Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe

Crispy, golden, and packed with flavor, oven-baked chicken taquitos are a healthier take on a classic Mexican favorite. Perfect for parties, game-day snacks, or even a family dinner, these taquitos are filled with seasoned shredded chicken, cheese, and spices, all wrapped up in a crunchy tortilla. Baking instead of frying ensures they’re lighter while still delivering that satisfying crunch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Healthier Alternative: Baked, not fried, for a lighter yet equally delicious version.
2. Customizable: Adjust the fillings to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
3. Family-Friendly: Perfect for kids and adults alike, whether as a snack or a meal.
4. Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance and bake when needed for convenience.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
• Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. Combine Ingredients
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, shredded cheese, cream cheese, sour cream, salsa, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cilantro (if using).
   • Mix until the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. Season to Taste
   • Add salt and pepper as needed. If you like a spicier filling, stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños.

Step 3: Warm the Tortillas

1. Why Warm Tortillas?
   • Warming tortillas prevents cracking during rolling.
2. How to Warm Them
   • Heat tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for 15–20 seconds per side.
   • Alternatively, wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 20–30 seconds.

Step 4: Assemble the Taquitos

1. Add Filling
   • Place 2–3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture along one edge of each tortilla.
2. Roll Tight
   • Tightly roll the tortilla around the filling to form a taquito.
3. Secure the Shape
   • Place the taquito seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet to prevent unrolling during baking.

Step 5: Bake the Taquitos

1. Brush with Oil
   • Lightly brush each taquito with olive oil or spray with cooking spray.
   • For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle a small amount of chili powder over the top.
2. Bake
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, or until the taquitos are golden and crispy.
3. Cool Slightly
   • Allow the taquitos to cool for 2–3 minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

As a Main Dish

• Serve with a side of Mexican rice and refried beans for a complete meal.

As a Snack or Appetizer

• Pair with guacamole, salsa, and queso dip for an irresistible snack platter.

Add Fresh Toppings

• Garnish the taquitos with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a drizzle of sour cream or hot sauce.

Tips for Success

Perfect Taquitos

• Don’t Overfill: Overloading the tortillas can make them hard to roll and cause filling to spill out during baking.
• Roll Tightly: Ensures the filling stays in place and creates a uniform texture.

Crispy Finish

• Bake at High Heat: The high temperature ensures a crispy exterior.
• Use Cooking Spray: For even crisping, don’t skip brushing or spraying the taquitos with oil.

Variations

Protein Options

• Beef Taquitos: Swap chicken for ground beef seasoned with taco spices.
• Vegetarian Taquitos: Use black beans, corn, and sautéed bell peppers instead of chicken.
• Pulled Pork Taquitos: Try shredded pork with barbecue sauce for a fusion twist.

Cheese Options

• Use pepper jack, queso fresco, or a combination of cheeses for added depth.

Tortilla Choices

• Corn tortillas offer a traditional texture, while flour tortillas create a softer taquito.

Make-Ahead and Storage

Make-Ahead Tips

• Assemble the taquitos and freeze them before baking. When ready to cook, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Storage

• Store leftover taquitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

• Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes to restore crispiness.

Why This Recipe Works

The combination of juicy, flavorful chicken and crispy tortillas delivers a satisfying bite every time. Baking instead of frying keeps the dish lighter, and the customization options mean everyone at the table can enjoy their ideal version. Whether for a party or a quick weeknight dinner, these oven-baked chicken taquitos are sure to please!

Serve them up with your favorite toppings and sauces for a dish that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Enjoy!

Yield: 12 Taquitos

Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe

Print

Crispy, golden, and packed with flavor, oven-baked chicken taquitos are a healthier take on a classic Mexican favorite. Perfect for parties, game-day snacks, or even a family dinner, these taquitos are filled with seasoned shredded chicken, cheese, and spices, all wrapped up in a crunchy tortilla. Baking instead of frying ensures they’re lighter while still delivering that satisfying crunch.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great!)
• 1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup sour cream
• ¼ cup salsa (your favorite variety)
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp ground cumin
• ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 12 small flour or corn tortillas
• Olive oil or nonstick cooking spray
• Optional toppings: guacamole, sour cream, salsa, or chopped cilantro

Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling:
   Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
   In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken, shredded cheese, cream cheese, sour cream, salsa, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until fully combined.
   
2. Assemble the Taquitos:
   Warm the tortillas slightly in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to make them pliable.
   Place about 2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto the lower third of each tortilla.
   Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling and place it seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
   
3. Bake the Taquitos:
   Lightly brush the tops of the taquitos with olive oil or spray with nonstick cooking spray.
   Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the taquitos are golden brown and crispy.
   
4. Serve:
   Serve the taquitos hot with guacamole, sour cream, salsa, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

• Tortilla Options: Flour tortillas yield a softer texture, while corn tortillas give a more authentic, slightly crispy taquito.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the taquitos ahead of time and freeze them unbaked. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.
• Protein Swap: Substitute shredded chicken with shredded beef, turkey, or even beans for a vegetarian option.