Crunchy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe
These Crunchy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos are a delicious and easy-to-make snack or meal, featuring shredded chicken mixed with cream cheese, cheddar, salsa, and spices, all rolled in soft flour tortillas and baked to golden, crispy perfection. Perfect for gatherings, game days, or a flavorful dinner option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 10-12 taquitos
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
Filling
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken recommended)
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1/2 cup salsa (choose your preferred heat level)
- 1 teaspoon taco seasoning
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Assembly
- 10-12 small flour tortillas
- Cooking spray or olive oil
Optional Toppings
- Guacamole
- Sour cream
- Additional salsa
- Diced tomatoes
- Sliced jalapeños
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, shredded cheese, salsa, taco seasoning, lime juice, and chopped cilantro if using. Mix thoroughly until the filling is creamy and well blended. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the Taquitos: Warm the flour tortillas in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to make them more pliable. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the chicken filling onto the center of each tortilla, then tightly roll them starting from one end. Place each rolled taquito seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet to keep them sealed during baking.
- Coat with Oil: Lightly spray or brush the tops of the taquitos with cooking spray or olive oil to promote crispiness while baking.
- Bake the Taquitos: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping the taquitos halfway through the cooking time to ensure even crisping. Bake until they are golden brown and crunchy.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the taquitos from the oven and let them cool for a minute. Serve warm with your choice of optional toppings like guacamole, sour cream, extra salsa, diced tomatoes, or sliced jalapeños.
Notes
- Warming the tortillas before rolling helps prevent cracking.
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience and flavor.
- For extra crispiness, flip taquitos halfway through baking.
- Customize the heat level by choosing mild or spicy salsa.
- These taquitos can be prepared ahead and baked just before serving.
