These baked chicken taquitos are crispy on the outside and filled with flavorful chicken and cheese. They’re perfect for snack time or a fun meal!
Who can resist that crunchy shell? I love dipping mine in salsa or guacamole. Let’s be honest, they disappear faster than I can make them! 😂
Making these taquitos is a breeze! Just fill the tortillas, roll them up, and bake. Dinner is ready in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken makes this dish super easy and flavorful. If you’re in a hurry, you can also use leftover chicken, or for a vegetarian option, try black beans or mashed chickpeas.
Cheese: I prefer using a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack for the gooey texture. If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, try using vegan cheese or simply skip it altogether and rely on the chicken’s flavor.
Tortillas: Flour tortillas are soft and perfect for rolling. If you’re gluten-free, corn tortillas are an excellent substitute, but they may crack, so warm them well first.
Spices: Ground cumin and chili powder add a nice kick. Feel free to adjust the spices to match your tastes; smoked paprika or taco seasoning can be great alternatives.
How Do I Prevent My Taquitos from Unrolling?
Rolling taquitos tightly is key to keeping them together during baking. To help ensure they stay closed, follow these tips:
- Warm the tortillas slightly to make them pliable. This prevents cracking and makes rolling easier.
- Place the filling closer to one edge of the tortilla, and roll tightly, tucking in the edges as you go.
- Put them seam side down on the baking sheet to keep them from unraveling; this helps them hold their shape.
By taking these steps, you’ll enjoy perfectly rolled, crispy taquitos every time!
Baked Chicken Taquitos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend)
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (optional: drained)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions or cilantro
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Taquitos:
- 10-12 small flour or corn tortillas (6-inch size)
- Cooking spray or a few tablespoons vegetable oil for brushing
For Serving:
- Lime wedges
- Optional: sour cream or cilantro-lime dip
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to bake. Total time is around 30-35 minutes. A quick, tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures that your taquitos will bake evenly and get nice and crispy. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Filling:
In a medium bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, cheese, diced tomatoes (if using), green onions or cilantro, ground cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well combined and the chicken is coated in the flavorful spices.
3. Warm Your Tortillas:
Next, warm the tortillas so they are pliable and easier to roll. You can do this by microwaving them for about 15-20 seconds wrapped in a damp paper towel or heating them in a skillet for a few seconds on each side.
4. Fill the Tortillas:
Take a tortilla and spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto one edge, spreading it into a line. Be careful not to overfill!
5. Roll Them Up:
Tightly roll each tortilla around the filling, tucking in the sides as you go. Place the taquito seam side down on the prepared baking sheet. This positioning helps them stay rolled during baking.
6. Prep for Baking:
Lightly brush or spray the outside of each taquito with cooking spray or vegetable oil. This is key for getting that golden, crispy texture we all love!
7. Bake the Taquitos:
Pop the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they’re ready when they’re golden brown and crispy.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, remove the taquitos from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve warm with lime wedges and your choice of dip like sour cream, guacamole, or salsa. Enjoy your crispy, delicious baked chicken taquitos!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes! Just ensure the frozen chicken is completely thawed before using. You can thaw frozen chicken overnight in the fridge or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. After thawing, shred it and proceed with the recipe.
Can I Make These Taquitos Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and roll the taquitos in advance. Simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just pop them in the oven directly from the fridge, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
How Do I Store Leftover Taquitos?
Store any leftover taquitos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through, or you can microwave them for about 30-60 seconds, though they may lose some crispiness.
Can I Use Different Fillings?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your fillings. You can substitute the chicken with shredded beef, turkey, or even a vegetarian filling like black beans, cheese, and vegetables. Just adjust the spices according to your choice!
