Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthier Option: Baking instead of frying reduces the overall fat content without sacrificing flavor.
- Customizable Fillings: Easily adapt the filling to include your favorite ingredients or accommodate dietary preferences.
- Perfect for Entertaining: These taquitos make for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or main course at any event.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (preferably breast or thigh meat)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12-16 corn tortillas
- Cooking spray or oil, for coating
- Optional: chopped cilantro, diced onion, lime juice (for added flavor)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the spices, cheese, and any optional ingredients you fancy, such as cilantro or onion. Mix until well incorporated.
- Warm the corn tortillas in the microwave for about 30 seconds, wrapped in a damp paper towel, to make them more pliable and avoid cracking while rolling.
- Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface, spoon about 2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto the lower third of the tortilla, and roll it tightly around the filling.
- Place the rolled taquito seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
- Lightly coat the tops of the taquitos with cooking spray or brush them with oil to achieve a crisp exterior.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the taquitos are crisp and golden.
- Let them cool slightly before serving, as they will be hot!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Variations
- Vegetarian: Substitute the chicken with black beans, corn, and sautéed bell peppers for a meatless option.
- Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for an extra kick.
- Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for varied flavors.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Place leftover taquitos in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To maintain crispiness, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or use an air fryer until warmed through.
FAQs
How can I prevent the tortillas from cracking when rolling?
Warming the tortillas in the microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel makes them more pliable and less likely to crack.
Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?
Yes, flour tortillas can be used, but the texture will differ slightly. Corn tortillas are traditional for taquitos.
Is it possible to freeze the taquitos?
Absolutely! After assembling, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What dipping sauces pair well with baked chicken taquitos?
Salsa verde, guacamole, sour cream, or a creamy chipotle sauce are excellent choices.
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Yes, the filling can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to use.
How do I keep the taquitos crispy for a party?
After baking, keep them warm in the oven at a low temperature (around 200°F or 95°C) until serving to maintain crispiness.
What other meats can I use for the filling?
Shredded beef or pork are great alternatives to chicken.
Are baked taquitos gluten-free?
Using corn tortillas and ensuring all other ingredients are gluten-free makes this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet.
Can I add vegetables to the filling?
Yes, adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach can enhance the flavor and nutrition.
How can I make the taquitos spicier?
Incorporate diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or extra chili powder into the filling to increase the heat level.
Conclusion
Baked chicken taquitos are a versatile and delicious dish that brings the authentic flavors of Mexican cuisine to your table. With their customizable fillings and healthier preparation method, they are sure to become a favorite in your household.
Baked chicken taquitos
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Baked chicken taquitos are a healthier twist on the classic Mexican favorite, featuring crispy corn tortillas filled with savory shredded chicken and melted cheese. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for family dinners, parties, or meal prepping, offering the delicious taste of taquitos without the added oil from frying.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (breast or thigh meat)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12–16 corn tortillas
- Cooking spray or oil for coating
- Optional: chopped cilantro, diced onion, lime juice
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- In a bowl, mix shredded chicken, cheese, spices, and optional ingredients.
- Warm tortillas in the microwave for 30 seconds wrapped in a damp paper towel.
- Place 2 tablespoons of filling on a tortilla, roll tightly, and lay seam-side down on the baking sheet. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
- Lightly coat taquitos with cooking spray or brush with oil.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until crisp and golden.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- To prevent cracking, warm tortillas before rolling.
- Customize the filling with beans, vegetables, or different cheeses.
- Serve with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for dipping.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
