These baked chicken taquitos are super tasty and easy to make! Filled with juicy chicken and yummy spices, they are wrapped in crispy tortillas that will make you want to munch them all day.
Whenever I’m in the mood for a quick snack or meal, I whip these up in no time! They’re great for sharing or enjoying all by yourself—no judgment here! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is a favorite for me because it’s juicy and already cooked. You can also use leftover chicken, turkey, or even canned chicken if you’re in a pinch!
Cheese: My go-to is Monterey Jack for its meltiness, but cheddar adds a richer flavor. Feel free to mix cheeses or use a non-dairy alternative for a vegan version.
Cilantro: This adds fresh flavor, but if you’re not a fan, you can leave it out or substitute with parsley for a different twist!
Tortillas: Small flour tortillas work best for rolling. You could use corn tortillas, but they might crack more easily unless warmed properly. Whole wheat tortillas are a healthy swap, too!
How Do You Roll Taquitos Without Breaking the Tortilla?
Rolling taquitos can be tricky, but a few tips can help. Warming the tortillas is key so they become pliable. You can do this in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or on a skillet for a few seconds on each side.
- After warming, take a tortilla and spoon the filling at one end, leaving space at the edges.
- Start rolling tightly while tucking in the sides as you go to keep the filling inside.
- Place the seam-side down on the baking sheet to secure the roll.
Don’t overstuff, or it’s harder to roll! A little practice makes perfect, so have fun with it!
Baked Chicken Taquitos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or cheddar)
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Wrapping:
- 10–12 small flour tortillas (6-inch size)
- Cooking spray or 1–2 tablespoons oil for brushing
Optional Garnishes:
- Lime wedges
- Sour cream
- Guacamole
- Salsa
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep time and 15–20 minutes for baking, making it around 30–35 minutes total from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures the taquitos will get crispy and delicious! While it’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it so the taquitos don’t stick.
2. Prepare the Filling:
In a medium bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, shredded cheese, cream cheese, chopped cilantro, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, chili powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined and looks tasty!
3. Warm the Tortillas:
Next, warm the tortillas to make them easier to roll. You can do this by popping them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or heating them briefly in a skillet. They should be warm but not crispy.
4. Fill the Tortillas:
Take about 2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture and spoon it onto one end of each tortilla. Spread it out a bit but remember to keep the edges clear so you can seal them nicely.
5. Roll the Taquitos:
Now it’s time to roll! Tightly roll each tortilla, tucking in the filling as you go. Place the rolled taquitos seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. This helps them stay closed while baking.
6. Bake Them Up:
Lightly brush or spray the taquitos with a little oil or cooking spray for that perfect crispiness. Bake them in the oven for 15–20 minutes, turning them halfway to get that golden brown on all sides.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re crispy and golden, take the taquitos out of the oven. If you like, sprinkle some extra chopped cilantro on top. Serve them warm with your favorite dips like sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or a fresh squeeze of lime juice!
Enjoy your scrumptious and crispy baked chicken taquitos! They’re sure to be a hit! 🎉
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have on hand works great. Just shred it and mix it in with the other ingredients!
Can I Make These Taquitos Gluten-Free?
Yes! You can use corn tortillas or gluten-free flour tortillas as a substitute. Just be sure to warm them before rolling to prevent cracking!
How Do I Store Leftover Taquitos?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
Can I Freeze Taquitos Before Baking?
Yes! Assemble the taquitos, then lay them flat on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag. Bake from frozen at 425°F (220°C) for about 20-25 minutes, adding a few extra minutes if needed!
