Chicken Taco Taquitos
If you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying snack or meal, you’ve come to the right place! These Chicken Taco Taquitos are not only easy to make but also bursting with flavor. Perfect for any gathering, game day, or a simple family dinner, these crispy rolled tortillas filled with savory chicken, cheese, and zesty spices will have everyone coming back for more. Let’s dive into the world of taquitos and discover how to make these delightful bites that are sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Imagine biting into a crispy taquito, the warm tortilla giving way to a deliciously seasoned filling. The blend of spices, chicken, cheese, and just the right amount of salsa creates a flavor explosion that hits all the right notes. Plus, these taquitos are incredibly versatile; you can serve them as an appetizer, a main dish, or even a fun party snack. They also freeze well, making them an excellent option for meal prep. What’s not to love?
What’s in the Bowl
To whip up these Chicken Taco Taquitos, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken breasts (boneless skinless, cut into small pieces)
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels
- 1 cup refried beans
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped
- 12 6-inch flour tortillas (I used Old El Paso)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Kitchen Gear Checklist
Before we get cooking, let’s gather our kitchen gear:
- Large skillet: For cooking the chicken mixture.
- Mixing bowl: To combine all the filling ingredients.
- Oven-safe baking sheet: For baking the taquitos to perfect crispiness.
- Silicone brush: To spread melted butter on the tortillas.
- Serving platter: To present your tasty taquitos beautifully.
Build Chicken Taco Taquitos Step by Step
Ready to create some magic in the kitchen? Follow these simple steps to make your Chicken Taco Taquitos:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breasts and cook until they are no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Once the chicken is cooked, sprinkle the taco seasoning over the top. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly and cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow the spices to bloom.
Step 3: Mix in Other Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, frozen corn, refried beans, salsa, cheddar cheese, and chopped cilantro. Stir until everything is well incorporated.
Step 4: Assemble the Taquitos
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Take a flour tortilla and place a generous spoonful of the chicken mixture in the center. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling and place seam-side down on a baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.
Step 5: Brush with Butter
Using a silicone brush, gently coat each taquito with melted butter for that golden-brown finish.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake the taquitos in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are crispy and golden. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-browning.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the taquitos from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauces, like sour cream or guacamole, and enjoy every crispy bite!
Dietary Customizations
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable! Here are some dietary customizations you can consider:
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free tortillas to make these taquitos suitable for a gluten-free diet.
- Vegetarian: Substitute the chicken with black beans or a medley of sautéed vegetables for a delicious vegetarian option.
- Cheese alternatives: Use dairy-free cheese if you want to make this dish dairy-free.
- Spicy kick: Add jalapeños or hot sauce to the filling for an extra layer of heat.
If You’re Curious
Taquitos are a classic Mexican dish that originated as a way to use up leftover meat. The name “taquito” translates to “little taco,” and these rolled tortillas are often filled with various ingredients before being baked or fried. They are a favorite among kids and adults alike, making them a staple at parties and family gatherings.
- Did you know that taquitos can be called “rolled tacos” in some places?
- They are often served with toppings like guacamole, sour cream, or salsa.
- In some regions, taquitos are fried instead of baked, giving them an even crunchier texture.
- These tasty bites can be frozen before baking, making them a convenient option for busy weeknights.
Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide
To keep your Chicken Taco Taquitos fresh, follow these storage tips:
- Refrigerator: Store leftover taquitos in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: You can freeze unbaked taquitos. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can last for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: To reheat, bake from frozen at 425°F (220°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
Chicken Taco Taquitos FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add more flavor and moisture to your taquitos, making them even more delicious.
How can I make these taquitos spicier?
Add diced jalapeños to the filling or use spicy salsa and taco seasoning for an extra kick.
What can I serve with Chicken Taco Taquitos?
They pair well with guacamole, sour cream, salsa, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them with Mexican rice or beans for a heartier meal.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling and assemble the taquitos ahead of time. Just store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake them. Alternatively, freeze them before baking for a quick meal later.
Desserts to Finish
After indulging in these Chicken Taco Taquitos, why not satisfy your sweet tooth with one of these delightful desserts?
Time to Try It
Now that you have the recipe and all the tips and tricks for making Chicken Taco Taquitos, it’s time to grab your ingredients and get cooking! These crispy, flavorful bites are sure to become a new favorite in your household. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet night in, these taquitos will bring joy and satisfaction to your table. Happy cooking!
Chicken Taco Taquitos
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breasts and cook until they are no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Once the chicken is cooked, sprinkle the taco seasoning over the top. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly and cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow the spices to bloom.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, frozen corn, refried beans, salsa, cheddar cheese, and chopped cilantro. Stir until everything is well incorporated.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Take a flour tortilla and place a generous spoonful of the chicken mixture in the center. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling and place seam-side down on a baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.
- Using a silicone brush, gently coat each taquito with melted butter for that golden-brown finish.
- Bake the taquitos in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are crispy and golden. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-browning.
- Remove the taquitos from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauces, like sour cream or guacamole, and enjoy every crispy bite!
Notes
- These taquitos freeze well before baking; just store them in a single layer.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with black beans or sautéed vegetables.
- Add jalapeños for an extra spicy kick!
