These BBQ Chicken Taquitos are crispy on the outside and packed with tender, tangy chicken on the inside. Perfect for a fun meal or a tasty snack!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a good taquito? I always enjoy dipping them in some creamy avocado or salsa. It’s like a fiesta in every bite! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Cooked, shredded chicken is a must here. I highly recommend using rotisserie chicken for its flavor and convenience. If you need a substitute, try shredded turkey or even canned chicken in a pinch!
Barbecue Sauce: The star of the show! Choose your favorite brand for the best flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, use sugar-free or homemade BBQ sauce. You can also try a spicy BBQ sauce for an extra kick!
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar adds creaminess to the taquitos. For a change, use Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese for some heat! Dairy-free cheese works too if you’re avoiding dairy.
Tortillas: Flour tortillas give a lovely softness, but you can use corn tortillas if you prefer. Just warm them up well to avoid cracking when rolling. Whole wheat tortillas are another healthy swap!
How Do You Get Crispy Taquitos?
The crispiness of your taquitos comes from proper baking. Here’s how to ensure they are perfectly crisp:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven helps the tortillas crisp up nicely.
- Remember to warm your tortillas before filling them. This makes them easier to roll and keeps them from cracking.
- Spray or brush the taquitos with oil before baking. This step is key for that golden, crunchy finish!
- Space them out on the baking sheet; this allows hot air to circulate and crisp all sides.
Following these tips will make your BBQ Chicken Taquitos a delicious, crispy treat.
BBQ Chicken Taquitos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 cup barbecue sauce, plus extra for drizzling and dipping
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Taquitos:
- 10 small flour tortillas (6-8 inch size)
- Cooking spray or a little vegetable oil
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Sour cream (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes of prep time and 15-20 minutes of baking. Altogether, you should have a tasty dish ready in about 30-35 minutes! Perfect for a quick meal or snack.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This is crucial for getting your taquitos nice and crispy! Also, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Filling:
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, 1 cup of barbecue sauce, shredded cheddar cheese, corn, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until all ingredients are well mixed and coated with the sauce.
3. Prepare the Tortillas:
To make them easier to roll, warm your tortillas slightly in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds. This way, they won’t crack when you fill and roll them!
4. Assemble the Taquitos:
Take a few tablespoons of the chicken mixture and place it along one edge of each tortilla. Roll them up tightly and place them seam side down on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Spray for Crispiness:
For that golden crispy exterior, lightly spray the taquitos with cooking spray or brush them with a little vegetable oil. This will help them brown beautifully while baking.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them until they are golden brown and crispy! You’ll love the smell wafting through your kitchen.
7. Add Finishing Touches:
Once baked, remove the taquitos from the oven and drizzle them with extra barbecue sauce. Sprinkle them with freshly chopped cilantro for a pop of color and flavor.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Enjoy your BBQ Chicken Taquitos warm, paired with sour cream and extra barbecue sauce for dipping. These are great for parties, game days, or just a cozy night in!
These taquitos are an amazing blend of crispy texture and smoky, cheesy goodness. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover roasted or grilled chicken works perfectly in these taquitos. Just shred it and mix it with the other ingredients. It’s a great way to use up any extra chicken you have!
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can easily make these taquitos gluten-free by using corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas. There are also gluten-free options available for BBQ sauce, just check the label!
What’s the Best Way to Reheat Leftover Taquitos?
To reheat leftover taquitos, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until they’re heated through and crispy again. You can also crisp them up in an air fryer for about 5 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
Can I Freeze These Taquitos for Later?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked taquitos! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to eat, bake from frozen at 425°F (220°C) for an additional 5-10 minutes to ensure they cook through and get crispy.