BBQ Chicken Taquitos are crispy rolls filled with tender chicken and tasty barbecue sauce. They are perfect for a quick snack or a fun party dish!
These taquitos are so easy to make, and they disappear fast! I love enjoying them with some fresh salsa on the side—it’s the perfect combo! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is a great choice for ease and flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, grilled chicken breasts work well. You could also use canned chicken in a pinch, but homemade or fresh is always the best!
Barbecue Sauce: The sauce you choose really affects the flavor! I prefer a sweet and tangy sauce, but if you’re into heat, feel free to use a spicy barbecue sauce. For a homemade option, mix ketchup with a bit of vinegar, brown sugar, and spices.
Tortillas: Small flour tortillas are traditional, but corn tortillas can be used if you prefer gluten-free options. Just be aware that corn tortillas are more brittle, so you’ll need to warm them longer to make them roll easily.
Cheddar Cheese: While I love using cheddar cheese, a Mexican blend adds a nice touch. If you’re vegan, try plant-based cheese or simply omit it for a dairy-free version.
How Do I Make Sure My Taquitos are Crispy?
Crispiness is key for delicious taquitos! Here are some steps to ensure your taquitos turn out perfectly crispy:
- Warming the tortillas is crucial. Heat them in the microwave or on a skillet until just soft so they don’t break when you roll them.
- Make sure to roll each tortilla tightly, which helps them keep their shape during baking.
- Lightly spray or brush the outside with oil. This step is essential to achieve that golden, crispy exterior.
- Bake them on parchment paper. This keeps them from sticking and allows even airflow for crisping up on all sides.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Give each taquito enough space to crisp up nicely!
BBQ Chicken Taquitos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce, plus extra for drizzling
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican cheese blend
- 10 to 12 small flour tortillas (6-inch)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooking spray or oil, for baking/frying
- Optional: diced onions or jalapeños (for added flavor inside taquitos)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to bake, totaling around 30-35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick dinner or party snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your taquitos crisp up nicely. While the oven is heating, you can get everything else ready!
2. Prepare the Filling:
In a medium bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, barbecue sauce, and shredded cheese until everything is well combined. This is where all the flavor comes together!
3. Warm the Tortillas:
To prevent the tortillas from cracking, warm them up a bit. You can do this by microwaving them for about 20-30 seconds or quickly heating them in a skillet for a few seconds on each side.
4. Roll the Taquitos:
Take about 2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture and place it at one end of a tortilla. Roll it tightly, then place the seam side down on a greased baking sheet. Repeat this for all the tortillas.
5. Prepare for Baking:
Lightly spray or brush the outside of each taquito with cooking oil. This helps them get that golden-brown crunch while baking.
6. Bake the Taquitos:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the taquitos are crispy and golden brown. Make sure to turn them halfway through to ensure they cook evenly!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re baked, remove the taquitos from the oven and let them cool for a minute. Drizzle some extra barbecue sauce and sour cream on top, and sprinkle with fresh cilantro for garnish.
8. Savor the Flavor!
Serve your BBQ Chicken Taquitos hot with your favorite sides like salsa, guacamole, or a fresh salad. Enjoy every crispy, flavorful bite!
Enjoy your delicious BBQ Chicken Taquitos!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken, or even shredded chicken from previous meals works great. Just make sure it’s enough to fill the taquitos.
How Can I Make These Taquitos Spicier?
If you want to add some heat, consider mixing in diced jalapeños or using a spicy barbecue sauce. You can also serve them with a spicy salsa or hot sauce on the side!
Can I Freeze Leftover Taquitos?
Yes! You can freeze uncooked taquitos before baking. Lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, bake them from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What Dipping Sauces Pair Well with Taquitos?
Some great options include sour cream, guacamole, or a zesty salsa. You could also try ranch dressing or an avocado lime dip for a delicious twist!
