Looking for a snack that truly delivers on flavor and fun? These homemade RO*TEL & Chicken Taquitos with RO*TEL Salsa are an absolute game-changer. Whether you’re hosting a lively game day gathering, planning an unforgettable party appetizer spread, or simply seeking a quick and delicious weeknight meal solution, these crispy, cheesy, and spicy taquitos hit all the right notes. They’re incredibly easy to prepare, making them a fantastic go-to recipe for any occasion.

Sizzling RO*TEL & Chicken Taquitos with Zesty RO*TEL Salsa

This recipe brings together the zesty kick of RO*TEL Diced Tomatoes with the comforting flavors of chicken and cheese, all wrapped in a crispy tortilla shell. We’re excited to share this family favorite that perfectly embodies the vibrant spirit of Southwest-inspired cuisine. Its versatility and straightforward preparation make it a staple in our kitchen, and we’re sure it will become one in yours too!

The Magic of RO*TEL: A Pantry Staple for Flavorful Dishes

If you’re passionate about adding a bold, zesty flavor to your cooking, then you’re likely already familiar with the incredible versatility of RO*TEL diced tomatoes. For those of us who live in regions where vibrant, Mexican-inspired flavors are a part of everyday life, RO*TEL is more than just an ingredient; it’s a culinary secret weapon. It instantly infuses dishes with a unique blend of diced tomatoes and zesty green chilies, transforming ordinary meals into something extraordinary.

I always make sure to have several cans of RO*TEL in my pantry, ready to elevate any recipe. While RO*TEL now offers a variety of exciting flavors, the “Original” remains my personal favorite for its classic, balanced heat and tang. It’s incredibly convenient to find at local supermarkets, typically located right alongside other canned tomatoes. Given how frequently I incorporate it into my cooking, I often opt for the multi-pack to ensure I’m always stocked up.

RO*TEL’s application extends far beyond just these taquitos. It’s a cornerstone for quick and flavorful salsas, the essential ingredient for an irresistible queso dip, and a fantastic addition to enhance homemade guacamole when you’re short on time but refuse to compromise on taste. Its ability to effortlessly spice up dinner or turn a simple snack into a festive treat makes it an indispensable part of my cooking repertoire. For this recipe, RO*TEL plays a dual role: providing the foundational zest for our vibrant salsa and adding a subtle depth of flavor to the chicken filling itself.

Why You’ll Adore These RO*TEL Chicken Taquitos

These aren’t just any taquitos; they’re the kind of dish that disappears quickly from any party platter and leaves everyone asking for the recipe. Here’s why they’re destined to become your new favorite:

• Unbeatable Flavor Combination: The creamy, savory chicken and Monterey Jack cheese filling is perfectly balanced by the zesty kick of RO*TEL. Paired with the fresh, bright homemade RO*TEL salsa, every bite is an explosion of Tex-Mex deliciousness.
• Crispy Perfection: Baked until golden brown and wonderfully crisp, these taquitos offer that satisfying crunch without the need for deep frying, making them a lighter option without sacrificing texture.
• Effortlessly Easy: From prep to plate, this recipe is designed for simplicity. Using pre-cooked shredded chicken significantly cuts down on preparation time, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining.
• Customizable Comfort Food: While we prefer flour tortillas for their soft rollability and even crisping, these taquitos are equally delicious with corn tortillas for a more traditional flavor profile. You can also adjust the spice level by choosing your preferred RO*TEL variety.
• Crowd-Pleasing Appetizer: Whether it’s the excitement of the “Big Tournament,” a casual family get-together, or a summer barbecue, these taquitos are guaranteed to be a hit with guests of all ages. They’re easy to eat, fun to dip, and universally loved.

Gathering Your Ingredients for Tex-Mex Perfection

Creating these tantalizing RO*TEL Chicken Taquitos and the accompanying salsa requires a few simple, accessible ingredients. We’ll break down what you need for both components, ensuring you have everything ready for a seamless cooking experience.

For the Zesty RO*TEL Salsa:

• 1 can RO*TEL brand diced tomatoes (10 oz.), undrained: This is the heart of our salsa, providing both the tomato base and the signature green chili kick.
• 3 tablespoons chopped onion: Adds a sharp, fresh bite to the salsa.
• 1 clove garlic, minced: Essential for a deep, aromatic flavor.
• Pinch of sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomatoes and enhances overall flavor.
• Pinch of salt: To taste, bringing out the best in all ingredients.
• Pinch of ground cumin: Adds an earthy, warm spice that is characteristic of Mexican cuisine.
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro: Provides a bright, herbaceous freshness that is crucial for good salsa.
• 2-3 tablespoons fresh lime juice: The key to a vibrant, zesty finish, adding essential acidity.

For the Crispy Chicken Taquitos:

• 12 fajita-size flour tortillas, warmed: Flour tortillas provide a pliable base that rolls easily and crisps up beautifully when baked. Warmed tortillas are less likely to crack.
• 2 cups shredded chicken: Pre-cooked and shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works wonderfully!) makes this recipe incredibly fast.
• 4 oz. cream cheese, softened: This is the secret to a creamy, rich filling that binds everything together. Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
• 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded: Melts beautifully and adds a mild, creamy flavor that complements the chicken and RO*TEL.
• 1 can RO*TEL brand Diced Tomatoes (10 oz.), drained: Draining the tomatoes here is important to prevent the filling from becoming watery. This adds a fantastic burst of flavor within the taquitos.
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil: For brushing the taquitos before baking, ensuring a golden, crispy exterior.
• Salt, optional: A light sprinkle of salt on the exterior enhances the crispness and flavor.
• RO*TEL Salsa (recipe included) or guacamole, for serving (optional): The perfect accompaniments for dipping!

Crafting Your RO*TEL Chicken Taquitos: Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these straightforward steps to create a batch of these irresistible RO*TEL & Chicken Taquitos and their essential zesty salsa.

Step 1: Prepare the Zesty RO*TEL Salsa

1. Combine Ingredients: Place all the salsa ingredients (undrained RO*TEL diced tomatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, sugar, salt, ground cumin, cilantro, and lime juice) into the bowl of a food processor.
2. Pulse to Desired Consistency: Secure the lid and pulse 10-15 times, or until the salsa reaches your preferred consistency. Some prefer a chunkier salsa, while others like it smoother.
3. Taste and Adjust: Using a clean spoon, taste the salsa and adjust seasonings as needed. You might want a little more salt, lime, or cumin.
4. Chill: For the best flavor, transfer the salsa to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least a few hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Overnight is even better!

Step 2: Assemble and Bake the Crispy Taquitos

1. Preheat Oven & Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a 15×11-inch baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Filling: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, and the *drained* can of RO*TEL Diced Tomatoes. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated and the mixture is creamy.
3. Fill the Tortillas: Take one warmed fajita-size flour tortilla. Spoon 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto one end of the tortilla.
4. Roll the Taquitos: Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling, starting from the filled end. Place the rolled taquito seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. This helps prevent them from unrolling during baking.
5. Repeat & Arrange: Continue this process with the remaining tortillas and filling, ensuring the taquitos are not touching each other on the baking sheet to allow for even crisping.
6. Brush and Season: Lightly brush the tops and sides of each taquito with vegetable oil. This is crucial for achieving that desirable golden-brown and crispy texture. If desired, sprinkle a pinch of salt over them.
7. Bake to Perfection: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the taquitos are gloriously crisp and golden brown. Keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes to avoid over-browning.
8. Serve Hot: Remove from the oven and serve immediately while hot, alongside your freshly made RO*TEL salsa or a dollop of creamy homemade guacamole. Enjoy!

Tips for Taquito Perfection

• Warm Your Tortillas: This is a crucial step! Warming flour tortillas in the microwave for 15-20 seconds (covered with a damp paper towel) or quickly in a dry skillet makes them much more pliable and prevents cracking when rolling.
• Don’t Overfill: While it’s tempting to load them up, overfilling can cause the taquitos to burst or make them difficult to roll tightly. 2-3 tablespoons is usually perfect for fajita-sized tortillas.
• Roll Them Tight: A tight roll ensures the filling stays in place and the taquito holds its shape, leading to a crisper result.
• Seam-Side Down: Always place your taquitos seam-side down on the baking sheet. This acts as a natural seal and prevents them from unraveling while baking.
• Brush with Oil: Don’t skip brushing with oil! This is key to achieving that beautiful golden color and crispy texture without deep-frying.
• Pre-Cooked Chicken is Your Friend: Using leftover cooked chicken, rotisserie chicken, or quick-boiled and shredded chicken will save you significant time.

Serving Suggestions and Delicious Variations

While these RO*TEL Chicken Taquitos are fantastic on their own with the accompanying salsa, there are countless ways to customize and serve them to suit any palate or occasion.

Beyond the Salsa:

• Guacamole or Avocado Cream: A dollop of creamy guacamole or a simple avocado cream sauce (blended avocado, sour cream/yogurt, lime juice, salt) adds a cooling contrast.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A classic pairing that adds a cool, tangy element.
• Pico de Gallo: For an extra fresh burst of flavor and texture.
• Queso Dip: For the ultimate cheesy indulgence, serve with a warm bowl of queso.
• Fresh Herbs: Garnish with extra chopped cilantro or a sprinkle of green onions for color and freshness.

Creative Filling Variations:

• Spicier Kick: Use Hot RO*TEL Diced Tomatoes for both the filling and salsa, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken mixture.
• Bean & Corn: Mix in black beans and corn for added texture and nutrients.
• Different Cheeses: Experiment with Pepper Jack for more heat, Colby Jack for a milder flavor, or a Mexican blend.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with seasoned black beans, corn, and bell peppers for a delightful vegetarian alternative.
• Pork or Beef: Leftover shredded pork or ground beef seasoned with taco spices would also make a delicious filling.

Make Ahead and Storage for Convenience

These taquitos are perfect for meal prep or preparing in advance for a party, making them even more convenient.

• To Make Ahead: Assemble the taquitos as directed, but do not bake. Place them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 2-3 months. When ready to bake, place frozen taquitos on a baking sheet, brush with oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
• Storage: Leftover baked taquitos can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat leftover taquitos in a preheated oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until crispy and warm. Microwaving is not recommended as it can make them soggy.

Servings:

12
servings

RO*TEL & Chicken Taquitos with RO*TEL Salsa

By
Jamie Sherman

These RO*TEL & Chicken Taquitos make a great game day snack or party appetizer! They’re also easy enough to whip up for a quick weeknight meal!

Prep:

15
mins

Cook:

30
mins

Total:

45
mins

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Ingredients

For the salsa

• 1 can RO*TEL brand diced tomatoes, undrained, 10 oz.
• 3 tablespoons chopped onion
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Pinch sugar
• Pinch salt
• Pinch ground cumin
• ¼ cup cilantro
• 2 – 3 tablespoons lime juice

For the taquitos

• 12 fajita-size flour tortillas, warmed
• 2 cups shredded chicken
• 4 oz. cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
• 1 can RO*TEL brand Diced Tomatoes, drained, 10 oz.
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Salt, optional
• RO*TEL Salsa, recipe included or guacamole, for serving (optional)

Instructions

• For the salsa: (It is best if prepared a few hours in advance)
• Place all of the salsa ingredients in the bowl of a food processor. Cover and pulse 10-15 times or until the salsa is the desired consistency. Taste the salsa with a clean spoon and adjust seasonings if necessary.
• Refrigerate until serving time.

For the taquitos:

• Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a 15×11-inch baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
• In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, and drained RO*TEL until thoroughly combined. Spoon 2-3 tbsp. of the chicken mixture onto each warmed tortilla. Roll the tortilla around the filling as tight as you can. Place seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling. Make sure the taquitos are not touching. Lightly brush each taquito with vegetable oil. Sprinkle with salt, if desired.
• Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the taquitos are crisp and golden brown.
• Serve hot with salsa or guacamole.

Notes

• Use whichever spice level of Rotel you prefer (mild, original, hot).
• For an even crispier result, you can lightly spray the taquitos with cooking spray before baking.

Nutrition

Calories: 275kcal,
Carbohydrates: 27g,
Protein: 13g,
Fat: 13g,
Saturated Fat: 6g,
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g,
Monounsaturated Fat: 3g,
Trans Fat: 0.01g,
Cholesterol: 35mg,
Sodium: 457mg,
Potassium: 270mg,
Fiber: 2g,
Sugar: 4g,
Vitamin A: 313IU,
Vitamin C: 7mg,
Calcium: 174mg,
Iron: 3mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Explore More Appetizer Delights

If you loved these RO*TEL & Chicken Taquitos, you’re in for a treat! The world of taquitos is vast and delicious. Here are a few other popular recipes you might enjoy exploring for your next gathering:

• Philly Cheesesteak Taquitos: A fusion favorite that brings classic American flavors into a crispy, dippable form.
• Jalapeno Popper Taquitos: All the creamy, spicy goodness of jalapeno poppers, wrapped in a tortilla.
• Spicy Jalapeno Taquitos with Cilantro Lime Cream Sauce: For those who crave an extra kick, these spicy taquitos are perfectly complemented by a refreshing cilantro lime cream.

We hope you enjoy making and sharing these sensational RO*TEL & Chicken Taquitos as much as we do. They truly are the perfect blend of simplicity, flavor, and crowd-pleasing appeal. Don’t forget to grab your cans of RO*TEL during your next shopping trip to ensure your pantry is ready for any culinary adventure.

What are your favorite recipes using RO*TEL? Share your ideas in the comments below – we’d love to hear from you!