Baked Chicken Taquitos are a crispy, delicious, and healthier alternative to traditional fried taquitos. These rolled tortillas filled with seasoned chicken and cheese are baked to perfection, making them a fantastic meal or snack for any occasion. Easy to prepare and perfect for dipping, these taquitos are sure to become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthier than fried taquitos but just as crispy
- Simple and quick to make with minimal ingredients
- Perfect for meal prep and freezer-friendly
- Great as a snack, appetizer, or main dish
- Customizable with your favorite fillings
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Cooked and shredded chicken
- Cream cheese, softened
- Shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- Green chilies, drained
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Cumin
- Chili powder
- Salt and pepper
- Small flour or corn tortillas
- Cooking spray or olive oil
Directions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix shredded chicken, cream cheese, shredded cheese, green chilies, and seasonings until well combined.
- Warm the tortillas slightly to make them pliable.
- Spoon a small amount of the chicken mixture onto each tortilla and roll tightly.
- Place taquitos seam-side down on the baking sheet.
- Lightly brush or spray with olive oil for crispiness.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve hot with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the filling.
- Protein Swap: Use shredded beef, pork, or black beans instead of chicken.
- Cheese Choices: Swap cheddar for pepper jack or mozzarella.
- Gluten-Free: Use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas.
- Air Fryer Option: Cook at 400°F for 10-12 minutes for an extra crispy texture.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze unbaked taquitos on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 375°F for 10 minutes or in an air fryer for 5 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving option for this recipe.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the taquitos ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer until ready to bake.
How do I prevent the tortillas from cracking?
Warm them slightly in the microwave or a skillet before rolling.
Can I use whole wheat tortillas?
Absolutely! Whole wheat tortillas work well for a healthier alternative.
What’s the best dip for taquitos?
Salsa, guacamole, queso, or sour cream are great options.
Can I bake them in a toaster oven?
Yes, a toaster oven works well; just reduce the cooking time slightly.
How do I make them extra crispy?
Brushing them with a little olive oil or butter before baking helps achieve extra crispiness.
Can I add vegetables to the filling?
Yes! Diced bell peppers, corn, or spinach make great additions.
How do I reheat without making them soggy?
Reheat in the oven or air fryer instead of the microwave for best results.
Are these good for meal prep?
Yes, they freeze well and can be baked straight from the freezer.
Conclusion
Baked Chicken Taquitos are a delicious, healthier way to enjoy a crispy, flavorful meal without the need for frying. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or main dish, these taquitos are easy to make, customizable, and perfect for any occasion. Try them today and enjoy a crunchy, cheesy delight!
PrintBaked Chicken Taquitos
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 10 taquitos 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
These crispy, cheesy baked taquitos are stuffed with seasoned shredded chicken and melty cheese, then baked until golden brown. A healthier alternative to traditional fried taquitos!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works great)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup salsa (mild or spicy)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 10 small flour or corn tortillas
- Cooking spray or 2 tbsp olive oil
Optional Toppings & Dips
- Guacamole
- Sour cream
- Salsa
- Chopped cilantro
- Sliced jalapeños
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
- In a large bowl, mix shredded chicken, cheese, cream cheese, salsa, and seasonings until well combined.
- Warm the tortillas slightly (microwave for 10-15 seconds or wrap in foil and heat in the oven for 5 minutes) to make them easier to roll.
- Spoon 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto the lower third of each tortilla. Roll tightly and place seam-side down on the baking sheet.
- Lightly brush or spray the tops with olive oil or cooking spray.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes, until golden and crispy.
- Serve warm with guacamole, sour cream, or salsa.
Notes
- Use corn tortillas for a more authentic texture (warm them first to prevent cracking).
- Swap chicken for shredded beef, pork, or beans for a different filling.
- To make ahead, assemble the taquitos and freeze them uncooked. Bake from frozen at 400°F for 20-25 minutes.
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