Name: Crispy Air Fryer Chicken & Cottage Cheese Taquitos
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie, grilled, or poached); 1 cup cottage cheese (preferably full-fat or 2%); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 8 small flour or corn tortillas; Optional: salt, pepper, garlic powder, or taco seasoning to taste; Spray oil for air frying

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These Crispy Air Fryer Chicken & Cottage Cheese Taquitos have quickly earned a spot on my weekly meal rotation. With a golden, crunchy shell and a rich, cheesy chicken filling, they’re a perfect balance of texture and flavor. I usually make them when I have leftover chicken, and they always disappear fast—especially when I serve them with salsa or guacamole for dipping.

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken & Cottage Cheese Taquitos

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how quick and easy these taquitos are to make, especially on busy nights. Using the air fryer gives them that crisp texture without the need for deep frying, and the cottage cheese adds a creamy twist that blends beautifully with the shredded chicken and cheddar. They’re perfect for meal prepping, picky eaters, and anyone who enjoys handheld comfort food.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie, grilled, or poached)
1 cup cottage cheese (preferably full-fat or 2%)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Small flour or corn tortillas
Optional: salt, pepper, garlic powder, or taco seasoning to taste
Spray oil for air frying

Directions

I combine the shredded chicken, cottage cheese, and cheddar cheese in a mixing bowl. I like to season it with a bit of salt, pepper, and sometimes garlic powder or taco seasoning.
I warm the tortillas slightly so they’re pliable and easier to roll.
I scoop a generous spoonful of the chicken mixture onto each tortilla, then roll them tightly into taquitos.
I place them seam-side down in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t touch.
I lightly spray the tops with oil to help them crisp up.
I air fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 8 taquitos, depending on the size of the tortillas used. It takes approximately 20 minutes from start to finish, including prep and cook time. Perfect for serving 3 to 4 people as a main dish or more as a snack or appetizer.

Variations

I sometimes swap the cheddar cheese for Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend for a different flavor.
For added spice, I mix chopped jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce into the filling.
When I want a veggie boost, I fold in some finely chopped spinach or cooked peppers.
I occasionally use corn tortillas for a more traditional texture, though they require more care when rolling.

storage/reheating

I store leftover taquitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When it’s time to reheat, I pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–5 minutes to regain their crispiness. They can also be frozen before or after cooking—just wrap them tightly and store for up to 2 months.

FAQs

How do I keep the tortillas from cracking when rolling?

I warm the tortillas briefly in the microwave or in a pan before rolling. This softens them and prevents tearing.

Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?

Yes, but I find full-fat or 2% cottage cheese gives a creamier texture and better flavor.

What’s the best type of chicken to use?

I prefer using rotisserie chicken for convenience and flavor, but grilled or poached chicken works just as well.

Can these taquitos be baked instead of air fried?

Absolutely. I bake them at 400°F for 15–20 minutes, flipping once for even crisping.

Are they good for meal prep?

Yes, I often make a batch ahead of time and reheat them for quick lunches or dinners. They stay crisp and tasty even after reheating.

Conclusion

These Crispy Air Fryer Chicken & Cottage Cheese Taquitos are a go-to recipe when I want something delicious, fun, and fuss-free. The cheesy, creamy filling paired with a crunchy shell is hard to resist, and they’re just as good fresh as they are reheated. Whether I’m feeding the family or just need a snack for myself, these taquitos always hit the spot.