Spicy Jalapeno Popper Chicken Taquitos

Are you ready to elevate your snacking game with a mouthwatering twist? Look no further than these irresistible Jalapeno Popper Chicken Taquitos! Packed with the perfect blend of zesty jalapenos, creamy cheese, tender chicken, and crispy bacon, these taquitos are a flavor explosion waiting to happen in your kitchen. The marriage of jalapeno poppers and classic taquitos creates a dish that’s not only delicious but also addictive.

I stumbled upon this recipe while searching for a crowd-pleasing appetizer, and let me tell you, it was love at first bite. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering, in need of a quick weeknight meal, or simply craving a savory snack, these Jalapeno Popper Chicken Taquitos are sure to hit the spot. With just the right amount of spice and a whole lot of flavor, they have become a staple in my recipe repertoire.

One of the best things about these taquitos is their versatility. You can customize them to suit your taste preferences, whether you prefer a little extra heat or a milder flavor profile. Plus, they’re perfect for meal prep, making them a convenient option for busy days when you want a satisfying meal without the hassle. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to indulge in a culinary delight that will have everyone coming back for more!

Quick Benefits

• Convenient Meal Prep: Perfect for preparing in advance, assembling, and refrigerating before cooking, making them ideal for busy weeknights or entertaining.
• Customizable and Versatile: Endless variations from buffalo chicken to vegetarian options, allowing you to cater to different tastes and preferences.
• Great for Parties: Disappears quickly as an appetizer, but can also be elevated to a full meal when paired with sides like Mexican rice and refried beans.
• Delicious Dipping Options: Pair with classic dips like ranch dressing, sour cream, salsa, or guacamole for a flavor-packed experience.

Why You’ll Love This Spicy Jalapeno Popper Chicken Taquitos Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: The combination of tender chicken, gooey cheese, and crispy bacon wrapped in a golden tortilla creates the ultimate comfort food with a kick.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for feeding a hungry crowd, these taquitos will disappear faster than any other appetizer on the table.
• Meal Prep Master: Ideal for busy weeknights, you can assemble them ahead, refrigerate for up to 24 hours, and bake when ready to serve, making them perfect for entertaining or meal prepping.
• Versatile: While the classic recipe is delicious, you can customize these taquitos with various fillings like buffalo chicken, spinach artichoke, or barbecue chicken, catering to different preferences and dietary needs.
• Dipping Delight: Pair these taquitos with a variety of dips like ranch dressing, guacamole, salsa, or sour cream to elevate the flavors and allow everyone to customize their experience.
• Meal Transformation: Turn these appetizer taquitos into a full meal by serving them with Mexican rice and refried beans or a side salad with lime vinaigrette.
• Texture Options: You can use either corn or flour tortillas based on your preference, each providing a slightly different texture to suit your taste.
• Adjustable Heat: Control the spiciness by varying the amount of jalapeños used or by removing the seeds entirely, making it suitable for both spice lovers and those who prefer milder flavors.
• Reheating Tips: For best results, reheat these taquitos in an air fryer or oven to maintain their crispy texture, ensuring they taste just as delicious as when freshly baked.
• Family Favorite: Whether for game day gatherings, Super Bowl parties, or weeknight dinners, these taquitos have become a beloved tradition among families and friends, guaranteed to satisfy everyone’s cravings.

Ingredients for Spicy Jalapeno Popper Chicken Taquitos

Filling

• 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
• 4 jalapeno peppers, seeds removed and finely diced
• ½ cup shredded Monterrey jack cheese, cheddar cheese, or mozzarella
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese, Monterrey jack, or mozzarella
• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked chicken
• 2 cloves garlic, minced or shredded
• 2 green onions, finely sliced
• 8 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Taquitos

• 16 corn or flour tortillas
• 2 tablespoons oil or cooking spray

Accompaniments

• Avocado
• Hot sauce
• Salsa
• Sour cream
• Ranch (for dipping)

How to Make Spicy Jalapeno Popper Chicken Taquitos

Step 1: Preparation

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and line a sheet pan with parchment paper or foil. Alternatively, preheat air fryer to 350°F. Combine all filling ingredients in a large bowl.

Step 2: Assembling Taquitos

Place a line of 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture in the center of each tortilla. Roll the tortillas tightly and position them seam side down to secure.

Step 3: Baking Method

Brush taquitos with oil or cooking spray. Place seam side down on sheet pan with ½ inch of space between each. Bake at 400°F for 10-15 minutes until golden and crispy. Optional: Broil on low for 2-3 minutes for extra crispiness, watching closely.

Step 4: Air Fryer Method

Brush or spray taquitos with oil. Air fry in batches, placing 4-6 taquitos seam side down, for 6-8 minutes until golden and crispy.

Step 5: Pan Frying Method

In a large skillet over medium heat, heat 2 tablespoons of oil. Pan fry taquitos in batches, seam side down, for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a wire rack on a sheet pan and keep warm in the oven if necessary.

Step 6: Serving

Serve while hot with salsa, chopped cilantro, diced avocado, ranch dressing, or sour cream.

Step 7: Reheating Instructions

Reheat the dish in an air fryer at 400˚F for 2-3 minutes, an oven at 375˚F for 4-5 minutes, or a microwave for 30 seconds (note: microwave may not keep the dish crispy).

Step 8: Storage Instructions

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in a freezer-safe container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat according to instructions.

Storage Tips

Once you have prepared the Jalapeno Popper Chicken Taquitos, storing them properly is essential to maintain their freshness and flavor. If you have leftovers, you can refrigerate the cooked taquitos in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let them cool down before storing them to avoid condensation, which can make them soggy. When reheating, consider using an air fryer or oven to help retain their crispiness; microwaving is an option but may result in a softer texture.

If you plan to make the taquitos ahead of time or want to store them for future use, you can assemble them completely, place them on a baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking. Alternatively, you can freeze the assembled taquitos on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2-3 months. When cooking from frozen, add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure they are heated through.

To serve the Jalapeno Popper Chicken Taquitos for a party or gathering, consider setting up a dipping station with a variety of sauces like Ranch dressing, sour cream, salsa, or guacamole. You can also transform them into a complete meal by pairing them with Mexican rice and refried beans or serving them with a side salad dressed with a zesty lime vinaigrette. Experiment with different fillings to customize the taquitos to your taste preferences, whether it’s a vegetarian option with black beans or a meaty version with barbecue chicken and smoked gouda.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer a softer texture, feel free to use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas in this recipe. They will still provide a delicious base for the creamy chicken filling.

For those who prefer milder heat, you can reduce the spiciness by using fewer jalapenos in the filling or by completely removing the seeds from the peppers.

Feel free to customize these taquitos with different fillings. Try variations like buffalo chicken with blue cheese, spinach artichoke with parmesan, or barbecue chicken with smoked gouda. You can also make a vegetarian version by substituting the chicken with black beans, corn, and extra cheese.

When reheating the taquitos, using an air fryer or oven will help maintain their crispy texture better than microwaving. Brushing them with a bit of oil and broiling for a couple of minutes after baking can also help achieve a crispy finish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these tantalizing Jalapeno Popper Chicken Taquitos on a platter garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges, surrounded by an array of dipping sauces like zesty ranch dressing, cool sour cream, flavorful salsa, and creamy guacamole. Let your guests mix and match the dips to create their perfect flavor combination.

For a complete meal, pair these taquitos with classic Mexican sides like Mexican rice and refried beans. For a lighter option, serve them alongside a crisp side salad dressed with a tangy lime vinaigrette. To elevate them for a party setting, cut the taquitos in half and arrange them on a platter with an assortment of dipping sauces, creating a colorful and inviting spread that will surely impress your guests.

FAQs for Spicy Jalapeno Popper Chicken Taquitos

Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas for this recipe?

Yes, you can use flour tortillas if you prefer. They provide a slightly softer texture compared to corn tortillas.

Are these taquitos very spicy with the jalapenos?

They have a mild heat from the jalapenos. For less spice, use fewer jalapenos or remove the seeds entirely.

Can I assemble these taquitos ahead of time and cook them later?

Yes! You can assemble them ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer before cooking.

What are some recommended dipping sauces for these taquitos?

Ranch dressing, sour cream, salsa, or guacamole work wonderfully as dipping sauces for these taquitos.

Conclusion

As you embark on your culinary journey with these delightful Jalapeno Popper Chicken Taquitos, remember that cooking is all about creativity and making dishes your own. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different fillings or spice levels to suit your taste preferences and those of your loved ones. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving a comforting treat, these taquitos are sure to hit the spot.

So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to savor the cheesy, crispy goodness of these Jalapeno Popper Chicken Taquitos. With their versatility, make-ahead potential, and crowd-pleasing nature, they are bound to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Let the aromas fill your kitchen and the flavors tantalize your taste buds as you indulge in this delectable fusion of Mexican and American cuisines. Enjoy every bite of these Jalapeno Popper Chicken Taquitos and watch them disappear before your eyes as your family and friends clamor for more!