There’s nothing quite like the comforting embrace of a warm taco on a busy weeknight. Imagining tender, shredded chicken wrapped in a crispy tortilla, coated in a velvety creamy sauce, instantly makes my mouth water. I first stumbled upon this delightful twist on classic tacos while looking for a way to use leftovers and elevate a simple meal. The combination of rotisserie chicken, creamy white sauce, and just the right amount of spices is a game changer for my dinner routine—and it can be for yours too!
These Best White Chicken Chili Tacos are not just quick and easy to whip up; they also bring the family together around the dinner table with their irresistible flavor. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just need a reliable, filling option for your loved ones, this recipe won’t disappoint. Perfect for those evenings when you crave something cozy yet surprisingly sophisticated, these tacos redefine comfort food in the best way possible. Let’s dive into making this scrumptious meal!
Why are these the Best White Chicken Chili Tacos?
Comforting Home-Cooked Goodness: These tacos will quickly become your family’s favorite, combining the heartiness of chili with the fun of tacos.
Easy to Make: Using rotisserie chicken and simple ingredients means you can whip this up in no time, perfect for busy weeknights.
Creamy Flavor Explosion: The rich, creamy sauce melds beautifully with tender chicken, tantalizing your taste buds with every bite.
Versatile Perfection: Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings or substitutes, making this dish adaptable to everyone’s preferences.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Great for weeknight dinners or hosting a casual gathering, these tacos are sure to impress family and friends alike!
Best White Chicken Chili Taco Ingredients
These ingredients will help you create the most mouthwatering Best White Chicken Chili Tacos that your family will love!
For the Creamy Sauce
- Sour Cream – Adds richness and creaminess to the sauce; using it at room temperature allows for easy mixing.
- Canned Green Chilis – Brings a mild kick and deep flavor; adjust based on your heat preference.
- Ground Cumin – Infuses an earthy taste; try using freshly ground for extra flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the sauce to the perfect consistency; consider gluten-free flour as a substitute.
- Chili Powder – Elevates the sauce’s flavor; adjust the quantity according to your spice tolerance.
- Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning and enhancing overall flavor.
- Skim Milk & Chicken Broth – Forms the sauce’s base; substitute with whole milk for extra creaminess or vegetable broth for a healthier option.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness to the roux; can be swapped for oil if you need a dairy-free option.
For the Taco Filling
- Shredded Chicken – The main protein; using rotisserie chicken saves time and effort. You can also use cooked, boneless chicken breasts or thighs.
- Frozen Corn – Offers sweetness and adds texture; fresh corn is a great option when in season.
- Green Onions – Introduces freshness to the filling; chives work well as a substitute.
For the Tacos
- Corn Tortillas – The perfect base for your tacos; remember to warm them first to avoid tears. Flour tortillas can be an alternative if desired.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Melts beautifully for that satisfying cheesy pull; feel free to use cheddar or pepper jack for a flavorful twist.
How to Make Best White Chicken Chili Tacos
Preheat the oven to 400°F. This ensures your tacos bake evenly and become deliciously crispy.
Prepare your ingredients by measuring the liquids and chopping the green chilis and onions. Having everything ready will make the cooking process easier and more enjoyable.
Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat, then whisk in the flour to create a light roux. Cook for about one minute until it’s bubbly and slightly golden.
Gradually whisk in the skim milk and chicken broth, mixing until no lumps remain. Once smooth, stir in the sour cream until fully combined for a creamy texture.
Add the ground cumin, green chilis, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Simmer this mixture for about 5 minutes until it thickens, creating a rich sauce.
Combine the shredded chicken, frozen corn, and chopped green onions in a large bowl. Pour the warmed sauce over the mixture and gently toss to coat everything evenly.
Warm the corn tortillas in a skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds per side, or until pliable. This will help prevent tearing when you fill them.
Fill each tortilla with about three tablespoons of the chicken mixture, sprinkle with mozzarella cheese, and carefully fold the tortillas.
Arrange the filled tacos on a baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the tortillas are golden.
Cool briefly before serving, then top with your favorite toppings like salsa or avocado.
Optional: Add a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for an extra burst of flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Best White Chicken Chili Tacos
- Perfect Roux: Ensure you cook the roux long enough to avoid a raw flour taste; a minute should suffice for a nice golden color.
- Smooth Sauce: Add your liquids slowly and whisk continuously to prevent lumps in the creamy sauce; this ensures a velvety texture.
- Tortilla Tips: Warm your corn tortillas in a skillet to make them pliable; this prevents tearing and holds your filling better.
- Fill Smart: Don’t overfill your tacos—about 3 tablespoons of chicken mixture is perfect to prevent spillage during baking.
- Garnish Wisely: Toppings like fresh cilantro, avocado, or salsa elevate these Best White Chicken Chili Tacos, allowing for customization and personal flair.
What to Serve with Creamy White Chicken Chili Tacos?
Creating a full meal around these delightful tacos can elevate your dining experience and satisfy every craving.
Mexican Rice: The fluffy texture and subtle flavors of Mexican rice complement the creamy tacos perfectly, offering a comforting base.
Cilantro Lime Rice: This zesty addition mirrors the fresh notes in the tacos while providing a refreshing kick that brightens the entire meal.
Fresh Garden Salad: Crisp vegetables add a lightness to the meal, balancing the richness of the tacos and enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Guacamole: Creamy and rich, guacamole adds a delicious contrast to the crunchy tacos while providing a healthy dose of avocados.
Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa, made with tomatoes, onions, and cilantro, injects a vibrant burst of flavor, complementing the tacos beautifully.
Black Beans: The hearty texture of black beans adds a protein punch and complements the creamy filling in the tacos, promoting satisfaction.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet and juicy corn on the cob makes for a tantalizing side, enhancing the sweet element in the toppings and balancing flavors.
Churros: End the meal on a sweet note! These cinnamon-sugar coated treats offer a delightful crunch that guests will love after the savory tacos.
Margaritas: For a delightful drink pairing, a classic margarita brings refreshing citrus notes, enhancing the overall dining experience with its tangy flavor.
White Chicken Chili Taco Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own with these delightful twists!
Spicy Swap: Replace mozzarella with pepper jack for an invigorating kick; perfect for heat lovers.
Dump the Chicken: Use cooked diced turkey or tofu for a vegetarian-friendly option—delicious and satisfying.
Bean Boost: Integrate black beans or pinto beans for added texture and protein in the filling; it’s a flavorful twist.
Herb Infusion: Add chopped fresh cilantro or parsley for an aromatic element that brightens each bite.
Veggie Delight: Toss in sautéed bell peppers or zucchini for extra veggies; this enhances both nutrition and flavor.
Creamy Alternatives: Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt for a tangy twist while keeping the creaminess intact.
Tortilla Change-Up: Use whole wheat or spinach tortillas for a nutritious alternative to traditional corn ones; a colorful presentation too!
Crunchy Topping: Consider crushing tortilla chips or adding fried onions on top for an irresistible crunch; fun textures elevate the taco experience!
Storage Tips for Best White Chicken Chili Tacos
Fridge: Store any leftover filling in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Make sure it’s cooled to room temperature before sealing to avoid condensation.
Freezer: The filling can be frozen for up to 3 months. Portion it into freezer bags, squeezing out excess air before sealing for optimal freshness.
Reheating: To reheat, warm the filling on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth if necessary to maintain moisture and freshness.
Taco Assembly: If ready to fill, warm your tortillas briefly before filling to keep them pliable and to prevent tearing, especially when using the creamy sauce in these Best White Chicken Chili Tacos.
Make Ahead Options
These Best White Chicken Chili Tacos are perfect for meal prep, saving you time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the creamy sauce and filling up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them in airtight containers to maintain their freshness. If you want to take it a step further, you can also shred the chicken and mix it with corn and green onions ahead of time. When you’re ready to serve, warm the sauce gently on the stovetop, fill the tortillas, and bake for about 12-15 minutes until bubbly. This way, you’ll enjoy a homemade meal that’s just as delicious and ready in a flash!
Best White Chicken Chili Tacos Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best white chicken chili tacos, choose a ripe avocado (if using as a topping) – it should yield slightly to gentle pressure. When selecting canned green chilis, look for brands with simple ingredients. For onions, choose firm ones without any soft spots or sprouting.
How should I store leftover taco filling?
Store any leftover filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Make sure it is cooled to room temperature before sealing to avoid condensation. If you need longer storage, consider freezing the filling.
Can I freeze the taco filling? How long will it last?
Yes, you can freeze the filling for up to 3 months! Portion it into freezer-safe bags, removing as much air as possible before sealing to maintain freshness. When you’re ready, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating it.
What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
If your sauce turns out too thick, don’t worry! Simply add a splash of chicken broth or milk gradually while stirring over low heat until you achieve the desired consistency. This will help you maintain that creamy texture essential for the best white chicken chili tacos.
Can this recipe be modified for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! If you’re gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. For a dairy-free option, use non-dairy alternatives like coconut milk and a vegan butter substitute. Additionally, you can replace shredded chicken with cooked diced tofu or beans for a vegetarian twist.
Are there any common mistakes to avoid while making these tacos?
Very! One common mistake is not warming the tortillas before filling them. This can lead to tearing during assembly. Make sure to warm them gently in a skillet for about 30 seconds on each side before layering with the filling. Also, avoid overfilling your tacos to prevent spillage when baking. Happy cooking!
Best White Chicken Chili Tacos for Cozy Family Nights
Equipment
- - Saucepan
- - Skillet
- - Baking sheet
- - Measuring cups
- - Measuring spoons
- - Mixing bowl
Ingredients
For the Creamy Sauce
- 1 cup Sour Cream Use at room temperature for easy mixing.
- 1 can Canned Green Chilis Adjust based on heat preference.
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin Use freshly ground for extra flavor.
- 1 tablespoon All-Purpose Flour Consider gluten-free as a substitute.
- 1 tablespoon Chili Powder Adjust quantity based on spice tolerance.
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black Pepper
- 1 cup Skim Milk Substitute with whole milk for extra creaminess.
- 1 cup Chicken Broth Vegetable broth can be used for a healthier option.
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Can be swapped for oil for a dairy-free option.
For the Taco Filling
- 2 cups Shredded Chicken Rotisserie chicken is recommended.
- 1 cup Frozen Corn Fresh corn works well when in season.
- 2 tablespoons Green Onions Chives can be substituted.
For the Tacos
- 8 pieces Corn Tortillas Warm them first to avoid tearing.
- 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Cheddar or pepper jack can be used for variation.
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the oven to 400°F to ensure even baking.
- Prepare ingredients by measuring liquids and chopping green chilis and onions.
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat, whisk in flour.
- Gradually whisk in the skim milk and chicken broth until smooth.
- Stir in sour cream until fully combined.
- Add cumin, green chilis, chili powder, salt and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Combine chicken, corn, and onions in a bowl, pour sauce over and toss.
- Warm tortillas in a skillet for about 30 seconds per side.
- Fill each tortilla with the chicken mixture and sprinkle with mozzarella.
- Arrange on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes.
- Cool briefly before serving and top with your favorite toppings.