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Crispy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos
Alyssa

Crispy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos

Enjoy crispy oven-baked chicken taquitos, a healthier twist on a classic favorite. Packed with flavor, they’re perfect as an appetizer or a quick meal.
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Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups shredded cooked chicken: This ingredient serves as the primary protein source. Using shredded rotisserie chicken makes preparation simple and adds a robust flavor.
  • 1 cup shredded cheese: Choose from cheddar Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend. Cheese adds creaminess and helps bind the filling together, creating a gooey texture that is irresistible.
  • ½ cup cream cheese softened: Cream cheese adds richness and a delightful creaminess to the filling, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
  • ⅓ cup salsa: The salsa infuses the filling with a delightful zing and you can opt for mild, medium, or hot according to your spice preference.
  • 1 tsp chili powder: This spice gives a warm earthy undertone to the filling, balancing the flavors beautifully.
  • ½ tsp garlic powder: Garlic powder introduces savory depth making each bite more flavorful.
  • ½ tsp onion powder: Onion powder complements garlic and adds sweetness to the filling without the textural presence of fresh onions.
  • ½ tsp ground cumin: Cumin adds warmth and a slightly nutty flavor which is a hallmark of many Mexican dishes.
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika: This seasoning adds a unique smokiness that intensifies the dish’s complexity.
  • Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing all the flavors of the filling.
  • 12 small flour or corn tortillas: Tortillas serve as the base for the filling and make the dish portable and fun to eat.
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter: Brushing the taquitos with oil or butter helps achieve that desired golden-brown crispy exterior.
  • Optional: Serve with sour cream guacamole, or salsa for a perfect finishing touch.

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures your taquitos will be perfectly crispy.
  2. Line a baking sheet: Take a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper to prevent the taquitos from sticking.
  3. Prepare the filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken, 1 cup of shredded cheese, ½ cup of soft cream cheese, ⅓ cup of salsa, 1 tsp chili powder, ½ tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp onion powder, ½ tsp ground cumin, ½ tsp smoked paprika, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix until fully combined, ensuring the spices are evenly distributed throughout the filling.
  4. Warm the tortillas: To make the tortillas pliable, stack them and wrap them in a damp paper towel. Microwave for 20-30 seconds until they are soft and easy to handle.
  5. Assemble the taquitos: Take one tortilla at a time and place a heaping tablespoon of the filling near the edge. Carefully roll the tortilla tightly, ensuring the filling is secured, and place each rolled taquito seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
  6. Brush with oil: Use a pastry brush to lightly coat the tops of the taquitos with 2 tbsp of olive oil or melted butter. This step is vital for achieving that beautiful golden-brown color.
  7. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the taquitos are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking.
  8. Serve: Once baked, remove the taquitos from the oven and allow them to cool for a minute. Serve them warm with optional sides such as sour cream, guacamole, or salsa for dipping.