Seeking a delightful twist to your dinner routine without spending hours in the kitchen? Our Crispy Baked Chicken Taquitos recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings a burst of flavor and texture to your table. Perfectly crispy, packed with succulent chicken and a blend of spices and cheese, these taquitos are not only irresistible but also a healthier alternative to their fried counterparts. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure that promises a delectable crunch in every bite!
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (preferably 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 for added flavor: chopped cilantro, diced onion, lime juice
Directions
- Prep Work: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Mix: In a mixing bowl, blend the shredded chicken with the cheese, ground cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. If you’re feeling adventurous, throw in some chopped cilantro, diced onion, and a squeeze of lime juice for an extra flavor kick.
- Warm the Tortillas: To make the tortillas pliable and easy to roll, warm them in the microwave for about 30 seconds wrapped in a damp paper towel. This step is crucial for preventing breakage when rolling your taquitos.
- Assemble: Lay out the warmed tortillas and spoon approximately 2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto each one. Roll them tightly and place them seam-side down on your prepared baking sheet. A tight roll ensures the filling stays snugly inside.
- Crisp Up: Lightly mist the taquitos with cooking spray or brush with oil. This helps achieve that golden, crispy exterior without deep frying.
- Bake: Slide the tray into the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they’ve turned a beautiful golden brown and are crisped to perfection.
- Serve and Enjoy: Allow the taquitos to cool slightly before serving. This brief wait is well worth it, as it helps set the filling and makes the taquitos easier to handle.
Serving Suggestions
These baked chicken taquitos are a versatile dish that can be served as an appetizer, main course, or a snack. They pair wonderfully with guacamole, salsa, and sour cream for dipping. For a complete meal, serve alongside a fresh Mexican salad or rice.
Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Calories: 200 kcal per serving
- Servings: 4-6
Embark on this culinary journey with our Crispy Baked Chicken Taquitos and experience the joy of a homemade meal that’s both satisfying and simple to make. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, these taquitos are sure to win everyone’s heart (and stomach!). Enjoy the crunch!
Crispy Baked Chicken Taquitos
Ingredients:
2 cups shredded cooked chicken (preferably 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:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
In a mixing bowl, combine chicken, spices, cheese, and optional ingredients. Mix well.
Warm tortillas in the microwave for about 30 seconds with a damp paper towel.
Spoon 2 tablespoons of mixture onto each tortilla, roll tightly, and place seam-side down on the baking sheet.
Lightly coat with cooking spray or oil.
Bake for 15-20 minutes until crisp and golden.
Cool slightly before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Kcal: 200 kcal per serving | Servings: 4-6