Step-by-step instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, macaroni and cheese, hot sauce, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
3. Take a tortilla and spoon a few tablespoons of the chicken and mac ‘n’ cheese mixture onto it, then roll it tightly.
4. Place each taquito, seam side down, on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Spray the taquitos lightly with cooking spray and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
6. Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the taquitos are golden, crispy, and the cheese is melted.
7. Pull them from the oven and sprinkle with chopped cilantro before serving.

Enjoy these scrumptious taquitos right from the oven!

Best ways to enjoy it

These Spicy Chicken and Mac ‘n’ Cheese Taquitos are best served hot and crispy, alongside your favorite dipping sauces. Consider pairing them with creamy guacamole, zesty salsa, or a cool ranch dressing. You could even whip up a simple salad for a fulfilling meal, or enjoy them as an appetizer at your next gathering.

Storage and reheating tips

If you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare, but possible!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’d like to save them for longer, you can freeze the uncooked taquitos. Just wrap them tightly in foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag; they’ll keep well for up to a month. When ready to enjoy, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Helpful cooking tips

• If you’re short on time, consider using store-bought rotisserie chicken for a quick chicken base.
• Add diced jalapeños or other veggies to the filling for an extra crunch and flavor explosion.
• Ensure you don’t overfill the tortillas to prevent them from bursting during baking.

Creative twists

Feeling adventurous? Here are a few variations to try:

• Swap the macaroni and cheese for different pasta dishes—like creamy alfredo or baked ziti filling.
• For a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with black beans and add some sautéed peppers.
• Experiment with flavored tortillas, such as spinach or whole wheat for a nutritious twist.

Common questions

What is the prep time for this recipe?

This dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare, and the cooking time in the oven is around 15-20 minutes.

Can I make these taquitos ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble them in advance and either refrigerate or freeze them before baking.

What dips go well with these taquitos?

They pair excellently with salsa, guacamole, or a creamy dipping sauce like ranch or blue cheese.

Now that you’ve got the scoop on making Spicy Chicken and Mac ‘n’ Cheese Taquitos, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and savor this delicious dish! Enjoy the joy of cooking and the delight of sharing this fantastic recipe with friends and family.