Description
Crunchy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos feature tender shredded chicken blended with creamy cheese and spices, wrapped in corn tortillas and baked to golden crispiness. This healthier alternative to fried taquitos delivers addictive flavor and crunch, perfect for quick dinners, snacks, or gatherings. Ready in under 45 minutes, they are kid-friendly, versatile, and easy to customize for various dietary preferences.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken breast or thighs
- 8–10 corn tortillas (fresh or slightly stale)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2–3 tbsp diced mild green chilies
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil spray (for coating)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Filling: In a bowl, combine shredded cooked chicken with softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, diced green chilies, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix until the filling is creamy and well-seasoned.
- Warm the Tortillas: Gently warm the corn tortillas in a microwave or on a skillet for a few seconds until they are flexible, making them easier to roll without cracking.
- Assemble the Taquitos: Place a heaping spoonful of the chicken mixture near the edge of each tortilla. Roll tightly into a cylinder to secure the filling inside. Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling.
- Prepare for Baking: Arrange the rolled taquitos seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray or brush them with olive oil to promote a golden, crunchy exterior.
- Bake Until Crispy: Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 15 to 20 minutes, turning halfway through for even browning, until the taquitos are crisp and golden brown.
Notes
- Shred chicken while warm for easier preparation.
- Do not overfill tortillas to prevent cracking when rolling.
- Brush a little water on the tortilla edge before rolling to help seal if desired.
- Use fresh or slightly damp tortillas for best flexibility.
- Flip taquitos halfway through baking for even crispness.
- Serve immediately for the best crunchy texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 taquitos
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg
Keywords: chicken taquitos, oven baked taquitos, crunchy taquitos, healthy chicken recipe, gluten free appetizers