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What is in Southwest chicken taquito?

Southwest chicken taquitos are a popular frozen appetizer sold at grocery stores across the United States. They are made by wrapping spiced shredded chicken and cheese inside a tortilla and then deep frying it until golden brown and crispy. But what exactly are the ingredients that go into making these tasty taquitos? Let’s take a closer look at what’s inside Southwest chicken taquitos.

Chicken

The main ingredient in Southwest chicken taquitos is, not surprisingly, chicken. The specific cut of chicken used can vary between brands, but it is typically either breast meat or thigh meat. Lean breast meat is a common choice because it can be easily shredded and seasoned. Thigh meat provides more fat and flavor. The chicken is cooked, shredded into bite-sized pieces, then seasoned with spices.

Cheese

Cheese is another key ingredient that gives Southwest chicken taquitos their distinctive flavor. Many brands use a Mexican-style shredded cheese blend. This can include cheeses like cheddar, Monterey jack, queso quesadilla, or asadero. The melted cheese acts as a binding agent to hold the taquito together. It also provides a lovely gooey texture and additional creamy, salty flavor.

Tortilla

The chicken and cheese filling are wrapped inside a corn or flour tortilla to create the taquito shape. Corn tortillas have a characteristic cornmeal taste and texture, while flour tortillas are softer and more neutral in flavor. The tortilla is rolled tight and fried or baked until crispy.

Beans

Some brands of Southwest chicken taquitos also incorporate beans into the filling. Refried beans, black beans, or pinto beans add fiber and protein. They also contribute to the hearty Southwestern flair. Beans complement the flavor of the spiced chicken and cheese.

Spices and Seasonings

To give the taquitos their signature Southwest taste, a blend of bold spices and herbs are used. Typical seasonings include garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, chili powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, oregano, and epazote. These spices infuse the chicken with smoky, savory Southwestern flavor.

Preservatives

Since Southwest chicken taquitos are a frozen product meant to have a long shelf life, they contain some preservatives as well. This can include ingredients like sodium phosphate, sodium erythorbate, and sodium nitrite. While not natural, these regulated preservatives keep the taquitos safe to eat for months in the freezer.

Cornmeal Coating

Before frying, the wrapped tortilla is often coated in a layer of cornmeal batter. This batter helps the taquitos achieve an extra crunchy texture. It also enhances the corn flavor from the tortilla. The cornmeal coating contains cornmeal, flour, salt, leavening agents, extractives of paprika, and other spices.

Oil for Frying

To finish off the taquitos, they are fried in oil until golden brown and crispy. Many brands use canola, sunflower, or safflower oil because these have high smoke points. The frying oil gives the taquito its signature fried flavor and texture.

Nutritional Value

Now that we know what goes into Southwest chicken taquitos, let’s look at their nutritional value. The nutrition facts can vary based on specific brands, but on average a single taquito contains:

Nutrient Amount
Calories 180
Fat 11g
Carbohydrates 13g
Protein 8g
Sodium 320mg

As you can see, Southwest chicken taquitos are moderately high in calories, fat, and sodium. This is expected for a fried, spicy appetizer. They also provide protein from the chicken and a quick energy boost from the refined carbs in the tortilla. Overall, they make a tasty snack or appetizer to enjoy in moderation.

Common Allergens

Those with food allergies should be aware that Southwest chicken taquitos contain some common food allergens:

  • Wheat – from flour tortillas and cornmeal coating
  • Milk – from cheese
  • Soy – from vegetable oil

Always carefully read nutrition labels to check for allergens if you have a known food allergy or sensitivity.

Are They Gluten-Free?

Because they are typically made with flour tortillas and cornmeal coating containing wheat, most Southwest chicken taquitos are not gluten-free. However, some brands do offer gluten-free varieties made with corn tortillas and other gluten-free ingredients. If you need a gluten-free option, be sure to search for a certified gluten-free version to avoid wheat exposure.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Since they contain chicken, cheese, and lard, standard Southwest chicken taquitos are not suitable for vegetarians or vegans. However, there are some vegetarian and vegan-friendly versions available. Meatless options may contain soy protein or seitan instead of chicken. Dairy-free alternatives use vegan cheese or omit the cheese. Always check labels carefully if avoiding animal products.

Major Brands and Where to Buy

Some of the major brands manufacturing Southwest chicken taquitos include:

  • Foster Farms
  • José Olé
  • Del Real Foods
  • El Monterey
  • Amy’s (vegetarian/vegan)

You can find Southwest chicken taquitos in the frozen food aisle at most major grocery chains in the U.S. This includes stores like Walmart, Kroger, Safeway, Publix, Albertsons, and more. Many retail stores like Costco, Sam’s Club, and BJ’s Wholesale Club also carry large packs of taquitos. For the biggest selection, check the frozen appetizer and Mexican food sections.

Storage and Shelf Life

Southwest chicken taquitos are meant to be stored frozen until ready to eat. When kept continuously frozen at 0°F or below, unopened packages have a shelf life of around 6 to 12 months. After opening, leftover taquitos can be resealed in the package or placed in airtight freezer bags. They will maintain best quality for about 1 to 2 months in the freezer. For food safety, do not refreeze taquitos after they have been thawed.

Preparation Instructions

Southwest chicken taquitos can be prepared in the oven or air fryer from frozen. Here are some basic instructions for cooking:

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F or preheat air fryer to 400°F.
  2. Cut open bag and place desired number of frozen taquitos on a baking sheet or air fryer basket. Do not thaw before cooking.
  3. Bake for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway. Or air fry for 6-8 minutes, shaking basket occasionally.
  4. Taquitos are done when outer shell is crispy and filling is hot.
  5. Serve immediately with your choice of dipping sauces like salsa, guacamole, or ranch dressing.

Microwaving is not recommended, as it can make the taquitos soggy. For best texture and flavor, always bake or air fry from frozen state.

Food Safety Tips

When handling and consuming Southwest chicken taquitos, follow these basic food safety guidelines:

  • Store in freezer at 0°F or below until ready to eat.
  • Do not thaw and refreeze.
  • Discard any with signs of freezer burn or ice crystals.
  • Cook thoroughly until hot and crispy, at least 165°F internal temperature.
  • Avoid cross contaminating ready-to-eat foods with raw chicken juice.
  • Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours and use within 3-4 days.
  • Reheat leftovers to 165°F before serving again.

Uses and Serving Suggestions

Here are some tasty ways to serve and enjoy Southwest chicken taquitos:

  • Appetizer – Serve with guacamole, salsa, and sour cream for dipping.
  • Meal – Make it a meal by adding sides like Mexican rice and beans.
  • Tacos – Chop up taquitos and stuff in warm tortillas with taco toppings.
  • Salad topper – Crumble on top of taco salads or Southwest chopped salads.
  • Nachos – Chop up and scatter over nachos, then load up with toppings.
  • Quesadillas – Add chopped taquitos to quesadillas with cheese and other fillings.

Southwest chicken taquitos also pair well with dips like hummus, chimichurri sauce, and light sour cream or Greek yogurt. Get creative with different flavor combinations!

Buying and Reheating Tips

To get the best tasting Southwest chicken taquitos:

  • Inspect packaging – Avoid boxes with signs of frost or ice crystals.
  • Check dates – Purchase taquitos with furthest from expiration or best by date.
  • Keep frozen – Until ready to cook, keep taquitos frozen for highest quality.
  • Reheat thoroughly – Cook to hot 165°F temperature when reheating leftovers.
  • Avoid microwaving – Microwaves make the taquitos soggy, bake or air fry instead.
  • Try different brands – Flavors can vary, so sample different brands to find your favorite.

Nutrition Tips

Here are some tips for making Southwest chicken taquitos fit into a healthy diet:

  • Practice portion control – Stick to 1-2 taquitos as a serving.
  • Balance with veggies – Serve with plenty of fresh vegetables to increase fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
  • Watch the salt – Be mindful of sodium intake, as taquitos are high in salt.
  • Enjoy infrequently – Consider taquitos an occasional treat, not an everyday food.
  • Use healthier dips – Choose dips like salsa, guacamole, Greek yogurt to limit added fats.
  • Stay active – Counteract the extra calories by getting regular physical activity.

Common Questions

Are Southwest chicken taquitos healthy?

Southwest chicken taquitos are not particularly healthy, as they are high in sodium, fat, and calories. However, they can be enjoyed as an occasional treat in a balanced diet.

Are Southwest chicken taquitos gluten-free?

Typically no, unless the packaging specifies the taquitos are gluten-free. Most contain wheat from the tortillas and coating.

Can you bake Southwest chicken taquitos?

Yes, baking is a great way to cook frozen taquitos until crispy. Bake at 425°F for 8-10 minutes until the filling is hot.

How long do Southwest chicken taquitos last in the freezer?

Properly stored in the freezer, unopened packages last about 6 to 12 months. Leftover cooked taquitos last 1-2 months in the freezer.

Are there vegetarian Southwest chicken taquitos?

Yes, some brands make veggie taquitos without chicken, using soy protein, seitan, or beans as the filling.

Conclusion

Southwest chicken taquitos make a convenient, indulgent snack or appetizer. They contain flavorful fillings of spiced chicken, cheese, beans, and seasonings wrapped in crispy fried tortillas. While not the healthiest choice, they can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Follow proper storage and food safety practices, and get creative with how you serve these tasty taquitos!