Why Make This Recipe

Crunchy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos are a fantastic choice for family dinners or casual gatherings. They are easy to make, packed with flavor, and offer a satisfying crunch. Whether you’re looking for a fun appetizer or a main dish that everyone will enjoy, these taquitos fit the bill. With a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch that will leave your guests asking for more!

How to Make Crunchy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos

Ingredients:

2 cups Cooked Shredded Chicken (Use rotisserie chicken for quick prep.)
1 cup Salsa Verde (Substitute with homemade salsa or preferred green sauce.)
1 cup Monterey Jack Cheese (Swap for pepper jack for an extra kick.)
1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro (Can be omitted or replaced with parsley.)
1 tablespoon Lime Zest (Use lemon zest as an alternative if not available.)
8 pieces Corn Tortillas (Use flour tortillas as a gluten-friendly substitute.)
1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs (Season with smoked paprika for extra flavor.)
1/2 cup Sour Cream (Greek yogurt is an excellent lighter substitute.)
2 tablespoons Lime Juice (Fresh juice is ideal.)
1/4 teaspoon Salt (Adjust to taste.)

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, salsa verde, Monterey Jack cheese, cilantro, lime zest, lime juice, and salt. Stir until well mixed.
Take a corn tortilla and add a spoonful of the chicken mixture to the center. Roll it tightly and place it seam side down on a baking sheet.
Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and filling.
Once all the taquitos are on the baking sheet, spray or brush them lightly with oil. Then, sprinkle the panko breadcrumbs evenly on top for that extra crunch.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

How to Serve Crunchy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos

Serve the taquitos warm with a side of sour cream for dipping. You can also pair them with guacamole, additional salsa verde, or chopped fresh veggies. They make for a great snack or appetizer when enjoyed with friends!

How to Store Crunchy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos

If you have leftovers, store the taquitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them back in the oven for a few minutes to regain their crunch. Avoid microwaving them as it may make them soggy.

Tips to Make Crunchy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos

For added spice, try using chopped jalapeños in the filling.
Keep the tortillas warm before filling them. This makes them easier to roll without breaking.
Experiment with different cheeses or sauces for variety.

Variation

You can easily customize these taquitos by adding black beans, corn, or diced bell peppers to the filling. For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or a mix of beans and veggies.

FAQs

1. Can I make these taquitos ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them in advance and refrigerate them before baking. Just bake them right before serving for the best crunch.

2. What can I use if I don’t have corn tortillas?
Flour tortillas can be used as a gluten-friendly alternative. They may not be as crunchy, but they will still taste great!

3. Can I freeze taquitos for later?
Absolutely! You can freeze them before baking. Just place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to eat, bake them straight from the freezer but add a few extra minutes to the baking time.