If you are craving a crispy, flavorful, and utterly satisfying snack or meal, this Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe is a total game changer. Loaded with tender shredded chicken, creamy cheese, and vibrant herbs, these taquitos offer the perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and cheesy wrapped inside golden, crunchy tortillas. What makes this recipe even better is how easy it is to prepare and bake, bringing you that irresistible crispiness without frying. Trust me, once you try these taquitos, they’ll quickly become your go-to for game days, casual dinners, or anytime you crave a little Mexican-inspired comfort food magic.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe is how simple yet essential each ingredient is. From the spices that bring warmth and depth to the chicken, to the creamy cheeses that melt into every bite, every component plays a delicious role in building layers of flavor, texture, and that fresh zing of lime and cilantro.
- 3 large chicken breasts: The star protein that becomes tender, juicy shredded chicken perfect for filling.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Helps the spices adhere to the chicken and adds a subtle richness during baking.
- 1/4 tsp chili powder: Adds smoky warmth without overpowering the dish.
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder: Brings savory depth to the chicken seasoning.
- 1/4 tsp cumin: Offers a classic earthy tone commonplace in Mexican cuisine.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Enhances all the natural flavors of the ingredients.
- 8 oz (1 block) cream cheese: Provides creamy richness that binds the filling together beautifully.
- 3 tbsp sour cream: Adds tang and silkiness to the mixture.
- 1/3 cup salsa: Brings zest and moisture to the filling with bright tomato and chili notes.
- 1 tsp cumin: Reinforces warm, aromatic undertones inside the filling.
- 1 tsp chili powder: Kicks up the heat slightly in the cheesy filling.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Enhances savory flavor complexity.
- 1/2 tsp coriander: Adds a refreshing citrusy hint.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Balances the overall taste perfectly.
- 3 green onions (minced): Brings a subtle crunch and mild pungency.
- 2 tbsp cilantro (minced): Adds bright herbaceous notes.
- 1 lime (juiced): Lifts the filling with a fresh acidic punch.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Contributes sharp, melty cheesiness.
- 1/2 cup shredded pepper jack cheese: Adds spice and creamy texture.
- 16–18 small flour tortillas: The perfect handheld vessel for all that cheesy, chicken goodness.
- 1/2 cup sour cream (for serving): Classic cool dip to complement the spicy taquitos.
- 1 tbsp cilantro (minced, for serving): Fresh garnish to brighten every bite.
- 1/2 lime (juiced, for serving): Extra zing to squeeze on top.
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder (for serving): Sprinkle for a subtle kick with your dipping sour cream.
How to Make Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Chicken
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Begin by rubbing the chicken breasts with olive oil and sprinkling them evenly with 1/4 teaspoon each of chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, and salt. This seasoning mix will infuse the chicken with inviting warmth and aroma. Bake the chicken for 20 to 25 minutes until it is fully cooked through and juicy, setting the foundation for that tender filling.
Step 2: Shred and Combine the Filling
Once the chicken is cooled just enough to handle, shred it finely using two forks or your fingers for a more rustic touch. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with softened cream cheese, sour cream, salsa, and both shredded cheddar and pepper jack cheese. Then, stir in extra seasoning consisting of cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, coriander, salt, plus minced green onions, cilantro, and fresh lime juice. This mixture should be rich, creamy, and bursting with zesty, cheesy goodness.
Step 3: Assemble the Taquitos
Lay out your small flour tortillas and evenly distribute the filling in narrow strips down the center of each tortilla. Roll them tightly and place seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This ensures they hold together during baking and develop that perfect crisp exterior.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Crispy
Increase your oven temperature to 425°F (218°C). Bake the taquitos for 15 to 20 minutes, or until they turn an irresistible golden brown with edges that are perfectly crisp and slightly toasted. This oven-baked method gives you all the crunch and flavor of fried taquitos without the mess or extra oil.
How to Serve Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe
Garnishes
The little touches make a huge difference. A dollop of sour cream sprinkled with a bit of garlic powder and minced cilantro, paired with a generous squeeze of fresh lime juice, adds a cool, tangy contrast to the spicy, cheesy chicken. These garnishes are what truly elevate the eating experience.
Side Dishes
Pair your taquitos with a vibrant salad of mixed greens, diced tomatoes, black beans, and corn for a colorful, fresh side. Mexican-style rice or a simple guacamole with tortilla chips also makes a fantastic accompaniment to round out the meal with a balance of textures and flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your taquitos upright in a deep dish lined with a layer of salsa or guacamole at the bottom, creating an edible “taquito bouquet.” Alternatively, slice them into bite-sized pinwheels and serve with multiple dips like queso, salsa verde, or a chipotle aioli for an irresistible party platter.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store your taquitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days without losing their crispiness much, making them a perfect quick snack or meal prep option.
Freezing
To freeze, assemble taquitos as usual but stop before baking. Arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer into a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time for a hot, crispy treat anytime.
Reheating
Reheat leftover or frozen taquitos in a preheated oven at 400°F (204°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain that coveted crunch.
FAQs
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
Absolutely! While flour tortillas offer a softer, more pliable base that’s easier to roll, you can use corn tortillas if you prefer a more authentic flavor. Just be sure to warm them up first to prevent cracking.
Is this recipe very spicy?
Not at all. The spice level is mild and balanced with creamy cheeses and sour cream, making it friendly for all palates. If you love heat, feel free to add extra chili powder or a dash of hot sauce.
Can I make these taquitos vegetarian?
Yes! Simply substitute the chicken with cooked and seasoned black beans, sautéed mushrooms, or spiced roasted vegetables to create a hearty vegetarian version that’s just as delicious.
What if I don’t have cream cheese on hand?
You can use a blend of sour cream and shredded cheese as a substitute, but cream cheese adds that signature creamy texture that helps bind the filling perfectly. Greek yogurt is another possible alternative, though it will change the texture slightly.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Chicken breasts are fully cooked when their internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear. Baking times may vary slightly, so it’s best to use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Final Thoughts
This Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe is a fantastic way to bring together quick preparation, comforting flavors, and crispy, cheesy goodness all in one bite-sized package. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, these taquitos will brighten any table and put smiles around it. I can’t wait for you to try making them and discover how easy and delightful homemade taquitos can be!
Print
Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings (approximately 12 taquitos)
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
These Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos are a delicious and crispy Mexican-inspired appetizer or snack, featuring tender shredded chicken mixed with a creamy cheese blend and spices, all wrapped in flour tortillas and baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Chicken and Spice Mix
- 3 large chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 tsp chili powder
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp cumin
- 1/4 tsp salt
Filling
- 8 oz (1 block) cream cheese, softened
- 3 tbsp sour cream
- 1/3 cup salsa
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp coriander
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3 green onions, minced
- 2 tbsp cilantro, minced
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
Assembly and Serving
- 16–18 small flour tortillas
- 1/2 cup sour cream (for serving)
- 1 tbsp cilantro, minced (for serving)
- 1/2 lime, juiced (for serving)
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get ready for baking the chicken breasts.
- Season and Bake Chicken: Coat the chicken breasts with olive oil and sprinkle with 1/4 tsp chili powder, 1/4 tsp garlic powder, 1/4 tsp cumin, and 1/4 tsp salt. Place the chicken on a baking sheet and bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink inside.
- Prepare Filling: Once the chicken is cooked, shred it finely. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken with softened cream cheese, 3 tbsp sour cream, salsa, 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp chili powder, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp coriander, 1/2 tsp salt, minced green onions, minced cilantro, lime juice, and both shredded cheddar and pepper jack cheeses. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Assemble Taquitos: Lay out the small flour tortillas and evenly distribute the chicken filling in each. Roll each tortilla tightly around the filling and place seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Bake Taquitos: Increase the oven temperature to 425°F (218°C). Bake the assembled taquitos for 15-20 minutes, or until they turn crispy and golden brown on the outside.
- Serve: Serve the taquitos hot with a side of sour cream mixed with minced cilantro, a splash of lime juice, and a sprinkle of garlic powder for added flavor.
Notes
- Use small flour tortillas for authentic taquito size and easy rolling.
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to blend smoothly into the filling.
- Adjust spice levels to taste by increasing or reducing chili powder and garlic powder.
- For a crispier texture, you can spray taquitos lightly with cooking oil before baking.
- Leftover taquitos can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
