There is nothing quite like the satisfying crunch and bursting flavors found in a plate of homemade taquitos, and this Crunchy Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe is a personal favorite that truly delivers on both texture and taste. Imagine tender shredded chicken seasoned with warm spices, creamy cheese, and a hint of fresh cilantro, all snugly wrapped in golden, crispy corn tortillas baked right in your oven. It’s an irresistible combination that’s perfect for family dinners, game day snacks, or any time you crave a comforting and flavorful bite. This recipe is easy to follow, uses simple ingredients, and guarantees mouthwatering results every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Crunchy Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe truly comes alive with basic ingredients you likely already have on hand. Each one plays its part: from juicy chicken for protein, to the vibrant spices and creamy cheeses that create deep layers of flavor, to the corn tortillas that become perfectly crisp in the oven.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 lbs): The lean protein base, easy to cook and shred for perfect filling consistency.
- Olive oil (1 tbsp): Adds richness and helps soften onions and garlic for a flavorful start.
- Yellow onion (1 small, finely diced): Provides a subtle sweetness and aromatic depth once sautéed.
- Garlic cloves (2, minced): Infuses savory warmth to the filling mixture.
- Cream cheese (4 oz, softened): Creates a luscious, creamy texture that helps bind the filling.
- Monterey Jack cheese (1/2 cup shredded): Melts smoothly, adding gooey cheesiness and mild tang.
- Salsa (1/4 cup, mild or medium): Brings moisture and a bright, zesty kick.
- Chili powder (1 tbsp): Provides a smoky, earthy warmth that defines the flavor profile.
- Ground cumin (1 tsp): Adds a subtle nutty aroma and depth common in Mexican cuisine.
- Smoked paprika (1/2 tsp): Introduces a delicate smokiness that elevates the spices.
- Cayenne pepper (1/4 tsp, optional): For a touch of heat if you like your taquitos with a little extra kick.
- Fresh cilantro (1/4 cup, chopped): Brings freshness and a little brightness to the rich filling.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all flavors.
- Corn tortillas (18-20, 6-inch): The crisp, sturdy vessels that get toasty and golden in the oven.
- Vegetable oil or cooking spray (2 tbsp, for brushing): Ensures extra crunch on the outside once baked.
How to Make Crunchy Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe
Step 1: Cook Chicken
Start by cooking your chicken breasts until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F, ensuring they’re juicy and safe to eat. You can boil them, bake in the oven, or even use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time. Once cooked, let the chicken cool slightly and shred it finely. This shredded chicken forms the hearty base of your taquito filling and ensures every bite is tender and satisfying.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and sauté for 5 to 7 minutes until the onions become soft and translucent. Then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, just until fragrant. This step builds the essential aromatic foundation that will fill your kitchen with irresistible smells and enhance the overall flavor of your filling.
Step 3: Make Filling
Reduce the stove heat to low, and stir in the softened cream cheese, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, and salsa into the skillet. Let everything melt and blend together, forming a luscious base that binds the filling. Next, add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne (if using), which layer on the bold, smoky spice that makes this Crunchy Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe pop. Fold in the shredded chicken and fresh cilantro, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the mixture to cool slightly before assembling.
Step 4: Prepare Tortillas
Warming the corn tortillas until pliable is key to rolling your taquitos without cracking. You can microwave them for 30-45 seconds, toast briefly in a skillet, or warm them in a low oven. Keeping them warm makes rolling easier and prevents breakage, ensuring your taquitos hold their shape and bake properly.
Step 5: Assemble Taquitos
Preheat your oven to 400°F and lightly grease a large baking sheet. Place about 1 to 2 tablespoons of filling about an inch from the edge of each warm tortilla, then roll tightly. Place each rolled taquito seam-side down on the baking sheet. This tight roll creates a compact, crispy wrap that holds the delicious filling securely inside while baking.
Step 6: Bake
Brush or spray each taquito lightly with vegetable oil to help them crisp up beautifully in the oven. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, flipping halfway to ensure every side is golden brown and crunchy. This step transforms soft tortillas into delightfully crispy, handheld delights without the mess of frying, making this version of the Crunchy Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe both healthier and just as tasty.
Step 7: Serve
Serve your Crunchy Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos hot and fresh with your favorite toppings. Classic choices include dollops of salsa, guacamole, sour cream, a squeeze of lime, and extra cilantro for brightness. These accompaniments add vibrant flavors and contrast perfectly with the crispy, savory taquitos for a complete and satisfying experience.
How to Serve Crunchy Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe
Garnishes
The perfect garnishes can elevate your Crunchy Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe from great to unforgettable. Freshly chopped cilantro, a drizzle of creamy sour cream, and zesty lime wedges bring freshness and tang that cuts through the richness. Salsa or pico de gallo adds a juicy, spicy punch, while guacamole brings buttery smoothness that pairs beautifully with the crunch.
Side Dishes
Serving taquitos with complementary side dishes rounds out the meal. Crisp Mexican street corn salad, Mexican rice, or refried beans make excellent pairings. For a lighter touch, a simple cabbage slaw dressed with lime juice and a pinch of salt offers refreshing crunch and acidity that balances the rich flavors of the taquitos.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress at your next gathering? Serve the taquitos standing upright in a tall glass or mason jar paired with individual cups of dipping sauces. Another idea is to create a festive platter with colorful bowls of guacamole, salsa, sour cream, and pickled jalapeños, inviting guests to build their own flavor combinations. Presentation can turn this humble dish into a fun and delicious centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Crunchy Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping them tightly covered helps maintain the firmness of the tortillas and the freshness of the filling, though the crispness may soften slightly.
Freezing
These taquitos freeze beautifully! After assembling but before baking, arrange them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until firm. Then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. This makes it super convenient to bake fresh, crunchy taquitos anytime you want a quick snack or meal.
Reheating
To reheat refrigerated or frozen taquitos, bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F for 10-15 minutes, turning once halfway through. This restores the crisp texture much better than microwaving, ensuring you enjoy them almost as much as when they were freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?
Absolutely! Flour tortillas tend to be a bit softer and may not crisp up quite as much as corn tortillas, but they still make delicious taquitos. Just warm them gently to avoid cracking and assemble as usual.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply substitute the chicken with cooked black beans, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted vegetables for a tasty vegetarian filling that still works wonderfully with the cheeses and spices.
What dipping sauces go well with these taquitos?
Classic options include salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or even a tangy chipotle mayo. For an extra kick, try a creamy avocado crema or a fresh tomatillo salsa.
How can I make the taquitos extra crispy?
Brushing the rolled taquitos with vegetable oil or using a cooking spray before baking helps create that sought-after crunch without frying. Also, flipping them halfway through ensures even browning on all sides.
Can I prepare these ahead of time for a party?
Definitely! Assemble the taquitos a few hours in advance and keep them covered in the refrigerator. Just brush with oil and bake right before serving to maintain crispness and fresh flavor.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing, crunchy snack or a satisfying meal with a bold Mexican flair, the Crunchy Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe is an absolute winner. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for sharing with friends and family. Give it a try—you might just find it becomes your new go-to comfort food that everyone asks for again and again!
Print
Crunchy Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 20 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
These Crunchy Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos are a deliciously crispy, flavorful snack or meal made with tender shredded chicken, creamy cheese, and aromatic spices all wrapped in warm corn tortillas and baked to golden perfection. Perfect for parties, game days, or anytime you crave a crunchy, satisfying Mexican-inspired treat.
Ingredients
Filling
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/4 cup salsa (mild or medium)
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Assembly
- 18–20 (6-inch) corn tortillas
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or cooking spray, for brushing
Instructions
- Cook Chicken: Cook 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. You can boil them for 15-20 minutes, bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, or use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. Once cooked, allow the chicken to cool slightly and shred it finely.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely diced yellow onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until soft and translucent. Then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Make Filling: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the softened cream cheese, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, and salsa into the skillet. Mix until the cheeses melt and the mixture is well combined. Next, add the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and optional cayenne pepper. Fold in the shredded chicken and fresh chopped cilantro. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Allow the filling to cool slightly.
- Prepare Tortillas: Warm the corn tortillas until pliable to prevent cracking when rolling. You can warm them in the microwave for 30-45 seconds, on a hot skillet for 15-20 seconds per side, or in a 300°F oven for 10-15 minutes. Keep them warm and soft while assembling.
- Assemble Taquitos: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a large baking sheet. Place 1 to 2 tablespoons of the chicken filling on a warm tortilla about 1 inch from the edge. Roll the tortilla tightly and place it seam-side down on the baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling, spacing the taquitos evenly apart.
- Bake: Lightly brush or spray the rolled taquitos with vegetable oil or cooking spray to promote crispiness. Bake them in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through the baking time, until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides.
- Serve: Serve the Crunchy Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos hot and fresh. They pair wonderfully with toppings such as salsa, guacamole, sour cream, lime wedges, and extra fresh cilantro for garnish.
Notes
- Make sure to warm the tortillas sufficiently to avoid cracking while rolling.
- You can substitute rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper quantity or omit it to control spiciness.
- For extra crispiness, brush more oil before flipping the taquitos halfway through baking.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness.
