By Dr. Leah Alexander | Published on March 6, 2023 | Last Updated on November 25, 2023
Chicos Tacos is a traditional Mexican dish that has gained popularity all around the world. It is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients, making it a great meal for any occasion.
This dish is usually made with beef taquitos, cheese, and jalapenos, giving it an irresistible flavor.
Chicos Tacos is packed with proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals which makes it a nutritious meal.
So, if you’re looking for a flavorful Mexican recipe that everyone will enjoy, this is perfect! Read on to find out more about Chicos Tacos and how to make it at home.
What is Chicos Taco?
As mentioned above, Chicos Tacos is a Mexican dish made with a combination of beef taquitos, tomatoes, cheese, and jalapenos. It’s typically served with sides such as refried beans and Spanish rice.
Initially, this dish was created by Chico’s (A Mexican Restaurant in Los Angeles) in 1993. Since then, it has become a popular meal for many Mexican-American families.
Chicos Tacos are full of flavor and can easily adapt to different diets or preferences. You can also add your own ingredients, like peppers, onions, or mushrooms.
What does it taste like?
The flavor of Chicos Tacos is unique and delicious. The combination of beef, tomatoes, cheese, and jalapenos makes for a tasty combination that will tantalize your taste buds.
Besides, the dish is usually served with sides like refried beans and Spanish rice that add a lovely texture to the tacos.
The jalapenos also give it a nice kick of spiciness, making it even more enjoyable. This is an excellent meal for anyone looking to enjoy an authentic Mexican flavor.
How did I first get introduced to the Chicos Tacos?
I first visited Chicos Tacos back in 2005 when I was visiting Los Angeles. There, I tasted the dish and instantly fell in love with its unique flavor.
Since then, Chicos Tacos has been a family favorite and is often requested during special occasions or gatherings. We also like to make it ourselves at home using the simple ingredients mentioned earlier.
It’s a great way to enjoy a delicious Mexican meal that the whole family will love.
How to make Chicos Tacos?
Making delicious and flavorful Chicos Tacos is easy and quick. Here is the list of ingredients you will need and the complete process of making this healthy and delicious taco.
Ingredients
Large Can of Whole Tomatoes: Whole tomatoes are a key ingredient for making the tomato-based sauce that accompanies Chico’s Tacos. They contribute to the rich and flavorful sauce that is poured over the rolled tacos.
Frozen Beef Taquitos: These are likely the main protein component of the dish. The frozen beef taquitos provide a convenient and pre-seasoned option for the rolled tacos in the Chico’s Tacos recipe.
Cubes of Tomato Base Bouillon: Tomato base bouillon cubes likely serve as a concentrated flavor enhancer for the tomato-based sauce. They provide an easy way to add depth and richness to the sauce.
Cubes Chicken Bouillon: Chicken bouillon cubes may contribute additional savory notes to the sauce. While it might seem unconventional to use chicken bouillon in a tomato-based sauce, it can add complexity and depth to the overall flavor profile.
Jalapenos: Jalapenos add a spicy kick to the dish. They contribute heat and a distinctive flavor, enhancing the overall taste of Chico’s Tacos. The level of spiciness can be adjusted based on personal preference.
Large Bag of Shredded Cheese: Shredded cheese is a classic topping for Chico’s Tacos. It adds a melty, gooey texture and a savory flavor that complements the beef taquitos and the tomato-based sauce.
Gallon of Water: Water is used to create the base for the tomato-based sauce. It is necessary for diluting and combining the bouillon cubes, tomatoes, and other seasonings to form a flavorful sauce.
Salt to Taste: Salt is a fundamental seasoning that enhances the flavors of the dish. Adding salt to taste ensures that the Chico’s Tacos have a well-balanced and seasoned flavor.
Directions
Step 1
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat.
Step 2
When the skillet is hot, add the frozen beef taquitos and cook for about five minutes until they are browned and heated. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3
In a separate pot, bring one gallon of water to a boil. Once boiling, add two cubes of tomato base bouillon, two cubes of chicken bouillon, and a can of whole tomatoes. Bring to a boil again and then reduce heat to low.
Step 4
Add the cooked beef taquitos into the pot with the tomatoes and bouillons. Simmer for 15 minutes on low heat.
Step 5
Once the 15 minutes is up, add in the jalapenos and salt to taste. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes on low heat.
Step 6
Once everything has cooked through, turn off the heat and add the large bag of finely shredded cheese. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
Step 7
Serve the Chicos Tacos with a side of guacamole, sour cream, and your favorite toppings.
Tips
- To make it spicier, you can add more jalapenos or other hot peppers of your choice to the sauce.
- You can also add onion, bell pepper, or any other vegetables of your choice to the sauce.
- If you want a vegan or vegetarian version, replace the beef taquitos with a plant-based alternative.
- You can also add some taco seasoning to the sauce for extra flavor.
Chicos Tacos Recipe
Equipment
- 1 large skillet
- 1 pot
Ingredients
- 1/2 gallon of water serving as the base for the flavorful broth
- Salt to taste enhancing the overall seasoning and bringing out the flavors in the dish
- 1 cube of tomato base bouillon adding a concentrated and savory tomato flavor to the dish
- 1 cube of chicken bouillon enhancing the overall depth and richness of the flavors
- 2-3 jalapenos adding a spicy kick and a burst of vibrant heat to the dish
- 1/2 lb frozen beef taquitos crispy and flavorful, perfect for a delicious appetizer or snack
- 1/2 large bag of shredded cheese melting into a gooey and indulgent layer of cheesy goodness
- 1/2 large can of whole tomatoes providing a rich and vibrant tomato base for the dish
Instructions
- Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat.
- When the skillet is hot, add the frozen beef taquitos and cook for about five minutes until they are browned and heated. Remove from heat and set aside.
- In a separate pot, bring one gallon of water to a boil. Once boiling, add two cubes of tomato base bouillon, two cubes of chicken bouillon, and a can of whole tomatoes. Bring to a boil again and then reduce heat to low.
- Add the cooked beef taquitos into the pot with the tomatoes and bouillons. Simmer for 15 minutes on low heat.
- Once the 15 minutes is up, add in the jalapenos and salt to taste. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes on low heat.
- Once everything has cooked through, turn off the heat and add the large bag of finely shredded cheese. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
- Serve the Chicos Tacos with a side of guacamole, sour cream, and your favorite toppings.
Notes
- To make it spicier, you can add more jalapenos or other hot peppers of your choice to the sauce.
- You can also add onion, bell pepper, or any other vegetables of your choice to the sauce.
- If you want a vegan or vegetarian version, replace the beef taquitos with a plant-based alternative.
- You can also add some taco seasoning to the sauce for extra flavor.
Nutrition Information
Calories: 370
Fat: 14.5g
Carbohydrates: 33.3g
Protein: 22.9g
Fiber: 6.1g
Sugar: 8.7g
What to serve with Chicos Tacos?
Chicos Tacos can be served with various side dishes such as refried beans, Spanish rice, guacamole, and salsa. It also goes well with a simple salad or steamed vegetables. Besides, you can also pair it with a cold beverage like beer, margarita, or sangria.
How to store leftover Chicos Tacos?
If you have any leftovers of Chicos Tacos, let them cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. The tacos should be stored in the refrigerator and consumed within three days. Additionally, you can also freeze the tacos for up to three months.
Can pregnant women eat this?
Yes, pregnant women can eat Chicos Tacos as long as they are cooked properly and the ingredients used are fresh. However, it is best to consult a doctor before consuming any food during pregnancy. Indeed, Chicos Tacos are a great option for pregnant women as it is rich in protein and other essential nutrients.
FAQs
How can I make Chicos Tacos healthier?
You can substitute the beef taquitos for a plant-based alternative, such as tofu or tempeh, and use low-fat cheese. You can also reduce the number of jalapenos used in the recipe and substitute it with a milder pepper such as poblano or bell peppers.
Can I make substitutions for the ingredients?
Yes, you can substitute some of the ingredients if desired. For instance, you can use plant-based alternatives instead of beef taquitos or use low-fat cheese instead of full-fat cheese. Additionally, you can also add vegetables to the tacos to make them more nutritious.
Wrapping Up
Chicos Tacos is a delicious Mexican dish that’s easy to make! It’s packed with flavor and perfect for any occasion. The combination of beef, tomatoes, cheese, and jalapenos makes this dish irresistible.
If you’re looking for a truly authentic Mexican experience, you can’t go wrong with Chicos Tacos! For an added twist, try adding a plant-based alternative or some taco seasoning to the sauce.
So, try making Chicos Tacos for yourself and your family today. You’ll be sure to love the flavor, as well as all of the essential vitamins, minerals, and proteins that it provides.
Make sure to share this recipe with your friends; they’ll thank you later!
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Dr. Leah Alexander, M.D., is a board-certified Pediatrician in New Jersey and has been working at Elizabeth Pediatric Group of New Jersey since 2000.
She also has a passion for culinary arts that extends beyond the medical realm. After completing culinary school at the French Culinary Institute, she started Global Palate, LLC, a catering firm, in 2007. She ran her own six-year-old catering company and served small group parties as an owner and executive chef.
