Craving a tasty twist on traditional tacos? This baked chicken tacos recipe is your go-to solution! With juicy chicken seasoned to perfection, combined with fresh toppings and melted cheese, these tacos are sure to please everyone at the table. Easy to prepare and bake, they make for a delightful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into the details of this mouthwatering dish!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup taco seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 12 small corn or flour tortillas
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 cup lettuce, shredded
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with an additional cooking time of 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (2 tacos) contains approximately 350 calories, 20g protein, 15g fat, 30g carbohydrates, and 5g fiber. This nutritional information is based on a single serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with taco seasoning until evenly coated.
- Warm the tortillas in a microwave for about 30 seconds to make them pliable.
- In a baking dish, layer half of the tortillas on the bottom.
- Spread half of the chicken mixture over the tortillas.
- Sprinkle half of the cheese over the chicken.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining tortillas, chicken, and cheese.
- Pour salsa evenly over the top layer of cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute cooked chicken with shredded beef or black beans for a vegetarian option. Additionally, dairy-free cheese can be used to make this recipe suitable for those with lactose intolerance.
Serving and Pairings
These baked chicken tacos pair wonderfully with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh garden salad. Top with additional salsa, guacamole, or your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick!
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover tacos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. You can also freeze the assembled tacos before baking; just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using cold tortillas can cause them to crack; always warm them first.
- Don’t skip the preheating step, as it ensures even cooking.
- Overfilling the tacos can lead to messy baking; keep portions moderate.
- For best results, use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded.
- Allow the dish to cool before serving to help the layers set.
Helpful Tips
- Experiment with different types of cheese for varied flavor.
- Add beans or corn to the chicken mixture for added texture.
- Drizzle lime juice over the tacos for a zesty finish.
- For a spicier kick, include jalapeños in the filling.
FAQs
Can I make these tacos ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken mixture and assemble the tacos in advance. Just cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake them.
What type of chicken should I use?
Cooked rotisserie chicken is a great option for convenience, but you can also use grilled or baked chicken that you’ve seasoned yourself.
Can I make these tacos gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just use gluten-free tortillas and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
What’s the best way to serve these tacos?
Serve the tacos with a variety of toppings like diced tomatoes, sour cream, and fresh cilantro for guests to customize their meals.
How do I know when the tacos are done baking?
The tacos are done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the tortillas are slightly crispy.
Conclusion
This baked chicken tacos recipe is a delightful way to bring flavor and fun to your dining table. With its easy preparation and delicious taste, it’s a dish that will become a family favorite in no time. Enjoy every crunchy, cheesy bite!
Baked Chicken Tacos Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken shredded
- 1 cup taco seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 12 small corn or flour tortillas
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 avocado diced
- 1 cup lettuce shredded
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with taco seasoning until evenly coated.
- Warm the tortillas in a microwave for about 30 seconds to make them pliable.
- In a baking dish, layer half of the tortillas on the bottom.
- Spread half of the chicken mixture over the tortillas.
- Sprinkle half of the cheese over the chicken.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining tortillas, chicken, and cheese.
- Pour salsa evenly over the top layer of cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
