Tex-Mex Chicken Tortilla Cups: Quick and Tasty Snack
Tex-Mex Chicken Tortilla Cups are delicious and fun bite-sized treats filled with all your favorite Tex-Mex flavors. These little cups are perfect for parties, game day, or even a cozy night in. Not only are they packed with protein and veggies, but they also come together quickly, making them a fantastic option for a speedy meal or appetizer.
Why you’ll love it
There are plenty of reasons to love Tex-Mex Chicken Tortilla Cups. First and foremost, they are simple to make and require only basic ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. These cups are a great way to use leftover chicken, and they are customizable to suit your personal taste. Additionally, they are a hit with both kids and adults, making them a versatile choice for any gathering. The crispy tortillas with a cheesy, savory filling are sure to impress anyone who takes a bite!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 12 small corn tortillas
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
Substitutions & key variations
If you’re looking to mix things up or accommodate dietary restrictions, here are some great substitutions and variations:
- Chicken: You can swap the chicken for ground turkey, beef, or even beans for a vegetarian option.
- Cheese: Feel free to use mozzarella or pepper jack cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Tortillas: If you’re gluten-free, use corn tortillas specifically labeled as gluten-free.
- Salsa: Try different salsas, such as corn salsa or mango salsa, for a sweet twist.
Step-by-step
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will prepare it for the tortilla cups to bake perfectly.
Step 2: Mix the filling
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, shredded cheese, salsa, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed. This will be your tasty filling!
Step 3: Prepare the tortillas
Brush each tortilla lightly with olive oil. This helps them become crispy and golden as they bake. Then, press each tortilla into a muffin tin to create small cups.
Step 4: Fill the cups
Carefully fill each tortilla cup with the chicken mixture, making sure they are packed in well but not overflowing.
Step 5: Bake them
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them until the tortillas are crispy and the cheese is melted.
Step 6: Garnish and serve
Once they’re done, remove the cups from the oven and let them cool slightly. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving to add a fresh touch.
Success tips
- Temperature: Ensure your oven is fully preheated to achieve the right texture.
- Crispiness: If you want extra crispy tortilla cups, bake them for a couple more minutes, but be careful not to burn them.
- Common mistakes: Avoid overfilling the tortillas, as they can become messy and difficult to eat.
How to serve
Tex-Mex Chicken Tortilla Cups are best served warm. They can be enjoyed as a finger food appetizer or paired with a side salad for a light meal. Offer additional toppings like sour cream, guacamole, or extra salsa for dipping.
Storage & reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through. You can also use the microwave, but the oven will keep the tortillas crispier.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the cups in advance. Just bake them right before serving.
Q: Can I freeze Tex-Mex Chicken Tortilla Cups?
A: Yes, you can freeze the assembled cups before baking. Just bake them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Q: What can I serve with these tortilla cups?
A: They pair well with sides like Mexican rice, guacamole, or a fresh salad.
Nutrition notes / equivalents
Tex-Mex Chicken Tortilla Cups are a great source of protein from the chicken and beans, and they contain healthy fats from the olive oil. Adding corn increases the fiber content, making this recipe not only delicious but also nutritious.
Conclusion
Tex-Mex Chicken Tortilla Cups are a fantastic addition to any meal plan or gathering. Their delicious, customizable nature combined with their simplicity makes them a must-try recipe. Get started today and wow your family and friends with this easy and tasty treat!
Links to related recipes
Tex-Mex Chicken Tortilla Cups
Ingredients
For the filling
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded Use leftover chicken for convenience.
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend) Feel free to substitute with mozzarella or pepper jack.
- ½ cup salsa Different varieties can be used for variation.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For brushing the tortillas.
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped cilantro for garnish Adds a fresh touch.
For the tortilla cups
- 12 small corn tortillas Use gluten-free tortillas if needed.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, shredded cheese, salsa, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed.
- Brush each tortilla lightly with olive oil and then press each tortilla into a muffin tin to create small cups.
- Carefully fill each tortilla cup with the chicken mixture, making sure they are packed in well but not overflowing.
Baking
- Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the tortillas are crispy and the cheese is melted.
- Remove the cups from the oven and let them cool slightly. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.