Skinny Chicken Taquitos
Description:
Skinny Chicken Taquitos are a healthier twist on the classic Mexican dish. These taquitos are baked instead of fried, using lean shredded chicken, Greek yogurt, and flavorful spices wrapped in corn tortillas. They’re crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, making them a perfect appetizer, snack, or light dinner.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (use rotisserie chicken for convenience)
- ½ cup Greek yogurt (for a creamy yet low-fat filling)
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (reduced-fat optional)
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 corn tortillas
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
Instructions:
Preheat and Prepare:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.Make the Filling:
In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, Greek yogurt, cheddar cheese, cilantro, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.Soften the Tortillas:
To prevent the tortillas from cracking, warm them slightly. Wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for about 30 seconds.Fill and Roll:
Place about 2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture on one end of each tortilla. Roll tightly and place seam-side down on the baking sheet.Bake:
Lightly spray the taquitos with cooking spray to help them crisp up. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.Serve:
Serve hot with salsa, guacamole, or a dollop of Greek yogurt as a dip.
Tips:
- Make Ahead: Prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Freezer-Friendly: Assemble the taquitos but don’t bake them. Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake straight from frozen, adding an extra 5 minutes.
- Customizations: Add black beans, corn, or diced jalapeños for extra flavor.
- Cheese Options: Use pepper jack for a spicier kick or mozzarella for a milder flavor.
Servings:
- Makes 12 taquitos
- Serving Size: 2 taquitos
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
(Values are approximate and may vary depending on the exact ingredients used.)
Health Benefits:
- High Protein: Promotes muscle repair and keeps you full longer.
- Low Fat: Greek yogurt and baked method reduce overall fat content.
- Fiber-Rich: Corn tortillas and added veggies enhance dietary fiber.
Q&A:
Q: Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?
A: Yes, but corn tortillas are lower in calories and more traditional. If using flour tortillas, adjust the baking time as they brown faster.
Q: How do I make them spicier?
A: Add diced jalapeños or increase the chili powder. A dash of hot sauce in the filling works great too.
Q: Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken?
A: Absolutely! Leftover turkey is a great substitute, especially after the holidays.
Q: How can I make these dairy-free?
A: Swap Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt alternative and use dairy-free cheese.
Enjoy these crispy, flavorful Skinny Chicken Taquitos as a guilt-free treat or meal!