Crunchy Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe

Experience a symphony of textures and flavors with these Crunchy Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos. If you’re looking for a dish that combines ease with a delightful crunch, this recipe is just what you need! Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, these taquitos are both satisfying and fun to make. You can whip them up quickly, and everyone will love their crispy goodness paired with fresh toppings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With simple steps, you’ll have these delicious taquitos ready in no time!
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves finger foods, and these taquitos are perfect for kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare the filling ahead of time and assemble the taquitos when you’re ready to bake.
• Packed with flavor: The combination of spices makes every bite bursting with deliciousness.
• Healthier option: Enjoy the crunch without the guilt—these are baked, not fried!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe features simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Gather everything you need for your Crunchy Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos!

For the Filling

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 tbsp olive or avocado oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• ½ tsp salt, to taste
• ¼ tsp black pepper, to taste
• ½ cup chicken broth or reserved cooking liquid
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

For the Taquitos

• 24-30 corn tortillas
• 2-3 tbsp olive or avocado oil, for brushing

Variations

One of the great things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to suit your tastes or dietary needs.

• Swap the protein: Use shredded rotisserie chicken or even black beans for a vegetarian option.
• Add some heat: Mix in diced jalapeños or use spicy cheese for an extra kick.
• Change the cheese: Try pepper jack or cheddar instead of Monterey Jack for different flavors.
• Experiment with fillings: Get creative by adding sautéed bell peppers or corn to the chicken mixture.

How to Make Crunchy Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Chicken Filling

First, poach your chicken! In a pot of simmering water or broth seasoned with salt, cook 1.5 lbs of chicken breasts or thighs for about 15-20 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This will keep the chicken tender and juicy. Don’t forget to reserve ½ cup of that flavorful cooking liquid!

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics & Spices

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Sauté a finely diced onion for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes translucent. Adding minced garlic along with spices like cumin and chili powder will create an aromatic base full of flavor that makes these taquitos truly special.

Step 3: Combine & Simmer

Once your aromatics are fragrant, add the shredded chicken along with the reserved cooking liquid to your skillet. Let everything simmer together for about 5 minutes; this step allows all those wonderful flavors to meld beautifully. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste.

Step 4: Add Cheese & Cilantro

Remove the skillet from heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese along with optional chopped cilantro. Mixing in the cheese while it’s still hot allows it to melt into the filling perfectly! Let this mixture cool slightly before rolling up those taquitos.

Step 5: Soften Tortillas

To make rolling easier, soften your corn tortillas. Microwave about five tortillas wrapped in a damp paper towel for 30-45 seconds until they’re warm and pliable. Keeping them covered will prevent them from drying out as you roll.

Step 6: Preheat Oven & Prep Sheet

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) while you prepare your baking sheets. Line one or two large baking sheets with parchment paper; this will help prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Step 7: Fill & Roll

Grab a softened tortilla and lay it flat on your workspace. Spoon about 1.5-2 tablespoons of cooled chicken filling just below the center of each tortilla. Roll it tightly starting from the side closest to the filling—this helps keep everything secure during baking!

Step 8: Arrange & Brush with Oil

Place each rolled taquito seam-side down on your prepared baking sheet, making sure there’s space between them for even baking. Brush tops and sides lightly with olive or avocado oil using a pastry brush; this ensures they get nicely golden brown.

Step 9: Initial Bake

Bake your taquitos in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes until they begin to dry out and turn light golden—this is where they start getting that crunchy texture we all love!

Step 10: Flip & Finish Baking

Carefully flip each taquito over after initial baking time is up. Bake them again for another 10-15 minutes until they’re golden brown and firm—aiming for that perfect crispy finish! If you want extra crispness, feel free to bake them an additional few minutes while keeping an eye on them.

Step 11: Serve & Rest

Finally, remove those crunchy delights from the oven! Let them rest on the baking sheet for about 2-3 minutes before transferring them to a serving platter. Enjoy these hot with optional garnishes like sour cream (or Greek yogurt), salsa, guacamole, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges—perfect companions for such tasty bites!

Pro Tips for Making Crunchy Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe

Creating the perfect taquitos is all about the details, and with these handy tips, you’ll be on your way to a deliciously crunchy experience!

• Use fresh tortillas: Fresh corn tortillas are more pliable and will hold up better when rolling, ensuring that your taquitos don’t crack or break during assembly.

• Let filling cool slightly: Allowing the chicken filling to cool a bit before rolling helps prevent soggy tortillas. This way, they hold their shape and crisp up beautifully in the oven.

• Brush oil generously: A good brushing of olive or avocado oil on the taquitos not only adds flavor but also promotes a golden, crispy exterior. Don’t skimp on this step!

• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet: Make sure there’s space between each taquito on the baking sheet. This ensures even cooking and allows for maximum crispiness as everything bakes evenly.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust or add spices according to your taste! Adding a pinch of smoked paprika or chipotle powder can give your filling an extra kick that’s bursting with flavor.

How to Serve Crunchy Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe

Presenting your Crunchy Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos is just as important as making them! Here are some fun ideas to elevate your dish and impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Sour cream or Greek yogurt: A dollop of tangy sour cream or creamy Greek yogurt adds richness and balances out the spices in the filling.
• Fresh salsa: A vibrant tomato salsa gives a burst of freshness that complements the savory flavors of the taquitos perfectly.
• Lime wedges: Squeezing fresh lime juice over your taquitos right before eating brightens up all the flavors and adds a delightful zing!

Side Dishes

• Mexican street corn (elote): Grilled corn on the cob slathered with mayonnaise, cheese, chili powder, and lime juice makes for a sweet and spicy accompaniment that pairs beautifully with taquitos.
• Refried beans: Creamy refried beans are not only classic but also provide a hearty side that balances out the meal.
• Guacamole: The creamy texture of guacamole offers a nice contrast to the crunchiness of the taquitos while adding rich avocado flavor.
• Cilantro lime rice: Fluffy rice infused with cilantro and lime is a refreshing side that brings brightness to your plate, making it a perfect match for these tasty taquitos.

With these serving suggestions in mind, you’re ready to create an inviting meal that’s sure to be enjoyed by everyone at your table!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Crunchy Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos are perfect for meal prep, making them a great option for busy weeknights or gathering with friends. You can easily prepare a big batch ahead of time and store them for later enjoyment!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the taquitos to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 3-4 days for the best flavor and texture.

Freezing

• Let the taquitos cool completely before freezing.
• Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible.
• Store for up to 2-3 months; label with the date for reference.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
• Alternatively, you can microwave them for 1-2 minutes but expect a softer texture.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe:

Can I use other types of tortillas for the Crunchy Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe?

Yes! While corn tortillas are traditional and provide that authentic taste, you can also use flour tortillas if you prefer. Just keep in mind that they may not get as crispy as corn tortillas.

What dipping sauces go well with Crunchy Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos?

These taquitos pair wonderfully with sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or even a tangy yogurt sauce. Feel free to get creative with your favorite dips!

Can I make these taquitos vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Add some beans or lentils for extra protein!

How long does it take to make Crunchy Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos?

The total time is about 1 hour and 25 minutes, which includes both preparation and cooking time. It’s well worth the effort for such a tasty treat!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Crunchy Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos! They’re not just delicious; they bring warmth to gatherings and family meals alike. If you’re looking for a fun dish that everyone will love, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy every crunchy bite!