Are you ready to indulge in the crunchiest delight? Extra Crispy Baked Chicken Taquitos are the perfect blend of flavor and crispiness. They’re easy to make, and the results will impress your friends and family. In this post, I’ll share simple steps, tips, and variations to elevate your taquito game. Whether you want the classic version or a spicy twist, I've got you covered. Let’s get cooking!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Crispy Perfection: The crispiness of these baked taquitos provides a delightful contrast to the creamy filling, making each bite irresistible.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in just 15 minutes, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Customizable Filling: You can easily modify the filling to suit your taste preferences by adding your favorite spices or vegetables.
- Perfect for Dipping: These taquitos are perfect for pairing with your favorite salsa or guacamole, enhancing the overall flavor experience.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 12 small corn tortillas
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Cooking spray
- Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Key Ingredient Highlights
The star of this dish is the cooked chicken. Use any cooked chicken you like. Shredded rotisserie chicken works great and saves time. Sharp cheddar cheese adds a nice tang and melts beautifully. Cream cheese gives a rich, creamy texture. The spices like chili powder and cumin bring warmth and depth. They make each bite flavorful. Don't forget the corn tortillas. They hold everything together and bring an authentic taste.
Recommended Brands or Substitutes
For chicken, look for rotisserie brands like Costco or your local deli. For cheese, I recommend Tillamook or Kraft for sharp cheddar. Philadelphia brand is my go-to for cream cheese. If you want a twist, try Monterey Jack cheese instead of cheddar. For tortillas, grab brands like Mission or La Banderita for quality. If you need gluten-free options, look for corn tortillas made with no wheat.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheating the Oven
First, set your oven to 425°F (220°C). This hot temperature ensures a crispy finish. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step helps keep the taquitos from sticking.
Preparing the Filling
In a large bowl, mix these ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Stir well until everything blends together. This filling adds flavor and creaminess to your taquitos.
Rolling the Taquitos
To make the tortillas easy to roll, microwave them for 20-30 seconds. Place a warm tortilla on a flat surface. Add 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture on one edge. Roll it tightly. Ensure the filling is covered. Place the rolled taquito seam-side down on the baking sheet. Repeat this for each tortilla.
Baking for Optimal Crispiness
Brush the taquitos lightly with olive oil. For more crunch, use cooking spray. Bake them in your preheated oven for 15-20 minutes. Flip them halfway through to ensure even cooking. Look for a golden brown color. This means they are crispy and ready. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with fresh cilantro and your favorite dip!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Maximum Crispiness
To get your taquitos extra crispy, use a few key methods. First, warm the corn tortillas in the microwave. This step helps prevent tearing when you roll them. Next, brush each taquito with olive oil. This oil gives them a nice golden color. Don’t skip the cooking spray! A light spritz adds crunch. Bake them at a high temperature of 425°F (220°C). Flip them halfway through baking for even crispiness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Watch out for overfilling your taquitos. If you stuff them too much, they may burst. Also, ensure the tortillas are warm enough. Cold tortillas can crack and break. Avoid using too much oil. A little goes a long way for crispiness. Lastly, don’t skip flipping them during baking. This step helps both sides cook evenly.
Suggested Equipment for Best Results
Use a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy. A brush for oil is a must. It helps coat the taquitos evenly. A microwave-safe plate is great for warming tortillas. If you have a digital thermometer, use it to check your oven temperature. This ensures perfect baking every time.
Pro Tips
- Warm Tortillas: Before filling, always warm your corn tortillas in the microwave. This prevents them from cracking and makes rolling much easier.
- Use Parchment Paper: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent the taquitos from sticking.
- Flip for Even Crispiness: Don't forget to flip the taquitos halfway through baking to ensure they get crispy on all sides.
- Customize Your Filling: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add vegetables to the filling for a personal touch.
Variations
Vegetarian Option
You can make these taquitos meat-free. Use 2 cups of black beans instead of chicken. Add 1 cup of corn for sweetness. Mix in the same cheese and spices. This option is tasty and filling.
Spicy Version with Jalapeños
Want some heat? Add chopped jalapeños to your filling. Start with 1-2 tablespoons and taste as you go. You can also switch to pepper jack cheese for extra spice. Your taquitos will have a nice kick!
Cheese-Only Taquitos
For a cheese lover’s delight, skip the meat completely. Use 2 cups of a mix of cheeses like cheddar and mozzarella. Add a touch of garlic and onion powder for flavor. These taquitos will melt in your mouth!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To keep your taquitos fresh, let them cool first. Place them in an airtight container. Store them in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, freezing is a great option.
Freezing Instructions
For freezing, wrap each taquito tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped taquitos in a freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. They will stay fresh for up to three months. When ready to eat, just thaw them in the fridge overnight.
Reheating Methods
To reheat, the oven is best for crispiness. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the taquitos on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes. If you’re in a hurry, you can use a microwave. Heat them for about 1-2 minutes. However, they may not be as crispy this way. Enjoy your taquitos!
FAQs
What can I serve with Extra Crispy Baked Chicken Taquitos?
You can pair taquitos with many tasty sides. Here are some great options:
- Guacamole
- Salsa
- Sour cream
- Mexican rice
- Refried beans
- Fresh salad
Each side adds flavor and makes the meal more fun. Guacamole and salsa are my top picks. They make every bite better.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can! You can swap the chicken for:
- Ground beef
- Shredded pork
- Turkey
- Tofu for a vegetarian option
Each meat brings its own taste. Just cook it well and shred it, like you do with chicken.
How do I make gluten-free taquitos?
Making gluten-free taquitos is easy! Follow these steps:
1. Use corn tortillas, as they are gluten-free.
2. Check the labels on your cheese and spices to ensure they are gluten-free.
This way, you can enjoy the same great taste without gluten!
This blog covers everything you need for tasty baked taquitos. We explored key ingredients, perfect steps, and helpful tips. You learned how to make them crispy and avoid common mistakes. Whether you want a spicy twist or a vegetarian option, there’s something for everyone. Proper storage and reheating help keep them fresh. Now, you’re ready to impress your friends or family with your cooking! Enjoy the fun of making and sharing these delicious bites.
