Baked Chicken Taquitos

These Baked Chicken Taquitos are a delightful treat that you’ll want to make again and again. Perfect for game day, family gatherings, or a quick weeknight dinner, these taquitos are easy to prepare and packed with flavor. The combination of tender chicken, creamy cheese, and zesty spices wrapped in a crispy tortilla makes them irresistible. Plus, they’re freezer-friendly, so you can prepare extras for a meal anytime!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
• Flavorful Filling: A delicious blend of spices and creamy ingredients ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair your taquitos with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for added taste and texture.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make a batch ahead of time and freeze them for quick meals later on.
• Kid-Friendly: These taquitos are sure to please even the pickiest eaters in your family.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Baked Chicken Taquitos efficiently, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Microwave-safe plate
• Mixing bowl
• Spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: This provides a sturdy surface for cooking the taquitos evenly while allowing air circulation for crisping.
• Mixing bowl: A large bowl is essential for thoroughly combining all ingredients without spills.
• Microwave-safe plate: Heating tortillas in the microwave makes them pliable for easy rolling.

Ingredients

These Homemade Baked Chicken Taquitos rival anything you’ll buy at the store. Super easy, flavorful, and freeze beautifully so you can make extra and have a meal for later!

For the Creamy Filling

• 3 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup salsa (red or green)
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons chopped cilantro or parsley
• 2 small scallions, diced
• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
• 1 cup pepperjack cheese

For the Taquitos

• 12 6-inch flour tortillas (see note below for corn tortillas)
• cooking spray
• kosher salt

How to Make Baked Chicken Taquitos

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl, mix together the cream cheese, salsa, lime juice, cumin, chili powder, onion powder, garlic, cilantro, and scallions until well combined and creamy. Add in the cooked chicken and cheese; stir to thoroughly combine.

Step 3: Heat the Tortillas

Working with a few tortillas at a time, heat them in the microwave between two paper towels until they are soft enough to roll (about 10 seconds).

Step 4: Fill the Tortillas

Spoon 3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto the lower third of a tortilla. Roll the tortilla tightly.

Step 5: Bake the Taquitos

Place the rolled tortilla seam side down on the baking sheet. Repeat with remaining tortillas until all filling is used up. Ensure that taquitos are not touching each other on the baking sheet.

Step 6: Seasoning

Spray the tops lightly with cooking spray and sprinkle with a little kosher salt (don’t skip that salt!).

Step 7: Bake Until Golden

Bake for 15–20 minutes or until crisp and golden.

Step 8: Serve

Serve hot with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole on the side.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Baked Chicken Taquitos! They will be a hit at any gathering or cozy night in!

How to Serve Baked Chicken Taquitos

Baked Chicken Taquitos are versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will elevate your taquito experience.

With Dipping Sauces

• Salsa: A classic pairing, fresh salsa adds a zesty kick.
• Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip complements the crispy taquitos perfectly.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream provides a rich and cooling contrast.

As Part of a Platter

• Taquito Platter: Arrange baked taquitos on a large platter for sharing; add various dips for guests to enjoy.
• Taco Bar: Set up a taco bar with toppings like lettuce, cheese, and diced tomatoes alongside the taquitos for customization.

In Tacos

• Taquito Tacos: Chop the baked taquitos and serve them in taco shells topped with lettuce and salsa for a fun twist.

With Fresh Sides

• Salad: Pair your taquitos with a fresh garden salad drizzled in lime vinaigrette for added freshness.
• Rice and Beans: Serve alongside seasoned rice and black beans for a hearty meal.

How to Perfect Baked Chicken Taquitos

Achieving perfection with your Baked Chicken Taquitos is easy with these helpful tips.

• Boldly season your mixture: Don’t shy away from spices! Adjust seasoning to your taste for a more flavorful filling.
• Warm tortillas: Heating tortillas makes them easier to roll, preventing cracks or breakage during baking.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet: Ensure taquitos are spaced out on the baking sheet to achieve crispiness all around.
• Use cooking spray liberally: Spraying the tops ensures they turn golden brown and crispy as they bake.
• Experiment with fillings: Try different cheeses or add veggies like bell peppers for variation in flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Chicken Taquitos

Baked Chicken Taquitos pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Consider these options for a complete meal.

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices pairs beautifully with the flavors of taquitos.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans provide a hearty addition that balances well with the crunchy texture of taquitos.
3. Corn Salad: A refreshing corn salad mixed with lime juice adds sweetness and crunch to your meal.
4. Pico de Gallo: Fresh pico de gallo offers a burst of flavor and freshness that complements each bite.
5. Chips and Salsa: Crispy tortilla chips served with salsa make for an excellent appetizer before digging into taquitos.
6. Cilantro Lime Quinoa: This healthy grain dish brings brightness to your plate, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Baked Chicken Taquitos can be a delightful experience, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using Cold Tortillas – Starting with cold tortillas can make them difficult to roll. Warm them briefly in the microwave to soften before filling.
• Overfilling the Taquitos – Adding too much filling can lead to bursting during baking. Stick to the recommended amount for perfect rolls.
• Skipping the Cooking Spray – Forgetting to spray the tops of your taquitos can result in them sticking to the baking sheet. A light coating ensures a crisp finish.
• Not Preheating the Oven – Baking taquitos in a non-preheated oven can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat for best results.
• Ignoring Seasoning – Under-seasoning the filling can make your taquitos bland. Adjust spices according to your taste preference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Baked Chicken Taquitos in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Baked Chicken Taquitos

• Place cooled taquitos in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container; they will last up to 2 months.

Reheating Baked Chicken Taquitos

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
• Microwave – Heat individually on high for about 30 seconds; note that they may become soft rather than crispy.
• Stovetop – Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until warmed through and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Baked Chicken Taquitos healthier?

You can use whole wheat tortillas and reduce cheese or use low-fat options. Adding more vegetables, like bell peppers or spinach, also enhances nutrition.

Can I use different proteins for Baked Chicken Taquitos?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or shredded beef work great as alternatives, offering a different flavor while keeping it delicious.

What dips go well with Baked Chicken Taquitos?

These taquitos pair perfectly with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for dipping. You can also try yogurt-based dips for a lighter option.

Can I prepare Baked Chicken Taquitos ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble them ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze before baking. Just remember to adjust baking time if cooked from frozen.

Final Thoughts

Baked Chicken Taquitos are not just easy to make; they are also versatile and customizable! Feel free to experiment with fillings like beans, corn, or different cheeses. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion!