Chicken Tacquitos
Crispy chicken tacquitos bursting with cheesy salsa flavor, perfect as a savory appetizer or snack for gatherings and casual meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook chicken in vegetable oil for 2 minutes.
- Stir well to coat chicken with oil.
- Add chopped onions and drained peppers; cook until chicken is done.
- Drain the mixture and put aside.
- In the same pan, combine salsa and 6 ounces of Cheddar cheese over medium heat.
- Cook and stir until cheese melts into the salsa.
- Add the cooked chicken mixture to the salsa and cheese.
- Break the taco shells into 4 pieces each.
- Spoon 1 tablespoon of the chicken mixture onto each shell piece and sprinkle with additional cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for 5 minutes until cheese melts and shells are crispy.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, try marinating the chicken in lime juice and spices before cooking. If you prefer a healthier option, substitute the vegetable oil with olive oil. You can also use shredded rotisserie chicken to save time. For a spicier kick, consider adding jalapeños to the chicken mixture or using a hot salsa. This dish pairs well with the Best Black Beans for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these chicken taquitos with a side of guacamole, sour cream, or fresh salsa for dipping. A crisp, fresh salad or Mexican street corn pairs nicely as a side. They also complement other Mexican recipes, like Chicken Enchiladas A La Rhodes, for a festive meal spread. Consider garnishing with fresh cilantro for a burst of color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the taquitos in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy. You can also microwave them, but the oven method maintains the crispiness of the shells better.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Tacquitos contains roughly 49 calories, with 1g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 3g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these taquitos ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken mixture and fill the taco shells in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. This makes it easy to have a quick meal on hand, especially for busy weeknights.
What can I use instead of taco shells?
If you want a gluten-free option, consider using corn tortillas instead of taco shells. Simply warm them slightly to make them pliable, then fill and roll them up. You can also experiment with baked tortilla chips as a crunchy base.
How can I make these taquitos spicier?
To add more heat, use a spicier salsa or incorporate diced jalapeños into the chicken mixture. You could also sprinkle some cayenne pepper or chili powder during cooking. Adjust the spice level to your preference for a delicious kick!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).