Introduction
Keto Green Chile Chicken Taquitos are the perfect low-carb, high-protein option for anyone following a ketogenic or low-carb lifestyle. These taquitos are filled with savory chicken, tangy green chilies, and rich cheese, all wrapped in a crunchy, keto-friendly tortilla. Not only are these taquitos delicious, but they are also versatile and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you are craving a satisfying snack, a hearty lunch, or a fun appetizer for a gathering, these Keto Green Chile Chicken Taquitos are the answer.
In this recipe, we’ll cover everything from the ingredients and step-by-step instructions to nutritional information and tips for making the taquitos even more delicious. By the end of this guide, you’ll have all the tools you need to create a mouthwatering, keto-friendly meal that satisfies your cravings while keeping you on track with your health goals.
Ingredients (Makes 12 Taquitos)
To make Keto Green Chile Chicken Taquitos, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Filling:
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken breast (about 2 medium-sized chicken breasts)
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies, drained
- 1/2 cup full-fat cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican cheese blend)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional for garnish)
For the Taquito Shells:
- 6 large keto-friendly tortillas (such as those made from almond flour or coconut flour)
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil (for brushing)
Optional Dipping Sauce:
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Filling
To start, you need to cook and shred the chicken. If you haven’t already done so, season 2 medium-sized chicken breasts with salt and pepper, and cook them using your preferred method (grilling, pan-frying, or baking). Once cooked through (an internal temperature of 165°F), let the chicken cool slightly before shredding it with two forks or using a stand mixer for quicker results. Aim for about 2 cups of shredded chicken.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the following ingredients:
- 1 can of drained diced green chilies
- 1/2 cup of softened cream cheese
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1 tablespoon of lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Stir everything together until all the ingredients are well combined, creating a creamy and flavorful filling. This mixture will be the heart of your taquitos, and the combination of the cream cheese, green chilies, and spices gives it a rich, tangy, and savory flavor profile.
Step 2: Prepare the Taquito Shells
While you prepare the chicken filling, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
If you’re using keto-friendly tortillas that are a bit thicker or fragile, you may want to soften them slightly by warming them up. To do this, heat a skillet over medium heat and warm each tortilla for about 20-30 seconds per side. This step makes them more pliable and easier to roll. If you’re using almond flour tortillas, be cautious, as they may crack more easily than traditional flour tortillas.
After warming, brush a small amount of olive oil or avocado oil on both sides of each tortilla. This will help them crisp up beautifully while baking and enhance the flavor.
Step 3: Roll the Taquitos
Once the tortillas are prepared and the filling is ready, it’s time to assemble the taquitos. Take one tortilla and place about 2 tablespoons of the chicken filling along the center. Be sure not to overfill the tortillas, as they need to roll up tightly without spilling out.
Carefully roll up the tortilla around the filling, securing it tightly so the edges meet. Place the rolled taquito seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and filling until all the taquitos are assembled.
Step 4: Bake the Taquitos
Once all the taquitos are rolled, brush the tops of the taquitos with a little more oil. This will ensure they bake up crispy and golden. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the taquitos are golden brown and crispy. If you want extra crispiness, you can broil them for the last 1-2 minutes of baking, but keep a close eye on them to avoid burning.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the taquitos are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a minute or two before serving. These taquitos are perfect on their own, but for an extra touch of flavor, serve them with a side of sour cream, salsa, or guacamole. If desired, garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of color and freshness.
Optional Dipping Sauce:
If you’d like a creamy dipping sauce to accompany your taquitos, mix 1/2 cup of sour cream with 2 tablespoons of fresh lime juice and a pinch of garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well and serve alongside the taquitos for an extra creamy bite.
Nutritional Information (Per Taquito)
These Keto Green Chile Chicken Taquitos are a satisfying and low-carb option for your meals. Here’s the nutritional breakdown for one taquito (without dipping sauce):
- Calories: 204 kcal
- Protein: 15g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 2g
- Net Carbs: 1g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Cholesterol: 50mg
The recipe makes 12 taquitos, so the nutritional values will change based on the number you eat. These values are approximate and based on using almond flour tortillas.
SmartPoints (WW Points)
For those following Weight Watchers, the points for these taquitos are calculated using the SmartPoints system. One taquito is approximately:
- SmartPoints (Green): 4 points
- SmartPoints (Blue): 3 points
- SmartPoints (Purple): 2 points
The exact points may vary depending on the specific ingredients used, particularly the type of tortilla. By using a lower-calorie tortilla, you can reduce the SmartPoints even further.
Tips for Making Perfect Keto Green Chile Chicken Taquitos
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: To save time, you can use store-bought rotisserie chicken. Just shred it and add it to the filling mixture. This option is both convenient and delicious.
- Make it Spicy: If you like your food a bit spicier, you can add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the chicken filling for an added kick.
- Store Leftovers: These taquitos can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They are also freezer-friendly, so you can prepare them in advance. After baking, let the taquitos cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 375°F for about 15 minutes or until heated through.
- Swap the Cheese: If you’re not a fan of cheddar cheese, feel free to swap it out for another type of cheese, such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a slightly different flavor.
- Low-Carb Tortillas: You can find a variety of keto-friendly tortillas made from almond flour, coconut flour, or flaxseed meal. Some are even available at mainstream grocery stores, so be sure to check the nutrition labels to ensure they align with your low-carb goals.
Why You’ll Love These Keto Green Chile Chicken Taquitos
These Keto Green Chile Chicken Taquitos are not only delicious but also meet several key nutritional needs for those following a low-carb or keto lifestyle. They are low in carbs, high in protein, and offer healthy fats, making them the perfect choice for a quick meal or snack. Plus, they are versatile enough to be enjoyed by everyone, whether or not they follow a specific diet.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving a satisfying keto-friendly treat, these taquitos will quickly become a staple in your recipe collection. Their crispy texture, combined with the creamy and flavorful chicken filling, makes them irresistible.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Keto Green Chile Chicken Taquitos are a great way to enjoy the classic flavors of taquitos while sticking to your low-carb and keto lifestyle. The simple ingredients, straightforward preparation, and delicious results make these taquitos an easy choice for meal planning or a fun, tasty appetizer. With just a few modifications, you can adjust this recipe to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Try them today, and enjoy a crispy, cheesy, and flavorful treat without the carbs!