Looking for a tasty dinner idea? Try my Extra Crispy Baked Chicken Taquitos! They’re crunchy, flavorful, and easy to make. You'll love how simple ingredients can create a fun meal. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend snack, these taquitos hit the spot. Let’s dive in and turn this dish into a family favorite! Your taste buds are in for a treat.
Why I Love This Recipe
- Crispy Texture: The oven-baked method gives these taquitos a delightful crunch without the need for frying, making them a healthier option.
- Flavorful Filling: The combination of chicken, cheese, and spices creates a rich and savory filling that is sure to please everyone's palate.
- Easy to Make: This recipe is simple and quick, perfect for busy weeknights or as a fun appetizer for gatherings.
- Customizable: You can easily swap out the ingredients to suit your tastes, such as using different cheeses or adding veggies.
Ingredients
List of Required Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 small corn tortillas
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Cooking spray
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
These ingredients come together to create a flavorful filling. The chicken adds protein, while the cheeses give a creamy texture. Spices like chili powder and cumin bring warmth and depth.
Substitute Options for Ingredients
If you don't have cooked chicken, shredded turkey works well too. You can swap cream cheese for Greek yogurt for a lighter option. For a dairy-free version, try using vegan cheese or a nut-based cream cheese.
If you lack specific spices, you can adjust to your taste. For example, paprika can replace chili powder. You can also skip spices if you prefer a milder flavor.
Recommended Brands or Products
For chicken, I like using rotisserie chicken. It saves time and adds great flavor. For cheese, brands like Tillamook or Cabot offer delicious options. When choosing tortillas, go for brands like Mission or La Banderita for the best texture and taste.
Using high-quality ingredients helps elevate your taquitos. They will taste better and make your dinner more enjoyable.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Ingredients
To start, gather your ingredients. You will need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 small corn tortillas
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Cooking spray
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Next, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This will help the taquitos get extra crispy. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes cleanup easy and helps the taquitos cook evenly.
In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well blended. This mixture is the heart of your taquitos.
Forming the Taquitos
Now, let’s make the taquitos. First, warm the corn tortillas in the microwave for 20-30 seconds. This makes them easier to roll. Take one tortilla and place 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture in a line along one edge.
Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling. Make sure to keep it secure. Place the taquito seam-side down on your baking sheet. Repeat this step with the rest of the tortillas.
Baking for Optimal Crispiness
Once all the taquitos are on the baking sheet, brush each one with olive oil. This helps them get that golden, crispy look. Lightly spray them with cooking spray too.
Bake the taquitos in your preheated oven for 15-20 minutes. Flip them halfway through baking for even crispiness. Keep an eye on them, as you want them to be golden brown.
When they are done, let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with your favorite salsa or guacamole. Enjoy your delicious, crispy taquitos!
Tips & Tricks
How to Ensure Crispy Taquitos
To get those extra crispy baked taquitos, follow a few key steps. First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high heat helps create that golden brown crust. Next, brush each taquito with olive oil. This adds flavor and promotes crispiness. Don’t forget to use cooking spray too; it gives an extra crunch. Also, flip the taquitos halfway through baking. This method helps both sides cook evenly and get crisp.
Best Practices for Rolling Taquitos
Rolling taquitos is simple but crucial for a great shape. Start by warming the corn tortillas in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds. This makes them soft and easy to roll. Use about 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture for each tortilla. Place the filling in a line along one edge. Tightly roll the tortilla, tucking in the filling as you go. Make sure the seam is on the bottom when placing them on the baking sheet. This keeps them from unrolling during baking.
Flavor Enhancements and Seasoning Tips
Enhancing the flavor of your taquitos can make all the difference. You can add more spices like smoked paprika or cayenne for heat. Fresh herbs like cilantro can add zest. Experiment with different cheeses, like pepper jack for a kick. If you want a creamier filling, try adding a bit of sour cream. For a fresh taste, serve them with salsa or guacamole on the side. These small tweaks can elevate your taquitos to a new level.
Pro Tips
- Warm Tortillas: Heating the tortillas before rolling makes them more pliable and less likely to crack.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh cilantro and quality cheese for enhanced flavor and texture.
- Don’t Overfill: Be careful not to overfill the taquitos to ensure they roll tightly and stay closed while baking.
- Flip for Even Crispiness: Flipping the taquitos halfway through baking ensures they get evenly crispy on all sides.
Variations
Vegetarian or Vegan Options
You can easily make these taquitos vegetarian or vegan. Swap the chicken with black beans or lentils. For a creamy texture, use vegan cream cheese. You can add veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or corn. Flavor them with taco seasoning for a tasty kick.
Different Fillings to Try
Feel free to get creative with your fillings. Here are some ideas:
- Pulled Pork: Use shredded pork with barbecue sauce.
- Beef: Season ground beef with taco spices.
- Cheese Only: Mix various cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a cheesy delight.
- Buffalo Chicken: Use shredded chicken tossed in buffalo sauce for a spicy twist.
Each filling can change the taste and keep things interesting!
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Serve your taquitos with delicious sides. Here are some great pairings:
- Salsa: Fresh tomato salsa or mango salsa adds a sweet touch.
- Guacamole: Creamy guacamole brings a rich flavor.
- Refried Beans: Serve with refried beans for added protein.
- Rice: A side of Mexican rice complements the meal well.
These pairings make your dinner fun and satisfying!
Storage Info
Storing Leftover Taquitos
After enjoying your extra crispy baked chicken taquitos, you may have some left. Store the leftover taquitos in an airtight container. Keep them in the fridge for up to three days. This helps maintain their flavor and texture. If you want to keep them longer, freezing is a great option.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze taquitos, let them cool completely. Once cooled, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze for about two hours. After they are firm, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. You can freeze them for up to three months. This way, you can enjoy them whenever you like!
Reheating Tips for Best Results
Reheating your taquitos is easy. For the best results, use the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place taquitos on a baking sheet. Bake them for about 10-15 minutes. This helps keep them crispy. You can also use an air fryer for a quick reheat. Set it to 375°F (190°C) and cook for 5-7 minutes. Enjoy your taquitos just as crispy as when they were fresh!
FAQs
How long do taquitos take to bake?
Taquitos take about 15 to 20 minutes to bake. You want them golden brown and crispy. Make sure to flip them halfway through to cook evenly. Keep an eye on them in the last few minutes. Everyone loves a perfectly crispy taquito!
Can I make taquitos ahead of time?
Yes, you can make taquitos ahead of time. Prepare them and place them on the baking sheet. Cover with plastic wrap and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you are ready to bake, simply remove the wrap and cook. This makes dinner easy and quick!
What toppings go well with taquitos?
You can top taquitos with many delicious options. Popular choices include salsa, guacamole, and sour cream. Fresh cilantro adds a nice touch too. You can also sprinkle some cheese on top or add sliced jalapeños for spice. Get creative and enjoy your meal!
In this blog post, we covered everything you need for delicious taquitos. We discussed key ingredients, substitutes, and top brands. I offered clear steps for prepping, forming, and baking your taquitos to a perfect crisp. You learned tips to enhance flavors and keep them crunchy. We also explored fun variations and how to store leftovers effectively.
In my experience, the best taquitos come from simple steps and good ingredients. Enjoy making your own tasty taquitos!
