Name: Chicken Taco Taquitos
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken breasts (boneless, skinless); 2 tablespoons taco seasoning; 1 tablespoon olive oil; ½ cup frozen corn kernels; ½ cup refried beans; ½ cup salsa; 1 cup cheddar cheese; 2 tablespoons cilantro (chopped); 12 6-inch flour tortillas (I used Old El Paso); ¼ cup butter (unsalted, melted)

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There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a perfectly crisp taquito, and when it comes to Chicken Taco Taquitos, it’s a delightful experience. I remember the first time I made these delectable bites for a gathering. Everyone was raving about them, and I couldn’t help but smile at the joy they brought to the table. The combination of seasoned chicken, melted cheddar cheese, and the crunch of the tortilla creates a wonderful medley of flavors and textures. These taquitos are not just a meal; they ignite memories of laughter, good company, and the kind of heartwarming moments that make gatherings special. Whether it’s a casual lunch with family or a party with friends, these Chicken Taco Taquitos are always a hit.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
25 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
250 kcal

Protein:
15 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
10 g

Tools Used:
Wooden Spoon, Mixing Bowl, Oven, Skillet, Chef’s Knife, Baking Sheet

What Sets This Chicken Taco Taquitos Apart

Perfect for Any Occasion

One reason I adore Chicken Taco Taquitos is their versatility. They fit perfectly into any occasion, from casual family dinners to lively parties. You can whip them up in no time, making them an ideal choice for last-minute gatherings.

Customizable Filling

Another aspect that makes these taquitos shine is the customizable filling. You can easily adjust the ingredients based on your preferences. Want to add some beans or switch up the cheese? Go for it! This flexibility allows everyone to enjoy a version that suits their taste.

Crispy and Delicious

Who doesn’t love that satisfying crunch when you take a bite? Baking them to perfection results in a crispy exterior that holds all the deliciousness inside. The combination of textures is nothing short of delightful.

Great for Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers, they make for a fantastic snack the next day. Just pop them in the oven for a few minutes to regain their crispiness, and you’ve got a meal ready to enjoy again.

What to Gather for Chicken Taco Taquitos

When it comes to making Chicken Taco Taquitos, the ingredients play a crucial role in achieving great flavor and texture. Each ingredient complements the others beautifully, creating a delicious dish that’s perfect for any meal. Let’s dive into what you need to gather to make this fantastic recipe.

1 pound chicken breasts (boneless, skinless, cut into small pieces)
2 tablespoons taco seasoning
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ cup frozen corn kernels
½ cup refried beans
½ cup salsa
1 cup cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons cilantro (chopped)
12 6-inch flour tortillas
¼ cup butter (unsalted, melted)

Instructions for Chicken Taco Taquitos

Making Chicken Taco Taquitos is a straightforward process, and I can assure you that anyone can do it! With these simple steps, you’ll have a delicious dish ready for your next meal or gathering. Let’s get to cooking!

Begin by preheating your oven to 450°F. This high temperature is key to achieving that golden-brown crispiness we all love in taquitos. While the oven heats up, grease a 9×13 baking dish with some of the melted butter to ensure the taquitos don’t stick.
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s hot, season the chicken breasts with taco seasoning. Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes. You want the chicken to be cooked through and slightly golden on the outside.
Next, add in the frozen corn kernels, refried beans, salsa, and cheddar cheese to the skillet. Stir everything together and allow it to cook for an additional 2 minutes. Keep an eye on the mixture; the corn should be hot but not overcooked.
Once everything is combined and heated through, add in the chopped cilantro, stirring gently to incorporate it into the filling. The cilantro adds a fresh, vibrant flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
It’s time to assemble the taquitos! Lay a tortilla flat on your work surface. Spoon a couple of tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto the center of the tortilla, then tightly roll it up. Repeat this process until all tortillas are filled.
Carefully place each rolled taquito into the greased baking dish. Brush the tops with the remaining melted butter for an extra layer of flavor and crispiness.
Once they’re all in the dish, transfer the taquitos to the preheated oven. Bake for about 15 minutes or until they are crisp and golden brown. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist!
Once baked, remove the taquitos from the oven. Serve them warm with additional salsa on the side for dipping. You can also garnish them with more fresh cilantro if desired.

Things Worth Knowing

Choosing Tortillas: Opt for fresh, soft tortillas for easy rolling. A good quality tortilla won’t tear when filled.
Cooking Chicken: Ensure your chicken is fully cooked; it should have no pink inside. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F.
Storing Taquitos: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last for up to three days.
Customizing Fillings: Don’t hesitate to add other ingredients like diced bell peppers or jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Baking Tips: For extra crispiness, place taquitos seam-side down in the baking dish.

How to Switch It Up

If you’re looking to add a twist to your Chicken Taco Taquitos, there are plenty of ways to switch things up! Here are some tips to keep your meals exciting:

Experiment with Proteins: Try using shredded beef or even tofu for a vegetarian alternative.
Spice Levels: Adjust the spice by using hotter salsa or adding diced jalapeños to the filling.
Cheese Varieties: Mix different types of cheese for a unique flavor; pepper jack adds a nice kick.
Garnish Creativity: Top with avocado slices, sour cream, or fresh lime juice for added flavor.
Freezing for Later: These taquitos can be frozen before baking. Just ensure they’re in an airtight container.

Serving Ideas for Chicken Taco Taquitos

Serving Chicken Taco Taquitos can be a delightful experience in itself. Here are some ideas that will elevate your meal:

Perfect Pairing: Serve with a side of fresh guacamole for a creamy contrast to the crispy taquitos.
Great for Parties: These taquitos are fantastic finger foods for parties. Lay them out on a platter with various dips.
Lunch Box Treat: Pack them for lunch with some salsa on the side; they’ll taste great even at room temperature.
Crispy Salad Side: Serve alongside a refreshing salad to balance the richness of the taquitos.
Tailgate Favorite: Ideal for tailgating or game day, making them a crowd-pleaser!

FAQ

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and roll the taquitos the night before. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap and keep them in the refrigerator overnight. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake them until they’re crispy and golden. This makes them a perfect option for party prep!

There are plenty of delicious dipping sauces to enjoy with your Chicken Taco Taquitos. Salsa is a classic choice, but you can also serve them with guacamole, sour cream, or even a creamy ranch dressing. Feel free to get creative and try different flavors!

Certainly! While the recipe calls for flour tortillas, you can definitely use corn tortillas if you prefer. Just be cautious as corn tortillas can be a bit more fragile, so warming them briefly before rolling will help prevent them from breaking.

To reheat leftover Chicken Taco Taquitos, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 to 15 minutes. This will help regain their crispiness while warming them through. Avoid microwaving as they may turn soggy.

Conclusion

The Chicken Taco Taquitos are a fantastic dish that brings joy to any gathering with their crispy texture and savory filling. They’re versatile, easy to make, and sure to be a hit with family and friends. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the delight it brings to your table. You won’t be disappointed, and it’s perfect for any occasion!