Name: Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos: 1 Easy Crispy Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 cups Cooked Shredded Chicken; 1 cup Shredded Cheese (Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican Blend); 4 oz Cream Cheese, softened; 1/2 cup Salsa; 1 tsp Chili Powder; 1 tsp Garlic Powder; 1 tsp Ground Cumin; Salt and Pepper to taste; 10 Flour Tortillas; 1 tbsp Cooking Spray or Olive Oil

Oven baked chicken taquitos have become my go-to for busy weeknights, and I think you’re going to love them too! I remember the first time I tried making them; I was tired of the same old dinners and craved something fun and flavorful that wouldn’t leave me feeling sluggish. The smell of the warm tortillas and savory chicken filling baking in the oven, promising a crispy, golden bite, was just incredible. These aren’t just any chicken taquitos; they’re genuinely healthy chicken taquitos that satisfy that craving for something crunchy and delicious without the guilt. If you’re looking for an easy baked chicken taquitos recipe that your whole family will devour, you’ve found it. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love These Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos

I get so many requests for this recipe because it truly hits all the right notes! Here’s why these taquitos are a winner:

Incredible Flavor: Tender, seasoned chicken and melty cheese create a delicious filling that satisfies every time.
Super Fast Prep: With pre-cooked chicken, you can whip up the filling and roll the taquitos in under 20 minutes.
Healthier Choice: These are fantastic baked chicken taquitos no frying, making them a lighter option for a satisfying meal.
Budget-Friendly: Using simple pantry staples and cooked chicken makes these easy on your wallet.
Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike adore these golden, crunchy bites. They’re perfect for picky eaters!
Perfectly Crispy: You get that amazing crunch you crave from fried taquitos, but with a much healthier approach. These truly are crispy chicken taquitos.
Versatile Meal: Serve them as a quick dinner, a fun appetizer, or even for game day snacks.

Ingredients for Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to making these amazing oven baked chicken taquitos. I find that having everything prepped makes the process so much smoother. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 cups cooked shredded chicken – this is the star of our shredded chicken taquitos! You can use rotisserie chicken for a shortcut.
1 cup shredded cheese – I love a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack for that perfect meltiness.
4 oz cream cheese, softened – this makes the filling incredibly creamy and holds everything together beautifully.
1/2 cup salsa – adds moisture and a touch of flavor; choose your favorite mild or spicy kind.
1 tsp chili powder – for a little warmth and classic taco flavor.
1 tsp garlic powder – essential for depth of flavor.
1 tsp ground cumin – brings that earthy, smoky note.
Salt and pepper to taste – adjust these to your preference.
10 flour tortillas – about 6-inch size works best for rolling.
1 tbsp cooking spray or olive oil – for getting that golden, crispy exterior.

Ingredients for Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos

How to Make Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos

Let’s get these delicious taquitos in the oven! Learning how to make oven baked chicken taquitos is incredibly simple, and the results are so rewarding. You’ll be amazed at how quickly this comes together.

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup – trust me, this is a lifesaver!
Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine the 2 cups cooked shredded chicken, 1 cup shredded cheese, and the 4 oz softened cream cheese. Use a fork or your hands to mix until it’s creamy and well combined. This creamy base is key for great oven baked shredded chicken taquitos.
Step 3: Stir in the 1/2 cup salsa, 1 tsp chili powder, 1 tsp garlic powder, and 1 tsp ground cumin. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything until it’s thoroughly combined and you can smell those wonderful spices.
Step 4: Gently warm your 10 flour tortillas in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds. This makes them pliable and easier to roll without cracking. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the chicken filling onto the center of each tortilla.
Step 5: Roll each tortilla up tightly around the filling, making sure the seam is on the bottom. If they seem a bit loose, you can secure them with a toothpick, but usually, a tight roll is enough.
Step 6: Lightly spray or brush the tops of your rolled taquitos with the 1 tbsp cooking spray or olive oil. This step is crucial for achieving that beautiful golden-brown, crispy exterior that makes these so irresistible.
Step 7: Arrange the taquitos seam-side down on your prepared baking sheet, giving them a little space so they can crisp up nicely.
Step 8: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and wonderfully crispy. Keep an eye on them, as oven temperatures can vary! The aroma filling your kitchen is the best part of how to make oven baked chicken taquitos.
Step 9: Once they’re perfectly crisp, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Let the taquitos cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This is important so the filling isn’t too hot.

Pro Tips for the Best Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos

I’ve made these countless times, and a few tricks really elevate them from good to absolutely perfect. Trust me, these tips will make your oven baked chicken taquitos shine!

Always warm your tortillas slightly before rolling. This makes them pliable and prevents them from cracking, ensuring a neat taquito every time.
Don’t overstuff the tortillas. Too much filling makes them hard to roll tightly and can cause them to burst during baking.
Ensure your oven is fully preheated. A hot oven is key for achieving that signature golden crispiness quickly.
Use a baking spray or brush on olive oil generously. This is what gives you that beautiful, crunchy exterior without frying.

What’s the secret to perfect crispy oven baked chicken taquitos?

The real secret to those perfect crispy chicken taquitos is the combination of a hot oven and a light coating of oil or cooking spray on the outside. This helps them crisp up beautifully. For more tips on achieving perfect textures in cooking, you might find resources on food science helpful.

Can I make oven baked chicken taquitos ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and assemble the taquitos up to 24 hours in advance. Store them seam-side down on a baking sheet, covered tightly with plastic wrap, in the refrigerator before baking. This is a great way to prepare for future meals.

How do I avoid common mistakes with oven baked chicken taquitos?

The biggest pitfalls are using dry chicken or not warming your tortillas. Also, make sure not to overbake, or they can become too hard. Use moist, flavorful chicken for the best results. Understanding basic cooking techniques can prevent many common errors, much like learning about culinary fundamentals.

Best Ways to Serve Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos

Once your oven baked chicken taquitos are golden and ready, the fun really begins with how you serve them! I love keeping it simple, but there are so many delicious ways to enjoy these. Thinking about what to serve with oven baked chicken taquitos is half the fun!

A classic pairing is with your favorite toppings like crisp shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, a dollop of sour cream or Mexican crema, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. For a heartier meal, serve them alongside Mexican rice and refried beans. A fresh avocado salsa or a simple pico de gallo is also fantastic for adding a burst of freshness and flavor. For more ideas on complementary dishes, explore options for side dishes.

Nutrition Facts for Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos

These oven baked chicken taquitos are a delicious and relatively light option for a meal or snack. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving (which is one taquito):

Calories: 180 kcal
Fat: 7 g
Saturated Fat: 3 g
Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Protein: 8 g
Carbohydrates: 22 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sugar: 1 g
Sodium: 230 mg
Cholesterol: 30 mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, such as the type of cheese and salsa. For detailed nutritional breakdowns of common ingredients, you can consult resources like the USDA FoodData Central.

How to Store and Reheat Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos

One of the best things about these oven baked chicken taquitos is how well they store and reheat, making them perfect for meal prep. After they’ve baked to a beautiful golden crisp, let them cool completely on a wire rack. This is super important to prevent sogginess later on.

Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. I like to wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, the best way to reheat oven baked chicken taquitos is in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 8-10 minutes until they’re hot and crispy again. You can also use an air fryer for about 5 minutes!

Frequently Asked Questions About Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos

Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour for oven baked chicken taquitos?

Yes, you absolutely can! If you opt for corn tortillas, it’s best to warm them slightly before filling and rolling, just like with flour tortillas, to prevent cracking. Corn tortillas will give you a slightly different texture, often a bit more delicate and crispier, which is fantastic. They also make these easy chicken taquitos a great gluten-free option if that’s something you need.

What kind of chicken is best for oven baked chicken taquitos?

I personally love using rotisserie chicken because it’s already cooked and seasoned, saving me a ton of time. However, you can also boil or bake chicken breasts or thighs until cooked through, then shred them. The key is to have about 2 cups of tender, shredded chicken that will easily mix with the creamy filling to create delicious oven baked chicken taquitos.

How do I get my oven baked chicken taquitos extra crispy?

To achieve maximum crispiness, make sure your oven is fully preheated to 425°F (220°C). Don’t skip the step of lightly spraying or brushing the outside of the taquitos with oil or cooking spray – this is crucial! Also, ensure you give them a little space on the baking sheet so the hot air can circulate around each one, helping them achieve that perfect golden crunch.

Can I add vegetables to the filling for these easy chicken taquitos?

Definitely! You can absolutely amp up the nutrition and flavor by adding finely diced vegetables. Some great additions include sautéed onions and bell peppers, corn kernels, or even some finely chopped jalapeños for a little heat. Just make sure any veggies you add are cooked down slightly so they don’t release too much moisture into the filling, which could make your taquitos less crispy.

Variations of Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, don’t be afraid to get creative with your oven baked chicken taquitos! They’re so versatile, and you can easily tailor them to your taste preferences or dietary needs. I love experimenting with different flavor combinations.

Spicy Kick: For those who love a bit of heat, try making spicy oven baked chicken taquitos. Add a finely diced jalapeño or serrano pepper to the filling, or swap your regular salsa for a spicier version. A dash of cayenne pepper in the chicken mixture also does the trick!
Cheesy Delight: You can never have too much cheese, right? Elevate your taquitos with extra cheese by using a blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack, or even adding some crumbled cotija for a salty finish. These oven baked chicken taquitos with cheese are always a crowd-pleaser.
Vegetarian Option: For a meatless meal, simply omit the chicken and bulk up the filling with black beans, corn, sautéed mushrooms, and extra cheese. It’s a delicious way to enjoy taquitos without the meat.
Air Fryer Method: If you have an air fryer, you can achieve an even crispier texture even faster! Arrange the taquitos in a single layer in your air fryer basket and cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.