Name: Crispy Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 23 min
Total time: 38 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded cooked chicken; 1 tsp chili powder; ½ tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp onion powder; ½ tsp cumin; ¼ tsp salt; 16 small corn tortillas; Cooking spray (non-stick spray)

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Introduction

Crispy baked chicken taquitos are a delicious and healthier alternative to fried versions. Packed with flavorful seasoned chicken and wrapped in soft corn tortillas, they’re perfect for a snack or a light meal. Baking them gives a satisfyingly crisp texture without the extra oil.

A white plate holds a stack of golden-brown rolled taquitos, each one crispy with a slightly bumpy texture and visible seams of the corn tortilla wrapped tightly around the filling. The taquitos lay on crumpled white parchment paper over a white marbled surface. To the top side of the plate, a small white bowl filled with chunky green guacamole shows varied textures from smooth to lumpy with small bits of ingredients visible. Nearby, a sliced lime, with its bright green rind and juicy pale center, rests on the surface. Toward the bottom left of the frame, another small white bowl contains deep red salsa with visible bits of tomato and herbs, looking thick and rich. A third small white bowl filled with creamy white sour cream is present at the bottom right, with a silver spoon resting in it. Scattered cilantro leaves add a fresh touch around the taquitos. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups shredded cooked chicken
1 tsp chili powder
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp cumin
¼ tsp salt
16 small corn tortillas
cooking spray

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with a cooling rack or parchment paper and set it aside.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken with chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and salt. Stir until the spices are evenly mixed into the chicken.
Step 3: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Warm each tortilla for 30 to 45 seconds on each side until heated through. Place the warmed tortillas in a zip-close bag to steam and soften while you prepare the filling.
Step 4: Lay each softened tortilla flat and spoon about 2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture in a line on one side. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling and place it seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 5: Lightly spritz all sides of the rolled taquitos with cooking spray. Bake for 18 minutes, then carefully flip them over and bake for another 5 minutes until they are browned and crispy. Serve warm with your favorite dips such as guacamole, salsa, or sour cream.

Tips & Variations

For extra crispiness, use a cooling rack on the baking sheet to allow air circulation around the taquitos while baking.
Try adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of shredded cheese inside for an extra kick.
If you prefer flour tortillas, they can be used but may require a slightly shorter baking time to avoid drying out.

Storage

Store leftover chicken 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 degrees F oven for about 10 minutes or until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving to keep them crisp.

How to Serve

A close-up image shows a group of golden brown, crispy rolled taquitos arranged in the center on white crinkled parchment paper over a white marbled surface. Around the taquitos, there are three small white bowls placed near the edges; one is filled with chunky red salsa, another with creamy white sour cream, and the third with green guacamole that has a smooth but slightly textured surface. Near the top left of the taquitos, two lime halves are placed with their green and juicy interiors visible, and a few cilantro leaves are scattered around for garnish. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these taquitos ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the taquitos and keep them covered in the refrigerator for a few hours before baking. This makes them convenient for meal prep or entertaining.

Can I freeze baked taquitos?

Absolutely. Let them cool completely, then freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. Reheat directly from frozen in a preheated oven at 375 degrees F for about 15-20 minutes.