Baked Chicken Taquitos

Baked Chicken Taquitos

5 servings
Taquitos! They're fun to say and fun to eat, they freeze well and please kids. These are filled with chicken, cheese, and seasonings, and then baked to crispy perfection.

Ingredients

  • for the taquitos
  • cooked shredded chicken

    about 1 pound

    2 c
  • cream cheese
    4 oz
  • grated cheddar cheese
    1 c
  • canned mild green chilis
    4 oz
  • mild chili powder
    1 tsp
  • ground cumin
    1 tsp
  • garlic powder
    ½ tsp
  • salt
    ½ tsp
  • corn tortillas
    18
  • vegetable oil

    for brushing

  • for serving
  • fresh cilantro
  • sour cream
  • mild salsa
  • dad add: sriracha cream sauce
  • sour cream
    ¼ c
  • sriracha hot sauce
    1 tbsp

Directions

  1. 1

    Preheat the oven to 350°F: Lightly oil a rimmed baking sheet.

  2. 2

    Make the taquito mix: In a medium bowl, mash together shredded chicken, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, green chilis, and seasonings. Mix together really well. Taste and feel free to adjust seasonings to your liking. This basic version should be fairly mild and kid-friendly.

  3. 3

    Prep the tortillas: Wrap the corn tortillas in stacks of two in between damp paper towels. Microwave on high for 20 seconds to make them more flexible.

  4. 4

    Assemble the taquitos: Add two heaping tablespoons of the chicken filling to each tortilla and wrap tightly—a small cookie scoop (like this one ) works well here. They should resemble long cigars. Immediately brush corn tortillas with vegetable oil to prevent cracking and place, seam-side down, on the lightly oiled baking sheet. Repeat until all of the filling is used. You should get 18 to 20 taquitos.

  5. 5

    Bake the taquitos: Bake the taquitos as soon as possible to prevent the tortillas from cracking too much. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until they are crispy and golden brown. If some of your tortillas crack badly, you can try again with a new tortilla and just transfer the filling over. Ultimately, though, a few cracks are okay and the taquitos can still be picked up and eaten—and they are still delicious!

  6. 6

    Make the cream sauce: While the taquitos bake, stir together the sour cream and sriracha. Taste and adjust to your liking. This can be made well in advance and keeps just fine for a few days in a covered container in the fridge.

  7. 7

    Serve: Serve immediately with the cream sauce. Leftovers can be frozen for up to a month and reheated in a warm oven.

Baked Chicken Taquitos

Baked Chicken Taquitos

40 min5 servings576 cal

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About this Recipe

Craving a crowd-pleasing snack or appetizer that’s both delicious and easy to make? These homemade Baked Chicken Taquitos deliver crispy, cheesy goodness that everyone, especially kids, will love, without the fuss of deep frying.

Why This Recipe Works

The magic in these taquitos lies in their baked preparation, which achieves a wonderfully golden and crispy exterior without the excess oil of traditional frying. This method ensures a lighter, less messy experience while still delivering that satisfying crunch. The simple yet flavorful filling, combining tender shredded chicken with a blend of cheeses and mild Tex-Mex spices, guarantees a taste that's universally appealing and incredibly comforting.

What to Expect

Get ready for a delightful sensory experience with every bite. You'll first encounter a satisfying crunch from the perfectly baked corn tortilla, giving way to a warm, soft interior. Inside, the savory shredded chicken is perfectly melded with creamy cream cheese and sharp cheddar, creating a rich, gooey filling. The mild green chilis, complemented by the earthy notes of cumin and a hint of garlic powder, provide a gentle warmth that makes these taquitos flavorful without being overly spicy—ideal for all ages. These fun, handheld treats are as satisfying as a hearty appetizer or a light dinner.

Customization & Variations

This recipe for crispy taquitos is wonderfully adaptable to your pantry and preferences. While chicken is the star, feel free to experiment with other cooked proteins like shredded pork or even seasoned black beans for a vegetarian twist. Don't have cheddar? Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend cheese would work beautifully. For those who enjoy more heat, incorporating a few dashes of hot sauce into the filling or using spicier green chilis will certainly do the trick.

Serving & Context

Whether you’re hosting a game day get-together, need a fun appetizer for a family gathering, or want a simple, satisfying weeknight dinner, these Baked Chicken Taquitos are a perfect fit. Serve them warm with classic dippers like cooling sour cream and a fresh mild salsa. For an extra kick, don't forget the easy-to-make sriracha cream sauce that adds a vibrant, zesty finish. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro provides a pop of color and herbaceous freshness.

Frequently Asked Questions