Baked Chicken Taquitos are crispy little rolls filled with tasty chicken and cheese. They are baked to perfection, making them a healthier option without losing that delicious crunch!
If you ask me, taquitos are like the party snacks that everyone loves! I love to dip mine in salsa or guacamole for an extra kick. Who can resist such a fun meal?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Using shredded rotisserie chicken is a huge time-saver. You can also use leftover grilled chicken or even canned chicken for convenience. If you’re vegetarian, consider using black beans or lentils instead!
Cheese: Cheddar is a classic, but I love mixing in Monterey Jack for a nice melt. If you need a dairy-free option, try vegan cheese. Just look for one that melts well.
Onion and Garlic: Fresh ingredients always pack the best flavor. You can use onion powder and garlic powder if you’re in a pinch and looking for a shortcut.
Tortillas: Flour tortillas are soft and easy to work with, but corn tortillas will give a more authentic flavor. Just make sure to warm them properly so they don’t crack!
How Do You Ensure Your Taquitos Are Crispy?
Achieving that perfect crunchy texture requires a few simple steps. First, warming the tortillas is key; it makes them flexible and reduces the risk of tearing. Don’t skip the oil spray too—it helps them crisp up in the oven.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) for a good, hot bake.
- After rolling, place the taquitos seam side down; this keeps them from unrolling.
- Turn them halfway through baking to ensure even crispiness on all sides.
Trust me, these little tricks will take your taquitos from good to great!
Baked Chicken Taquitos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend cheese)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, plus extra for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Taquitos:
- 10–12 small flour or corn tortillas
- Cooking spray or a light brush of oil
For Serving:
- Salsa, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time and 15–20 minutes of baking time, for a total of approximately 30–35 minutes to enjoy delicious homemade taquitos!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures your taquitos will bake up nice and crispy. While the oven is heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray. This prevents the taquitos from sticking.
2. Mix the Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, and chopped cilantro. Season this mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together until well combined; you want all those delicious flavors melded together!
3. Prepare the Tortillas:
To make rolling the tortillas easier, warm them briefly in the microwave or on a skillet. This makes them pliable so they won’t break when you roll them. Just a few seconds in the microwave should do the trick, or a minute on a hot skillet.
4. Roll the Taquitos:
Take about 2–3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture and spoon it onto one end of a tortilla. Carefully roll the tortilla tightly around the filling and place it seam side down on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat this process with all of your tortillas and filling.
5. Crisp Up the Taquitos:
Once all the taquitos are on the sheet, lightly spray or brush them with cooking oil. This will help them turn golden brown and crispy while baking.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the taquitos are crispy and golden brown. To ensure even crisping, turn them halfway through the baking time.
7. Garnish and Serve:
After baking, remove the taquitos from the oven and let them cool slightly. Garnish with extra chopped cilantro for a fresh touch. Serve them warm with your favorite salsa or guacamole for dipping, and enjoy every crispy, cheesy bite!
These baked chicken taquitos are not only delicious but also perfect for snacking or feeding a crowd!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have on hand works perfectly for these taquitos. Just make sure it’s shredded for easy mixing!
How Do I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make gluten-free taquitos, simply use corn tortillas instead of flour ones. Be sure to check that all your other ingredients, like the seasoning and cheese, are gluten-free as well!
Can I Freeze These Taquitos for Later?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked taquitos! Just roll them up, place them on a baking sheet to freeze, and once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to cook, bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What Should I Serve with Baked Chicken Taquitos?
These taquitos are great with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream on the side. You can also serve them with a simple salad or some Mexican rice for a complete meal!
