Skinny Chicken Taquitos
There’s something special about cozy evenings filled with good food, and Skinny Chicken Taquitos fit perfectly into that scenario. I remember one chilly night when friends came over, and I wanted to whip up something fun and delicious. As I rummaged through my pantry, I stumbled upon some chicken, cheddar cheese, and a few tortillas. That’s when the idea of making Skinny Chicken Taquitos struck me! These delightful little rolls are not just easy to make but absolutely packed with flavor. Everyone gathered around the kitchen, and we enjoyed the process of rolling them up together, filling the space with laughter and conversations. The warm aroma of the chicken baking in the oven set the perfect mood, and soon enough, we were all savoring these crispy, cheesy bites.
Recipe Snapshot
1 hr 20 mins
60 mins
20 mins
Medium
150 kcal
12 g
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
5 g
Large Pot, Baking Sheet, Mixing Bowl, Skillet, Oven
What Makes This Skinny Chicken Taquitos Special
They’re Perfectly Crispy!
When it comes to taquitos, the crispiness factor is key. The Skinny Chicken Taquitos deliver that satisfying crunch that makes your taste buds sing. The outer layer of warmed tortillas becomes beautifully crisp after a short bake in the oven, giving you that delightful texture contrast with the tender chicken inside.
Healthy and Flavorful
These taquitos are made with fat-free shredded cheddar cheese and fresh salsa, making them a healthier option without compromising on taste. You get all the vibrant flavors while keeping it light, which is perfect for a guilt-free snack or meal. Who doesn’t love a dish that feels indulgent yet fits into a healthy lifestyle?
Versatile Filling Options
Another reason to love this recipe is the versatility it offers. While the classic filling of shredded chicken is delicious, you can easily adapt it based on your preferences. Swap in your favorite cooked proteins, or even try vegetarian options with beans and veggies. The possibilities are endless!
Great for Meal Prep
Whether you’re prepping for a busy week or hosting a gathering, Skinny Chicken Taquitos are perfect for meal prep. You can assemble them ahead of time, freeze, and then bake when needed. They make for a quick and satisfying meal that everyone will love!
Fun to Make Together
Cooking should be a joyous experience, and making Skinny Chicken Taquitos is the perfect way to gather friends or family in the kitchen. Each person can have a hand in rolling and filling the taquitos, creating a fun, interactive cooking session. It’s a great way to bond over food!
Perfect for Any Occasion
Finally, these taquitos are incredibly versatile in terms of serving. Whether it’s a game night, a casual dinner, or even a festive party, Skinny Chicken Taquitos can fit right in. They pair wonderfully with dipping sauces like guacamole or sour cream, making them a hit at any gathering.
What Goes Into Skinny Chicken Taquitos
The ingredients that come together in Skinny Chicken Taquitos create a delightful mix of flavors and textures. Each component plays a crucial role, from the seasoned chicken to the crispy tortillas, making this dish a standout. The blend of cheese and salsa adds a delicious creaminess and zest that complements the savory filling perfectly.
- 2 chicken breasts, or 3 cups shredded chicken breast: The star of the filling, providing protein and flavor.
- 1/2 cup fat-free shredded cheddar cheese, or reduced fat cheddar cheese: Adds creaminess and a melty texture.
- 2 teaspoons taco seasoning: Infuses the filling with a zesty, savory taste.
- 1 teaspoon kosher or sea salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
- 1/2 cup salsa: Adds moisture and a burst of flavor!
- 16 small corn tortillas: The perfect vessel to hold the delicious filling.
Preparation Steps for Skinny Chicken Taquitos
Getting started on your Skinny Chicken Taquitos is straightforward and enjoyable! Follow these simple steps to create a delicious dish that will wow your friends and family. You’ll love how easy this recipe is and the satisfying outcome it delivers.
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees. This ensures a hot environment for achieving those perfectly crispy taquitos.
Place the chicken breasts in a casserole dish. Add 1/2 cup of water to keep the chicken moist while cooking. Cover the dish and bake in the preheated oven until the juices run clear when pierced with a fork, about 35 to 40 minutes. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees.
Once cooked, allow the chicken to cool slightly. Remove any skin and shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. This shredded chicken will be the base of your tasty filling!
In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken, fat-free shredded cheddar cheese, taco seasoning, salt, and salsa. Mix everything until well combined. This filling is what makes your Skinny Chicken Taquitos so mouthwatering!
In a small skillet, preferably a dry cast iron, warm the corn tortillas over medium heat. Heat each side for about 20 seconds until they are warm and pliable. This step is crucial to prevent tearing when you roll them up.
Take a warmed tortilla and spread about 3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto its center. Roll the tortilla as tightly as possible and place it seam side down on a parchment-lined cookie sheet or in a non-stick baking dish. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
Once all taquitos are assembled, brush the tops lightly with olive oil or mist them with nonstick cooking spray. This helps achieve a golden, crispy exterior during baking.
Bake the taquitos in the oven for approximately 15 to 20 minutes or until they are hot and crisp. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t burn; you want a lovely golden brown.
If desired, add a little more shredded cheddar on top of the taquitos and return them to the oven just until melted. This extra cheese is optional but highly recommended for that gooey goodness.
Finally, serve your Skinny Chicken Taquitos warm, topped with fresh low-fat Greek yogurt, guacamole, or additional salsa. Enjoy!
Things Worth Knowing
- Shredding the chicken: Letting the chicken cool slightly before shredding makes it easier to handle and ensures it stays moist.
- Tortilla warming: Warming the tortillas helps prevent them from cracking when you roll them up.
- Checking doneness: Always ensure that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees for safe consumption.
- Freezing tips: Prepare the taquitos ahead of time, freeze them before baking, and pop them in the oven straight from the freezer for a quick meal.
Tips for Success
To make your experience with Skinny Chicken Taquitos even better, here are some helpful tips that will ensure perfect results every time you make them.
- Storage: Store leftover taquitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Freezing: You can freeze assembled, unbaked taquitos. Just bake them straight from the freezer; they may need an extra few minutes in the oven.
- Pairing: Serve with a side of fresh fruit or a green salad to lighten up your meal.
- Variations: Feel free to swap out the chicken for shredded beef or even a mix of roasted vegetables for a vegetarian version.
- Garnishing: Top with chopped cilantro or diced avocado for added freshness and taste!
What Goes Well With This Skinny Chicken Taquitos
When it comes to serving Skinny Chicken Taquitos, you have a world of options that can elevate your dining experience. Here are some ideas:
- Fresh salsa: A dollop of fresh salsa pairs beautifully with the taquitos, enhancing their flavor.
- Guacamole: Creamy guacamole adds a delightful richness that perfectly complements the crunch of the taquitos.
- Side salad: A crisp green salad with a zesty dressing can balance the richness of the taquitos.
- Occasions: These taquitos are perfect for game nights, casual family dinners, or even special occasions like birthdays.
- Storage tips: Store any leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge to keep them fresh for up to three days.
- Seasonal pairings: Serve with a refreshing summer fruit salad for a light meal during warm months.
FAQ
Conclusion
Skinny Chicken Taquitos are not just a recipe; they are a delightful experience that brings friends and family together. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor that will keep you coming back for more. I encourage you to give them a try; they’re perfect for any gathering or a cozy night in!
Skinny Chicken Taquitos
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees. This ensures a hot environment for achieving those perfectly crispy taquitos.
- Place the chicken breasts in a casserole dish. Add 1/2 cup of water to keep the chicken moist while cooking. Cover the dish and bake in the preheated oven until the juices run clear when pierced with a fork, about 35 to 40 minutes.
- Once cooked, allow the chicken to cool slightly. Remove any skin and shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken, fat-free shredded cheddar cheese, taco seasoning, salt, and salsa. Mix everything until well combined.
- In a small skillet, preferably a dry cast iron, warm the corn tortillas over medium heat. Heat each side for about 20 seconds until they are warm and pliable.
- Take a warmed tortilla and spread about 3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto its center. Roll the tortilla as tightly as possible and place it seam side down on a parchment-lined cookie sheet or in a non-stick baking dish.
- Once all taquitos are assembled, brush the tops lightly with olive oil or mist them with nonstick cooking spray.
- Bake the taquitos in the oven for approximately 15 to 20 minutes or until they are hot and crisp.
- If desired, add a little more shredded cheddar on top of the taquitos and return them to the oven just until melted.
- Finally, serve your Skinny Chicken Taquitos warm, topped with fresh low-fat Greek yogurt, guacamole, or additional salsa. Enjoy!
