Looking to impress your guests with a mouthwatering dish that’s both easy to make and bursting with flavor? Look no further than this delectable chicken taquitos recipe, crafted by renowned chef Justine Schofield in collaboration with La Banderita. Elevate your entertaining game with these irresistible treats that are sure to leave everyone craving for more.
Recipe Details
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 12
Ingredients
- 2 canned tomatillos
- 4 sprigs of fresh coriander
- 1 jalapeño, seeds removed and finely chopped
- 1/2 ripe avocado
- Zest and juice of 1 lime
- Pinch of salt and pepper
- 3 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Meat from ½ BBQ chicken, shredded
- 50g Manchego cheese, grated
- 12 La Banderita Street Tacos
- Vegetable oil, for frying
How to Make Chicken Taquitos with Green Salsa
1. Prepare the Green Salsa
Start by making the flavorful green salsa. In a blender, combine the canned tomatillos, fresh coriander, chopped jalapeño, ripe avocado, lime zest and juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth to achieve a vibrant and zesty salsa that perfectly complements the taquitos.
2. Prepare the Chicken Filling
In a mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese with smoked paprika and the zest of a lime. Add the shredded BBQ chicken to the mixture and fold until well combined. This creamy and tangy filling adds a delightful twist to the classic taquitos.
3. Assemble the Taquitos
Lay out the La Banderita Street Tacos and sprinkle grated Manchego cheese over them. Spoon a generous tablespoon of the prepared chicken mixture onto the bottom third of each taco. Roll them into tight cylinders, securing the ends with toothpicks to prevent them from unraveling during frying.
4. Fry the Taquitos
In a large pan, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat for shallow frying. Carefully place the rolled taquitos seam side down into the hot oil, ensuring they are not overcrowded in the pan. Fry them in batches, turning halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides. Once cooked, transfer the taquitos to a plate lined with paper towels to drain off any excess oil.
5. Serve with Green Salsa
Once the taquitos are ready, spoon the vibrant green salsa generously over them. Finish by grating additional Manchego cheese on top for an extra burst of flavor. These delicious chicken taquitos are best enjoyed hot and crispy, served alongside your favorite dipping sauces or fresh salad.
Conclusion
With its tantalizing combination of tender chicken, creamy cheese filling, and zesty green salsa, these chicken taquitos are guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving a tasty snack, whip up a batch of these irresistible treats and watch them disappear in no time. Give this recipe a try today and delight your taste buds with a burst of flavors!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What are taquitos?
Taquitos are a delicious Mexican dish consisting of small tortillas rolled around a filling, typically meat or cheese, and then fried until crispy.
2. Can I use fresh tomatillos instead of canned?
Yes, you can definitely use fresh tomatillos if you prefer. Simply remove the husks, wash them thoroughly, and then proceed with the recipe as directed.
3. Are there any substitutes for Manchego cheese?
While Manchego cheese adds a unique flavor to the taquitos, you can substitute it with other types of cheese such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even mozzarella if desired.
4. Can I bake the taquitos instead of frying them?
Yes, if you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the taquitos in the oven. Simply preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), place the rolled taquitos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for about 15-20 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy.
5. How long can I store leftover taquitos?
Leftover taquitos can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To warm them up again, just pop them in the oven or microwave until heated through.
6. Can I make the green salsa ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the green salsa ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just make sure to give it a good stir before serving to ensure the flavors are well mixed.
These FAQs should address some common queries about making chicken taquitos with green salsa. If you have any additional questions, feel free to ask in comments!