Name: Crunchy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 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; 10-12 small flour tortillas; Cooking spray or olive oil for coating; Guacamole; Sour cream; Additional salsa; Diced tomatoes; Sliced jalapeños

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Introduction

Crunchy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos are a flavorful and crispy treat perfect for any meal or snack. These taquitos combine tender shredded chicken with creamy cheese and zesty salsa, all wrapped in warm tortillas and baked to golden perfection.

A close-up view of six evenly rolled, golden-brown taquitos arranged in two rows on a round wooden board, each taquito topped lightly with chopped green cilantro. The taquitos have a crispy texture with some charred spots showing a rich, warm color. On the front left side of the board, two small dark brown bowls hold creamy guacamole, one dolloped with a bit of white cream and topped with small pieces of red onions, diced tomatoes, orange pepper, and cilantro. The scene is set against a white marbled textured surface in soft natural light. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

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

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
Step 2: 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 until all ingredients are well mixed and creamy. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Warm the flour tortillas in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to make them pliable. Place about 2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto the center of each tortilla. Roll them tightly, starting from one end. Place the rolled taquitos seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 4: Lightly spray or brush the tops of the taquitos with cooking spray or olive oil. This helps them get crispy during baking.
Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the taquitos are golden brown and crispy. Flip them halfway through baking for even crispiness.
Step 6: Remove the taquitos from the oven, let them cool for a minute, and serve with your favorite toppings, such as guacamole, sour cream, or extra salsa.

Tips & Variations

For extra crispiness, brush taquitos with a little melted butter before baking.
Substitute corn tortillas for a gluten-free version, but warm them well to prevent cracking.
Add finely diced onions or jalapeños to the filling for extra flavor and heat.
Use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time and add great flavor.

Storage

Store leftover taquitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.

How to Serve

Four rolled tacos with golden, crispy shells that have some dark brown charred spots, sprinkled with fresh green cilantro leaves on top, are placed side by side on a wooden tray. The tacos are stuffed with a creamy, light orange filling mixed with shredded white chicken visible from the open ends. Behind the tacos, there are two white bowls filled with chunky green guacamole with bits of red tomato and cilantro on top. The tray sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I freeze these chicken taquitos?

Yes, freeze the rolled taquitos on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Can I make these taquitos without cream cheese?

Cream cheese adds creaminess and helps hold the filling together. You can substitute with sour cream or Greek yogurt, but the texture may be slightly different.