Baked Chicken Taquitos are a crispy, flavorful, and healthier alternative to fried taquitos. Packed with tender, seasoned chicken and melted cheese, these bite-sized treats are easy to make and perfect for a quick dinner, party appetizer, or snack. Baking them instead of frying gives them a crisp, golden texture without the extra grease, making them a delicious and satisfying choice for the whole family.
Ingredients
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
10-12 small flour tortillas (corn tortillas can also be used)
1 tablespoon olive oil or cooking spray
Optional: Fresh cilantro, sour cream, or salsa for serving
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken Filling: In a medium bowl, mix the shredded chicken, cheese, cream cheese, cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until fully combined.
Prepare the Tortillas: Warm the tortillas in the microwave for 20-30 seconds to make them more pliable and prevent cracking while rolling.
Fill the Taquitos: Place about 2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture along the center of each tortilla. Roll up each tortilla tightly to form a taquito.
Arrange on a Baking Sheet: Place the rolled taquitos seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Brush with Oil: Lightly brush the taquitos with olive oil or spray them with cooking spray to help them crisp up while baking.
Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the taquitos for 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy, flipping them halfway through to ensure even cooking.
Serve: Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving with sour cream, salsa, or guacamole.
Description
These Baked Chicken Taquitos are the perfect combination of crispy and savory. The creamy chicken filling, paired with the crunch of the baked tortilla, creates an irresistible snack or meal. Whether served as an appetizer or a main dish, they’re sure to be a hit with both kids and adults. These taquitos are not only delicious but also customizable, making them an excellent addition to any meal or gathering.
Tips
Warming Tortillas: If your tortillas are too stiff or prone to cracking, wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 30 seconds to soften them up.
Even Crisping: Flip the taquitos halfway through the baking time to ensure they cook evenly on both sides.
Customizing Filling: Feel free to add other ingredients to the filling, such as black beans, corn, or diced green chilies for extra flavor.
Make-Ahead: These taquitos can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
Crispier Option: For an extra crispy texture, broil the taquitos for the last 1-2 minutes of baking, but keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Variations
Beef Taquitos: Swap the chicken for ground beef or shredded beef for a different protein option.
Vegetarian Taquitos: Use black beans, corn, and sautéed vegetables (such as bell peppers, onions, and zucchini) for a vegetarian version.
Spicy Taquitos: Add some diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the chicken mixture for a spicy kick.
Cheesy Taquitos: For extra cheesy taquitos, add more cheese to the filling, or top them with extra cheese before baking.
Corrections
Be sure to roll the taquitos tightly to prevent them from unrolling during baking. If necessary, you can secure them with toothpicks until they bake to hold their shape.
For an even texture, ensure that the chicken is finely shredded to avoid uneven filling distribution.
Enjoy!
Once baked to golden perfection, serve these crispy Chicken Taquitos with your favorite dipping sauces like salsa, sour cream, or guacamole. Enjoy them as a fun snack, appetizer, or part of a full meal!