If you’re looking for a crowd-pleaser that’s both easy to make and packed with flavor, look no further than these Crispy Baked Chicken Taquitos. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even a light meal, these taquitos are sure to impress your family and friends. They’re crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with savory chicken and spices. What’s even better? They’re baked, not fried, which means you can enjoy all that crunch without the guilt. Gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Top Reasons to Make Crispy Baked Chicken Taquitos
- Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can whip these up in no time.
- Versatile: Fill them with your favorite ingredients, making them customizable for everyone’s taste.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time and have a tasty snack or meal ready whenever you need it.
- Kid-Friendly: Kids love the fun shape and crispy texture, making them a hit for family meals.
- Great for Entertaining: Serve them at parties, game days, or movie nights for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients at a Glance
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp cumin
- ½ tsp salt
- 16 small corn tortillas
- Cooking spray for added crispiness
Kitchen Gear Checklist
- Baking Sheet: This is where your taquitos will bake to crispy perfection.
- Parchment Paper: Optional, but it helps with easy cleanup.
- Mixing Bowl: For combining the chicken and spices.
- Brush or Spray Bottle: To apply cooking spray evenly.
- Measuring Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
Crispy Baked Chicken Taquitos: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is key for achieving that golden, crispy exterior.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and salt. Mix well until the chicken is evenly coated with the spices.
Step 3: Warm the Tortillas
To make the corn tortillas pliable, wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave them for about 30 seconds. This prevents them from cracking when you roll them.
Step 4: Assemble the Taquitos
On a clean surface, lay out a warm tortilla. Place about 2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture in the center of the tortilla. Roll it tightly, then place it seam-side down on the baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
Step 5: Spray and Bake
Lightly spray the taquitos with cooking spray. This adds that extra crunch! Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Serve your Crispy Baked Chicken Taquitos with your favorite dipping sauces, such as guacamole, salsa, or sour cream. Enjoy!
Make It Your Way
- Cheese Lover: Add shredded cheese to the chicken mixture for extra gooeyness.
- Spicy Kick: Toss in some diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the filling.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with black beans or roasted vegetables.
- Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh cilantro or green onions for added freshness.
Troubleshooting Tips
- Taquitos are falling apart: Ensure that you’re rolling them tightly and using warm tortillas to prevent cracking.
- Not crispy enough: Make sure you’re spraying them well with cooking spray and baking at the right temperature.
- Burning on the edges: If your oven tends to cook unevenly, rotate the baking sheet halfway through cooking.
- Too dry: If using leftover chicken, ensure it’s moist enough or add a little broth to the mixture.
Make-Ahead & Storage
You can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to two days. When you’re ready to enjoy your Crispy Baked Chicken Taquitos, just assemble and bake. If you want to freeze them, assemble the taquitos without baking, then freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be baked directly from the freezer; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Handy Q&A
Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut and adds fantastic flavor to your taquitos.
How do I reheat leftover taquitos?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again.
Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?
Yes, while corn tortillas are traditional, flour tortillas can also work. Just be aware that they might not get quite as crispy.
What dipping sauces pair well with taquitos?
Popular choices include guacamole, salsa, sour cream, or even a zesty ranch dressing for a fun twist.
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That’s a Wrap
You’ve now mastered the art of making Crispy Baked Chicken Taquitos. Whether you’re enjoying them on a cozy night in or sharing them at a gathering, these taquitos are sure to be a hit. With their delicious filling and crispy texture, they bring the perfect balance of flavor and fun. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to delight your taste buds with this tasty dish. Happy cooking!
Crispy Baked Chicken Taquitos
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp cumin
- ½ tsp salt
- 16 small corn tortillas
- Cooking spray for added crispiness
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is key for achieving that golden, crispy exterior.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and salt. Mix well until the chicken is evenly coated with the spices.
- To make the corn tortillas pliable, wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave them for about 30 seconds. This prevents them from cracking when you roll them.
- On a clean surface, lay out a warm tortilla. Place about 2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture in the center of the tortilla. Roll it tightly, then place it seam-side down on the baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
- Lightly spray the taquitos with cooking spray. This adds that extra crunch! Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Serve your Crispy Baked Chicken Taquitos with your favorite dipping sauces, such as guacamole, salsa, or sour cream. Enjoy!
Equipment
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper
- Mixing Bowl
- Brush or spray bottle
- Measuring Spoons
Notes
- Make a large batch and freeze them for quick snacks later.
- Experiment with different fillings like cheese or veggies.
- For extra flavor, add fresh herbs to the chicken mixture.
