Hello, fellow food enthusiasts! 🌮 If you’re on the hunt for a meal that’s bursting with flavor and easy to make, you’re in the right place. Today, I’m excited to share a recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests—Crispy Baked Chicken Taquitos with a Spicy Kick. This dish is a crowd-pleaser, combining tender rotisserie chicken with a blend of spices, all wrapped up in crispy corn tortillas. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Introduction
Crispy Baked Chicken Taquitos are a fantastic fusion of Mexican flavors and easy-to-follow preparation, making them a go-to for busy weeknights. Originating from Mexican cuisine, taquitos, also known as flautas, are typically deep-fried, but this version offers a healthier twist by baking them to crispy perfection. This dish not only brings a delightful crunch with every bite but also packs a punch with its flavorful, spicy filling.
I remember the first time I made these taquitos for a family gathering; they disappeared in minutes! Their combination of crispy exterior and savory interior is simply irresistible. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile—you can customize the filling and toppings to suit your taste. Ready to get started?
Ingredients
To prepare this comforting recipe for Crispy Baked Chicken Taquitos with a Spicy Kick, you’ll need:
- 2-3 cups chopped rotisserie chicken
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Colby-Jack or Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup thick and chunky salsa (mild, medium, or hot to your preference)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp lemon pepper
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp dark chili powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 18 corn tortillas
- Assorted toppings: sour cream, guacamole, salsa, tomato, queso fresco, lettuce, green onion, etc.
These ingredients are easily adaptable if you have dietary restrictions. For instance, if you’re dairy-free, opt for a vegan cheese alternative, and if you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with black beans or sautéed vegetables.
How to Make Crispy Baked Chicken Taquitos
Follow these steps to create your own delicious Crispy Baked Chicken Taquitos:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Start by liberally spraying a large baking sheet with cooking spray and set it aside.
- In a medium-size mixing bowl, mix together the chopped chicken, shredded cheese, salsa, salt, lemon pepper, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until all the ingredients are well combined, creating a rich, flavorful filling.
- Warm the corn tortillas by covering them with a damp paper towel and microwaving for 10-15 seconds. This step makes them more pliable and easier to roll without breaking.
- Divide the filling evenly between the tortillas, adding about 2-3 tablespoons of filling to each. Roll each tortilla tightly, jelly roll style, and place them seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Once all the taquitos are rolled, spray them liberally with cooking spray. This will help them achieve a golden, crispy exterior as they bake.
- Bake the taquitos for 20 minutes or until they are lightly golden and heated through. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-browning.
- Serve immediately with your favorite toppings like sour cream, guacamole, and salsa. Enjoy the delightful crunch and spicy kick!
Helpful Tips
To ensure your Crispy Baked Chicken Taquitos turn out perfectly every time, keep these helpful tips in mind:
- Warming the tortillas: This is crucial to prevent the tortillas from cracking when rolling. If you find that your tortillas are still breaking, try warming them a bit longer or use slightly thicker tortillas.
- Preventing sogginess: Make sure to spray the taquitos well with cooking spray to help them crisp up in the oven. If you want them even crispier, you can brush them lightly with oil before baking.
- Make ahead: You can prepare the filling ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days, making the assembly process quicker on the day you plan to serve them.
Cooking Tips
Enhance your Crispy Baked Chicken Taquitos with these cooking tips:
- Spice level: Adjust the spiciness by choosing a salsa that matches your heat tolerance. For an extra kick, consider adding diced jalapeños to the filling.
- Cheese options: While Colby-Jack or Monterey Jack are recommended, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
- Crisping technique: For even crispier taquitos, try flipping them halfway through baking. This ensures both sides are equally golden and crunchy.
Serving Suggestions
Crispy Baked Chicken Taquitos are versatile and pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes and beverages:
- Side dishes: Serve these taquitos with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh garden salad.
- Beverage pairings: A cold, refreshing margarita or a glass of iced tea makes a perfect companion to this dish.
- Presentation tips: Arrange the taquitos on a platter with a colorful array of toppings on the side, allowing guests to customize their taquitos to their liking.
Nutritional Information
Nutritional Information per serving of Crispy Baked Chicken Taquitos with a Spicy Kick:
- Calories: 310 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 17g
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 650mg
- Potassium: 220mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Vitamin A: 10% DV
- Vitamin C: 6% DV
- Calcium: 20% DV
- Iron: 8% DV
This dish is not only delicious but also provides a good balance of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. The use of rotisserie chicken helps to keep the fat content moderate, while the addition of salsa and spices adds antioxidants and flavor without extra calories.
Storage and Leftovers
Refrigerate: Store any leftover taquitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat: To reheat, place the taquitos in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10 minutes or until warmed through. This method helps retain their crispy texture.
If you have leftover filling, consider using it in a quesadilla or as a topping for nachos. The possibilities are endless!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I freeze the taquitos before baking?
A: Yes! These taquitos freeze wonderfully. Simply assemble them, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Q: Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?
A: Absolutely! Flour tortillas will work just as well, though they may result in a slightly softer texture. If you prefer the crispiness of corn tortillas but have dietary restrictions, look for gluten-free corn tortillas.
Q: What can I substitute for rotisserie chicken?
A: You can use shredded cooked chicken breasts or thighs. Alternatively, ground beef or turkey can be used for a different flavor profile.
Related Recipes
If you enjoyed these Crispy Baked Chicken Taquitos, you might also like these related recipes:
-
Potatoes Romanoff
-
Spicy Chicken Kabobs With Signature Bang Bang Sauce
Conclusion
I hope you’re inspired to make these Crispy Baked Chicken Taquitos with a Spicy Kick! They’re perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends and family. If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to hear how it turned out—leave a comment below or share your own variations. Let’s continue to share the joy of cooking and create more delicious memories together. Happy cooking! 🌮
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Crispy Baked Chicken Taquitos with a Spicy Kick
Description
Hello, fellow food enthusiasts! 🌮 If you’re on the hunt for a meal that’s bursting with flavor and easy to make, you’re in the right place. Today, I’m excited to share a recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests—Crispy Baked Chicken Taquitos with a Spicy Kick. This dish is a crowd-pleaser, combining tender rotisserie chicken with a blend of spices, all wrapped up in crispy corn tortillas. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Ingredients
- 2–3 cups chopped rotisserie chicken
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Colby-Jack or Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup thick and chunky salsa (mild, medium, or hot to your preference)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp lemon pepper
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp dark chili powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 18 corn tortillas
- Assorted toppings: sour cream, guacamole, salsa, tomato, queso fresco, lettuce, green onion, etc.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Start by liberally spraying a large baking sheet with cooking spray and set it aside.
- In a medium-size mixing bowl, mix together the chopped chicken, shredded cheese, salsa, salt, lemon pepper, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until all the ingredients are well combined, creating a rich, flavorful filling.
- Warm the corn tortillas by covering them with a damp paper towel and microwaving for 10-15 seconds. This step makes them more pliable and easier to roll without breaking.
- Divide the filling evenly between the tortillas, adding about 2-3 tablespoons of filling to each. Roll each tortilla tightly, jelly roll style, and place them seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Once all the taquitos are rolled, spray them liberally with cooking spray. This will help them achieve a golden, crispy exterior as they bake.
- Bake the taquitos for 20 minutes or until they are lightly golden and heated through. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-browning.
- Serve immediately with your favorite toppings like sour cream, guacamole, and salsa. Enjoy the delightful crunch and spicy kick!
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Warming the tortillas: This is crucial to prevent the tortillas from cracking when rolling. If you find that your tortillas are still breaking, try warming them a bit longer or use slightly thicker tortillas.
- Preventing sogginess: Make sure to spray the taquitos well with cooking spray to help them crisp up in the oven. If you want them even crispier, you can brush them lightly with oil before baking.
- Make ahead: You can prepare the filling ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days, making the assembly process quicker on the day you plan to serve them.
