You ever make something so good that you turn around for one second… and it’s gone? Like, did I even make it, or did my family just inhale it out of existence?! Well, turns out, I’m not the only one dealing with taquito theft. In 2018, a Florida man (because, of course, Florida ) broke into a gas station at 3 AM… and guess what he stole? Not money. Not snacks. Just taquitos. I mean, I get it—they’re crispy, cheesy, and totally worth the crime.
Your Taquitos Are NOT Safe… Protect Them!
Honestly, I should’ve learned my lesson by now. Every time I make these High-Protein Air-Fryer Chicken Taquitos, I barely get one before my husband and kids wipe them out like a food tornado. I set them down, blink, and boom—gone. My dog even sits there pretending to be innocent… but I know he’s part of the problem. I’m living with snack thieves, and there’s nothing I can do about it.
The Solution? Make Extra… Lots Extra!
At this point, I just accept defeat… and make a double batch. Because if I don’t, I’ll be left with nothing but crumbs and regret. So trust me—make extra. Hide a plate for yourself if you have to. Because once you taste that crispy, cheesy, air-fried perfection… you’ll understand why a guy actually committed a taquito heist.
Table of Contents
Look at the Recipe (Key Highlights!)
Let’s talk about why these High-Protein Air-Fryer Chicken Taquitos are about to become your new favorite meal! Here’s what makes them a total winner:
Crispy Without the Guilt – Thanks to the air fryer, you get that perfect golden crunch without drowning them in oil. Say hello to guilt-free indulgence!
Packed with Protein – With lean shredded chicken and black beans, each bite is loaded with muscle-fueling goodness. Perfect for keeping you full and energized!
Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is weeknight dinner magic. No complicated steps, just simple, wholesome ingredients!
Meal-Prep Friendly – Make a big batch and freeze them for later. They reheat beautifully in the air fryer, making them perfect for busy days!
Customizable – Want it gluten-free? Keto-friendly? Extra spicy? No problem! Swap out ingredients to fit your dietary needs and cravings.
Crowd-Pleaser – Whether it’s Taco Tuesday, game night, or a quick snack, these taquitos never disappoint. Your whole family will love them!
So, what are you waiting for? Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients Needed

To make these crispy taquitos, you’ll need:
- Canola oil – For sautéing the veggies.
- Red onion – Adds a touch of sweetness and bite.
- Red bell pepper – Provides natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- No-salt-added black beans – Adds fiber and protein.
- Shredded cooked chicken breast – A lean, high-protein base.
- Water – Helps blend the seasoning evenly.
- 25%-less sodium taco seasoning – Enhances the flavor without excess salt.
- Colby Jack cheese – Melts beautifully for a creamy, cheesy filling.
- White corn tortillas – The perfect base for crispy taquitos.
- Cooking spray – Ensures a golden, crispy texture in the air fryer.
- Pico de gallo – Adds fresh, zesty flavor on top.
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt – A creamy dipper to balance the crispiness.
- Fresh cilantro – For a fresh, herby finish.
WW Tip: Swap full-fat sour cream for plain Greek yogurt to keep the dish lighter while still enjoying the creamy texture!
How to Make High-Protein Air-Fryer Chicken Taquitos
Making these crispy taquitos is super simple, and the air fryer makes them even easier!
Sauté the Veggies – Cook onions and bell peppers until slightly softened.
Prepare the Filling – Add black beans, shredded chicken, taco seasoning, and water. Stir and cook until well combined.
Preheat the Air Fryer – Set it to 400°F while the filling cools.
Assemble the Taquitos – Mix cheese into the filling, warm tortillas to prevent tearing, and roll them tightly with the filling inside.
Air Fry in Batches – Spray the air-fryer basket, cook taquitos seam-side down, flipping once for even crispiness.
Serve & Enjoy – Top with pico de gallo, Greek yogurt or sour cream, and fresh cilantro.

Storage & Serving Suggestion
Storage Tips
Keeping these High-Protein Air-Fryer Chicken Taquitos fresh and crispy is super easy… here’s how:
Fridge-Friendly – Store leftover taquitos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days… just reheat and enjoy!
Freeze for Later – Want to meal prep? Freeze unbaked taquitos on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months!
Reheating Like a Pro – Skip the microwave (no one likes soggy taquitos!)… pop them in the air fryer at 375°F for 4-5 minutes for that crispy goodness. If frozen, just add 2-3 extra minutes!
Serving Tips
Now for the fun part… let’s load up these taquitos with delicious toppings and sides!
Dips, Dips & More Dips! – Serve with pico de gallo, salsa, guacamole, or Greek yogurt (for extra protein!). Because dipping makes everything better!
Pair It Up – Balance out your meal with a fresh avocado-lime slaw, a crisp Southwest salad, or some roasted veggies.
Spice It Up – Love heat? Drizzle with hot sauce or add sliced jalapeños for an extra kick!
Make It Extra Cheesy – Sprinkle some crumbled queso fresco or a little extra shredded cheese on top… because more cheese = more happiness!
Serve ‘em up, grab your favorite dip, and enjoy every crispy, cheesy bite!
Tips & FAQs
How do you cook chicken taquitos in an air fryer?
Cooking chicken taquitos in the air fryer is super easy! Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C), place taquitos in a single layer, and lightly spray with oil for extra crispiness. Cook for 6 to 9 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy. Enjoy!
How long should I cook chicken taquitos in an air fryer?
For homemade taquitos, air fry at 400°F for 6-9 minutes, flipping halfway through. If cooking frozen taquitos, extend the time to 8-10 minutes. Always check for a crispy golden brown finish before serving.
Can I cook frozen chicken taquitos in an air fryer?
Absolutely! No need to thaw them first. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F, place frozen taquitos in a single layer, and air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway. They’ll come out crispy on the outside and hot inside!
Why aren’t my taquitos crispy?
A few things might be causing this:
- Overcrowding the air fryer – Air needs to circulate to crisp them up.
- Not enough oil – A light mist of cooking spray helps.
- Wrong temperature – 400°F is the magic number for crispy taquitos!
- Not flipping – Turning them halfway ensures even crisping.
Can I use parchment paper in an air fryer?
Yes, but with caution! Use perforated parchment paper to allow airflow. Never put parchment paper in an empty air fryer during preheating—it can fly up and burn! Always place food on top to hold it down.
What temperature should taquitos be cooked at?
400°F (200°C) is the perfect air fryer temperature for taquitos. It ensures a crispy exterior while keeping the filling juicy and warm inside.
Now you’re all set to make the best air-fried chicken taquitos ever!
Health Benefits of High-Protein Air-Fryer Chicken Taquitos
These High-Protein Air-Fryer Chicken Taquitos aren’t just crispy and delicious—they’re also packed with nutritional benefits that make them a fantastic addition to your healthy eating plan. Whether you’re following a high-protein diet, Weight Watchers, or just looking for a lighter way to enjoy taquitos, here’s why you can feel great about indulging in this tasty dish!
1. High in Protein for Muscle & Metabolism Boost
Each taquito is loaded with lean shredded chicken breast, making it a high-protein powerhouse. Protein is essential for:
Building and repairing muscles (great for post-workout meals!)
Boosting metabolism (your body burns more calories digesting protein!)
Keeping you full longer (reduces unnecessary snacking!)
Protein Per Serving: About 15g per taquito, making it a fantastic macro-friendly choice!
2. Lower in Fat & Calories Than Traditional Fried Taquitos
Most restaurant-style taquitos are deep-fried, soaking up excess oil and calories. By using an air fryer, you get that crave-worthy crispiness with just a light spray of oil, cutting fat and calories without sacrificing flavor.
No deep frying = less saturated fat
Lighter but still crispy (without the greasy aftertaste!)
Perfect for a WW-friendly meal (Only 5 WW points per taquito!)
3. Packed with Fiber & Nutrients from Black Beans & Veggies
These taquitos aren’t just high in protein—they also sneak in some fiber-rich black beans, onions, and bell peppers. Why does that matter?
Supports digestive health – Fiber keeps your gut happy!
Helps regulate blood sugar – No post-meal crashes!
Keeps you fuller for longer – A well-balanced meal that satisfies!
4. A Great Low-Carb & Gluten-Free Option (With Simple Swaps!)
Trying to cut carbs or avoid gluten? No problem! Customize these taquitos to fit your dietary needs:
Low-carb? Use low-carb tortillas or lettuce wraps.
Gluten-free? Choose certified gluten-free corn tortillas.
Keto-friendly? Swap black beans for extra cheese or avocado for a low-carb, high-fat option.
5. Air Fryer Cooking = Less Oil, Less Mess, More Convenience!
Traditional frying = greasy mess, extra calories, and long cooking times. Air frying = crispy perfection in minutes, less cleanup, and a healthier meal!
Cooks in under 10 minutes – A perfect quick meal!
Uses 80% less oil than deep frying.
Easy cleanup – No splattering oil everywhere!
Final Thoughts: A Nutritious & Guilt-Free Way to Enjoy Taquitos!
With high protein, low fat, and fiber-rich ingredients, these High-Protein Air-Fryer Chicken Taquitos are the perfect balance of indulgence and nutrition. Whether you’re meal prepping, enjoying a quick and healthy snack, or feeding a hungry family, these taquitos will keep you full, fueled, and satisfied!
So go ahead—crunch into a healthier, high-protein version of your favorite taquitos today!
I’d love to hear how you make it your own! Leave a comment below and let me know how it turned out, or share a photo of your dish on social media and tag me. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family who are looking for the ultimate High-Protein Air-Fryer Chicken Taquitos—they’ll thank you for it! 🥚✨

Delicious High-Protein Air-Fryer Chicken Taquitos Recipe
Description
Crispy,High-Protein Air-Fryer Chicken Taquitos—packed with lean chicken, black beans & cheese! A healthy, easy, and WW-friendly meal ready in minutes!
Ingredients
Instructions
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1️⃣ Sauté the Veggies: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onions and bell peppers, stirring often, until tender-crisp (about 4 minutes).
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2️⃣ Mix the Filling: Stir in black beans, shredded chicken, water, and taco seasoning. Cook until everything is evenly coated and the juices thicken (about 2 minutes). Let cool slightly for 5 minutes.
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3️⃣ Preheat & Prepare: While the filling cools, preheat your air fryer to 400°F for 5 minutes.
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4️⃣ Assemble the Taquitos: Stir cheese into the chicken mixture. Warm tortillas in the microwave for 20 seconds (wrapped in a damp paper towel). Spoon ⅓ cup of the filling onto each tortilla, roll tightly, and place seam-side down.
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5️⃣ Air-Fry in Batches: Lightly coat the air-fryer basket with cooking spray. Place 6 taquitos seam-side down, mist them with additional cooking spray, and cook for 8-9 minutes, flipping once, until golden and crispy. Repeat until all taquitos are cooked.
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6️⃣ Serve & Enjoy: Plate the taquitos with pico de gallo, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), and fresh cilantro for dipping. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 18
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 180kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 6g10%
- Total Carbohydrate 18g6%
- Dietary Fiber 3g12%
- Protein 15g30%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Let me tell you… these High-Protein Air-Fryer Chicken Taquitos were an instant hit in my house! The first time I made them, my husband took one bite and said, “Wait… these aren’t fried?! No way!” My kids? They gobbled them up so fast that I barely got one for myself (lesson learned—make a double batch!).
I love that these taquitos are crispy, cheesy, and packed with protein, yet super easy to whip up. Whether it’s a quick dinner, a snack, or meal prep for the week, they never disappoint. Trust me… you’ll want these on repeat!