These BBQ Chicken Taquitos are crispy, fun, and packed with flavor! Stuffed with tender chicken and zesty BBQ sauce, they’re perfect for dipping or snacking.
Honestly, who can resist that crunchy outside paired with the juicy filling? I love making a big batch and enjoying them during game nights. They always disappear fast! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shredded Chicken: You can use roasted or rotisserie chicken for convenience. If you’re vegetarian, try using jackfruit or a bean mix instead. Both options work great with BBQ flavors!
Barbecue Sauce: Your favorite store-bought sauce will do the trick! If you prefer homemade, a simple mix of ketchup, vinegar, honey, and spices can mimic that BBQ taste.
Tortillas: Flour tortillas are soft and easy to roll, but you can use corn tortillas if gluten-free. Just warm them to prevent cracking.
Cilantro: If you’re not a fan of cilantro, feel free to skip it or use green onions for a fresh twist!
Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but a Mexican blend or pepper jack can add a nice kick. For dairy-free options, vegan cheese shreds work too.
How Do I Make My Taquitos Extra Crispy?
Getting that delightful crunch is key! Here’s how:
- Warm Your Tortillas: Don’t skip this step! Warm them in the microwave for about 15 seconds or in a skillet to make them flexible and less likely to tear.
- Seal Well: When rolling, ensure the seam is on the bottom if frying or baking to keep them closed.
- Fry for Crunch: If you fry them, ensure the oil is hot enough (about 350°F). This cooks them quickly, making them crunchy and golden!
- Bake for a Healthier Option: Bake until golden brown, and don’t forget to spray them lightly with cooking spray for that extra crispiness.
Whichever method you choose, enjoy your BBQ Chicken Taquitos fresh out of the pan or oven!
BBQ Chicken Taquitos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken breast
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite kind)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend cheese)
- 8-10 small flour or corn tortillas (6-inch size)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese (optional)
- Cooking spray or oil for frying/baking
- Sour cream or crema (for garnish)
- Extra barbecue sauce (for drizzling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll need a few minutes to mix the tasty filling and roll up the taquitos, then just 15–20 minutes of cooking time either by frying or baking. Perfect for a quick dinner or a fun snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Filling:
In a medium bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, barbecue sauce, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped cilantro. Stir well until everything is combined nicely. This filling is where all the yummy flavors come together!
2. Prepare the Tortillas:
To make rolling easier, warm the tortillas in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or on a skillet until soft. This helps prevent them from cracking when you roll them.
3. Roll the Taquitos:
Take 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture and place it on one end of each tortilla. Roll it up tightly like a cigar. Don’t worry; it doesn’t have to be perfect! Just make sure the filling is secured inside.
4. Cook the Taquitos:
If you’re frying: Heat about 1/2 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully add the taquitos seam side down. Fry for about 2-3 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and crispy all over. Drain them on paper towels.
If you’re baking: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the taquitos seam side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spray them lightly with cooking spray. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until they’re crispy and lightly browned.
5. Plate and Garnish:
Once cooked, arrange the taquitos on a serving platter. Drizzle some extra barbecue sauce over the top for added flavor.
6. Add Toppings:
Sprinkle crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese (if using) and additional chopped cilantro over the taquitos to make them look even more appetizing!
7. Serve Warm:
Enjoy your BBQ Chicken Taquitos with a side of sour cream or crema for dipping. They’re best served hot and fresh!
There you have it! Enjoy the crunchy, flavorful BBQ Chicken Taquitos—perfect for a family meal or party snack!
Can I Use Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Using a store-bought rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. Just shred the chicken and mix it with the barbecue sauce and cheese as directed in the recipe.
What Can I Substitute for BBQ Sauce?
If you don’t have barbecue sauce, you can create a quick substitute by mixing ketchup, apple cider vinegar, honey, and your favorite spices. Just adjust the flavors to your taste!
Can I Freeze Leftover Taquitos?
Yes! Let the taquitos cool completely and then place them in an airtight container or freezer bags. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Reheat them in the oven from frozen until crispy!
How Do I Make Them Spicier?
For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or use a spicy barbecue sauce in the filling. You can also sprinkle some cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes in the mix!
