Name: Crispy Baked Chicken Taquitos
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 22 min
Total time: 37 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded cooked chicken; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 16 small corn tortillas; Cooking spray

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These Crispy Baked Chicken Taquitos are a fast, flavorful, and healthier twist on a favorite Mexican-inspired dish. Perfect as a weeknight dinner, game-day snack, or party appetizer, they’re loaded with seasoned shredded chicken and baked to crispy perfection without the need for frying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy, budget-friendly, and kid-approved. Baking instead of frying cuts down on oil without sacrificing crunch. The spice mix adds just the right amount of flavor, and the filling is customizable with whatever toppings or sides you love. Plus, you can make a big batch in under 40 minutes.

Crispy Baked Chicken Taquitos

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

shredded cooked chicken
chili powder
garlic powder
onion powder
cumin
salt
small corn tortillas
cooking spray

Directions

Preheat your oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or set a cooling rack on top of the sheet for extra crispiness.
In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken with chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and salt.
Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for 30–45 seconds on each side. Transfer to a zip-close bag to steam and soften.
Place about 2 tablespoons of the seasoned chicken in a line down the center of each tortilla. Roll tightly.
Arrange the rolled tortillas seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
Lightly spray all sides of the rolled taquitos with cooking spray.
Bake for 18 minutes, flip carefully, then bake for an additional 5 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
Serve hot with guacamole, salsa, sour cream, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 16 taquitos.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 22 minutes
Total time: 37 minutes

Variations

Add cheese: Mix in shredded cheddar, pepper jack, or mozzarella with the chicken filling.
Use flour tortillas: For a softer texture and slightly different flavor, flour tortillas can be used.
Spicy kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling.
Vegetarian option: Substitute chicken with black beans, corn, and sautéed veggies.
Breakfast version: Fill with scrambled eggs, cheese, and cooked sausage or bacon.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover taquitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To freeze, place cooled taquitos on a baking sheet in a single layer until frozen, then transfer to a freezer bag.
Reheat in a 375°F oven for 10–15 minutes, or until heated through and crisp. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.

FAQs

Can I make these taquitos ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the taquitos ahead and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

Do I have to use corn tortillas?

Corn tortillas give a traditional flavor and crisp texture, but flour tortillas can also be used for a different spin.

How do I keep the tortillas from tearing?

Warming them in a skillet and steaming them in a zip-close bag softens them enough to roll without cracking.

Can I add vegetables to the filling?

Absolutely. Try sautéed bell peppers, onions, or corn for extra flavor and nutrition.

What’s the best way to shred cooked chicken?

Use two forks or a hand mixer for quick and even shredding. Rotisserie chicken is also a great time-saver.

Are these gluten-free?

If you use gluten-free corn tortillas and check that your spices are gluten-free, then yes.

Can I air fry these taquitos?

Yes, air fry at 400°F for about 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden.

What sauces go well with these?

Salsa, sour cream, guacamole, queso, or even chipotle ranch dressing are all great options.

Can I use leftover chicken?

Definitely. Leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken works well for this recipe.

How can I make them extra crispy?

Using a cooling rack over the baking sheet helps air circulate for even crisping. Spritzing all sides with cooking spray also ensures a golden finish.

Conclusion

Crispy Baked Chicken Taquitos are a satisfying, crunchy, and flavorful option for a quick meal or snack. They’re easy to prepare, great for freezing, and endlessly customizable with your favorite fillings and toppings. Once you try them, you’ll want to keep a batch ready to go for busy weeknights or entertaining.