These Baked Chicken Taquitos are crispy and filled with savory chicken and cheese. They make a perfect snack or meal, especially when dipped in your favorite salsa!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a crunchy treat? I like to serve them with a side of guacamole—it’s a match made in snack heaven! Try them, and you’ll be hooked! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shredded Chicken: Using cooked chicken breast is perfect for a lean filling. You can substitute with rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken for added flavor and convenience.
Cheese: Monterey Jack is my favorite for its meltiness, but cheddar works great too! If you want a dairy-free option, try nut-based cheeses that melt well.
Spices: Chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika give excellent flavor. For a milder taste, reduce the chili powder. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika is a fine substitute.
Tortillas: I prefer corn tortillas for a gluten-free option, but flour tortillas work perfectly. Just make sure they are small enough to roll easily!
What’s the Best Way to Achieve Crispy Taquitos?
The secret to crispy taquitos is all in the preparation! Here are some simple steps to ensure they come out perfectly crunchy:
- Warm the tortillas before filling; this prevents them from cracking while rolling.
- Roll them tightly but not so tight that the filling spills out.
- Brush them with oil or spray them lightly to help them crisp up while baking.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; give each taquito space to allow hot air circulation.
By following these tips, you’ll have golden, crispy taquitos every time! Enjoy the crunch! 🌮
Baked Chicken Taquitos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken breast
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese
For Assembly:
- 10-12 small flour or corn tortillas
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or cooking spray
- Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish (optional)
For Serving:
- Salsa
- Lime wedges (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15-20 minutes to bake, totaling around 30-35 minutes. You’ll have a delicious snack or meal ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First things first, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the oven is heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light grease to prevent sticking.
2. Create the Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine your shredded chicken with the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Give it a good mix until everything is evenly coated. Now, fold in the shredded cheese until well combined!
3. Warm the Tortillas:
To make it easier to roll your taquitos, warm your tortillas slightly. You can microwave them for about 20 seconds wrapped in a damp paper towel, or you can heat them in a skillet for a few seconds on each side. This helps to prevent cracking.
4. Roll Them Up:
Now for the fun part! Take about 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken filling and place it at one end of each tortilla. Tightly roll the tortilla up, making sure the filling is secure inside. Place the rolled taquitos seam side down on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for Crispiness:
To help achieve that delightful crunch, lightly brush or spray the tops of the taquitos with vegetable oil. Bake them in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. You might want to check them midway to see how they are doing!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they are beautifully baked, take the taquitos out of the oven and let them cool for a minute. If you’d like, sprinkle some chopped cilantro on top for a fresh touch. Serve them hot with salsa and lime wedges on the side for dipping. Enjoy your tasty, crispy baked chicken taquitos!
Can I Use Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Using store-bought rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut and adds extra flavor. Just shred it and mix it with your spices and cheese as per the recipe.
Can I Freeze Leftover Taquitos?
Yes, you can freeze them! After baking, let the taquitos cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply bake from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
What If I Don’t Have Smoked Paprika?
No worries! If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika will work fine. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of liquid smoke for that smoky flavor if you like!
How Can I Make These Taquitos Spicier?
If you prefer a spicier kick, add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken filling. You can also increase the amount of chili powder or add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper!
