Top Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe: Crispy Homemade Goodness

Everyone craves these crispy baked chicken taquitos that bring serious flavor to your dinner table.

Packed with zesty seasonings, they emerge golden and irresistible from the oven.

Tender shredded chicken nestles inside corn tortillas, creating a mouthwatering crunch in every bite.

Simple ingredients make this recipe a weeknight champion for busy home cooks.

Minimal prep work means you can whip these up faster than ordering takeout.

Cheese melts beautifully throughout, adding that perfect gooey texture everyone loves.

Let’s roll into this delicious adventure that will have everyone asking for seconds!

What Goes into Baked Chicken Taquitos

• Shredded Chicken: Tender and flavorful protein for the taquitos.
• Pepperjack Cheese: Spicy and melty cheese that adds extra kick.

• Tortillas: Soft corn or flour wraps perfect for rolling.
• Cream Cheese: Creamy base that helps bind the filling together.

• Salsa: Adds moisture and zesty flavor to the filling.
• Lime Juice: Bright citrus that brings freshness to the mix.
• Cumin: Warm, earthy spice with southwestern flair.
• Chili Powder: Adds mild heat and depth of flavor.
• Onion Powder: Subtle onion taste without chopping.
• Garlic: Aromatic and savory ingredient.

• Cilantro, Parsley: Fresh herbs that bring brightness.
• Scallions: Mild onion flavor with green color.

• Cooking Spray: Helps achieve crispy golden exterior.
• Kosher Salt: Enhances overall seasoning.

• Sour Cream: Cool and creamy dip.
• Guacamole: Rich and smooth accompaniment.
• Salsa: Zesty topping for extra flavor.

Step-by-Step Chicken Taquitos Recipe

Step 1: Fire Up the Oven

Crank the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit.

This superhot temperature will transform your taquitos into crispy, golden delights.

Step 2: Create Flavor Magic

• Softened cream cheese
• Salsa
• Fresh lime juice
• Ground cumin
• Chili powder
• Onion powder
• Minced garlic
• Chopped cilantro
• Diced scallions

Whisk everything until smooth, then fold in shredded chicken and pepperjack cheese.

Mix until the chicken is completely coated with the zesty mixture.

Step 3: Warm the Tortillas

• Microwaving between damp paper towels for 10 seconds
• Or quickly heating on a dry skillet for a few seconds on each side

Step 4: Roll and Prepare

Scoop about 3 tablespoons of chicken mixture onto the lower third of each tortilla.

Roll tightly from the bottom, tucking in the sides to keep the filling secure.

Place each taquito seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 5: Crisp and Shine

Spritz the taquitos with cooking spray and sprinkle with kosher salt.

This creates a gorgeous golden exterior.

Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until they’re perfectly crisp and golden brown.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Plate these sizzling taquitos hot and serve with your favorite dipping sauces like salsa, sour cream, or creamy guacamole.

Handy Tips for Chicken Taquitos

• Warm tortillas in the microwave between damp paper towels or on a dry skillet to prevent cracking and make rolling easier.
• Lightly spray taquitos with cooking spray and sprinkle with kosher salt to achieve a golden, crunchy exterior without deep-frying.
• Swap pepperjack cheese for cheddar or add diced green chilies to create your own unique taste profile and heat level.
• Roll tortillas tightly and place seam-side down on the baking sheet to keep the delicious chicken mixture securely inside during baking.
• Prepare and freeze assembled uncooked taquitos between parchment paper layers, then bake directly from frozen for a quick future meal.

Reheating and Storing Chicken Taquitos

• Store leftover taquitos in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking and maintain crispiness.
• Wrap individual taquitos in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality and taste.
• Spread taquitos on a baking sheet, bake at 375°F for 10-12 minutes until heated through and crispy. Avoid microwave to maintain crunchiness.
• Cook frozen or refrigerated taquitos at 375°F for 5-7 minutes, turning halfway to ensure even heating and restored crispiness.

Sides That Pair with Chicken Taquitos

• Savor Tangy Margarita Pairing: Cool down the spicy taquitos with a zesty classic margarita that complements the Mexican-inspired flavors. The lime and tequila cut through the richness of the cheese and chicken, creating a perfect balance.
• Pop Fresh Salsa Accompaniment: Serve homemade pico de gallo or fresh salsa alongside the taquitos to enhance the dish's vibrant taste profile. The fresh tomatoes, cilantro, and onions provide a bright contrast to the crispy, creamy taquitos.
• Craft Creamy Avocado Dip: Whip up a smooth guacamole with ripe avocados, lime juice, and a hint of garlic to add a cool, rich dimension to the crispy taquitos. The creamy texture and tangy notes elevate the entire eating experience.
• Refresh with Mexican Beer: Grab a cold cerveza like Corona or Modelo to wash down the taquitos. The light, crisp beer cuts through the richness and adds a refreshing element to the meal.

Creative Chicken Taquito Takes

• Vegetarian Taquito Option: Replace chicken with black beans, roasted sweet potato, or crumbled tofu for a plant-based protein alternative that maintains the same delicious flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas to create a naturally gluten-free version of the recipe, ensuring those with wheat sensitivities can enjoy the dish.
• Low-Carb Taquito Swap: Substitute tortillas with large lettuce leaves or thin zucchini strips as a wrapper, creating a lighter, keto-friendly version that keeps the classic taquito texture.
• Dairy-Free Version: Use dairy-free cream cheese alternatives, replace pepperjack cheese with nutritional yeast, and incorporate cashew cream for a similar rich and creamy filling that suits dairy-restricted diets.

FAQs

• Can I use corn or flour tortillas for this recipe?

Both corn and flour tortillas work well. Corn tortillas provide a more traditional flavor and crispier texture, while flour tortillas are more pliable and softer. Choose based on your preference.

• How do I prevent my taquitos from unrolling during baking?

After rolling, place the taquitos seam-side down on the baking sheet. This helps seal the edge and prevents them from opening during baking. You can also use a toothpick to secure them if needed.

• Can I make these taquitos ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the taquitos in advance and refrigerate them uncooked for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, place them directly in the preheated oven and add 2-3 extra minutes to the cooking time.

• What type of chicken works best for this recipe?

Shredded rotisserie chicken is excellent for quick preparation. You can also use leftover roasted chicken, boiled chicken, or poached chicken breasts. Ensure the chicken is finely shredded for the best texture.

Why Baked Chicken Taquitos Are a Must-Try

• Quick and Easy Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for busy home cooks who want delicious meals without complicated steps.
• Customize Your Flavor: Swap ingredients like cheese or protein to match family preferences and dietary needs.
• Healthier Baked Option: Skip deep-frying by baking these taquitos, reducing oil while maintaining a crispy, golden exterior.
• Versatile Party Snack: Great for game day, potlucks, family gatherings, or casual weekend dinners that everyone will enjoy.

Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe

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4.6 from 13 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Crispy golden baked chicken taquitos deliver a zesty Mexican-inspired delight packed with tender shredded chicken and melted cheese. Rolled tight and perfectly seasoned, these irresistible appetizers promise a crowd-pleasing crunch you’ll savor with every delicious bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Proteins:

• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
• 1 cup pepperjack cheese, shredded

Seasonings and Flavor Enhancers:

• 3 ounces (85 grams) cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) salsa (red or green)
• 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) lime juice
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons (45 milliliters) chopped cilantro or parsley
• 2 small scallions, diced

Additional Ingredients:

• 12 6-inch flour tortillas (see note below for corn tortillas)
• Cooking spray
• Kosher salt

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven environment by heating to 425 degrees Fahrenheit, creating an ideal baking temperature for achieving crispy, golden taquitos.
2. Create a flavor-packed filling by combining cream cheese, salsa, lime juice, cumin, chili powder, onion powder, garlic, cilantro, and scallions in a mixing bowl until smooth and uniform.
3. Gently incorporate shredded chicken and pepperjack cheese into the seasoned mixture, ensuring even distribution of ingredients.
4. Soften tortillas using a microwave method with damp paper towels or quickly warm them on a dry skillet to enhance flexibility and prevent cracking.
5. Position each tortilla and carefully spread the chicken mixture along the lower third of the surface, leaving adequate margin for rolling.
6. Roll the tortillas tightly and securely, tucking in edges to prevent filling from escaping during baking.
7. Arrange rolled taquitos seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet, maintaining slight separation between each roll.
8. Lightly mist the taquito surfaces with cooking spray and sprinkle kosher salt to enhance crispiness and flavor profile.
9. Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, monitoring until the exterior turns golden brown and crisp.
10. Remove from oven and let rest briefly before serving alongside complementary dips like salsa, sour cream, or guacamole.

Notes

• Prevent tortilla cracking by warming them slightly before rolling, which increases flexibility and reduces breakage.
• Experiment with different cheese varieties like cheddar or monterey jack for unique flavor profiles that suit personal taste preferences.
• Ensure even cooking by placing taquitos seam-side down and spacing them slightly apart on the baking sheet to allow hot air circulation.
• Create healthier versions by using whole wheat tortillas, adding extra vegetables like diced bell peppers, or using Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese for reduced fat content.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 9 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 20 g
• Cholesterol: 75 mg