Ingredients:
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can Rotel, drained
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can (12.5 oz) chicken breast, drained and shredded
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Mexican blend, or your choice)
- Oil for frying (vegetable oil or canola oil)
Optional Toppings:
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Diced tomatoes
- Sliced green onions
- Sliced jalapeños
- Sour cream
- Salsa
- Lime wedges
Directions:
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a skillet over medium heat, combine the drained black beans, drained Rotel, shredded chicken breast, and taco seasoning packet. Stir well to combine.
- Cook the Filling:
- Heat the mixture thoroughly, stirring occasionally. Use a potato smasher to gently mash the ingredients halfway. This will help blend the flavors and create a slightly chunky texture. Allow it to simmer for about 5-7 minutes until it’s heated through and flavorful.
- Prepare the Tortillas:
- In a separate skillet, heat a small amount of oil over medium-high heat. Place a tortilla in the skillet and spoon a generous amount of the black bean and chicken filling onto one half of the tortilla. Sprinkle some shredded cheese on top of the filling. Fold the tortilla in half, creating a half-moon shape. Cook until the bottom is golden brown, then flip and cook the other side until golden and crispy. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
- Serve:
- Remove the crispy tacos from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Allow them to cool slightly before serving.
- Add Toppings:
- Serve the crispy black bean chicken tacos hot, garnished with your favorite toppings such as chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, sliced green onions, jalapeños, sour cream, salsa, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
Enjoy your delicious and crispy black bean chicken tacos!
Q1: Are black bean chicken tacos spicy? A1: The spice level of black bean chicken tacos depends on the taco seasoning and Rotel used. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use a mild taco seasoning and a regular can of Rotel. For more heat, opt for a spicy taco seasoning or use a can of hot Rotel.
Q2: Can I use fresh chicken instead of canned chicken breast? A2: Yes, you can use cooked and shredded fresh chicken breast instead of canned chicken. Simply cook the chicken thoroughly, shred it, and then mix it with the black beans, Rotel, and taco seasoning.
Q3: Are these tacos suitable for vegetarians? A3: If you omit the canned chicken, these tacos can be made entirely vegetarian. You can add extra black beans or other vegetables to make up for the absence of meat.
Q4: Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas? A4: Absolutely! You can use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas. Corn tortillas can provide a slightly different texture and flavor to the tacos.
Q5: How can I store leftovers? A5: Store any leftover black bean chicken filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. However, it’s best to assemble and fry the tacos just before serving to maintain their crispiness.
Q6: Can I freeze the black bean chicken filling? A6: Yes, you can freeze the black bean chicken filling for up to 2-3 months in an airtight container. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating and using it in tacos.
Q7: What other toppings can I add to these tacos? A7: Besides the suggested toppings in the recipe, you can get creative with your toppings. Consider adding guacamole, pickled red onions, shredded lettuce, or even a drizzle of hot sauce for extra flavor.
Q8: How can I make these tacos healthier? A8: To make the tacos healthier, consider using whole wheat or multigrain tortillas, reducing the amount of cheese, and adding more vegetables to the filling. You can also use low-sodium taco seasoning and canned beans to cut down on sodium content.
