Crunchy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe
These Crunchy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos are a delicious and easy appetizer or snack featuring shredded chicken mixed with cream cheese, shredded cheese, salsa, and taco seasoning, all rolled into small flour tortillas and baked to crispy perfection. Served with optional toppings like guacamole and sour cream, they make a flavorful and satisfying dish for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Scale
Filling Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 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
Tortillas
- 10–12 small flour tortillas
For Baking
- 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 and facilitate easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Filling: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, shredded cheese, salsa, taco seasoning, lime juice, and chopped cilantro if using. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated into a creamy mixture. Season with salt and pepper according to taste.
- Assemble the Taquitos: Warm the flour tortillas in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to make them pliable and easier to roll. Place about 2 tablespoons of the chicken filling onto the center of each tortilla. Roll each tortilla tightly from one end to the other, ensuring the filling is securely enclosed. Place the rolled taquitos seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet for stability during baking.
- Coat with Oil: Lightly spray or brush the tops of the assembled taquitos with cooking spray or olive oil. This step helps the taquitos achieve a golden, crispy exterior when baked.
- Bake the Taquitos: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Halfway through the baking time, flip the taquitos to ensure even crispiness on all sides. Bake until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the taquitos from the oven and let them cool for a minute or two. Serve warm with your favorite toppings such as guacamole, sour cream, additional salsa, diced tomatoes, or sliced jalapeños for extra flavor.
Notes
- Warming the tortillas before rolling helps prevent cracking and makes rolling easier.
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut; leftover cooked chicken works well too.
- Adjust the salsa heat level to suit your taste preference.
- Flipping the taquitos halfway through baking ensures even crispiness.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat in the oven to retain crispiness.
Keywords: chicken taquitos, oven-baked taquitos, crispy chicken taquitos, Mexican appetizer, easy party snacks, baked chicken rolls
