BBQ Chicken Taquitos are fun, crunchy rolls filled with tasty chicken and BBQ sauce. They’re perfect for a snack or party treat, and who doesn’t love something crispy and delicious?
These taquitos are super easy to make. Just fill, roll, and bake! Trust me, the smell alone will have everyone flocking to the kitchen to grab some. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shredded Chicken: Rotisserie chicken saves time and adds flavor. If you prefer, you can boil or grill your chicken breasts. For a vegetarian option, consider using shredded jackfruit or firm tofu, seasoned with BBQ sauce for a similar taste.
BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite BBQ sauce for this recipe; the choice can greatly influence the flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, use a low-sugar or homemade BBQ sauce. You can also experiment with different flavors, such as spicy or smoky varieties.
Tortillas: Both flour and corn tortillas work well. If you want a gluten-free option, use corn tortillas. Just make sure they are warm enough to roll without cracking.
Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but feel free to use Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend. For a dairy-free option, try using vegan cheese or leave it out altogether. The filling will still taste great!
How Can I Make Sure My Taquitos Are Crispy?
Crisp taquitos are the goal! Here are some tips to achieve that satisfying crunch:
- Heat your oven to the right temperature (425°F/220°C) so the taquitos bake quickly and evenly.
- Brush them with olive oil; this helps crisp the tortillas as they bake.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Give those taquitos space to allow hot air to circulate around them.
- Check for doneness; you want them golden brown and crispy, so feel free to bake a bit longer if necessary.
BBQ Chicken Taquitos Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or boiled)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce, plus extra for drizzling
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
- 10-12 small flour or corn tortillas
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing tortillas)
- Sour cream (for serving)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 15-20 minutes to bake, totaling about 30-35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This helps ensure the taquitos cook evenly and become wonderfully crispy. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
2. Prepare the Filling:
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, 1 cup of BBQ sauce, and shredded cheese. Mix everything together until every piece of chicken is coated in that delicious BBQ sauce and gooey cheese. This combination is the heart of your taquitos!
3. Warm the Tortillas:
To make the tortillas pliable, warm them in the microwave for about 20 seconds. This step is essential to prevent them from cracking when you roll them up.
4. Roll the Taquitos:
On one side of each tortilla, place about 2 tablespoons of the BBQ chicken mixture. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling, making sure the seam is on the bottom to hold it closed. Arrange the rolled taquitos on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Brush & Bake:
Lightly brush the outside of each rolled taquito with olive oil. This will help them get that lovely crispy texture while baking. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve & Enjoy:
Once the taquitos are out of the oven, let them cool for a minute. Drizzle with some extra BBQ sauce, and add a dollop of sour cream. Sprinkle fresh, chopped cilantro on top for a burst of freshness. Serve these crunchy delights immediately with more sour cream or salsa on the side for dipping.
Now, enjoy your crispy, savory BBQ Chicken Taquitos! They’re perfect for appetizers, snacks, or a fun meal with friends and family.
Can I Use Different Proteins Aboard My Taquitos?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with shredded beef, pulled pork, or even black beans for a vegetarian option. Just make sure to adjust the BBQ sauce quantity to your liking!
How Do I Store Leftover Taquitos?
Store any leftover taquitos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crisp again.
Can I Freeze These Taquitos?
Yes, you can freeze unbaked taquitos! Just roll them up and place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What Should I Serve With BBQ Chicken Taquitos?
These taquitos are great on their own, but you can serve them with sides like a fresh salad, guacamole, or homemade salsa. They also pair nicely with some corn on the side for a complete meal!
