There’s nothing quite like the feeling of crunchy taquitos sizzling in the oven, evoking memories of festive gatherings and cozy nights in. When I first stumbled upon a can of green chiles in my pantry, inspiration struck, and these Green Chile Chickpea Taquitos were born. They promise a delightful dance of flavors, blending the earthiness of chickpeas with the zesty kick of chiles—perfect for those evenings when you crave something more than standard takeout.
As I rolled each tortilla, I couldn’t help but think how easy these are to whip up for weekend snacks or impressive appetizers. They’re packed with plant-based goodness without sacrificing taste! Plus, with customizable toppings ranging from creamy avocado to zesty hot sauce, they are practically a crowd-pleaser. In just 35 minutes, you can enjoy a golden, crispy platter of these bites that are sure to make any meal feel special. Ready to transform your kitchen into a taquito paradise? Let’s get started!
Why are Green Chile Chickpea Taquitos irresistible?
Crispy, perfectly baked and golden, these taquitos have an irresistible crunch that beckons you to take a bite. Flavor-packed, the combination of chickpeas and green chiles creates a delectable filling that bursts with zesty goodness. Customizable toppings allow everyone to personalize their plate, whether they prefer creamy avocado or spicy salsa. Quick to prepare, you can whip these up in just 35 minutes, making them an ideal choice for last-minute gatherings. Plant-based appeal means they fit effortlessly into any diet, showcasing wholesome ingredients without sacrificing flavor.
Green Chile Chickpea Taquitos Ingredients
Get ready to create a delicious and plant-based treat with these must-have ingredients!
For the Taquito Filling
- Chickpeas – a hearty base that adds protein and fiber.
- Green chiles – brings a delightful kick and depth of flavor.
- Vegan cream cheese – ensures a creamy texture without dairy.
- Cilantro – adds a fresh, zesty note; perfect for brightening the dish.
- Taco seasoning – infuses the filling with bold, Mexican-inspired flavors.
For the Taquitos
- Corn tortillas – the essential wrap for your taquito, soft and pliable.
- Avocado oil – use this or any neutral oil for crisping up your tortillas.
For the Jalapeño Ranch Drizzle
- Non-dairy milk – helps create a creamy consistency; almond or oat works great.
- Apple cider vinegar – adds tanginess and lightness to the ranch dressing.
- Vegan mayo – ensures a luscious, creamy base for the ranch.
- Onion powder – enhances flavor with a subtle sweetness.
- Garlic powder – brings a delightful aroma and savory note.
- Dried parsley – adds a hint of freshness to the ranch.
- Dried chives – provide a mild onion flavor and color.
- Salt – season to taste for a balanced flavor profile.
- Chopped cilantro – adds a pop of freshness to the ranch.
- Finely chopped jalapeño – adds a spicy kick to the ranch, perfect for those who love heat!
Optional Toppings
- Shredded lettuce – for crunch and freshness.
- Salsa – provides a burst of flavor and moisture.
- Avocado – creamy goodness that complements the taquitos beautifully.
- Hot sauce – for those who crave extra spice.
- Lime wedges – a squeeze of lime brightens the flavors and adds zing.
Now that you have the Green Chile Chickpea Taquitos ingredients ready, it’s time to roll and bake your way to a crispy delight!
How to Make Green Chile Chickpea Taquitos
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Preheat the oven to 425°F. This step is key to achieving a perfectly crispy texture on your taquitos as they bake.
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Blend the chickpeas, green chiles, vegan cream cheese, cilantro, and taco seasoning in a food processor. Pulse until combined and creamy, ensuring all ingredients are well mixed together.
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Warm the tortillas by placing them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 30-60 seconds. This makes them pliable and easy to roll.
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Brush one side of each tortilla with avocado oil. Flip them over, then add about 2 tablespoons of your delicious filling to the center.
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Roll up the tortilla tightly, placing it seam-side down on the baking sheet with the oiled side facing out. Repeat this process until all tortillas are filled and rolled.
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Bake the taquitos in the preheated oven for 8 minutes. Then, flip them over to ensure evenly crisped exteriors, and bake for an additional 5-8 minutes until they are beautifully golden brown and crunchy.
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Mix the jalapeño ranch by combining the non-dairy milk and apple cider vinegar in a bowl. Allow it to sit for 5 minutes, then stir in the remaining ranch ingredients until combined. Adjust the seasonings according to your taste and chill it in the fridge.
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Serve the hot taquitos on a platter with your choice of optional toppings. Drizzle the jalapeño ranch over them for an extra burst of flavor!
Optional: Add a sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro on top for an extra touch of brightness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Green Chile Chickpea Taquitos Variations
Customize your taquitos to create an exciting experience with each bite, blending flavors and ingredients to suit your cravings!
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free tortillas to enjoy these taquitos while accommodating dietary needs. Make sure to check the ingredients for a completely safe option.
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Spicy Kick: Add more diced jalapeño or a dash of cayenne to the filling for a spicy version that brings the heat. This twist will make your taste buds tingle with every bite!
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Cheesy Delight: Stir in some dairy-free cheese alternatives into the chickpea filling for an even creamier texture and an extra layer of cheesiness. Your guests will love the gooey surprise!
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Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika or chipotle seasoning to the chickpea mixture for a smoky-depth that transforms these taquitos into a whole new flavor adventure.
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Protein Boost: Mix in some cooked quinoa or lentils for an additional boost of protein and texture. This hearty enhancement makes the taquitos even more satisfying!
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Sweet Corn: Toss in some canned corn or grilled corn kernels for a sweet crunch that pairs delightfully with the zesty green chiles, adding a fun contrast to the filling.
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Creamy Avocado: Blend ripe avocado into the filling for an extra creamy texture, adding richness without overwhelming the other flavors. This is a perfect option for avocado lovers!
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Extra Crispy: For maximum crunch, try pan-frying the rolled taquitos in a skillet with a touch of oil before baking them. This method ensures a perfectly crispy finish that adds a delightful texture to each bite.
Make Ahead Options
These Green Chile Chickpea Taquitos are fantastic for meal prep, allowing busy cooks to save time during the week! You can prepare the filling (chickpeas, green chiles, vegan cream cheese, cilantro, and taco seasoning) up to 3 days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. Additionally, you can roll the taquitos and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, covering them tightly with plastic wrap before refrigerating for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, bake them directly from the refrigerator, increasing the cooking time by a few minutes, and enjoy crispy, delicious taquitos with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Green Chile Chickpea Taquitos?
Enhance your taquito experience with these delicious pairings that will make every bite unforgettable.
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Creamy Guacamole:
This rich and creamy dip adds a luscious texture that balances the crispy taquitos perfectly. A zesty squeeze of lime elevates the flavors even further. -
Spicy Black Bean Soup:
A warm, hearty soup that complements the crunch of the taquitos with its smooth texture and robust flavors, making for a delightful contrast. -
Cilantro Lime Rice:
This fragrant side brings a burst of freshness with every forkful. The lime zest adds brightness and pairs beautifully with the savory taquitos. -
Roasted Vegetables:
Oven-roasted bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots add depth and vibrant color to your plate. Their slightly charred sweetness complements the zesty filling perfectly. -
Fresh Garden Salad:
A vibrant mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette adds crunch and freshness that lightens up your meal. -
Spicy Salsa:
A homemade or store-bought salsa brings a burst of flavor and moisture to each crispy bite, perfect for those who crave a kick. -
Chilled Jarritos or Sparkling Water:
For a refreshing beverage, fizzy Jarritos with fruity flavors or plain sparkling water with lime offer a delightful finish to your taquito feast.
Expert Tips for Green Chile Chickpea Taquitos
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Chickpea Prep: Rinse and drain the chickpeas thoroughly to remove excess sodium and enhance flavor. This step ensures your filling is fresh and well-balanced.
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Tortilla Softness: Heat the tortillas enough to make them pliable. Microwaving them in a damp towel is key—avoid drying them out, or they may crack when rolling.
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Seam-Side Down: Always place each rolled taquito seam-side down on the baking sheet. This prevents them from unrolling and helps achieve that perfect crispy exterior.
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Even Baking: To get a uniform crisp, flip the taquitos halfway through baking. This ensures both sides are golden and crunchy—no soggy bites here!
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Customize Fillings: Don’t hesitate to get creative! Add other vegetables or spices to your chickpea mixture to personalize your Green Chile Chickpea Taquitos according to your taste.
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Chill the Ranch: Allow the jalapeño ranch to chill before serving. This not only deepens the flavor but also enhances the overall dining experience!
How to Store and Freeze Green Chile Chickpea Taquitos
Fridge: Keep leftover taquitos in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F to regain their crispiness.
Freezer: Freeze unbaked taquitos individually on a baking sheet, then store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding extra time to crisp them up.
Reheating: Reheat baked taquitos in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.
Assembly Tips: If storing before baking, keep the filling and tortillas separate until you’re ready to bake the Green Chile Chickpea Taquitos for the best texture.
Green Chile Chickpea Taquitos Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe chickpeas?
Absolutely! When using canned chickpeas, all you need to do is ensure they are not expired. Rinsing them under cold water helps remove excess sodium and enhances their flavor. If you prefer using dried chickpeas, soak them overnight and cook until tender. You’ll want them soft enough to mash easily for the perfect filling.
What’s the best way to store leftover taquitos?
Very! Store any leftover Green Chile Chickpea Taquitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes. This restores their signature crispiness, keeping dinner enjoyable even on day two!
Can I freeze Green Chile Chickpea Taquitos?
You bet! To freeze unbaked taquitos, lay them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are not touching. Freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake them directly from frozen at 425°F for an extra 5-10 minutes, allowing a bit more time if you want them extra crispy.
What if my taquitos don’t get crispy?
Not to worry! If your taquitos come out less crispy than desired, make sure you brushed enough oil on the outside before baking. Also, flipping them halfway through helps achieve an even golden color. If they still seem soggy, you can try increasing the baking time slightly, but keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking.
Are these taquitos safe for pets or allergies?
Indeed! This recipe is fully plant-based, making it a good option for many dietary preferences. However, always consult with your vet before introducing new foods to your pet. In terms of allergies, keep in mind allergens like chickpeas and other ingredients like jalapeños or spices. Make sure to check for any specific allergies in your guests before serving!
Can I substitute any ingredients in the taquitos?
Of course! If you’re looking for alternatives, feel free to substitute the vegan cream cheese with blended silken tofu for a lower-fat option. You can also swap out chickpeas for black beans or lentils for a different flavor profile. The beauty of these Green Chile Chickpea Taquitos is their versatility—get creative with what you have on hand!
Crispy Green Chile Chickpea Taquitos You’ll Want Daily
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 425°F. This step is key to achieving a perfectly crispy texture on your taquitos as they bake.
- Blend the chickpeas, green chiles, vegan cream cheese, cilantro, and taco seasoning in a food processor. Pulse until combined and creamy, ensuring all ingredients are well mixed together.
- Warm the tortillas by placing them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 30-60 seconds. This makes them pliable and easy to roll.
- Brush one side of each tortilla with avocado oil. Flip them over, then add about 2 tablespoons of your delicious filling to the center.
- Roll up the tortilla tightly, placing it seam-side down on the baking sheet with the oiled side facing out. Repeat this process until all tortillas are filled and rolled.
- Bake the taquitos in the preheated oven for 8 minutes. Then, flip them over to ensure evenly crisped exteriors, and bake for an additional 5-8 minutes until they are beautifully golden brown and crunchy.
- Mix the jalapeño ranch by combining the non-dairy milk and apple cider vinegar in a bowl. Allow it to sit for 5 minutes, then stir in the remaining ranch ingredients until combined. Adjust the seasonings according to your taste and chill it in the fridge.
- Serve the hot taquitos on a platter with your choice of optional toppings. Drizzle the jalapeño ranch over them for an extra burst of flavor!
