Name: Crunchy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 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); Optional toppings: guacamole, sour cream, additional salsa, diced tomatoes, or sliced jalapeños

Introduction

Crunchy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos are a delicious and easy-to-make Mexican dish featuring crispy rolled tortillas filled with creamy, seasoned chicken. Perfect as appetizers, snacks, or a satisfying main course, they pair wonderfully with guacamole, salsa, or sour cream. This recipe is ideal for family dinners or gatherings when you want impressive flavor with minimal fuss.

Four rolled enchiladas sit side by side on a wooden board, each with a golden-yellow crispy outer layer that shows dark brown char marks and light black specks. The ends are open, revealing a soft, shredded white chicken filling mixed with melted orange cheese inside. Chopped green cilantro leaves are scattered over the top of the rolls and board. Behind the enchiladas, two small white bowls contain chunky green guacamole mixed with bits of red tomato, placed on a white marbled surface. 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)

½ cup salsa (choose your preferred heat level)

1 teaspoon taco seasoning

1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

¼ 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. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Warm the flour tortillas in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to make them pliable. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto the center of each tortilla. Roll them tightly starting from one end and place 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 to help them crisp during baking.

Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Flip the taquitos halfway through baking for even crispiness.

Step 6: Remove from the oven, let cool for a minute, and serve with your favorite toppings like guacamole, sour cream, or extra salsa.

Tips & Variations

Use corn tortillas warmed in a skillet for an authentic flavor and flexible rolling.

For extra heat, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the filling.

Try mixing different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Queso Blanco for varied flavor.

Substitute chicken with black beans or sautéed vegetables for a vegetarian option.

Freeze unbaked taquitos on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag for easy baking later—just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

FAQs

Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?

Yes, corn tortillas can be used. Warm them slightly to make them pliable and prevent cracking when rolling. This will give your taquitos a more authentic taste.

What can I serve with chicken taquitos?

Taquitos pair well with guacamole, salsa, sour cream, Mexican rice, black beans, or a fresh salad. For drinks, try Mexican beer, margaritas, or refreshing agua fresca.