Name: Crunchy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works great); 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend); 1/2 cup salsa (choose your preferred heat level); 1 teaspoon taco seasoning; 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice; 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional); 10-12 small flour tortillas; Cooking spray or olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional toppings: guacamole, sour cream, additional salsa, diced tomatoes, or sliced jalapeños

Jump to Recipe

If you’re searching for your next family favorite, look no further than this Crunchy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe. Packed with creamy, cheesy goodness and perfectly spiced chicken, these taquitos have an irresistibly golden, crispy exterior and a hearty, flavorful filling. Baked rather than fried for a healthier crunch, they’re fast to assemble and absolutely crowd-pleasing—ideal for dinners, parties, or even a game day snack that’ll have everyone coming back for more!

Crunchy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of fresh, flavorful ingredients, this Crunchy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe delivers bold Mexican-inspired taste and plenty of crunch. Each component has a delicious—and crucial—role to play, from the creamy base to the zesty toppings. Here’s what you’ll need to create magic in your own kitchen:

Shredded cooked chicken: Rotisserie chicken is a time-saving hero, adding juicy flavor and hearty protein to every bite.
Cream cheese (softened): This creates the ultra-creamy, rich filling that makes these taquitos so addictive.
Shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend): Melts beautifully for that classic cheesy pull and beautiful golden color.
Salsa: Pick your preferred heat; salsa infuses the filling with tangy, saucy goodness and a pop of freshness.
Taco seasoning: Responsible for those signature smoky, spiced notes that elevate every bite.
Fresh lime juice: Citrus brings brightness and a zingy pop that pulls all the flavors together.
Chopped fresh cilantro (optional): Adds a garden-fresh burst of flavor and a hint of color—use as you like!
Small flour tortillas: The perfect vessel for rolling up all the creamy filling—choose soft, fresh tortillas for best results.
Cooking spray or olive oil: Helps achieve that irresistible crunchy exterior without frying.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and accentuating the bold flavors inside.
Optional toppings (guacamole, sour cream, salsa, diced tomatoes, jalapeños): These optional extras let everyone customize their taquitos to perfection!

How to Make Crunchy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Take a baking sheet and either line it with parchment paper or give it a light coating of cooking spray. This not only makes cleanup a total breeze but sets you up for perfectly crisp taquitos that won’t stick!

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, your cheese of choice, the salsa, taco seasoning, fresh lime juice, and cilantro if you’re feeling that extra herby punch. Stir everything together until it’s creamy and cohesive. Give it a taste—now’s the time to add a touch of salt and pepper if you’d like. Trust yourself, you’re building layers of gorgeous flavor for this Crunchy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe!

Step 3: Assemble the Taquitos

To prevent your tortillas from cracking or tearing, give them a quick zap in the microwave (about 10-15 seconds). This makes them soft and perfectly pliable. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of your creamy chicken mixture onto each tortilla, and then roll each one up tightly from one end. Arrange the rolled taquitos seam-side down on your prepared baking sheet—this keeps them from unraveling as they bake.

Step 4: Coat with Oil

Lightly spritz or brush the tops of your taquitos with cooking spray or a little olive oil. This tiny step is what transforms your taquitos into golden, crunchy perfection—no deep frying needed!

Step 5: Bake Until Crispy

Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. About halfway through, gently flip the taquitos with tongs to ensure that every surface gets that delectably crunchy finish. When they’re golden and crisp, they’re ready to come out!

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Let your baked taquitos cool for just a minute—anticipation makes them taste even better! Then, dish them up with your favorite toppings for a dinner or snack you’ll want to make again and again.

How to Serve Crunchy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe

Garnishes

A dreamy platter of taquitos begs for a finishing touch! Try a dollop of cool sour cream, a scoop of chunky guacamole, a sprinkle of diced tomatoes, or a scatter of fresh cilantro. Hot sauce or pickled jalapeños never hurt either when you want extra punch.

Side Dishes

This Crunchy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe pairs beautifully with Mexican rice, refried beans, or a simple green salad. For party spreads, mix it up with tortilla chips, corn salsa, or savory street corn. It’s a full fiesta on your table!

Creative Ways to Present

Lay taquitos in neat rows for a classic look, or stand them up in mason jars for grab-and-go party bites. Serve them sliced on a board with all the toppings so everyone can build their perfect plate, or offer mini taquitos for appetizers. Let the colors, crunch, and creamy filling shine!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover taquitos keep incredibly well! Just let them cool, then transfer to an airtight container and pop in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, making them ideal for meal prep or next-day lunches.

Freezing

To freeze, arrange the cooled taquitos in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer to a freezer bag or container. They’ll keep their flavor and texture for up to three months, so you can enjoy a homemade Crunchy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe anytime the craving strikes!

Reheating

For best results, reheat taquitos in a 375°F oven for 10-12 minutes (straight from the fridge or freezer) until piping hot and crisp again. The air fryer works wonders, too. The microwave works in a pinch but won’t deliver that signature crunch—just a heads up!

FAQs

Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?

Absolutely! Corn tortillas bring a fantastic flavor and are great for those who are gluten-sensitive. Just make sure to heat them longer so they’re soft and easy to roll, and consider using a slightly thicker layer of filling to prevent cracks.

What’s the best way to shred chicken for this recipe?

Rotisserie chicken is the ultimate shortcut, but you can use poached, baked, or leftover grilled chicken as well. Use two forks or a stand mixer with the paddle attachment for super-quick shredding—a little kitchen magic!

Do I have to use cream cheese, or can I substitute it?

Cream cheese gives this Crunchy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe its signature creamy center, but you can swap in Greek yogurt or a dairy-free alternative if needed. The filling will still be rich and satisfying!

How can I make these spicier?

Easily turn up the heat by choosing a hot salsa, adding extra taco seasoning, or mixing in some diced jalapeños or chipotles in adobo sauce to the filling. Serve with spicy toppings for even more fire!

Can I double the recipe for a party?

Definitely! This recipe scales up beautifully. Just keep the baked taquitos warm in a 200°F oven until ready to serve, and offer a big assortment of toppings so guests can create their own flavor-packed bites.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Crunchy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe enough—every batch disappears faster than you’d believe! Whether you’re making them for family night, a cozy dinner, or your next gathering, you’ll love how simple, fun, and endlessly customizable these taquitos are. Give it a whirl, and get ready to add this one to your regular rotation!