Name: Best White Chicken Chili Tacos for Cozy Weeknight Dinners
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Shredded Chicken (using rotisserie chicken); 1 cup Frozen Corn; 3 tablespoons Green Onions (chopped); 1 cup Sour Cream (room temperature); 1 can Green Chilis (chopped); 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin (freshly ground recommended); 1 tablespoon Chili Powder; 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (or olive oil); 2 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour; 1 cup Skim Milk (or full-fat for richness); 1 cup Chicken Broth (homemade for extra depth); 8 pieces Corn Tortillas (warmed); 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (or Monterey Jack or cheddar)

“Who knew a busy weeknight dinner could spark such joy in the kitchen?” That’s what I thought as I mixed together the ingredients for these Best White Chicken Chili Tacos. They’re more than just your average taco—they’re a family-friendly feast that reflects the warmth of cozy home-cooked meals. With a comforting creamy filling made from tender chicken, sweet corn, and zesty green chilis, these tacos come together in no time, harnessing the magic of pantry staples and leftover rotisserie chicken. Whether you’re juggling work, kids, or just need a quick dinner option, this recipe is designed to make your life easier without sacrificing flavor. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s turn your kitchen into a flavor-packed haven with this delightful taco adventure! Want to discover how to make the perfect creamy tacos?

Why are These Tacos a Must-Try?

Quick and Easy: The beauty of these tacos lies in their speed! With minimal prep time, you’ll have a satisfying meal on the table in just over 30 minutes.

Family-Friendly: Designed to please even the pickiest eaters, these tacos are a hit with kids and adults alike. Plus, the use of pantry staples means you can whip them up anytime.

Versatile Ingredients: Whether you have leftover rotisserie chicken or prefer to bake your chicken from scratch, the choice is yours, catering to your schedule and grocery needs.

Creamy, Comforting Flavor: Rich, savory flavors come from combining sour cream, green chilis, and spices—offering a deliciously warm experience reminiscent of your favorite cozy chili.

Perfect for Leftovers: Double the batch and enjoy the filling throughout the week! You can try these with rice or in a taco salad. Plus, if you’re in the mood for something different, check out my Chili Every Week for a comforting alternative!

Best White Chicken Chili Taco Ingredients

Unlock the secret to mouthwatering tacos with these essential ingredients!

For the Filling
• Shredded Chicken – tender and flavorful, using rotisserie chicken adds convenience.
• Frozen Corn – adds sweetness and texture; fresh corn can be a delightful alternative.
• Green Onions – offers a fresh crunch; regular onions can stand in if needed.
• Sour Cream – provides creaminess to the sauce; make sure it’s at room temperature for smooth blending.
• Green Chilis – delivers a mild kick; substitute with jalapeños for extra heat.
• Ground Cumin – imparts earthy warmth; use freshly ground for best results.
• Chili Powder – deepens the flavor; tweak the amount to suit your spice preference.

For the Sauce
• Unsalted Butter – adds richness and creates a roux; olive oil is a fitting substitute.
• All-Purpose Flour – thickens the sauce beautifully; King Arthur brand is recommended.
• Skim Milk – creates a creamy consistency; full-fat milk can enhance richness.
• Chicken Broth – enhances the flavor foundation for the sauce; homemade broth brings extra depth.

For Assembly
• Corn Tortillas – essential for wrapping; be sure to warm them for easy folding.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – melts perfectly for that creamy texture; swap for Monterey Jack or cheddar if desired.

Now that you have all the ingredients for the Best White Chicken Chili Tacos, you’re one step closer to a delicious meal that will please the whole family!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Best White Chicken Chili Tacos

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven warms up, gather and prepare all your ingredients—this makes cooking smooth and efficient. Chop the green onions, shred the chicken if needed, and set aside the frozen corn. Having everything ready ensures your Best White Chicken Chili Tacos come together seamlessly.

Step 2: Make the Roux
In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, stirring continuously for about one minute until you form a smooth roux. This step is crucial for creating a rich, creamy base, so take your time to ensure it’s well-combined and slightly golden.

Step 3: Add Liquid Ingredients
Gradually pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and 1 cup of skim milk into the roux, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, and add 1 cup of room temperature sour cream, stirring until fully blended. The mixture should be creamy and slightly thickened, creating a delicious sauce for your tacos.

Step 4: Spice it Up
Stir in 1 can of chopped green chilis, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1 tablespoon of chili powder, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken further. You’ll know it’s ready when it coats the back of a spoon.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Corn
In a large bowl, mix together 2 cups of shredded chicken and 1 cup of frozen corn. Pour the warm sauce over the mixture, stirring well to combine. Ensure the chicken and corn are evenly coated with the creamy sauce to guarantee that every bite of your Best White Chicken Chili Tacos will burst with flavor.

Step 6: Warm the Tortillas
Heat a dry skillet over medium heat, and lightly warm the corn tortillas for about 20-30 seconds on each side. This step makes the tortillas pliable and prevents them from tearing when you fill them. Keep them warm in a towel as you prepare to fill them with the delicious taco mixture.

Step 7: Fill the Tacos
Spoon about 3 tablespoons of the creamy chicken filling into the center of each tortilla. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the filling, enhancing the creamy, cheesy goodness. Carefully fold the tacos in half, pressing gently to secure the filling inside without overstuffing.

Step 8: Bake the Tacos
Transfer the filled tacos to a parchment-lined baking sheet, placing them seam-side down. Bake in your preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the edges of the tortillas are golden and crisp. Your kitchen will smell heavenly as your Best White Chicken Chili Tacos bake to perfection.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the tacos from the oven and allow them to cool for a minute before serving. Serve them warm with your favorite toppings, like diced avocado, fresh cilantro, or salsa. These delightful tacos are sure to bring joy to your table, turning any weeknight dinner into a cozy feast.

Best White Chicken Chili Tacos Variations

Feel free to get creative and tailor these tacos to your family’s taste!

Turkey or Beef: Swap the chicken for shredded turkey or ground beef for a new flavor twist. Each protein brings its unique charm!
Vegetarian Option: Use black beans or chickpeas instead of chicken to craft a hearty vegetarian filling that’s equally delicious and satisfying.
Spice It Up: For those craving heat, toss in some diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper to the filling. Feel the warmth and enjoy that fiery kick!
Extra Veggies: Added nutrition is a breeze! Toss in chopped bell peppers or spinach for a colorful, healthy boost to the filling. You’ll love the freshness!
Cheese Variations: Swap out mozzarella for a sharper cheddar or creamy pepper jack for a flavor explosion that’s sure to impress your taste buds.
Tortilla Swap: Use flour tortillas instead of corn for a softer texture, or try lettuce wraps for a low-carb, fresh twist that is still packed with flavor.
DIY Toppings: Mix up the traditional toppings! Consider fresh avocado, crumbled feta, or a drizzle of cilantro-lime crema for a zesty touch.

As you experiment, don’t forget to check out my comforting recipes like Turkey Chili Comforting or even some Bang Bang Chicken for inspiration! Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Make Ahead Options

These Best White Chicken Chili Tacos are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the creamy filling with shredded chicken, corn, and sauce up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain its delicious flavor. When you’re ready to serve, simply warm the filling on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if it thickens too much. For the tortillas, warm them just before assembly to prevent tearing. Then, fill and bake the tacos as directed for restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. Enjoy a cozy, satisfying dinner in no time!

Expert Tips for Best White Chicken Chili Tacos

Perfect the Roux: Take your time with the roux, whisking for a full minute to build flavor and avoid lumps in your sauce.
Warm Ingredients: Use room temperature sour cream for a smoother sauce; cold ingredients can make it hard to blend.
Taco Filling Amount: Avoid soggy tacos by limiting filling to 2-3 tablespoons per tortilla; this keeps them secure and easy to handle.
Proper Tortilla Prep: Warm your corn tortillas well to keep them pliable and prevent tearing while assembling your Best White Chicken Chili Tacos.
Flavor Adjustments: Taste your sauce before filling the tacos; adjust spices according to your family’s preferences for the best flavor experience.
Freezing Tips: If you have leftovers, store the filling in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze it for future meals, making dinner prep a breeze.

What to Serve with Best White Chicken Chili Tacos

Transform your cozy taco night into a full culinary experience with these delightful pairings.

Mexican Rice: This fluffy, seasoned rice is a flavorful companion, soaking up all that creamy sauce, adding a delightful texture to your meal.
Cilantro-Lime Rice: Light and refreshing, the citrus notes live harmoniously with the tacos, balancing the creamy flavors beautifully and transporting your taste buds to Mexico.
Fresh Pico de Gallo: A vibrant, zesty offering that brings a burst of freshness to each bite, brightening the rich flavors of the tacos with ripe tomatoes, onions, and cilantro.
Simple Guacamole: Creamy and smooth, this avocado dip adds a luscious richness that pairs wonderfully with the savory tacos, elevating your meal to new heights.
Tomato and Avocado Salad: This light salad introduces crispness and a hint of sweetness, providing a refreshing contrast to the creamy filling and enhancing the overall presentation.
Corn Salad: Bursting with textures and flavors, this sweet and tangy side complements the richness of the tacos while offering a colorful touch to your dinner table.
Chilled White Sangria: Refreshing and fruity, this delightful drink serves as a perfect complement to the mild spices of the tacos, ensuring a relaxed and enjoyable meal.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: End your dinner on a sweet note! These warm, gooey treats create a cozy atmosphere, balancing out the meal with a beloved classic.
Ice Cream Sundae: Indulge in a dessert option that brings comfort and joy after a flavorful dinner, providing a creamy finish that echoes your taco’s richness.

How to Store and Freeze Best White Chicken Chili Tacos

Fridge: Store leftover taco filling in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This keeps the flavors fresh, ready for easy meals or snacks.

Freezer: Freeze the chicken chili filling for up to 3 months. Avoid freezing assembled tacos to maintain their delightful texture upon reheating.

Reheating: Warm the filling in a pot on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk if it’s too thick. Enjoy the comfort of these Best White Chicken Chili Tacos, even on a busy night!

Best White Chicken Chili Tacos Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right chicken for these tacos?
Absolutely! You can use leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience or bake your chicken from scratch. When selecting fresh chicken, look for skinless, boneless breasts or thighs; they should be firm and slightly moist without dark spots.

What’s the best way to store leftover taco filling?
Store any leftover filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Ensure it’s cool before sealing to avoid condensation, which can make the filling soggy. It’ll be ready for quick meals!

Can I freeze the chicken chili filling? If so, how?
Very! To freeze, let the filling cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
If your sauce thickens too much, simply whisk in a splash of chicken broth or skim milk over low heat until you reach your desired consistency. This not only helps to maintain creaminess but also enhances the flavor.

Are these tacos suitable for my kids?
Without a doubt! These Best White Chicken Chili Tacos are family-friendly and mild in flavor, making them perfect for kids. You can also hold back on the green chilis if you prefer a gentler taste and serve some fresh toppings for added fun!

Can I make these tacos gluten-free?
Of course! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend when making the roux. Additionally, ensure your tortillas are certified gluten-free and enjoy a delicious meal without worries!