Baked Chicken Taquitos are a delicious and crunchy treat filled with juicy chicken and cheese. They are wrapped in soft tortillas and baked until golden brown!
These taquitos are perfect for a fun snack or easy meal. I like to dip mine in some salsa or guacamole—it’s hard to stop at just one! Who can resist that crispy goodness? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shredded Chicken: I like using rotisserie chicken for its flavor and convenience. You can also use leftover chicken or turkey. For a vegetarian version, consider using black beans or a meat substitute.
Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can switch it with Greek yogurt. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly.
Cheese: I choose cheddar for its sharpness. A Mexican blend works great too! You could also use Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a kick.
Tortillas: Flour tortillas are softer and easier to roll. If you prefer something healthier, corn tortillas can work but may require a bit more care while rolling since they can break.
How Do I Make the Taquitos Crispy Without Deep Frying?
To get those perfect crispy taquitos without frying, focus on the baking process. First, preheat your oven well and use a good baking sheet to get the heat all around the taquitos.
- Warm the tortillas before filling them—this keeps them flexible and prevents cracking.
- Roll the taquitos tightly for less fluffiness and more crunch.
- Don’t skimp on the oil! A light spray or brush of oil on the outside helps them crisp up beautifully in the oven.
- Check them around the 15-minute mark to ensure they don’t over-bake; you want to catch them when they’re golden brown.
How to Make Baked Chicken Taquitos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken breast
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend cheese)
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup diced green chilies (optional)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Taquitos:
- 8-10 flour tortillas (6-inch size)
- Cooking spray or a little oil for brushing
For Garnishing:
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
- Sour cream, salsa, or guacamole for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and 15-20 minutes to bake, totaling around 30-35 minutes. In no time, you’ll have deliciously baked chicken taquitos ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature helps give your taquitos that nice golden-brown crispiness. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Filling:
In a large bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, diced green chilies (if using), cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and salt and pepper. Make sure everything is well combined so every bite is full of flavor!
3. Warm the Tortillas:
To make your tortillas easier to roll, warm them up slightly. You can do this by microwaving them for about 10-15 seconds or heating them on a skillet for just a bit. This will keep them pliable and prevent them from cracking.
4. Fill and Roll the Taquitos:
Take about 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture and place it on one edge of each tortilla. Spread the filling into a line, but don’t overfill it! Carefully roll the tortilla tightly around the filling and place it seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake the Taquitos:
Lightly spray or brush the tops of the taquitos with cooking spray or oil. This step is key to ensuring they become perfectly crispy while baking! Now, pop them in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they reach that lovely golden brown color.
6. Cool and Serve:
Once they are done baking, take them out and let them cool for a few minutes. If you like, garnish with some chopped fresh cilantro for a pop of color. Serve warm with your choice of sour cream, salsa, or guacamole for dipping.
Enjoy your crispy, cheesy Baked Chicken Taquitos! They’re perfect for sharing—if you can resist eating them all yourself!
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While cheddar is a great choice, you can also use Monterey Jack, pepper jack for a spicy twist, or any blend of your favorite cheese. Just ensure the cheese melts well for that gooey filling!
Can I Make These Taquitos Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling and roll the taquitos ahead of time. Just place them on a baking sheet, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to eat, bake them straight from the fridge—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
How Do I Store Leftover Taquitos?
Store leftover taquitos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
Can I Freeze Baked Chicken Taquitos?
Yes, you can! To freeze, allow the baked taquitos to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months! Reheat from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes.