Chicken Crispitos Recipe

Craving a nostalgic, crunchy snack that brings back memories of school lunches? This Chicken Crispitos Recipe delivers the perfect blend of seasoned chicken, melted cheese, and crispy tortillas. Whether you’re hosting a party, prepping a family dinner, or satisfying a late-night craving, these Tex-Mex treats are versatile, easy to make, and endlessly customizable. Packed with bold flavors and a satisfying crunch, this recipe is your ticket to recreating a childhood favorite at home. Naturally gluten-free when using corn tortillas and adaptable for keto or dairy-free diets, chicken crispitos are a crowd-pleaser for all ages. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s been a staple in my kitchen for years, inspired by those iconic cafeteria trays!

What Is a Crispito Made Of?

A traditional chicken crispito consists of a few core ingredients that deliver its signature taste and texture:

• Tortillas: Flour tortillas are most common for their soft, pliable texture, but corn tortillas work for a gluten-free option.
• Chicken: Shredded or ground chicken, often seasoned with taco spices, forms the protein-packed base. Rotisserie chicken is a time-saver, while cooked chicken breasts or thighs offer a fresh option.
• Cheese: A melty cheese like cheddar or Monterey Jack is standard, with some recipes incorporating a creamy queso sauce for extra richness.
• Seasonings: Taco seasoning, chili powder, cumin, paprika, and garlic powder add bold, savory flavors.
• Optional Add-Ins: Diced onions, green chilies, or refried beans can enhance the filling.
• Oil: Vegetable oil for frying ensures the crispy exterior, though baking or air frying are lighter alternatives.

These simple ingredients come together to create a portable, flavorful snack that’s as versatile as it is delicious.

Ingredients for Chicken Crispitos

Here’s what you’ll need to make 8 chicken crispitos:

• Main Ingredients:
  • 8 small flour tortillas (6-inch, or corn tortillas for gluten-free)
  • 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie or boiled chicken breasts)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheddar-Monterey Jack blend)
  • 1/2 cup salsa (mild or spicy, depending on preference)
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened (optional for creamier filling)
  • 1 tbsp taco seasoning (or a mix of cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder)
  • 1/4 cup diced onion (optional, for added flavor)
  • 1/4 cup diced green chilies (optional, for a spicy kick)
  • Vegetable oil for frying (or cooking spray for baking/air frying)
• For Serving:
  • Sour cream
  • Guacamole
  • Salsa con queso
  • Shredded lettuce

Substitutions:

• Use ground chicken or beef instead of shredded chicken.
• Swap cheddar for pepper jack for a spicier filling.
• Replace cream cheese with queso sauce for a gooier texture.

How to Make Chicken Crispitos?

Follow these step-by-step instructions for perfect chicken crispitos:

1. Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine shredded chicken, salsa, softened cream cheese, taco seasoning, diced onion, and green chilies (if using). Mix until well combined. Add 3/4 cup of shredded cheese and stir gently.
2. Warm the Tortillas: Heat tortillas in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to make them pliable and prevent cracking when rolling.
3. Assemble the Crispitos: Place 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture in a line across the center of each tortilla. Sprinkle a pinch of remaining cheese on top.
4. Roll the Crispitos: Fold the sides of the tortilla inward, then roll tightly from the bottom to form a cigar shape. Secure with a toothpick if needed, or place seam-side down to seal during cooking.
5. Fry the Crispitos: Heat 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat (350°F). Carefully place crispitos seam-side down and fry for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
6. Serve: Plate the crispitos hot with your choice of dipping sauces like sour cream, guacamole, or salsa con queso. Garnish with shredded lettuce or diced tomatoes for extra freshness.

How to Roll a Crispito?

Rolling a crispito properly ensures the filling stays secure during cooking. Here’s how to do it:

• Step 1: Lay a warmed tortilla flat on a clean surface.
• Step 2: Spoon the filling in a thin line across the center, leaving 1 inch of space on each side.
• Step 3: Fold the left and right edges of the tortilla inward to cover the ends of the filling.
• Step 4: Starting from the bottom, roll the tortilla tightly over the filling, tucking it as you go to create a compact cylinder.
• Step 5: Place seam-side down to keep it sealed, or use a toothpick for extra security.

Pro Tip: Watch a quick video tutorial (like those on TikTok) for visual guidance on rolling techniques, similar to how Chipotle employees roll burritos.

Can You Bake Crispitos Instead of Frying?

Yes, you can bake crispitos for a healthier alternative! Preheat your oven to 400°F. Place rolled crispitos seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly brush or spray with vegetable oil to promote crispiness. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy. This method reduces oil content while maintaining the signature crunch.

Can You Air Fry Chicken Crispitos?

Absolutely! Air frying is a fantastic way to achieve crispy chicken crispitos with less oil. Here’s how:

• Prep: Assemble and roll crispitos as described.
• Air Fry: Lightly spray the crispitos with cooking spray. Place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
• Tip: Avoid overcrowding the basket to ensure even cooking.

Air-fried crispitos are a healthier option but may lack the exact flavor depth of fried versions, as some prefer the traditional oil-fried taste.

What Cheese Goes in Chicken Crispitos?

Choosing the right cheese is key to nailing the gooey, melty filling. Recommended options include:

• Cheddar: Sharp and tangy, a classic choice for bold flavor.
• Monterey Jack: Mild and melty, perfect for a smooth texture.
• Pepper Jack: Adds a spicy kick for those who love heat.
• Velveeta or Queso Sauce: For an ultra-creamy, school-lunch-style filling.
• Queso Blanco: A milder, creamy option for a subtler taste.

Mix and match cheeses for a custom flavor profile. For example, combine cheddar and Monterey Jack for a balanced, melty filling.

What Sauce Goes with Chicken Crispitos?

The right dipping sauce elevates chicken crispitos to the next level. Popular options include:

• Salsa Con Queso: A cheesy, tangy dip that complements the filling.
• Sour Cream: Cool and creamy, perfect for balancing spicy flavors.
• Guacamole: Fresh and rich, adding a creamy, avocado-forward taste.
• Cilantro Lime Ranch: A zesty, herbaceous dip for a modern twist.
• Hot Sauce: For those who crave extra heat.

Serve a variety of sauces to suit different tastes, or drizzle them over the crispitos for a loaded version.

Can You Freeze Homemade Crispitos?

Yes, chicken crispitos are freezer-friendly! To freeze:

• Prep: Assemble and roll crispitos, but do not fry or bake.
• Freeze: Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours). Transfer to a freezer-safe ziplock bag or airtight container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Bake from frozen at 425°F for 20-25 minutes, or air fry at 350°F for 7-8 minutes until crispy.

Freezing makes crispitos a convenient make-ahead meal for busy days or school lunches.

Are Crispitos Like Taquitos?

Crispitos and taquitos are very similar, but there are subtle differences:

• Tortillas: Crispitos typically use flour tortillas, while taquitos traditionally use corn tortillas.
• Filling: Crispitos often feature a creamier filling with cheese sauce or cream cheese, while taquitos stick to simpler meat and cheese combos.
• Texture and Flavor: Both are fried for crispiness, but crispitos may have a slightly softer, cheesier interior due to the filling style.

Think of crispitos as a Tex-Mex cousin to taquitos, with a nostalgic school-lunch vibe. If you love taquitos, you’ll likely enjoy crispitos too

Nutrition Information (Per Serving, 2 Crispitos)

• Calories: 380
• Protein: 22g
• Carbs: 30g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 2g

Note: Nutritional values vary based on ingredients and cooking method (frying vs. baking). Use an online calculator for precise measurements.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Crispitos Recipe is your go-to for a quick, flavorful, and nostalgic Tex-Mex snack. With customizable fillings, multiple cooking methods (fry, bake, or air fry), and a variety of dipping sauces, crispitos are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re recreating school lunch memories or introducing this classic to a new generation, these crispy, cheesy rolls will leave everyone satisfied. Try this recipe today and share your variations in the comments—happy cooking!

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