Name: Easy Baked Chicken Taquitos
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked shredded chicken; 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend; 1/3 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup salsa; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 10–12 small flour or corn tortillas; Olive oil or cooking spray for brushing

Are you ready to elevate your snacking game with a delightfully crunchy and cheesy treat? Look no further than these Easy Baked Chicken Taquitos! Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner, a party appetizer, or a satisfying snack, these taquitos are filled to the brim with tender shredded chicken, melty cheese, and zesty spices, all wrapped lovingly in a soft tortilla and baked to golden perfection. What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity—no deep frying necessary! You can achieve that irresistible crunch straight from the oven while keeping everything light and tasty.

The appeal of these Easy Baked Chicken Taquitos goes beyond just their delicious flavor; they also make meal prep a breeze! With straightforward ingredients and less than 30 minutes to prepare, you can whip up a batch in no time. Imagine having these tasty bites ready for game night or an impromptu gathering; they’ll be gone before you know it! Plus, they’re versatile enough that you can customize them to suit everyone’s tastes, making them an instant hit with family and friends. So, gather your ingredients and let’s get started on preparing a dish that promises great flavor in every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Easy Baked Chicken Taquitos

Quick and easy preparation—ready in just 30 minutes!
Baked, not fried—enjoy the crunch without the guilt.
Perfectly seasoned filling for a burst of flavor in every bite.
Versatile enough to customize with your favorite ingredients.
Great for meal prep, parties, and casual snacking.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the deliciousness of these Easy Baked Chicken Taquitos, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen space and gather the right tools for the job. First, ensure that you have everything on hand to avoid mid-preparation runs to the pantry. You need a bowl for mixing the filling, a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or silicone mat for easy clean-up, and a microwave-safe plate for softening the tortillas. A pastry brush or spray bottle for olive oil is also handy for giving the taquitos that golden finish in the oven. Having measuring spoons and cups ready will streamline your cooking process, allowing you to mix ingredients quickly and efficiently. Keep your workspace tidy so you can focus on making a delightful meal!

Ingredients

2 cups cooked shredded chicken
1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
1/3 cup cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup salsa
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
10–12 small flour or corn tortillas
Olive oil or cooking spray for brushing

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin your culinary journey by preheating your oven to 425°F (218°C). This ensures a hot environment right when you place your taquitos inside, helping them achieve that perfect crispiness. While the oven is heating up, take the time to line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat—this will prevent any stickiness and make for easy cleaning later!

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the shredded Mexican cheese blend, softened cream cheese, salsa, chili powder, garlic powder, ground cumin, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well combined—this filling should be creamy and well-seasoned, adding a flavorful punch to each taquito.

Step 3: Soften the Tortillas

To make rolling the taquitos easier, wrap 2–3 small tortillas in a damp paper towel and heat them in the microwave for about 30 seconds. This simple step will soften the tortillas, making them pliable and reducing the risk of tearing when you roll them up.

Step 4: Roll the Taquitos

Once your tortillas are warm and soft, it’s time to assemble the taquitos! Take one tortilla and place 2-3 tablespoons of your chicken filling near one edge of the tortilla. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling, being careful not to overstuff it, or it may burst during baking. Place each rolled taquito seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. This will help keep them closed while they bake, ensuring all that delicious filling stays inside.

Step 5: Brush with Oil

For that gorgeously golden and crispy texture, lightly brush the tops of the taquitos with olive oil or give them a quick spritz with cooking spray. This step is crucial—without it, you may end up with taquitos that lack that satisfying crunch!

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Now, slide your baking sheet into the preheated oven and allow the taquitos to bake for 15–20 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they bake—once they turn a beautiful golden brown and crispy, they’re ready to come out. Trust your senses; the aroma alone will have you eagerly awaiting your first bite.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Once baked, take the taquitos from the oven and allow them to cool for a minute or two. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauces, such as salsa, guacamole, or sour cream. Each bite should deliver a satisfying crunch followed by a savory explosion of flavors!

Variations

Protein: Swap out the shredded chicken for ground beef, turkey, or even black beans for a vegetarian option.
Vegetables: Add sautéed onions, bell peppers, or corn for extra texture and flavor.
Spices: Elevate the seasoning with cayenne pepper for heat or smoked paprika for a deeper flavor.

Cooking Notes

If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken works great for this recipe—just shred the meat and combine!
These taquitos can be made ahead of time and stored in the freezer before baking. Just thaw and bake when ready!

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a refreshing side salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
For a festive touch, serve with a side of Mexican street corn and a wedge of lime.

Tips

If you want extra crispy taquitos, place them on a wire rack on top of your baking sheet while baking.
Experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack for some spice or cheddar for a classic touch.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 200 per serving
Protein: 15 grams
Sodium: 400 mg

FAQs

Can I freeze these taquitos?

Absolutely! You can prepare and roll the taquitos, freeze them before baking, and then bake them directly from frozen when you want a quick meal.

What dips go well with taquitos?

Popular dips include salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or even queso. Choose according to your taste!

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free tortillas, and be sure the other ingredients do not contain gluten.

How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these Easy Baked Chicken Taquitos are not just a delicious appetizer or snack—they’re a versatile recipe that fits well into any meal plan. With a simple preparation method and the ability to customize ingredients, they’re sure to become a staple in your home. Whether you’re enjoying them at a casual family dinner or serving them at a lively gathering, your friends and family will be impressed with your culinary skills. So why not give this recipe a try? Feel free to share your experiences or your favorite twists on the classic taquito in the comments below. Don’t forget to add this recipe to your collection; you’re sure to make it over and over!