Easy Chicken Bacon Taquitos: A Delicious, Quick Treat
If you’re looking for a mouthwatering recipe that’s not only easy to prepare but also perfect for parties, game days, or a cozy family meal, look no further! Chicken Bacon Taquitos are a crowd-pleasing dish that combines the savory flavors of chicken and crispy bacon, all wrapped in crispy tortillas. Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household!
Why You’ll Love These Taquitos
- Quick and Easy: With a preparation and cooking time of just about 30 minutes, you can whip these up on a busy weeknight or serve them at a moment’s notice.
- Versatile: You can easily customize the filling with your favorite ingredients, making it a great way to use up leftovers or experiment with new flavors.
- Perfect for Sharing: Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a fun snack for movie night, these taquitos are easy to share and even easier to eat!
Ingredients
To make these delicious Chicken Bacon Taquitos, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced; rotisserie chicken works great!)
- 4 slices of bacon (cooked until crispy and chopped)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
- 1/2 cup cream cheese (softened)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8-10 small flour or corn tortillas
- Cooking spray or oil for frying
Instructions
Prepare the Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, crispy bacon, cream cheese, shredded cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Assemble the Taquitos:
- If using flour tortillas, warm them in a skillet for a few seconds on each side to make them more pliable. For corn tortillas, you can microwave them briefly covered with a damp paper towel.
- Place about 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken and bacon mixture in the center of each tortilla. Roll the tortillas tightly around the filling, making sure to tuck in the ends to seal.
Cook the Taquitos:
- For the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the taquitos seam-side down. Spray them lightly with cooking spray. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
- For the air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C). Arrange the taquitos in a single layer. Lightly spray with oil and cook for about 8-10 minutes or until they are crispy and golden.
- For the pan-fry method: Heat about 1/2 inch of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the taquitos, a few at a time, for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the Chicken Bacon Taquitos hot with your favorite dipping sauces. Sour cream, guacamole, or salsa make excellent accompaniments!
Tips for Perfection
- Custom Fillings: Feel free to add ingredients like jalapeños for a spicy kick, black beans for extra fiber, or corn for sweetness.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the filling a day in advance and assemble the taquitos just before cooking. They can also be frozen before cooking; just cook them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Change Up the Cheese: Try using pepper jack for a spicy twist or a cheese blend for varied flavor profiles.
Conclusion
Easy Chicken Bacon Taquitos are a fantastic option for anyone looking for an easy, delicious, and impressive dish. With just a handful of simple ingredients and a quick cooking time, you can create a satisfying meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Whether you enjoy them as an appetizer, snack, or main dish, these taquitos are sure to bring joy to your table. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and start rolling!
