What is a chicken and cheese crispito?

A chicken and cheese crispito is a flour tortilla rolled around seasoned shredded chicken and cheese, then fried or baked until golden and crispy. It’s a handheld snack or meal that gained popularity in school cafeterias and gas station food counters. The texture is crisp on the outside, creamy inside, and easy to customize with spices, sauces, or additional fillings.

What are Crispitos made of?

The core ingredients include shredded chicken, cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese, and small flour tortillas. Seasonings like cumin, paprika, and chili powder give the filling a Tex-Mex flavor. Some versions include salsa or enchilada sauce for moisture. They’re usually deep-fried but can also be baked or air-fried for a lighter twist.

What sauce goes with Crispitos?

Popular dipping sauces for chicken and cheese crispitos include warm queso, salsa roja, guacamole, sour cream, or chipotle ranch. For a spicy option, try sriracha-lime crema. The crispy shell pairs well with creamy or tangy dips, similar to sauces you'd serve with mashed potato bacon bombs .

How many calories in a chicken and cheese Crispito?

One homemade crispito typically ranges from 180–220 calories, depending on the ingredients and cooking method. Air-fried or baked versions will be on the lower end, while deep-fried ones are slightly higher. Adding sauces or larger tortillas will also increase the calorie count.

Chicken & Cheese Crispitos – Crispy, Cheesy, Ready in 25 Minutes

Name: Chicken and Cheese Crispitos - Easy
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie or leftover); 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese; 1/4 cup salsa or enchilada sauce (optional); 1/2 tsp cumin; 1/2 tsp chili powder; 8 small flour tortillas; Toothpicks; Vegetable oil, for frying

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie or leftover)

1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese

1/4 cup salsa or enchilada sauce (optional)

1/2 tsp cumin

1/2 tsp chili powder

8 small flour tortillas

Toothpicks

Vegetable oil, for frying

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix chicken, cheese, salsa, and spices.

2. Warm tortillas to make them flexible.

3. Place 2–3 tbsp filling in each tortilla and roll tightly.

4. Secure each roll with a toothpick.

5. Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat.

6. Fry each crispito 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.

7. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.

8. Let cool slightly before serving or removing toothpicks.

Notes

For a lighter version, bake at 400°F for 10–12 minutes or air fry at 375°F for 6–8 minutes.

Swap cheddar for pepper jack for more heat.

Add chopped green chiles or black beans to customize.

Author: Emma
Prep Time: 15
Cook Time: 10
Category: Snacks
Method: Frying
Cuisine: Tex-Mex

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 crispito
Calories: 210
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 400mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 14g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 12g
Cholesterol: 35mg