Skinny Chicken Taquitos
These taquitos are a lighter take on the classic Mexican dish, perfect for an appetizer, main course, or side.
Yield: 20 taquitos (serving size: 2 taquitos) Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 40-45 minutes (including chicken cooking) Total Time: 50-55 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 3 cups shredded cooked chicken)
- ½ cup fat-free shredded cheddar cheese (or reduced-fat cheddar cheese)
- 2 teaspoons taco seasoning
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (or sea salt)
- ½ cup salsa
- 16 small corn tortillas
- Olive oil (for brushing)
- Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, plain low-fat Greek yogurt, guacamole, salsa
Instructions:
-
Cook the Chicken: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place chicken breasts in a casserole dish, add ½ cup water, cover, and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until juices run clear when pierced with a fork. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). Let cool slightly, then remove skin and shred.
-
Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine shredded chicken, cheese, taco seasoning, salt, and salsa.
-
Warm the Tortillas: Heat a small skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium heat. Warm tortillas one at a time for about 20 seconds per side, or until pliable. Alternatively, steam tortillas in a double boiler until hot and pliable.
-
Assemble the Taquitos: Spread about 3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto the center of each warm tortilla. Roll up tightly and place seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet or non-stick baking dish.
-
Bake the Taquitos: Brush the tops of each taquito with olive oil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until hot and crisp.
-
Serve: Enjoy your taquitos as is, or top them with additional shredded cheese and return to the oven for a few minutes to melt. You can also add a dollop of Greek yogurt, guacamole, or salsa for extra flavor.
Tips:
- Spread the mixture quickly onto warmed tortillas to prevent them from breaking. A few cracks might still appear.
- Use leftover shredded chicken to save time on prep.
- Our Slow Cooker Everything Chicken recipe is another great option for pre-cooked chicken.
This revised recipe clarifies the cooking method for the chicken, offers alternative tortilla warming methods, and provides additional serving suggestions.