Are you ready to enjoy a crispy treat that’s bursting with flavor? Baked chicken taquitos are not only easy to make but also perfect for a quick meal or snack. With tender chicken, creamy cheese, and zesty spices wrapped in crispy tortillas, these taquitos will leave you wanting more. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious dish that everyone will love!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Seasonings
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Other Essentials
– 12 small corn tortillas
– Cooking spray or olive oil for brushing
– Optional toppings: salsa, guacamole, sour cream
Gather these ingredients for your baked chicken taquitos. The chicken is your base. It brings protein and flavor. I like using rotisserie chicken for ease.
Cream cheese adds creaminess and holds the filling together. Cheddar brings a nice sharp taste.
Next, we have the seasonings. Garlic and onion powders give depth. Cumin and chili powder add warmth and a bit of spice. Salt and pepper enhance all the flavors.
Corn tortillas are key to making taquitos. They are sturdy yet soft when warmed. A light spray of oil helps achieve that crispy texture.
For toppings, get creative! Fresh salsa brings brightness, while guacamole adds creaminess. Sour cream cools down the heat. You can mix and match to your taste.
For the complete preparation steps, check the Full Recipe. Enjoy the process!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Baking Sheet
– Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C)
– Line a baking sheet with parchment paper
First, I start by preheating my oven. Setting it to 425°F (220°C) ensures that the taquitos will bake evenly. I also line my baking sheet with parchment paper. This step prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Mixing the Filling
– Combine chicken, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and seasonings
– Ensure mixture is smooth and well incorporated
Next, I mix the filling. In a large bowl, I combine shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and seasonings like garlic powder and cumin. I stir until everything blends well. The mixture should be smooth and creamy. This is the heart of the taquito, so I make sure it’s well mixed.
Preparing the Tortillas
– Warm tortillas in a damp paper towel
– Roll and secure the filling in each tortilla
To work with the corn tortillas, I warm them first. I wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for about 30 seconds. This helps them stay soft and flexible. Once warm, I take about two tablespoons of the filling and place it in the center of each tortilla. I roll each one tightly, tucking in the ends to keep the filling secure.
Baking the Taquitos
– Arrange taquitos on the baking sheet
– Spray or brush with oil before baking
– Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown
Now, I arrange the rolled taquitos seam-side down on my baking sheet. I make sure they don’t touch each other, allowing for even cooking. To get that perfect crunch, I lightly spray the tops with cooking spray or brush them with olive oil. Then, I pop them in the oven. I bake for about 15-20 minutes. I look for a golden brown color to know they are ready.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Perfectly Crispy Taquitos
To get your taquitos crispy, use seasoned oil spray. Just add a pinch of salt or spice to your oil. This gives your taquitos added flavor and a golden crust. Always avoid overcrowding your baking sheet. If they touch, they will steam instead of crisp. Space them out for even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Garnish your taquitos with fresh cilantro and lime wedges. This not only looks nice but also adds bright flavors. Serve with a variety of dips. Try fresh salsa, creamy guacamole, or cool sour cream. Each dip brings a new taste to your meal.
Making Ahead of Time
You can prepare the filling in advance. Store it in the fridge for up to two days. This saves time on busy days. You can also freeze raw taquitos for later baking. Just wrap them tightly to avoid freezer burn. When ready, bake them straight from the freezer. This makes for a quick meal!
For the full recipe, check the section above.
Variations
Protein Options
You can swap the chicken for beef, pork, or even beans. Each option gives a new taste. For a fun twist, add smoky chipotle. This spice brings a deeper flavor that adds warmth and excitement to your taquitos.
Cheese Alternatives
If you want a kick, try using pepper jack or queso fresco. Both add a nice heat to your dish. If you follow a plant-based diet, vegan cheese is a great choice. It melts nicely and keeps the flavor you love.
Additional Fillings
Don’t stop at just chicken and cheese. You can add veggies like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition. This makes your meal colorful and tasty. Feel free to change up the spices too. A little cumin or paprika can make a big difference. Experiment and find your favorite mix!
Storage Info
Refrigeration
Store any leftover taquitos in an airtight container. Keep them in the fridge. You should eat them within 3-4 days for the best taste and quality.
Freezing Taquitos
You can freeze taquitos, either cooked or uncooked. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil. This helps stop freezer burn, so they stay fresh. They can last up to three months in the freezer.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, bake taquitos at 350°F (175°C) for crispy results. This will keep them crunchy. If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave them instead. Just heat them for a minute or two until hot. Enjoy your tasty taquitos! Don’t forget to check the Full Recipe for more details.
FAQs
What are the best tortillas for taquitos?
Corn tortillas are the best choice for taquitos. They have a great flavor and texture. You can also use flour tortillas if you prefer. They are softer and easier to roll.
Can I make these taquitos gluten-free?
Yes, you can make these taquitos gluten-free. Just use gluten-free tortillas. Make sure to check the seasonings too, as some may have gluten.
How do I prevent the tortillas from cracking?
To stop the tortillas from cracking, warm them in the microwave. Wrap them in a damp paper towel and heat for about 30 seconds. This makes them soft and easy to roll.
What can I serve with baked chicken taquitos?
You can serve these taquitos with many tasty options. Try salsa, guacamole, or sour cream. A fresh salad also pairs well with them. These dips add flavor and fun to your meal.
What is the prep and cooking time for baked chicken taquitos?
The prep time for these taquitos is 15 minutes. The cooking time is about 20 minutes. So, the total time is just 35 minutes. You can enjoy them quickly!
Baked chicken taquitos are easy and fun to make. You combine chicken, cream cheese, and spices, then wrap them in tortillas. Bake until crispy for a tasty treat.
Consider trying different proteins or adding veggies for fun flavors. Store leftovers well for later snacking. These taquitos prove that simple meals can be delicious, quick, and satisfying. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
