Baked Chicken Taquitos are crispy, golden bites filled with juicy chicken and tasty spices. They make a perfect snack or meal that everyone will enjoy!
I love dipping them in salsa or sour cream. Just be careful, they disappear quickly—you might want to make a double batch! 😊
These taquitos are easy to make. Roll the filling in a tortilla, bake until crispy, and you’re ready to munch! Perfect for a fun dinner or a party treat.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded chicken breast is ideal for these taquitos. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or any leftover cooked chicken from a previous meal!
Cheese: Cheddar cheese adds great flavor, but feel free to substitute with a Mexican blend or pepper jack for some spice. Just remember to use cheese that melts well!
Cream Cheese: This helps make the filling creamy. If you’re avoiding dairy, try using a dairy-free cream cheese alternative or Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
Salsa: Salsa adds moisture and flavor. Use your favorite salsa—mild works for kids, while a spicy salsa can kick things up a notch. No salsa? Try a bit of taco sauce instead!
Tortillas: Small flour tortillas hold the filling well, but corn tortillas are a gluten-free option. If using corn, warm them well to prevent cracking.
How Do I Ensure My Taquitos Are Crispy?
To get those perfectly crispy taquitos, here’s what to do:
- First, warm your tortillas. This makes them more pliable and less likely to tear while rolling.
- Roll them tightly with the filling, ensuring the seam is on the bottom. This helps them hold together during baking.
- Lightly spray or brush oil on the outside before baking. This helps achieve that crunch!
- Finally, bake at a high temperature (425°F) for a shorter time for that crispy finish. Keep an eye on them in the oven for the perfect golden color.
Let them cool for a couple of minutes after baking—you don’t want to burn your tongue on that delicious filling!
Baked Chicken Taquitos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend cheese)
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup salsa (mild or medium)
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Taquitos:
- 10-12 small flour tortillas (6-inch)
- Cooking spray or a little oil for brushing
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
- Sour cream or guacamole for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and 15-20 minutes to bake. In total, you’re looking at about 30-35 minutes to have a delicious platter of crispy taquitos ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This will help get your taquitos nice and crispy. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, salsa, chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. This creamy filling is going to be delicious!
3. Prepare the Tortillas:
To make the tortillas easier to roll, warm them slightly. You can do this in the microwave for about 30 seconds or on a skillet over low heat. This helps prevent tearing.
4. Fill and Roll the Tortillas:
Spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken filling onto one end of each tortilla. Spread it out a little and then roll the tortilla tightly around the filling. Make sure to tuck in the sides as you roll to create a secure wrap.
5. Arrange on the Baking Sheet:
Place each rolled taquito seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Spray or brush the tops with cooking spray or a little oil to help them crisp up in the oven.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Bake your taquitos in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overcook!
7. Cool and Serve:
Once out of the oven, let the taquitos cool for a few minutes. This makes them easier to handle! Serve them warm, garnished with fresh cilantro, and with sides of sour cream, guacamole, or your favorite salsa for dipping.
Enjoy your crispy, flavorful baked chicken taquitos! They are sure to be a hit at your table!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is a great way to utilize leftover chicken. Just shred it up and mix it with the other ingredients. You can use roasted, boiled, or even store-bought rotisserie chicken!
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! You can easily substitute the small flour tortillas with gluten-free tortillas. Many stores offer gluten-free options that work great for this recipe!
How Do I Store Leftover Taquitos?
Store any leftover taquitos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crispiness.
Can I Freeze These Taquitos?
Absolutely! Prepare them up to the baking step, then freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to eat, bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
