Oh my goodness, let me tell you about the joy of making Crunchy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos! Seriously, these little gems are the perfect blend of crispy goodness and mouthwatering flavor. I just love how easy they are to whip up; you can have them ready in no time! Just imagine the sound of that first crunch when you take a bite. It’s like a party in your mouth! The filling is so delicious with seasoned chicken and gooey cheese, and they’re baked to perfection in the oven, so no frying mess to deal with! Trust me, once you make these, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a fun gathering with friends, these taquitos are sure to impress. Let’s dive into this simple yet scrumptious recipe!
Ingredients List
Gather these ingredients for your Crunchy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos. You’ll see how simple and straightforward it is!
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (I love using rotisserie chicken for convenience, but you can also boil or bake your own!)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar or a Mexican blend works beautifully for that melty goodness!)
- 1/2 cup salsa (Choose your favorite level of spice—mild, medium, or hot!)
- 1 teaspoon cumin (This adds a warm, earthy flavor that really enhances the chicken.)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (Trust me, it’s a must for that extra kick of taste!)
- 10 small corn tortillas (I like to use small ones so they’re easy to handle and eat.)
- Cooking spray (For that golden, crispy finish—don’t skip this step!)
How to Prepare Crunchy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This step is super important because it ensures those taquitos get that perfect golden crunch. A hot oven means they’ll cook evenly and the tortillas will crisp up beautifully. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this part!
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
Next, let’s whip up the filling! In a large bowl, combine your cooked shredded chicken, shredded cheese, salsa, cumin, and garlic powder. Mix it all together until everything is nicely incorporated. I love using a fork to break up any clumps of chicken and really get that flavor mixed in. It should smell amazing already!
Step 3: Warm the Tortillas
Now, it’s time to warm those corn tortillas. I usually heat a skillet over medium heat and warm each tortilla for about 30 seconds on each side. This makes them pliable and so much easier to roll without tearing. Just keep an eye on them so they don’t get too crispy—you’re aiming for soft, not crunchy yet!
Step 4: Assemble the Taquitos
Alright, let’s get assembling! Take one warm tortilla and place a generous spoonful of the chicken mixture in the center. I like to keep it about 2 tablespoons of filling; it’s just the right amount! Then, tightly roll the tortilla away from you, tucking in the sides as you go to keep everything inside. Place each taquito seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Repeat until all tortillas are filled and rolled—it’s like a little assembly line of deliciousness!
Step 5: Bake the Taquitos
Finally, it’s time to bake! Spray the taquitos lightly with cooking spray for that extra crunch, then pop them into your preheated oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them towards the end so they don’t overcook. When they come out, they’ll be so inviting—just wait for that crunchy sound when you bite in!
Tips for Success
To ensure your Crunchy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos turn out perfectly every time, here are some of my favorite tips! First, don’t rush the warming of the tortillas; this step is key to preventing tears. If they feel too dry or crumbly, give them a bit more time in the skillet. You want them just pliable enough to roll without any issues!
Also, feel free to customize the filling! Adding chopped onions, peppers, or even beans can give your taquitos an extra flavor boost. Just be careful not to overfill them—keeping to about 2 tablespoons per tortilla will help them roll nicely and stay sealed!
And here’s a little secret: if you want them extra crispy, flip the taquitos halfway through baking. This ensures both sides get that delightful crunch. Lastly, serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauces, like guacamole or sour cream, for that perfect finishing touch. Enjoy the deliciousness!
Nutritional Information
Let’s talk about the nutritional goodness packed into these Crunchy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos! Each taquito is not just delicious but also reasonably balanced. Here’s an estimated breakdown for one taquito:
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But overall, I’d say these little taquitos are a tasty way to enjoy a snack or meal without too much guilt. So dig in and enjoy every crunchy bite!
FAQ Section
Can I make these taquitos ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep the filling and roll the taquitos ahead of time. Just assemble them, place them in an airtight container, and store them in the fridge for up to a day. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just pop them in the oven straight from the fridge. They might take a couple of extra minutes to bake, but they’ll still turn out deliciously crunchy!
What dipping sauces go well with taquitos?
Oh, the dipping sauce options are endless! I love serving my Crunchy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos with classic salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for that creamy contrast. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a tangy chipotle sauce or even a creamy ranch dressing. They all bring something different to the table, making each bite even more enjoyable!
Can I freeze the taquitos?
You bet! Freezing taquitos is a great way to save some for later. Just assemble them as directed, but don’t bake them. Instead, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag or an airtight container. When you’re ready to eat, bake them straight from the freezer at 425°F (220°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until they’re heated through and crispy. Perfect for a quick snack or meal!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Deliciously flavorful with a satisfying crunch that everyone will enjoy.
- Customizable filling options to suit your taste preferences—get creative!
- Gluten-free, making them a great choice for those with dietary restrictions.
- Baked, not fried, so you can indulge without the extra guilt.
- Perfectly portioned for snacking, appetizers, or even a light meal.
- Freezer-friendly, so you can make a batch and save some for later!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving your Crunchy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos, the options are endless! I love to pair them with a fresh, zesty guacamole—it adds a creamy texture that perfectly complements the crunch. You can also serve them alongside a vibrant salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
If you’re looking for a fun twist, try making a taquito platter with a variety of dipping sauces like sour cream, pico de gallo, or a spicy chipotle mayo. This way, everyone can customize their experience according to their taste preferences. And don’t forget about some crispy plantain chips or Mexican rice on the side; they make for a fantastic addition to your meal!
For a cozy night in, why not create a taquito bar? Lay out all your favorite toppings like shredded lettuce, diced onions, jalapeños, and cheese, and let everyone build their own taquito masterpiece. It’s interactive, fun, and your friends will love getting involved!
Print
Crunchy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos: 5 Joyful Bites to Savor
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 10 taquitos 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Crunchy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos are a delicious and easy-to-make snack or meal. They are filled with seasoned chicken and cheese, then baked to a perfect crunch.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 10 small corn tortillas
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a bowl, mix chicken, cheese, salsa, cumin, and garlic powder.
- Warm tortillas in a skillet for 30 seconds to make them pliable.
- Place a spoonful of the chicken mixture on each tortilla.
- Tightly roll the tortillas and place them seam-side down on a baking sheet.
- Spray the taquitos with cooking spray for extra crunch.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve with additional salsa or dipping sauce.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add chopped onions or peppers to the filling.
- Serve with guacamole for a tasty side.
- These can be frozen before baking for later use.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 taquito
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Crunchy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos, Chicken Taquitos, Oven-Baked Taquitos