There’s something irresistibly comforting about the crunch of a freshly baked taquito. Imagine the golden-brown crisps filled with succulent ground chicken, colorful bell peppers, and a decadent blend of melty cheeses that simply oozes goodness. I discovered this recipe for Baked Cheesy Cuban Chicken Taquitos during a late-night cooking spree, and they quickly became a weeknight favorite in my household.
Perfect for anyone looking to ditch fast food and whip up something quick yet absolutely satisfying, these taquitos pair beautifully with a zesty homemade salsa that brightens each bite. They’re not only a feast for the senses but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize fillings to suit your taste buds. Whether you’re gathering friends for a movie night or simply in need of a quick meal, these delightful bites are sure to hit the spot!
Why Are Baked Cheesy Cuban Chicken Taquitos Amazing?
Flavorful fillings: The blend of seasoned ground chicken and colorful veggies creates a savory explosion in every bite.
Crispy perfection: Baked to a golden brown, these taquitos provide a satisfying crunch that will leave you craving more.
Easy to customize: Feel free to swap in your favorite proteins or add extra spices to make these taquitos truly your own.
Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a fun appetizer for game day, they are always a hit.
Quick prep time: Spend less time in the kitchen, making it an excellent solution for busy evenings.
Crowd-pleaser: Serve them at parties, and watch them disappear as everyone loves these cheesy bites!
Baked Cheesy Cuban Chicken Taquitos Ingredients
For the Filling
• Ground Chicken – The star of the taquitos; you can easily swap it for turkey for a lighter option.
• Yellow Onion – Adds a touch of sweetness; red onion works well for a sharper bite.
• Bell Peppers – Any color will do; they bring a pop of color and flavor.
• Garlic – Fresh cloves provide robust flavor; jarred garlic can save time.
• Dried Oregano – A sprinkle brings in that delightful herby essence; Italian seasoning is a fine substitute.
• Ground Cumin – Delivers a warm, earthy depth; coriander can change up the flavor profile.
• Cayenne Pepper – For that kick of heat; feel free to use chili powder for a milder option.
• Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for enhancing flavors; kosher salt works best during cooking.
• Chopped Pepperoncini – Adds a tangy zing, but jalapeños are a great alternative for more heat.
• Red Enchilada Sauce – Keeps the filling moist and flavorful; homemade sauce adds a personal touch.
For the Wrap
• Corn Tortillas – These hold everything together perfectly; flour tortillas can be used if you prefer.
• Olive Oil – Brush on tortillas for that golden crispiness; avocado oil makes a tasty substitute.
For the Cheese
• Shredded Swiss Cheese – Melts beautifully, adding creaminess; cheddar or Monterey Jack work well too.
• Shredded Pepper Jack Cheese – For an extra punch of flavor and spice; mozzarella can easily step in.
For the Toppings
• Avocados – Creamy goodness on top; guacamole can replace fresh avocado for convenience.
• Greek Yogurt – A healthier twist on sour cream; regular sour cream is perfectly acceptable too.
• Limes – A squeeze brings freshness; lemon juice is a handy alternative.
• Chopped Cilantro – Enhances overall flavor; you can skip this or use parsley if you prefer.
For the Salsa
• Diced Pineapple – Sweetness that balances tang; swap with mango for a tropical twist.
• Chopped Jalapeño – Optional for that extra heat in the salsa; feel free to omit for a milder version.
These Baked Cheesy Cuban Chicken Taquitos are a delightful way to bring comfort food into your home with a flavorful fiesta!
How to Make Baked Cheesy Cuban Chicken Taquitos
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Preheat the oven to 425°F. This ensures a perfectly crispy exterior that will complement the juicy filling.
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Cook the ground chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and bell peppers, breaking the meat apart. Cook for about 5 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and vegetables are tender.
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Stir in minced garlic, oregano, cumin, cayenne, salt, and black pepper, along with 1/2 cup of water. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully.
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Warm the corn tortillas in the microwave for 30-second intervals until they’re pliable. This step makes filling and rolling much easier! Apply a light brush of olive oil on one side of each tortilla on a baking sheet.
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Fill each tortilla with 2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture, then roll them up tightly and place seam-side down on the baking sheet. Ensure they’re snug but not overcrowded.
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Bake the taquitos for 10 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy. Then, pour red enchilada sauce over them, sprinkle with shredded cheese, and return to the oven for another 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Make salsa by mixing diced pineapple, chopped jalapeño, and any additional salsa ingredients in a bowl. This fresh salsa will add a delightful contrast to the warm taquitos.
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Serve your baked taquitos topped with creamy avocado, a dollop of Greek yogurt, and the bright homemade salsa. Each bite will be bursting with flavor!
Optional: Garnish with lime wedges for an extra zing.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Baked Cheesy Cuban Chicken Taquitos Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists that can elevate your taquito experience!
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Shredded Chicken: Swap ground chicken for shredded rotisserie chicken for quicker, more tender taquitos. This will introduce a different texture that’s just as delicious.
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Veggie-Packed: Add black beans or corn to the filling for extra texture and nutritional benefits. Not only does this make the dish heartier, but it also enhances the flavor profile.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños directly into the filling for a spicy surprise in every bite. This will give your taquitos a fiery punch that spice lovers will enjoy!
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Creamy Delight: Mix in cream cheese along with the shredded cheese for a richer filling. The creaminess will melt wonderfully, creating a deliciously gooey interior.
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Cheesy Swap: For a twist on flavors, try using cheddar cheese instead of Swiss. It adds a sharper taste that complements the savory chicken beautifully.
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Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to the filling for a delightful freshness. Herbs will enhance the overall flavor and provide a beautiful contrast to the rich cheese.
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Tropical Twist: Replace diced pineapple in the salsa with mango for an irresistible tropical flair. The sweetness will perfectly balance the savory taquitos, making each bite refreshing.
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Bake Ahead: Assemble the taquitos with your desired fillings and freeze them for later. When ready to enjoy, simply bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time!
Make Ahead Options
These Baked Cheesy Cuban Chicken Taquitos are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can prepare the filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cook the ground chicken, onion, and bell peppers as instructed, then allow it to cool before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The corn tortillas can also be wrapped tightly and stored to keep them pliable. When you’re ready to bake, just fill each tortilla with the prepared chicken mixture, roll them up, brush with olive oil, and bake as directed, ensuring a delightful crunch just like freshly made. This way, you save time without compromising on flavor, making weeknight dinners a breeze!
Expert Tips for Baked Cheesy Cuban Chicken Taquitos
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Rolling Technique: Roll the tortillas tightly to avoid any filling escaping during baking. This ensures is no mess and keeps every bite flavorful.
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Chicken Check: Make sure to fully cook the ground chicken and season it well to enhance the delicious flavors of your taquitos.
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Crispy Factor: Adjust the cooking time based on your oven to achieve that perfect crispy texture. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning!
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Parchment Perks: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. It also makes cleanup a breeze, so you can enjoy your meal sooner.
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Filling Variations: Feel free to experiment with other proteins or add in some black beans for a delightful twist. Customizing your Baked Cheesy Cuban Chicken Taquitos makes them even more enjoyable!
What to Serve with Baked Cheesy Cuban Chicken Taquitos?
Elevate your taquito night with these delightful pairings that bring vibrant flavors and comforting textures to your table.
- Zesty Homemade Salsa: Fresh and tangy, this salsa complements the cheesy taquitos perfectly, awakening your taste buds with each bite.
- Crispy Corn Salad: Bright corn mixed with diced bell peppers and a zesty lime dressing adds a refreshing crunch that’ll contrast beautifully with the warm taquitos.
- Creamy Guacamole: Rich and smooth, this avocado dip adds a luscious touch to your meal, creating a perfect harmony with the crispy taquitos.
- Cilantro Lime Rice: Light and fragrant rice infused with lime and fresh cilantro brings an extra layer of flavor, rounding out the dish beautifully.
- Refried Beans: Creamy and savory, these beans make a satisfying side that pairs perfectly with the spiced filling of the taquitos.
- Spicy Pickled Jalapeños: Add a zesty kick to your meal with pickled jalapeños that bring heat and tanginess, enhancing the overall flavor experience.
- Tangy Coleslaw: A light and crunchy coleslaw with a tangy dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the savory taquitos, adding vibrant color to your plate.
- Frozen Margaritas: Perfect with a festive touch, refreshing margaritas serve as a delightful companion to your taquito feast, enhancing the north-of-the-border vibe.
- Churros: Indulge your sweet tooth with these cinnamon-sugar treats for dessert, a perfect ending to your flavorful feast.
- Lime Wedges: Always great to have on the side, a squeeze of fresh lime elevates the flavors of both the taquitos and any accompanying dishes.
How to Store and Freeze Baked Cheesy Cuban Chicken Taquitos
Fridge: Store leftover taquitos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to regain crispiness.
Freezer: Freeze taquitos before baking for up to 3 months. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen for an additional 5–10 minutes.
Reheating: Reheat baked taquitos in an oven at 350°F until heated through (about 10-15 minutes). For best results, cover with foil to retain moisture.
Make-Ahead: Assemble your Baked Cheesy Cuban Chicken Taquitos a day ahead and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
Baked Cheesy Cuban Chicken Taquitos Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting ground chicken?
Absolutely! Look for ground chicken that is bright pink and moist but not slimy. If possible, choose organic or free-range options for better flavor and quality. You can also consider ground turkey as a leaner alternative if desired.
How should I store leftover taquitos?
Store any leftover baked cheesy Cuban chicken taquitos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until crispy again. This will help retain their delightful crunch!
Can I freeze Baked Cheesy Cuban Chicken Taquitos?
Yes, you can freeze taquitos before baking! Place them on a baking sheet, ensuring they aren’t touching, and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, bake from frozen, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the original cooking time.
What if my taquitos come out soggy?
Very! If your taquitos turn out soggy, it may be due to excess moisture in the filling or undercooked tortillas. Make sure to fully cook the filling and allow it to cool slightly before assembling. Additionally, warming your tortillas in the microwave helps keep them pliable but can also retain too much moisture. Opt for a dry, crispier tortilla before baking.
Are these taquitos safe for pets or allergies?
Always consult your veterinarian before giving human food to pets, as some ingredients like garlic can be harmful. For allergy considerations, be cautious with toppings like cheese and yogurt, and always check for potential cross-contamination if you’re serving someone with a specific food allergy.
Can I customize the filling for these taquitos?
Absolutely! One of the best parts about this recipe is its versatility. You can swap the ground chicken for shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience or use a mix of black beans, corn, and cheese for a vegetarian option. Customize spices and add-ins according to your taste—think diced jalapeños for more heat or different veggies for extra crunch!
Baked Cheesy Cuban Chicken Taquitos for a Flavorful Feast
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 425°F.
- Cook the ground chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat with onion and bell peppers for about 5 minutes.
- Stir in garlic, oregano, cumin, cayenne, salt, and pepper with 1/2 cup of water, and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Warm corn tortillas in the microwave until pliable, then brush with olive oil.
- Fill each tortilla with 2 tablespoons of the filling, roll them tightly, and place seam-side down on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 10 minutes until golden brown, then add enchilada sauce and shredded cheese, and bake for another 10 minutes.
- Make the salsa by mixing diced pineapple and chopped jalapeño in a bowl.
- Serve the taquitos topped with avocado, Greek yogurt, and salsa.