If you are on the hunt for a snack that is both indulgently cheesy and wonderfully satisfying, let me introduce you to the Keto Chicken Cheese Taquitos Recipe. This dish takes crispy, golden cheese shells and wraps them lovingly around a spicy, creamy chicken filling, creating bite-sized delights that are perfect for keto diets but loved by everyone. It is a fantastic way to enjoy all the richness of traditional taquitos without any of the carb overload, making it an irresistible treat you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this recipe is simple, yet each one plays a crucial role. From sharp cheddar cheese that crisps up beautifully, to fresh jalapeno that adds a gentle kick, every element contributes to the perfect balance of flavor and texture.
- Chicken Breast (1 cup, cooked and shredded): The hearty protein base that soaks up all the delicious creamy spices.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese (8 ounces shredded or 12 square slices): Provides a crispy and cheesy shell that holds everything together.
- Jalapeno (1, deseeded and minced): Adds just the right touch of heat without overpowering the filling.
- Cream Cheese (1/2 cup, softened): Gives the filling a luscious creaminess that binds the chicken and spices.
- Chives (2 tablespoons, chopped): A fresh flavor punch that brightens the whole dish.
- Kosher Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and balances the spices.
- Shredded Lettuce: For a fresh, crisp garnish that complements the warm taquitos.
- Salsa: Adds zesty moisture and color, perfect for dipping or drizzling.
- Sour Cream: The cool, tangy finishing touch that beautifully contrasts the spice and richness.
How to Make Keto Chicken Cheese Taquitos Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This little setup step is crucial for preventing sticking and makes cleanup a breeze, so don’t skip it!
Step 2: Prepare Filling
In a large bowl, mix the cooked and shredded chicken with softened cream cheese, finely minced jalapeno, chopped chives, and kosher salt. Stir them together until they form a smooth, flavorful filling where every bite bursts with creamy, spicy goodness.
Step 3: Create Cheese Shells
On your prepared baking sheet, carefully form 12 flat squares of shredded cheddar cheese, using about 1/4 cup per square. Leave about an inch of space between each square so they can cook evenly and melt into perfect crispy shells. If needed, use two baking sheets to give them room to breathe when baking.
Step 4: Bake Cheese Shells
Place the cheese squares in the oven and bake them for 9 to 12 minutes. You’ll know they’re done as the edges develop a beautiful golden-brown color and become deliciously crispy. This step is where the magic begins to take shape.
Step 5: Cool Cheese Shells
Remove the baked cheese squares and let them cool for about 3 minutes. They should be cool enough to handle but still pliable enough to roll without cracking. This cooling window is just right for easy assembly.
Step 6: Assemble Taquitos
Spoon the creamy chicken filling onto one edge of each cheese square and gently roll it up towards the opposite edge, forming the classic taquito shape. These rolls hold their shape beautifully thanks to the firm cheese shell, making for an impressive presentation and an irresistible snack.
How to Serve Keto Chicken Cheese Taquitos Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Keto Chicken Cheese Taquitos Recipe experience, add a handful of shredded lettuce on the side for crunch and freshness. A dollop of cool sour cream and a drizzle of vibrant salsa bring bright layers of flavor and texture that perfectly complement the warm, cheesy rolls.
Side Dishes
These taquitos shine as a standalone snack or appetizer, but feel free to pair them with a crisp garden salad or some keto-friendly guacamole to turn it into a satisfying meal. The richness of the taquitos pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides to keep your meal balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your taquitos upright in a mason jar or a narrow glass to showcase their crunchy edges and inviting filling. Adding colorful plates and a variety of dips on the side can turn a simple snack into an exciting sharing platter friends and family will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers, store your taquitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for a quick snack or meal without losing their crunch and flavor.
Freezing
These taquitos freeze wonderfully! Wrap them individually in parchment paper and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They keep well for up to a month and make a perfect fast keto snack whenever you’re short on time.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat your taquitos in a 375°F oven for about 5 to 7 minutes or until they regain their crispy edges. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep that satisfying crunch intact.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of boiling chicken breast?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken makes a fantastic shortcut for this recipe, adding extra flavor and saving you prep time. Just shred it finely for the best texture in your filling.
What cheese works best for the shells?
Sharp cheddar is ideal because it crisps up nicely and has great flavor. However, you can experiment with mozzarella or pepper jack for different tastes and melting qualities.
Are these taquitos suitable for freezing and reheating?
Yes, they freeze beautifully. Just make sure to cool completely before freezing and reheat in the oven for the best texture as microwaving can make them soggy.
Can I make these taquitos spicy?
Definitely! Keep the jalapeno seeds in or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling to turn up the heat to your liking.
What can I serve with Keto Chicken Cheese Taquitos for a full meal?
Pair them with a fresh salad, guacamole, or roasted vegetables for a keto-friendly, well-rounded meal that balances flavors and textures perfectly.
Final Thoughts
Once you make the Keto Chicken Cheese Taquitos Recipe, it’s hard not to fall in love with its crispy, creamy, and flavorful combination. Whether you need an impressive appetizer for guests or a satisfying snack for yourself, this recipe ticks all the boxes. Give it a try and get ready to enjoy your new favorite low-carb treat!
Print
Keto Chicken Cheese Taquitos Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 16 taquitos
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
These Keto Chicken Cheese Taquitos are a low-carb, delicious snack perfect for keto dieters or anyone craving a cheesy, flavorful bite. Made with shredded chicken, cream cheese, jalapeno, and cheddar cheese baked until crispy, these taquitos are wrapped in a crunchy cheese shell instead of tortillas. Ready in just 40 minutes, they are great for parties, snacks, or appetizers.
Ingredients
Filling
- 1 Cup Chicken Breast, cooked and shredded
- 1/2 Cup Cream Cheese, softened
- 1 Jalapeno, deseeded and minced
- 2 Tablespoons Chives, chopped
- 1/2 Teaspoon Kosher Salt
Cheese Shells
- 8 Ounces Sharp Cheddar Cheese, shredded or 12 square slices
Toppings (Optional)
- Shredded Lettuce
- Salsa
- Sour Cream
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Prepare Filling: In a large bowl, combine the cooked and shredded chicken breast with softened cream cheese, minced jalapeno, chopped chives, and kosher salt. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Create Cheese Shells: On the prepared baking sheet, spread out 12 flat squares of shredded cheddar cheese, using about 1/4 cup of cheese per square. Space them about 1 inch apart so they can bake evenly. You might need to use two baking sheets.
- Bake Cheese Shells: Bake the cheese squares in the oven for 9 to 12 minutes, or until the edges begin to brown and crisp up.
- Cool Cheese Shells: Remove the cheese squares from the oven and let them cool for approximately 3 minutes until they are cool enough to handle but still pliable.
- Assemble Taquitos: Spoon the chicken filling onto one edge of each cheese square. Carefully roll the cheese around the filling toward the open edge to form a taquito shape.
- Serve: Serve the keto chicken cheese taquitos warm with optional shredded lettuce, salsa, and sour cream for added flavor and texture. Enjoy this tasty low-carb snack!
Notes
- To cook chicken breast for shredding, boil chicken breasts in water with salt until cooked through (about 15-20 minutes), then shred using forks.
- Be careful not to let cheese cool too long as it will harden and become difficult to roll.
- You can adjust jalapeno amount to control heat level.
- Use parchment paper to prevent cheese from sticking to the baking sheet.
- For extra crispness, serve immediately after assembling.
