long do air fryer taquitos take to cook?

Air fryer taquitos typically take 8-10 minutes at 375°F (190°C). Make sure to flip them halfway through for even crisping.

4. Can I freeze taquitos before cooking them?

Yes! To freeze taquitos, roll them up, arrange them on a baking sheet, and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to cook, just place them directly in the air fryer from frozen.

5. Can I use a different filling besides chicken?

Absolutely! You can use beef, pork, turkey, or even a combination of beans and vegetables for a vegetarian option. Feel free to experiment with your favorite flavors and fillings!