Enjoy Crunchy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos for a Flavorful Treat!

Craving a delicious Mexican-inspired snack that’s easy to make and full of flavor? Look no further than these Crunchy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos! Featuring a savory chicken filling wrapped in crispy tortillas, this recipe is a game-changer for your appetizer lineup. With the convenience of using rotisserie chicken, you can whip up a batch of these tasty taquitos in no time.

Taquitos, also known as rolled tacos, are a staple in Mexican cuisine. Traditionally, they’re deep-fried to achieve that irresistible crunch. But by baking them in the oven, you can enjoy all the flavor with a healthier twist. The result is a crispy outer shell surrounding a creamy, flavorful chicken filling – a mouthwatering combination that’s sure to impress your guests.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Crunchy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos

• 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)
• 10-12 small flour tortillas
• Cooking spray or olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: guacamole, sour cream, additional salsa, diced tomatoes, or sliced jalapeños

The combination of shredded chicken, creamy cream cheese, melty cheese, and zesty salsa creates a flavor-packed filling that’s simply irresistible. The taco seasoning and lime juice add an extra boost of Tex-Mex flair, while the fresh cilantro (if using) provides a fragrant finishing touch.

How to Make Crunchy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos

Making these Crunchy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos is a breeze. Follow these simple steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Prepare Filling: In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken, cream cheese, shredded cheese, salsa, taco seasoning, lime juice, and cilantro (if using) until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Assemble Taquitos: Place 2–3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto each tortilla. Roll tightly and secure with a toothpick if needed.
4. Prepare for Baking: Arrange the taquitos seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray or brush with cooking spray or olive oil.
5. Bake: Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the tortillas are golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve: Remove any toothpicks used. Serve the Crunchy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos hot, with your desired toppings like guacamole, sour cream, salsa, diced tomatoes, or sliced jalapeños.

The key to achieving that delightful crunch without frying is to bake the taquitos at a high temperature. By lightly coating them with cooking spray or olive oil, you’ll get a beautifully crispy exterior that complements the creamy, flavorful filling inside.

Variations of Crunchy Chicken Taquitos

While the Crunchy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos recipe is delicious as-is, you can easily customize it to suit your tastes:

Spicy Chicken Taquitos

For a kick of heat, add finely chopped jalapeños or use a spicier salsa in the filling.

Vegetarian Taquitos

Swap the chicken for black beans and sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and corn for a delicious meatless option.

Cheese Lovers Taquitos

Increase the cheese factor by using a blend of cheeses, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, and pepper jack.

Gluten-Free Taquitos

Use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas for a gluten-free version of these crunchy taquitos.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

These Crunchy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos make a fantastic appetizer or a light main course. Serve them alongside Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal. Beverages like margaritas, Mexican soda, or horchata pair beautifully with these tasty taquitos.

Storing and Reheating Crunchy Taquitos

Leftover Crunchy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them back in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but they may not be as crispy. For best results, reheat in the oven to maintain that irresistible crunch.

FAQ about Crunchy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos

Can I use shredded rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is the perfect shortcut for this recipe. The pre-cooked, shredded chicken makes assembling the taquitos a breeze.

How do I make the taquitos extra crispy without frying?

The key to achieving extra crispy taquitos without frying is to bake them at a high temperature (425°F/220°C) and lightly coat them with cooking spray or olive oil before baking. This helps the tortillas get golden brown and crunchy.

Can these taquitos be made ahead and frozen?

Yes, you can absolutely make these taquitos ahead of time and freeze them for later. Assemble the taquitos, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to an airtight container or resealable bag and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, simply transfer the frozen taquitos to a baking sheet and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until crispy.

What dipping sauces pair best with crunchy chicken taquitos?

The possibilities are endless! Some delicious dipping sauce options include guacamole, sour cream, salsa, queso, or a creamy cilantro-lime sauce. The taquitos pair wonderfully with a variety of dips to complement the flavors.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Oven-Baked Beef Taquitos
• Chicken Enchiladas
• Cheesy Quesadillas
• Chicken Nachos with Salsa

Conclusion

Crispy, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying, these Crunchy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos are a must-try recipe for your Mexican food cravings. With the convenience of using rotisserie chicken, you can whip up a batch of these tasty taquitos in no time. Serve them as an appetizer or a light main course, and enjoy the delightful combination of a crispy exterior and a creamy, zesty filling. Give this recipe a try and let us know how you enjoy your Crunchy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos!

Looking for more tasty ideas? Visit Elena’s Fast & Flavorful Recipes on Pinterest for a treasure trove of easy meals, comforting bakes, and fun kitchen inspiration!

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