If you’re looking for a delicious, easy-to-make meal that will satisfy both picky eaters and culinary adventurers alike, you’ve come to the right place! These Honey BBQ Slow Cooker Chicken Taquitos are the ultimate blend of savory and sweet, with a crispy exterior that envelops a flavorful chicken filling. Picture tender, barbecue-infused chicken combined with cream cheese and Monterey jack cheese, all rolled into a warm tortilla, baked until golden brown, and served with your favorite dipping sauce. This recipe isn’t just about filling your belly; it’s about creating a dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. Get ready to dive into a crowd-pleaser that will become a staple in your dinner rotation!
Why You’ll Love This Honey BBQ Slow Cooker Chicken Taquitos
These taquitos are everything you could want in a weeknight dinner and more! Here are key benefits that make this recipe a delightful addition to your kitchen:
- Quick and Easy: With a slow cooker, you can prep this meal in minutes and let it do all the work, freeing you to enjoy your evening.
- Perfect for Beginners: Even if you’re new to cooking, this simple recipe with straightforward steps will guide you through the process without any stress.
- Ideal for the Whole Family: With its irresistible taste, there’s a good chance every family member will love it – making it a win for parents!
- Economical: Made with affordable ingredients, this recipe is great for budget-conscious meals without compromising flavor.
- Versatile Serving Styles: Serve it as an appetizer at a party or as a main dish for dinner. The options are endless!
The Necessary Ingredients
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s gather everything you’ll need. Here’s your ingredient list for Honey BBQ Slow Cooker Chicken Taquitos:
- ½ cup ketchup
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 tablespoons molasses
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 4 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup shredded Monterey jack cheese
- ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 18 small whole grain tortillas
- Cooking spray
- Kosher salt
Notes and Substitutions on Ingredients:
- Ketchup: Essential for creating the base of the BBQ sauce, but if you’re looking for a healthier alternative, you can use sugar-free ketchup without sacrificing much on taste.
- Molasses: This sweetener adds depth to the sauce. If you don’t have molasses, maple syrup can work in a pinch, though the flavor will be different.
- Cream Cheese: Contributes creaminess to the filling. If you need a dairy-free option, plant-based cream cheese is now widely available and can easily replace traditional cream cheese.
How to Prepare the Honey BBQ Slow Cooker Chicken Taquitos step by step
Now that you’re equipped with all the necessary ingredients, let’s break down the cooking process into simple steps:
- Make the BBQ Sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the ketchup, honey, molasses, apple cider vinegar, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well blended. This sauce is entirely customizable based on your taste preferences!
- Pro Tip: Feel free to taste the sauce as you mix and adjust any ingredients to suit your palate, whether you prefer it sweeter or spicier!
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker and pour the BBQ sauce over them, making sure each piece is well coated. This ensures that the chicken absorbs all those delicious flavors as it cooks.
- Pro Tip: For added flavor, consider searing the chicken in a skillet for a couple of minutes before putting it in the slow cooker.
- Cook the Chicken: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 3 to 3½ hours or on high for 2 hours. Slow cooking allows the flavors to deepen and the chicken to become ultra-tender.
- Pro Tip: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; your chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Shred the Chicken: After cooking, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. This step allows the chicken to absorb even more flavor when mixed back into the sauce.
- Pro Tip: You can leave the chicken to cool slightly for safe handling, making shredding easier.
- Thicken the Sauce: In the slow cooker, combine cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry. Whisk this into the remaining sauce, then return the shredded chicken to the pot.
- Pro Tip: Be sure to mix the cornstarch completely to avoid any lumps in your sauce.
- Combine Ingredients: Mix in the cream cheese, shredded Monterey jack cheese, and chopped cilantro until everything is well combined. This mixture creates a rich and creamy filling that’s oh-so-satisfying!
- Pro Tip: For extra flavor, sprinkle in some extra spices or cheese to the mixture before rolling it in the tortillas.
- Prepare to Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps the taquitos cook evenly and makes clean-up a breeze.
- Pro Tip: If you want the best texture, make sure your oven is fully preheated before you bake!
- Assemble the Taquitos: Warm the tortillas slightly to make them pliable, fill each with about ¼ cup of the chicken mixture, and roll tightly, placing seam-side down on the baking sheet. Warming the tortillas prevents tearing when rolling!
- Pro Tip: Don’t overfill the tortillas, or you may struggle to roll them up neatly.
- Bake the Taquitos: Spray the taquitos with cooking spray, sprinkle with kosher salt, and bake for 12 to 16 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. This final step gives them that perfect crunch that makes taquitos so enjoyable!
- Pro Tip: For an even crispier taquito, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end of baking.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to enjoying your Honey BBQ Slow Cooker Chicken Taquitos, creativity can elevate the experience! Here are some ideas to inspire your serving suggestions:
Perfect Pairings:
- Dips: Serve with guacamole, salsa, or a tangy ranch dip. These will complement the flavors of the taquitos beautifully.
- Drinks: Pair with a refreshing iced tea or a light beer to balance the sweetness of the BBQ sauce.
Occasions:
- Weeknight Dinner: A quick meal that’s perfect for busy evenings.
- Game Day Snack: These taquitos are a great finger food for any sports event!
Serving Tips:
- Presentation: Arrange the taquitos on a platter and garnish with extra cilantro for a pop of color.
- Family Style: Serve them with all the fixings on the table, allowing everyone to customize their own plates.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers (which may be unlikely, given how good they are!), here’s how to store and reheat them properly:
Refrigerated:
- Store taquitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps retain their flavor and texture.
Freezer:
- For longer storage, you can freeze the taquitos. Lay them flat in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.
Reheating:
- To reheat, place frozen taquitos directly on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. This method will keep them crispy!
Guaranteed Success Tips
To help ensure you get the perfect Honey BBQ Slow Cooker Chicken Taquitos every time, keep these golden rules in mind:
- Don’t Skip the Cornstarch: This is key to thickening your sauce and achieving a great consistency.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cilantro and high-quality cheese make a big difference in flavor.
- Watch the Baking Time: Every oven can vary, so keep an eye on those taquitos to avoid burning.
Recipe Variations
Looking to switch things up? Here are a few inventive variations to try:
- For a spicy version: Add 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the BBQ sauce for an extra kick.
- For a vegan version: Replace chicken with shredded jackfruit or tempeh, and use vegan cream cheese.
- For a cheesy twist: Add ½ cup of crumbled feta or creamy goat cheese to the chicken mixture for a tangy flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add more moisture and flavor, making for an even more delicious taquito.
Q: What can I substitute for honey to make this recipe vegan?
A: Maple syrup or agave nectar are excellent plant-based alternatives for honey.
Q: My taquitos came out soggy. What went wrong?
A: This can happen if there’s too much liquid in the filling. Make sure to thicken the sauce well and avoid overfilling the tortillas.
Q: Is there a gluten-free option for the tortillas?
A: Yes! Look for gluten-free tortillas at your local grocery store, and you’ll be all set.
Q: How do I properly thaw frozen taquitos?
A: It’s best to thaw them overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture, although you can bake directly from frozen if you’re in a pinch.
Q: Can these be made ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble and bake.
Q: Do I have to use a slow cooker for this recipe?
A: While the slow cooker is excellent for shredding chicken, you can also bake or boil the chicken on the stovetop if time doesn’t allow for slow cooking.
It’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking! Embrace the joy of making these Honey BBQ Slow Cooker Chicken Taquitos, and impress your loved ones with your culinary skills. Happy cooking!