Best White Chicken Chili Tacos

Best White Chicken Chili Tacos combine juicy shredded chicken, green chiles, and sweet corn in a creamy, mildly spiced chili sauce, all folded into golden baked corn tortillas. Finished with melted mozzarella, these tacos are crisp on the outside and creamy inside. They’re cozy, family-friendly, and perfect for weeknight dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy Chili-Style Filling – A roux-based sauce creates rich, smooth texture.
• Crispy Baked Tortillas – Oven baking delivers golden, lightly crisp edges.
• Balanced Mild Heat – Green chiles and cumin add warmth without overpowering spice.
• Quick Weeknight Option – Simple prep and minimal hands-on cooking.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – Filling can be prepared in advance.
• Kid-Friendly Flavor Profile – Mild, cheesy, and comforting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Sauce

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter – Forms the base for the roux.
• 1½ tablespoons all-purpose flour – Thickens the sauce.
• ½ cup whole milk – Adds creaminess.
• ½ cup chicken broth – Enhances savory depth.
• ¼ cup sour cream – Provides tang and smooth texture.
• 1 tablespoon canned green chiles, finely chopped – Adds mild heat and flavor.
• ¼ teaspoon ground cumin – Brings earthy warmth.
• ¼ teaspoon chili powder – Adds subtle spice.
• Salt, to taste – Enhances overall flavor.
• Black pepper, to taste – Adds mild heat.

For the Filling

• 8 ounces cooked chicken, shredded – Tender protein base.
• ¾ cup frozen corn kernels – Adds sweetness and texture.
• ¼ cup green onions, thinly sliced – Provides freshness and color.

For Assembly

• 14 small corn tortillas – Traditional base that crisps beautifully when baked.
• 3½ ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded – Melts smoothly for a creamy finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet.

Prepare the Roux

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to remove raw flour taste.

Build the Cream Sauce

Gradually whisk in milk and chicken broth until smooth. Stir in sour cream and whisk until fully incorporated.

Season and Simmer

Add cumin, green chiles, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat and simmer 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.

Combine the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, corn, and green onions. Pour sauce over and toss until evenly coated.

Warm the Tortillas

Gently warm corn tortillas until pliable to prevent cracking during folding.

Assemble the Tacos

Spoon filling evenly onto tortillas, sprinkle with mozzarella, and fold in half.

Bake Until Golden

Arrange tacos on baking sheet and bake 12–15 minutes until cheese melts and tortillas become lightly golden and crisp.

Cool Slightly and Serve

Let tacos rest briefly before serving warm.

Recipe Notes & Tips

• Warm Tortillas First – Prevents cracking when folding.
• Whisk Sauce Constantly – Ensures smooth, lump-free texture.
• Do Not Overfill – Helps tacos stay sealed during baking.
• Use Rotisserie Chicken – Saves prep time.
• Add Extra Spice Carefully – Jalapeños can increase heat.
• Bake on Middle Rack – Promotes even browning.

Nutritional Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes (estimated)
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 30 minutes
• Yield: 14 tacos (approximately 4 servings)
• Calories: Approximately 350–400 kcal per serving (estimated)

Perfect Pairings

• Mexican Rice – Complements creamy filling.
• Refried or Black Beans – Adds protein and fiber.
• Fresh Guacamole – Creamy contrast.
• Cilantro Lime Slaw – Bright, crunchy side.

Ideal Occasions

• Weeknight Family Dinner – Quick and satisfying.
• Casual Gatherings – Easy hand-held option.
• Game Day Spread – Crowd-pleasing snack.
• Meal Prep Lunches – Reheat well in oven.

Storage & Serving Tips

• Refrigerate Leftovers – Store airtight up to 3 days.
• Reheat in Oven – Restores crisp texture.
• Avoid Microwave for Crispness – May soften tortillas.
• Freeze Filling Separately – Assemble fresh for best texture.

Creative Variations to Try

• Pepper Jack Upgrade – Swap mozzarella for added heat.
• Add White Beans – Boost heartiness and protein.
• Spicy Version – Stir diced jalapeños into filling.
• Low-Carb Option – Use low-carb tortillas.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Sauce Too Thick – Add splash of broth or milk.
• Tortillas Cracking – Not warmed enough before folding.
• Soggy Bottoms – Avoid excess filling or bake slightly longer.
• Bland Flavor – Adjust salt and cumin gradually.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe works because it builds a classic roux-based sauce that thickens smoothly and coats the shredded chicken evenly. The combination of milk, broth, and sour cream creates a stable, creamy base with balanced acidity. Baking the assembled tacos allows the tortillas to crisp while the mozzarella melts and binds the filling together. The result is a layered texture contrast—crispy exterior with creamy, savory interior—offering a satisfying balance of carbohydrates, protein, and fat in each serving.

Final Thoughts

Best White Chicken Chili Tacos deliver comforting flavors in a convenient, hand-held format. Creamy, mildly spiced, and cheesy, they’re versatile enough for family dinners yet special enough for gatherings. With simple ingredients and adaptable heat levels, this recipe is an easy addition to any weeknight rotation.