Baked Chicken Taquitos are crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavorful shredded chicken, all wrapped in a golden-brown tortilla. This healthier alternative to fried taquitos is perfect for snacks, appetizers, or easy weeknight dinners. Serve them with guacamole, salsa, or sour cream for a delicious meal!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy & Baked: No deep frying needed—just a crunchy, golden exterior from the oven.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make ahead and freeze for an easy grab-and-go meal.
- Customizable: Add different fillings like beans, veggies, or extra spices.
- Kid-Friendly: A fun, handheld meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or homemade)
- Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend)
- Cream cheese, softened
- Salsa or diced green chilies
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Cumin
- Chili powder
- Salt and pepper
- Small flour or corn tortillas
- Olive oil or cooking spray (for crispiness)
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
- In a bowl, mix shredded chicken, shredded cheese, cream cheese, salsa, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Step 2: Assemble the Taquitos
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Warm the tortillas in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to make them pliable.
- Place 2-3 tablespoons of filling in the center of each tortilla. Roll tightly and place seam-side down on the baking sheet.
Step 3: Bake Until Crispy
- Lightly brush the taquitos with olive oil or spray with cooking spray.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
- Serve hot with salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or queso dip.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6 (12 taquitos)
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or extra chili powder.
- Creamy Verde Taquitos: Use green salsa and a little sour cream in the filling.
- BBQ Chicken Taquitos: Mix chicken with BBQ sauce and cheese.
- Buffalo Chicken Taquitos: Use Buffalo sauce and ranch seasoning for a tangy twist.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken for black beans, refried beans, or sautéed veggies.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze unbaked taquitos on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for 25 minutes.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes or in an air fryer for 5 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?
Yes! Corn tortillas will be more traditional but should be warmed first to prevent cracking.
How do I keep taquitos from unrolling?
Place them seam-side down and press lightly. You can also use a toothpick while baking.
Can I air fry these instead of baking?
Yes! Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.
What dipping sauces go well with taquitos?
Salsa, guacamole, queso dip, ranch, or chipotle mayo are great options.
How do I make them extra crispy?
Brush with a little extra oil and bake at a high temperature.
Can I use canned chicken?
Yes! Drain it well and mix with the seasonings.
Are baked taquitos healthy?
Yes! They’re lower in fat than fried taquitos but still crispy and flavorful.
What side dishes pair well?
Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh side salad make great accompaniments.
Can I add beans to the filling?
Yes! Black beans or refried beans add protein and flavor.
How do I prevent soggy taquitos?
Don’t overfill, and bake on a wire rack for extra crispiness.
Conclusion
Baked Chicken Taquitos are crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making them perfect for an easy meal or party snack. With simple ingredients and quick prep, they’re a delicious alternative to fried taquitos. Try them today and enjoy a healthier, homemade version of this classic Mexican favorite!
PrintBaked Chicken Taquitos Recipe
These Baked Chicken Taquitos are crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavorful shredded chicken—all without the need for frying! Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or quick meal, they pair wonderfully with guacamole, salsa, or sour cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer / Snack / Main Dish
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie or leftover)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup salsa or enchilada sauce
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese or sour cream
- 12 small corn or flour tortillas
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing or spraying)
For Serving:
- Salsa
- Guacamole
- Sour cream
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat & Prep
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2️⃣ Make the Chicken Filling
- In a bowl, mix shredded chicken, cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Stir in salsa and cream cheese (or sour cream) until combined.
3️⃣ Assemble the Taquitos
- Warm tortillas in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to make them pliable.
- Spoon 2 tablespoons of filling onto each tortilla and roll tightly.
- Place seam-side down on the baking sheet.
4️⃣ Bake Until Crispy
- Brush or spray taquitos with olive oil.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, until golden brown and crispy.
5️⃣ Serve & Enjoy!
- Serve hot with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.
Notes
📌 Extra Crunch? Broil for 2-3 minutes at the end.
🌶 Spicy? Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the filling.
🧀 Cheesy Twist? Sprinkle extra cheese on top before baking.
🥑 Healthier? Use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese.
🔥 Air Fryer Method: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway.