Tex-Mex Chicken Tortilla Cups: Quick & Delicious!
Short introduction
Tex-Mex Chicken Tortilla Cups are a delightful and crunchy way to enjoy all your favorite Tex-Mex flavors. These bite-sized treats are not only fun to eat but are also perfect for gatherings and parties. With a mix of shredded chicken, black beans, corn, and cheese, they combine wholesome ingredients into a delicious dish that’s sure to please everyone. Plus, they take just about 30 minutes to make, making them a great choice for a quick weeknight meal!
Why you’ll love it
There are plenty of reasons you’ll fall in love with Tex-Mex Chicken Tortilla Cups. Firstly, they are incredibly flavorful, with a perfect blend of spices and textures. The crispy tortilla cups provide a satisfying crunch, while the rich filling offers a comforting and hearty bite. Not only are they delicious, but they’re also easy to customize based on your preferences. You can add your favorite toppings or adjust the level of spiciness. Additionally, they are a great way to use up leftover chicken, making them both efficient and budget-friendly.
Ingredients
To prepare your Tex-Mex Chicken Tortilla Cups, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 teaspoon taco seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 12 small tortillas
- Oil for brushing
Substitutions & key variations
This recipe is versatile, allowing for various substitutions:
- Chicken: Use shredded rotisserie chicken or any leftover chicken for quick preparation. For a vegetarian option, consider using cooked quinoa or more beans.
- Beans: Swap black beans for pinto beans or kidney beans, depending on your preference.
- Corn: Frozen corn works just as well as fresh corn, or skip it entirely if desired.
- Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, like pepper jack for added spice or a dairy-free cheese for a vegan version.
- Taco seasoning: You can make your own taco seasoning using cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and chili powder if you prefer.
Step-by-step
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare it for baking.
Step 2: Mix the filling
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, salsa, and taco seasoning. Stir everything thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly mixed.
Step 3: Prepare tortillas
Using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass, cut the tortillas into rounds. Press each round into the cups of a muffin tin to form a tortilla cup. Brush the inside of each cup lightly with oil to help them crisp up while baking.
Step 4: Fill the cups
Spoon the chicken mixture into each tortilla cup, filling them generously, and then sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
Step 5: Bake
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the tortilla edges are crispy and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Serve
Once baked, remove the tortilla cups from the tin and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm and enjoy!
Success tips
- Temperature: Preheating the oven is important for achieving crispy tortilla cups.
- Texture: If your cups aren’t crisping as desired, consider baking them a few minutes longer while keeping an eye on them to prevent burning.
- Common mistakes: Avoid overfilling the tortilla cups, as this can lead to soggy tortillas. Make sure to drain and rinse the black beans thoroughly to remove excess liquid.
How to serve
Tex-Mex Chicken Tortilla Cups make a fantastic snack or appetizer for parties. Serve them with extra salsa on the side, guacamole, or sour cream for dipping. They are also great as part of a casual meal alongside a simple salad.
Storage & reheating
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the cups in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. If you’re in a hurry, a microwave can also work, but the texture may not be as crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze Tex-Mex Chicken Tortilla Cups?
Yes! You can freeze the filled tortilla cups before baking. Just make sure to wrap them well, and when ready, bake from frozen (add a few extra minutes to the baking time).
What can I serve with Tex-Mex Chicken Tortilla Cups?
They are perfect on their own or can be served with salsa, guacamole, or a fresh salad for a more complete meal.
How spicy are these tortilla cups?
The spice level depends on the salsa and taco seasoning used. You can adjust the heat by choosing mild salsa and seasoning or adding jalapeños if you prefer more spice.
Can these be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and tortillas, then assemble and bake just before serving.
Nutrition notes / equivalents
These cups provide a balance of protein from the chicken and black beans, carbohydrates from the tortillas, and healthy fats from cheese (or cream toppings, if used). Each cup is a great way to get a variety of nutrients in a single bite.
Conclusion + CTA
Tex-Mex Chicken Tortilla Cups are not just easy to make; they’re also a hit at any gathering or for a casual night in. With their perfect mix of flavors and textures, you can’t go wrong! So, gather the ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this tasty dish.
Want more delicious recipes? Check out our other easy family-friendly dishes that everyone will love!
Links to related recipes
- Spicy Stuffed Bell Peppers
- Cheesy Nachos with Chicken
- Quick Chicken Enchiladas
- Veggie Quesadillas
Tex-Mex Chicken Tortilla Cups
Ingredients
Filling
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 teaspoon taco seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheese
Tortilla Cups
- 12 small tortillas
- Oil for brushing
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, salsa, and taco seasoning. Stir everything thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly mixed.
- Using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass, cut the tortillas into rounds. Press each round into the cups of a muffin tin to form a tortilla cup. Brush the inside of each cup lightly with oil.
Baking
- Spoon the chicken mixture into each tortilla cup, filling them generously, and then sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
- Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the tortilla edges are crispy and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serving
- Once baked, remove the tortilla cups from the tin and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm.