Baked Chicken Taquitos

After a long day, the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. That’s why I love sharing quick, tasty, and satisfying meals that can easily become weeknight staples in any household. Today, I’m thrilled to introduce a family-friendly recipe that combines simplicity with a punch of flavor: Baked Chicken Taquitos.

Perfect for a casual dinner or as a party snack, these taquitos are crispy, cheesy, and packed with a deliciously spiced chicken filling. What’s more, they are baked, not fried, making them a healthier option that doesn’t sacrifice taste. Let’s dive into how you can whip up this delightful dish in just 30 minutes!

Ingredients

• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (breast or thigh meat)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 12-16 corn tortillas
• Cooking spray or oil, for coating
• Optional: chopped cilantro, diced onion, lime juice (for added flavor)

Directions

1. Preheat and Prepare: Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to ensure easy cleanup.
2. Mix the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cheese, spices, and any optional ingredients like cilantro or onion. This is your chance to personalize the taquitos with your favorite flavors. A splash of lime juice can add a nice zest.
3. Prepare Tortillas: To make the corn tortillas pliable, warm them in the microwave for about 30 seconds wrapped in a damp paper towel. This prevents them from breaking as you roll them.
4. Assemble the Taquitos: Place a tortilla flat on your work surface, spoon approximately 2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto the lower third, and roll tightly around the filling. Arrange the taquitos seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake: Spray the tops of the taquitos with cooking spray or brush lightly with oil to get them nice and crispy. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they turn golden and crisp.
6. Serve: Allow the taquitos to cool slightly before serving them. They’re great on their own or can be dipped in guacamole, salsa, or sour cream for added indulgence.

Nutritional Info

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Calories: 350 per serving
• Servings: 4-6

Conclusion
These baked chicken taquitos are not just easy and quick to prepare, but they also bring a touch of Mexican cuisine to your dinner table without the guilt of deep frying. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for a hit dish for your next gathering, these taquitos are sure to impress. Enjoy the crunch, the flavors, and the smiles around your table tonight!