Crunchy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe
These Crunchy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos are a delicious and easy-to-make Mexican-inspired appetizer or snack featuring shredded chicken mixed with creamy cheeses, salsa, and spices, all rolled in warm tortillas and baked to crispy perfection. Perfect for parties, game days, or a tasty weeknight treat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
Scale
Filling
- 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)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Assembly
- 10–12 small flour tortillas
- Cooking spray or olive oil for coating
Optional Toppings
- Guacamole
- Sour cream
- Additional salsa
- Diced tomatoes
- Sliced jalapeños
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Filling: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, shredded cheese, salsa, taco seasoning, lime juice, and chopped cilantro if using. Stir the mixture until all ingredients are well incorporated and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the Taquitos: Warm the flour tortillas in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds; this makes them pliable and easier to roll without cracking. Place roughly 2 tablespoons of the chicken filling onto the center of each tortilla, then roll them up tightly starting from one end. Arrange the taquitos seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Coat with Oil: Lightly spray or brush the tops of the taquitos with cooking spray or olive oil. This step is important for achieving a crispy, golden exterior during baking.
- Bake the Taquitos: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the taquitos are crispy and golden brown. Flip them halfway through cooking to ensure even crispiness on all sides.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the taquitos from the oven and allow them to cool for a minute. Serve them warm with your choice of optional toppings such as guacamole, sour cream, salsa, diced tomatoes, or sliced jalapeños for added flavor and freshness.
Notes
- Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds great flavor.
- For extra crispiness, brush the taquitos with olive oil instead of spray.
- Adjust the heat level by choosing mild or spicy salsa and taco seasoning.
- Flour tortillas work best for rolling; however, corn tortillas can be used but are more prone to cracking.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute cream cheese and shredded cheese with vegan alternatives.
Keywords: chicken taquitos, baked taquitos, oven baked appetizers, Mexican chicken recipe, crispy taquitos, easy party food
