Slow Cooker Chicken Taquitos

There’s something magical about Slow Cooker Chicken Taquitos. Tender, flavorful chicken fills crispy tortillas, creating a satisfying bite that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, game day snacks, or casual gatherings. By letting your slow cooker do the work, you free up your time for things you love—like prepping sides or just relaxing. Let’s dive into how you can whip up these delicious taquitos, packed with flavor, with minimal effort!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This recipe is not only incredibly easy to prepare but also delivers on taste and texture. The combination of shredded chicken, creamy cheese, and zesty green chiles creates a mouthwatering filling that’s simply irresistible. Plus, the crispiness of the taquitos once baked adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft, flavorful filling. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them on a cozy night in, these taquitos are sure to impress.

Ingredients

To create these delicious Slow Cooker Chicken Taquitos, gather the following ingredients:

• 6 boneless skinless chicken thighs
• 8 ounces cream cheese
• 4 ounces canned diced green chiles (1 can)
• ¼ cup green chile enchilada sauce
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 16 soft taco flour tortillas (about 6-inches)
• 2 cups Mexican cheese blend, shredded
• Fresh cilantro, finely chopped (see note)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Salsa for serving
• Guacamole for serving
• Sour cream for serving

How To Make Slow Cooker Chicken Taquitos

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by placing the boneless skinless chicken thighs in your slow cooker. Season with salt and pepper, ensuring the thighs are evenly coated. These seasonings will enhance the flavor of the chicken as it cooks.

Step 2: Add Creamy Ingredients

Next, add the cream cheese, canned diced green chiles, and green chile enchilada sauce directly on top of the chicken. The cream cheese will melt and create a rich, creamy filling as the chicken cooks.

Step 3: Slow Cook

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for about 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should become incredibly tender and easily shred with a fork. Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks and mix it thoroughly with the creamy mixture.

Step 4: Assemble the Taquitos

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. While the oil heats, take a soft taco tortilla and spoon a generous amount of the chicken mixture onto the center. Sprinkle with shredded Mexican cheese blend and a little chopped cilantro if desired. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling and place it seam-side down on a baking sheet.

Step 5: Bake Until Crispy

Once all the taquitos are assembled, brush each one lightly with oil to help them crisp up in the oven. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to ensure they reach your desired level of crunch.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the taquitos hot, accompanied by salsa, guacamole, and sour cream for dipping. You can also top with fresh cilantro for added flavor and color!

Expert Tips

• For extra flavor, marinate your chicken thighs in spices such as cumin or garlic powder before slow cooking.
• Ensure to use a good-quality cream cheese for the best texture in the filling.
• If you prefer a bit of spice, feel free to use spicy green chiles or a spicier enchilada sauce.
• Don’t skip the oil brushing step before baking—this is what makes thosetaquitos perfectly crispy!

Variations and Customizations

• Swap out chicken thighs for shredded rotisserie chicken for an even quicker option.
• Add black beans or corn to the filling for extra texture and flavor.
• Experiment with different cheese blends such as pepper jack for a zesty twist.
• Make them vegetarian by replacing chicken with sautéed bell peppers and mushrooms.

How to Store Leftovers

Leftover taquitos can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Alternatively, you can microwave them, but they may lose some of their crispiness.

FAQ

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Absolutely! While chicken thighs yield a juicier filling, boneless skinless chicken breasts can be substituted. Just keep in mind they may need slightly less cooking time.

How can I make these taquitos gluten-free?

To make them gluten-free, simply substitute the tortillas with gluten-free tortillas. Most brands offer delicious options that will hold up well with the filling.

Can I freeze the taquitos?

Yes! You can freeze the assembled, unbaked taquitos. Just lay them out on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time, as they’ll go from frozen directly to the oven.

What can I serve with taquitos?

Taquitos are delicious on their own, but you can pair them with sides such as Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad. Guacamole, salsa, and sour cream make excellent condiments for dipping as well!

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Chicken Taquitos are a fantastic go-to recipe for busy days and casual gatherings alike. Their creamy, savory filling wrapped in crispy tortillas is sure to become a favorite in your household. With a few simple ingredients and a bit of time in the slow cooker, you can create a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in. So gather your ingredients, fire up your slow cooker, and get ready to savor the wonderful flavors of these delightful taquitos!