Description
Mouthwatering taco ranch bites bring Mexican-inspired zest to classic appetizer fare. Crispy tortilla shells cradle spicy seasoned meat, creamy ranch drizzle, and fresh garnishes, promising a flavor explosion that will delight party guests.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups (475 ml) shredded rotisserie chicken
- 1 cup (240 ml) shredded cheddar cheese
- 20 mini tortilla cups or wonton wrappers
Seasoning and Binding Ingredients:
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) ranch dressing
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) chopped green onions
Garnish Ingredients:
- Sour cream (optional)
- Salsa (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare a mini muffin tin by pressing wonton wrappers into each cavity, creating crisp cups ready for filling.
- In a mixing bowl, thoroughly blend shredded chicken with zesty taco seasoning, creamy ranch dressing, softened cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and freshly chopped green onions until the mixture is uniformly combined.
- Carefully distribute the seasoned chicken mixture into each wonton wrapper cup, gently pressing to ensure a compact and even fill.
- Slide the prepared bites into a preheated 350F (175C) oven, baking for 10-12 minutes until the wrapper edges turn golden and crispy and the filling becomes piping hot.
- After removing from the oven, allow the bites to cool momentarily, then enhance with a dollop of tangy sour cream and a splash of vibrant salsa for an extra flavor punch.
Notes
- Make sure to drain excess moisture from the shredded chicken to prevent soggy wonton cups and ensure a crispy texture.
- For a gluten-free version, swap wonton wrappers with corn tortilla cups or use gluten-free wrappers from specialty stores.
- Prep the filling mixture ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 24 hours to enhance flavor melding and save time during party preparation.
- Experiment with protein alternatives like pulled pork, ground beef, or black beans for vegetarian guests, keeping the same delicious ranch and taco seasoning profile.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 20
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg