why make this recipe

Crispy Joy: Easy Crunchy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos are a delicious and fun meal that everyone loves. They are easy to make and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner, a snack while watching a game, or a party appetizer. You can customize the filling to your taste and enjoy the crispy outside paired with a creamy inside. Plus, making them at home is healthier than store-bought options!

how to make Crispy Joy: Easy Crunchy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos

Ingredients

2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken is recommended for convenience and enhanced taste)
8 oz cream cheese (try using low-fat cream cheese to lighten up the dish)
1 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar or Mexican Blend; any pre-shredded blend can be used for ease)
1 cup salsa (choose fresh salsa for a chunkier texture)
1 tsp taco seasoning (adjust the quantity for your desired heat level)
2 tbsp lime juice (fresh lime juice is always preferred for a burst of flavor)
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional but adds a refreshing touch)
10 flour tortillas (small tortillas are ideal, but feel free to substitute with gluten-free corn tortillas)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken, cream cheese, shredded cheese, salsa, taco seasoning, lime juice, and cilantro (if using) until everything is combined well.
Take a tortilla and add about 2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto the bottom third of the tortilla.
Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling, then place it seam-side down on a baking sheet. Repeat this with all the tortillas and filling.
Spray the taquitos lightly with cooking spray, making sure all sides are covered.
Bake in the oven for about 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy.
Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

how to serve Crispy Joy: Easy Crunchy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos

Serve these taquitos on a large platter with your favorite dipping sauces, such as sour cream, guacamole, or extra salsa. They make a great finger food for gatherings, and everyone will love them!

how to store Crispy Joy: Easy Crunchy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos

If you have leftovers, you can store the taquitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until they are heated through and crispy again.

tips to make Crispy Joy: Easy Crunchy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos

Make sure not to overfill the tortillas; this makes them harder to roll and can lead to spills.
For extra crunch, bake them a bit longer, but keep an eye on them.
Feel free to add your favorite ingredients to the filling, like black beans, corn, or jalapeños for extra flavor.

variation

You can use ground beef or turkey instead of chicken for a different protein. Veggie lovers can use a mix of sautéed bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms for a tasty vegetarian version.

FAQs

Can I make these taquitos ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare them and store them in the fridge before baking. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve.

Can I freeze taquitos?
Absolutely! Place the uncooked taquitos on a baking sheet to freeze them individually. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag. Bake them from frozen; just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.

Can I use different tortillas?
Yes! You can use corn tortillas for a gluten-free option or whole-wheat tortillas if you prefer a healthier version. Just be mindful that the texture and taste may change slightly.