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If you are craving a crunchy, flavorful snack that feels like a fiesta in every bite, you have to try this Air Fryer Chicken & Black Bean Taquitos Recipe. These little crispy rolls are packed with tender chicken, hearty black beans, zesty salsa, and gooey cheddar cheese, all encased in perfectly crisped corn tortillas. This recipe combines wholesome ingredients with the convenience and crispiness only an air fryer can deliver, making it an absolute crowd-pleaser for game days, family dinners, or anytime you want a quick but satisfying treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps it delightfully simple with ingredients that are pantry staples but come together to create an irresistible taste and texture combination. Each component adds its own special touch, from the smoky melted cheese to the bright salsa that wakes up your palate.
- 3 cups chopped cooked chicken: Tender protein that forms the hearty base of the filling.
- 1 cup salsa: Adds vibrant flavor and a gentle kick of tomatoey zestiness.
- 1 (15-oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed: Offers a creamy texture with earthy undertones and extra fiber.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts perfectly to bind the filling with rich, tangy goodness.
- 24 corn tortillas: The crispy shell that holds all the delicious ingredients together with authentic flavor.
- Cooking spray: Ensures a golden, crunchy exterior without added oil mess.
How to Make Air Fryer Chicken & Black Bean Taquitos Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Filling
Start by combining the chopped cooked chicken, salsa, and black beans in a large bowl. This mixture balances protein and veggies with a little bit of saucy juiciness from the salsa to keep every bite flavorful and moist without being soggy.
Step 2: Prepare the Tortillas
Lay out your corn tortillas and distribute the chicken mixture evenly among them. Then sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top to add that melty, savory layer that will hold your taquitos together when cooked.
Step 3: Roll ‘Em Up
Roll each tortilla tightly around the filling to create a neat little log. This step is key for easy eating and even crisping. Place the taquitos seam side down in your air fryer basket in batches, and don’t forget to spray them liberally with cooking spray so they get that irresistible golden crunch.
Step 4: Air Fry to Perfection
Set your air fryer to 400ºF and cook the taquitos for 6 to 7 minutes. The air fryer cooks them quickly, giving you perfectly crispy shells while the cheese melts beautifully inside. Keep an eye so they don’t overcook—just golden, hot, and ready to eat.
Step 5: Repeat and Enjoy
Continue air frying in batches until all your taquitos are cooked. This method keeps them fresh and crisp, and you can serve them hot straight from the air fryer for best results.
How to Serve Air Fryer Chicken & Black Bean Taquitos Recipe
Garnishes
Top your taquitos with fresh garnishes like diced avocado, a dollop of sour cream, chopped cilantro, or a squeeze of lime to elevate the flavors and add a bright, refreshing contrast to the crispy, cheesy rolls.
Side Dishes
Pair these taquitos with sides that complement their bold taste—think a colorful Mexican street corn salad, a refreshing cabbage slaw, or even some homemade guacamole and pico de gallo for dipping.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or casual gathering, arrange the taquitos vertically in a serving platter with bowls of various salsas and dips surrounding them. Another fun idea is to serve them as finger foods alongside a chilled margarita or your favorite craft beer to bring the fiesta vibes to the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover taquitos can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep their crispy charm, avoid stacking them too tightly so air can circulate.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked taquitos by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freezing until firm, then transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to 2 months and make for an easy quick snack anytime.
Reheating
To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer at 350ºF for 3 to 4 minutes. This quickly revives that crispy exterior and warms the filling just right without sogginess, unlike microwaving.
FAQs
Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?
Absolutely! Flour tortillas will work well and will result in a softer, less crispy texture, but if you love that authentic crunch, corn tortillas are your best bet.
Is it necessary to use cooked chicken?
Yes, since the cooking time in the air fryer is short, using pre-cooked chicken ensures your filling is heated through without undercooking the meat.
Can I add other vegetables to the filling?
Definitely! Diced bell peppers, corn, or onions can be stirred into the filling for extra flavor and texture, just make sure they’re cooked or finely chopped.
What’s the best way to prevent tortillas from cracking when rolling?
Warming the corn tortillas slightly before filling makes them more pliable and less likely to crack when rolling.
Can these taquitos be made vegan?
Yes! Simply swap the chicken for extra beans or a plant-based protein and use vegan cheese. The air fryer will still deliver the same crispy delight.
Final Thoughts
If you want a snack or meal that’s bursting with flavor, quick to prepare, and insanely crispy, the Air Fryer Chicken & Black Bean Taquitos Recipe is exactly what you need in your life. I promise these taquitos will become your go-to for gatherings or anytime you want to treat yourself with minimal fuss and maximum deliciousness. Give them a try and enjoy every crunchy, cheesy bite!
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Air Fryer Chicken & Black Bean Taquitos Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-7 minutes per batch
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 taquitos
- Category: Snack
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
These Air Fryer Chicken & Black Bean Taquitos are a crispy, flavorful snack or meal option, featuring tender chicken, black beans, salsa, and melted cheddar cheese wrapped in corn tortillas and air fried to perfection. Quick to prepare and cook, they make a delicious, protein-packed treat with a crunchy exterior and savory filling.
Ingredients
Filling
- 3 cups chopped cooked chicken
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 (15-oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Assembly
- 24 corn tortillas
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Prepare the filling: In a medium bowl, combine the chopped cooked chicken, salsa, and drained black beans. Mix well to evenly distribute the ingredients.
- Assemble the taquitos: Divide the chicken mixture evenly among the corn tortillas. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the filling of each tortilla.
- Roll the taquitos: Carefully roll up each tortilla tightly around the filling. Place the rolled taquitos seam side down into the air fryer basket in batches, making sure they are not overcrowded. Spray the taquitos liberally with cooking spray to help them crisp up.
- Air fry the taquitos: Set the air fryer to 400ºF (204ºC). Cook the taquitos for 6 to 7 minutes until the tortillas are crispy and the cheese inside is melted.
- Repeat: Remove cooked taquitos and repeat the air frying process with the remaining rolled tortillas until all are cooked and crispy.
Notes
- Use warm tortillas for easier rolling and to prevent cracking.
- Spraying liberally with cooking spray helps achieve a crispy texture on the outside.
- The taquitos can be served with guacamole, sour cream, or extra salsa for dipping.
- Leftover taquitos can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated in the air fryer for best crispness.
