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Jalapeño Popper Chicken Taquitos Recipe is a must-try!

Get ready for a flavor-packed fusion of two favorites—jalapeño poppers and crispy taquitos! These Jalapeño Popper Chicken Taquitos are filled with creamy, cheesy chicken, smoky bacon, and just the right amount of heat, then baked, air-fried, or pan-fried to golden perfection. Perfect as a party snack, appetizer, or dinner with a twist.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 16 taquitos
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American-Mexican Fusion
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Filling
  • 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken
  • 8 oz cream cheese room temperature
  • ½ cup cheddar cheese shredded
  • ½ cup Monterey Jack cheese shredded
  • 8 slices bacon cooked and chopped
  • 4 jalapeño peppers seeds removed and finely diced
  • 2 green onions thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • Taquitos
  • 16 corn or flour tortillas
  • 2 tbsp oil or cooking spray
  • Toppings & Dips Optional
  • Ranch dressing
  • Sour cream
  • Salsa
  • Diced avocado
  • Hot sauce
  • Cilantro shredded cheese, sliced jalapeños (for garnish)

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven or air fryer to 350°F. If using the oven, line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, cream cheese, cheddar, Monterey Jack, bacon, jalapeños, green onions, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until fully incorporated and creamy.
  3. Lay out tortillas and spoon 2 to 3 tablespoons of filling across the center of each. Roll tightly and place seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet or air fryer basket.
Choose your cooking method:
  1. Oven-BakedBrush or spray taquitos lightly with oil. Bake at 350°F for 10 to 15 minutes until golden and crisp. Optional: Broil for 2 to 3 minutes for extra crunch.
  2. Air FryerLightly coat with oil or spray. Air fry in batches at 350°F for 6 to 8 minutes or until crispy and golden.
  3. Pan-FriedHeat 2 tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Place taquitos seam-side down and fry for 2 to 3 minutes per side until crisp. Keep warm in a low oven until serving.
  4. Serve warm with your choice of toppings or dips like ranch, sour cream, salsa, or avocado.

Notes

  • To soften tortillas for rolling, microwave them for 20–30 seconds wrapped in a damp paper towel.
  • Adjust jalapeños to control the spice level—use fewer or swap for mild green chiles if needed.
  • These freeze well before baking—just thaw slightly and cook as directed when ready.
  • For a vegetarian twist, try black beans or roasted veggies in place of chicken.