It’s a bustling Tuesday evening. You’ve wrapped up another day of juggling commitments and are greeted by the fam with hungry faces. What do you do?
You could go for takeout, but instead, you casually announce, “How about baked chicken tacos?” The kids cheer, and suddenly the pressure feels lighter.
Baked chicken tacos are more than just a tasty meal; they are a canvas for creativity. You can swap out ingredients, tweak flavors, and make this dish your own. So, what exactly are baked chicken tacos? Let’s unpack that together.
What Are Baked Chicken Tacos?
Baked chicken tacos are simple yet flavorful tacos assembled in a hard shell and baked until the cheese melts and the flavors blend fabulously. Easy to customize, they’re an excellent option for meal prep. You can use rotisserie chicken or any leftover chicken you have on hand.
Why This Recipe Works
There are a few reasons why I stand by my baked chicken taco recipe:
1. Quick Assembly
You can toss these tacos together in just a few minutes. It’s a time-saver for busy nights. You just layer the ingredients, pop them in the oven, and let the heat do its magic.
2. Flavor-Forward
With ingredients like taco seasoning and refried beans mixed in, the flavor is anything but basic. Each bite is a delightful mix of textures and tastes. It’s like a fiesta in your mouth!
3. Customizable
You can adjust toppings and fillings based on what you have at home. Let’s be honest, who isn’t a fan of personalization? Choose from jalapeños, sour cream, or salsa—the options are endless.
4. Kid-Approved
Children love them, and that’s a win in my book. The colorful ingredients are enticing, and the cheesy goodness is usually a hit with younger eaters.
Ingredients You’ll Need To Make Baked Chicken Tacos
Before diving into the cooking, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 10 hard taco shells (I recommend Old El Paso Stand ‘N Stuff for stability).
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil.
- 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend.
- 8 ounces refried beans (about half a can).
- ½ pound shredded rotisserie chicken (or any leftover chicken).
- ½ cup chopped onion (any variety works).
- 14.5 ounces diced tomatoes with juice fully drained (1 can).
- 4.5 ounces diced green chiles with juice fully drained (1 can).
- 1 ounce taco spice mix (you can DIY or use store-bought).
Optional toppings to elevate your meal:
- Sliced fresh jalapeños for some heat.
- Creamy sour cream for a tangy twist.
- Salsa of your choice for added flavor.
- Shredded romaine lettuce for crunch.
- Chopped fresh cilantro to brighten up each bite.
- A splash of lime juice for that zesty finish.
- A dash of cumin for depth of flavor.
How To Make Baked Chicken Tacos
Let’s get to cooking! Follow these steps closely.
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step ensures your tacos bake perfectly.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, drained diced tomatoes, diced green chiles, chopped onions, and taco spice mix. Make sure everything is well incorporated. Got all that? Great!
Step 3: Assemble the Tacos
Now for the fun part! Carefully place the taco shells in a baking dish. Spoon refried beans into the bottom of each shell. Then, generously fill them with the chicken mixture. Top them with the shredded cheese—don’t be shy!
Step 4: Bake
Pop the baking dish into the preheated oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Your kitchen will smell amazing.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once your tacos are out of the oven, let them cool for a few moments. Add your favorite toppings—sour cream, jalapeños, or salsa. Serve with a smile and watch the family dig in!
Tips & Tricks
Here are some handy tips to make the most of your baked chicken tacos:
- Use a Variety of Cheese: Mixing different kinds of cheese adds layers of flavor. Try Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for added spice.
- Don’t Skimp on the Toppings: Adding a variety of toppings makes it more fun. Let everyone customize their own!
- Make It Spicy: If you crave heat, add sliced jalapeños directly into the chicken mixture before baking.
- Opt for Whole-Grain Shells: For a healthier twist, use whole-grain taco shells, which can add fiber.
- Add Black Beans: For extra protein and fiber, mix black beans into the chicken filling. It’ll make your tacos even heartier.
Nutrition Information
You might be curious about the nutritional value of baked chicken tacos. Here’s a rough estimate per two tacos:
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 2g
This is a balanced meal option suitable for many eating styles, providing protein, fiber, and a satisfying flavor.
How Do You Store The Leftovers?
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers (which is rare in my house), here’s how to store them:
- Cool down: Let the tacos cool to room temperature before storing.
- Use an airtight container: Place them in a sealed container to keep them fresh for up to 3 days.
- Reheat properly: When ready to eat, reheat them in the oven to maintain that delightful crunch. A microwave will soften the shells.
What Sides Would Complement Baked Chicken Tacos?
Selecting the right sides can elevate your meal. Here are a few winners:
1. Mexican Street Corn Salad: This fresh dish features juicy corn, creamy dressing, and cilantro, bringing a pop of flavor. It’s a great side to balance the cheesy tacos.
2. Cilantro-Lime Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with lime juice and fresh cilantro makes for a zesty addition that pairs nicely with the tacos.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini tossed in olive oil and oregano add color and flavor to your plate.
What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients?
Sometimes you might find yourself short on specific ingredients. No worries, here are some handy substitutions:
1. Chicken: If you don’t have shredded chicken, use turkey or even diced tofu for a vegetarian option.
2. Taco Shells: If taco shells are out of reach, consider soft tortillas or lettuce wraps to create a healthier version.
3. Diced Tomatoes: In a pinch, swap canned diced tomatoes for fresh tomatoes. They add a great texture!
4. Cheese Blend: Use any cheese you have; cheddar, mozzarella, or even vegan cheese works in a hurry.
Conclusion
Baked chicken tacos are more than just a meal; they are an experience that invites creativity and fun to the table. In a world where dinners can sometimes become a chore, this dish is a flavorful adventure you and your family can enjoy.
So next time you’re faced with the dreaded dinner dilemma, remember these baked chicken tacos. You’ll find that the recipe works, and before you know it, you’ll have a new family favorite. Now, fire up that oven and let the taco party begin!
You’ll also like the following recipes!
- Rotisserie Chicken Taco Copycat Recipe
- How to Make Keto Taco Seasoning
- Best Authentic Mexican Chicken Taco Recipe
Baked Chicken Tacos Recipe – Quick Delicious Meals
When it comes to family dinners, simplicity and flavor are my two guiding stars. You might wonder what I mean by that. I’m talking about dishes that not only satisfy a crowd but also don’t require a PhD in culinary arts to whip up.
Enter baked chicken tacos—a delightful combination of tender chicken, melted cheese, and an array of toppings. They’re perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends. Let’s have some fun exploring this dish!Baked chicken tacos are incredibly versatile. You can easily pair them with a fresh salad, delightful sides, or even some sweet treats for dessert. Consider these options: Mexican Street Corn Salad, Guacamole and Chips or Churros.
Ingredients
Optional Toppings
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
-
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step ensures your tacos bake perfectly.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
-
In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, drained diced tomatoes, diced green chiles, chopped onions, and taco spice mix. Make sure everything is well incorporated. Got all that? Great!
Step 3: Assemble the Tacos
-
Now for the fun part! Carefully place the taco shells in a baking dish. Spoon refried beans into the bottom of each shell. Then, generously fill them with the chicken mixture. Top them with the shredded cheese—don’t be shy!
Step 4: Bake
-
Pop the baking dish into the preheated oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Your kitchen will smell amazing.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
-
Once your tacos are out of the oven, let them cool for a few moments. Add your favorite toppings—sour cream, jalapeños, or salsa. Serve with a smile and watch the family dig in!
Servings 10
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 450kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 22g34%
- Total Carbohydrate 40g14%
- Dietary Fiber 6g24%
- Sugars 2g
- Protein 30g60%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Use a Variety of Cheese: Mixing different kinds of cheese adds layers of flavor. Try Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for added spice.
- Don’t Skimp on the Toppings: Adding a variety of toppings makes it more fun. Let everyone customize their own!
- Make It Spicy: If you crave heat, add sliced jalapeños directly into the chicken mixture before baking.
- Opt for Whole-Grain Shells: For a healthier twist, use whole-grain taco shells, which can add fiber.
- Add Black Beans: For extra protein and fiber, mix black beans into the chicken filling. It’ll make your tacos even heartier.
