Name: Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos for Easy Weeknight Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (brings that hearty protein punch to your taquitos!); 8 oz cream cheese (adds a creamy texture that binds all the filling together.); 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (provides a rich, melty flavor that elevates every bite.); 1 can mild green chilis (gives a hint of spice and flavor without overwhelming heat.); 1 tsp mild chili powder (enhances the savory notes with a warm kick.); 1 tsp ground cumin (adds a delightful earthy undertone that's hard to resist.); 1 tsp garlic powder (infuses a warm, savory aroma that makes everything better.); 1 tsp salt (brings all those flavors together beautifully.); 12 6-inch corn tortillas (choose soft, pliable tortillas for easy rolling.); 2 tbsp vegetable oil (brushing these taquitos helps them achieve a golden, crispy exterior.); 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (adds a bright, fresh note that complements your taquitos perfectly.); 1/2 cup sour cream (a cooling dip that balances the savory goodness.); 1/2 cup mild salsa (enhances your taquitos with zesty flavor.)

As I was rummaging through my pantry one evening, I stumbled upon a treasure trove of leftover chicken and a few spices—a mini crisis became a creative spark! That’s how my Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos came to life, turning those humble ingredients into a crispy, crowd-pleasing delight. This recipe promises quick prep time and minimal cleanup, making it a favorite for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With gooey cream cheese and zesty chilis tucked inside warm tortillas, each bite bursts with comforting flavor. The best part? They bake up perfectly crispy in the oven without the hassle of frying! Curious about how to whip up this simple yet satisfying dish? Let’s dive into the recipe that might just become your new weeknight hero!

Why are these taquitos a must-try?

Crispy perfection awaits you when you bake these taquitos! The flavorful filling, combining shredded chicken, cream cheese, and zesty spices, creates an irresistible savory bite. Quick to prepare, you’ll spend only 10 minutes prepping, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Versatile too! Enjoy them as an appetizer, snack, or main dish. Finally, they are a healthier alternative, baked to golden crispness without the mess of frying—your taste buds and waistline will thank you!

Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos Ingredients

• Ready to whip up those scrumptious taquitos? Here’s what you need!

For the Filling

Cooked shredded chicken – brings that hearty protein punch to your taquitos!
Cream cheese – adds a creamy texture that binds all the filling together.
Grated cheddar cheese – provides a rich, melty flavor that elevates every bite.
Canned mild green chilis – gives a hint of spice and flavor without overwhelming heat.
Mild chili powder – enhances the savory notes with a warm kick.
Ground cumin – adds a delightful earthy undertone that’s hard to resist.
Garlic powder – infuses a warm, savory aroma that makes everything better.
Salt – brings all those flavors together beautifully.

For the Taquitos

6-inch corn tortillas – choose soft, pliable tortillas for easy rolling; they’re perfect for Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos!
Vegetable oil – brushing these taquitos helps them achieve a golden, crispy exterior.

For Garnish and Serving

Fresh cilantro – adds a bright, fresh note that complements your taquitos perfectly.
Sour cream – a cooling dip that balances the savory goodness.
Mild salsa – enhances your taquitos with zesty flavor and extra texture.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s hot enough to create that delightful crispiness for your Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos. While the oven warms up, gather your ingredients and make sure you have a baking sheet lined with parchment paper ready for the taquitos.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine your cooked shredded chicken, cream cheese, grated cheddar cheese, canned mild green chilis, mild chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, and salt. Mix everything together until smooth and each ingredient is well incorporated. This creamy filling will be the heart of your taquitos, bringing warmth and flavor to every bite.

Step 3: Warm the Tortillas
To make your corn tortillas pliable, warm them slightly. You can do this by placing them in a microwave for about 30 seconds wrapped in a damp paper towel or heating them on a skillet over medium heat for a few seconds on each side. This step is key to preventing the tortillas from cracking when rolling your taquitos.

Step 4: Roll the Taquitos
Take a warm tortilla and spoon a generous portion of the chicken filling onto the center. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling, ensuring it’s secure and seam-side down. Repeat this process for all tortillas, placing the rolled taquitos seam-side down on your prepared baking sheet as you go.

Step 5: Brush with Oil
Once all your taquitos are rolled and on the baking sheet, brush each one lightly with vegetable oil. This step helps them achieve a beautiful golden-brown color and extra crispiness while baking. Make sure to coat them evenly for the best results in your Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos.

Step 6: Bake the Taquitos
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake the taquitos for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them, looking for a golden, crispy exterior as they cook. This delightful transformation will signal when your Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos are ready to be enjoyed.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Once baked to perfection, remove the taquitos from the oven and let them cool for a minute. Serve them hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, and alongside sour cream and mild salsa for dipping. The contrasting flavors will elevate your homemade taquitos, making them a crowd favorite at any gathering!

What to Serve with Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos

Bring your culinary creations to life as you plan a full meal that dances on your palate, adding a burst of flavor!

Creamy Guacamole: A rich avocado blend elevates the taquitos, offering a refreshing contrast that perfectly balances the spices.
Mexican Street Corn Salad: The sweet, crunchy corn adds texture and vibrant flavors, complementing the crispy taquitos beautifully—a delightful combination!
Refried Beans: Smooth and savory, refried beans are a classic pairing that enriches the meal and provides a hearty element to each bite.
Chips and Salsa: Lightly salted tortilla chips paired with zesty salsa provide an irresistible crunch and an extra layer of flavor, making for a fun side.
Cilantro Lime Rice: This fragrant, zesty rice dish brightens the plate and enhances your meal’s flavors, making every bite a pleasure to savor.
Cold Brewed Iced Tea: Refreshing and slightly sweet, an iced tea balances the warmth of the taquitos, creating a cooling effect that’s perfect for any gathering.
Churros with Chocolate Sauce: For dessert, crispy churros drizzled with rich chocolate sauce deliver a sweet finale that leaves everyone satisfied and smiling.

Make Ahead Options

These Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the filling up to 3 days in advance—simply mix the cooked shredded chicken, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, green chilis, and spices, then refrigerate it in an airtight container. Additionally, you can roll the taquitos and place them on a baking sheet, covering them tightly with plastic wrap before refrigerating for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, just brush them with vegetable oil and bake in the preheated oven—no need to adjust baking time! This way, you’ll have delicious, crispy taquitos on the table with minimal effort, just as tasty as if you made them fresh!

Expert Tips for Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos

Warm Tortillas: Ensure your tortillas are heated properly to prevent cracking while rolling; a microwave or skillet warms them quickly and effectively.
Even Filling: Don’t overfill your taquitos, as this can cause them to burst during baking; aim for a balanced 2-3 tablespoons of filling per tortilla.
Crispy Finish: Brush the taquitos lightly with vegetable oil before baking to achieve that golden, crispy texture you desire for your Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos.
Baking Time: Keep a close eye on the taquitos in the last few minutes of baking; ovens can vary, and you want them just right—golden not burnt!
Garnish Wisely: Fresh cilantro adds a nice touch, but don’t forget the sour cream and mild salsa; they bring out the best flavors of your taquitos!

How to Store and Freeze Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos

Fridge: Store leftover taquitos in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze taquitos on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To reheat frozen Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos, bake directly from the freezer at 375°F for 25-30 minutes or until heated through and crispy.

Serving Fresh: For the best taste, enjoy freshly baked taquitos; however, with these storage tips, you can savor leftovers without compromising flavor!

Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos Variations

Feel free to get creative and tailor these delicious taquitos to suit your taste buds!

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free corn tortillas or a different wrap to make these taquitos suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
Spice It Up: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the filling for an extra kick of heat. Your taste buds will thank you!
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with black beans or a medley of sautéed veggies for a satisfying vegetarian taquito that delights with each bite. Packed with flavor!
Cheesy Twist: Mix in a different cheese, like pepper jack or mozzarella, to impart a different flavor profile. This adds an exciting twist on the traditional cheese blend!
Herbed Variation: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions into the filling for a fresh and vibrant flavor enhancement. They’ll brighten up each bite beautifully!
BBQ Chicken: Swap the chili powder and cumin for BBQ sauce and shredded cooked BBQ chicken for a smoky, sweet flavor makeover that’s hard to resist.
Creamy Avocado: Add mashed avocado to the filling for a rich and creamy texture while also boosting the nutritional value. Avocado elevates everything!
Crunchy Add-ins: For added texture, toss in some crushed tortilla chips or corn for a delightful crunch with every bite. A fun surprise awaits you!

Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right chicken for my taquitos?
Absolutely! Use cooked shredded chicken from a rotisserie for convenience, or prepare your own by boiling or baking chicken breasts until fully cooked, then shredding them. Look for chicken that’s moist and tender, as this will keep your filling juicy.

How should I store leftover taquitos?
Very simply! Place leftover Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, preheat your oven to 350°F, and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until they’re heated through and crispy again.

Can I freeze these taquitos for later?
Absolutely! To freeze, first bake your taquitos as directed. Allow them to cool completely, then place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. After that, transfer them to a zip-top bag, removing as much air as possible. They will keep well for up to 3 months. For reheating, bake them straight from the freezer at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes.

What do I do if my tortillas crack while rolling?
It happens! If your tortillas crack, try warming them a bit longer—either using a microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel or heating them on a skillet until they’re pliable. If they’re already cracked, you can still use them by tearing the tortilla into smaller pieces and making mini taquitos or layering them in a baking dish for a taquito casserole.

Are these taquitos safe for my pets to eat?
Generally speaking, it’s best to keep them away. The spices and seasonings in the taquitos, particularly garlic powder, can be harmful to pets. If you want to share a treat with your furry friend, you might consider making a plain, unsalted chicken mixture specifically for them instead.

Can I adjust the spices in the filling?
Very much so! Feel free to customize the filling according to your taste preferences. If you prefer more heat, switch to spicy chili powder or add some diced jalapeños. If you’re looking to tone it down, simply reduce the amount of chili powder or utilize milder spices. The more the merrier when it comes to personalizing flavors!