Name: Baked Chicken Tacos Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 10-12 small corn tortillas (5-inch size) or flour tortillas; Cooking spray or neutral oil for brushing; 2 cups shredded chicken (from rotisserie or cooked chicken); 10 oz can Rotel tomatoes and green chiles, drained; 2 Tbsp taco seasoning; 1 Tbsp fresh lime juice; 2 cups Mexican-style shredded cheese

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Introduction

These baked chicken tacos are a quick and satisfying meal perfect for weeknights. Crispy edges, melted cheese, and a flavorful chicken filling make them a family favorite everyone will enjoy.

A white rectangular dish with red handles holds eight tacos arranged closely in two rows. Each taco has three layers: the yellow crispy taco shell on the outside, a filling of shredded cooked chicken mixed with some melted cheese in the middle layer, and fresh lettuce chopped into thin strips topped with diced red tomatoes and green cilantro leaves inside. Some tacos have a dollop of white sour cream on top with a small drizzle of red hot sauce. Around the dish are white bowls with sour cream and chopped cilantro, and several fresh lime wedges. The setting is on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

10-12 small corn tortillas (5-inch size) or flour tortillas
Cooking spray or neutral oil for brushing
2 cups Mexican-style shredded cheese
2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie or cooked)
10 oz can Rotel tomatoes and green chiles, drained
2 tablespoons taco seasoning
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Arrange the tortillas in a single layer on a large rimmed baking sheet, allowing slight overlap if necessary. Spray or brush both sides of the tortillas with cooking spray or oil.
Step 2: In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken, drained Rotel tomatoes, taco seasoning, and lime juice. Mix well until the chicken is fully coated with the seasoning.
Step 3: Spread half of the shredded cheese evenly over the tortillas. Spoon the chicken mixture onto each tortilla, about 1/4 cup per taco, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
Step 4: Bake the tacos uncovered for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tortilla edges turn crisp and golden. If using two baking sheets, rotate them halfway through baking for even cooking.
Step 5: Remove from the oven and, while still warm and pliable, use a spatula to carefully fold each taco in half. Transfer to a serving platter and add your favorite toppings before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a spoonful of salsa or guacamole on top before serving.
Substitute shredded chicken with cooked ground beef or turkey for variety.
Use flour tortillas for a softer texture, or corn tortillas for a classic taste.
Include diced onions, cilantro, or jalapeños in the filling for added freshness and heat.

Storage

Store leftover baked chicken tacos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to maintain crispiness, or briefly in the microwave if short on time. Avoid reheating in a way that makes the tortillas soggy.

How to Serve

The image shows a white rectangular dish with red handles filled with eight yellow corn taco shells, each holding shredded cooked chicken as the first layer. Above the chicken, there is shredded light green lettuce and small red tomato cubes scattered on top. Fresh green cilantro leaves are spread across the tacos and inside the dish. Two of the tacos have a dollop of white sour cream with a red hot sauce drizzle on top. Around the dish, there are lime wedges, a white bowl filled with chopped green cilantro, and a clear bowl with white sour cream and a spoon, all set on a white marbled background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these tacos ahead of time?

You can prepare the filling and assemble the tacos ahead, then refrigerate them unbaked for a few hours. Bake just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

What toppings work best with baked chicken tacos?

Popular toppings include sour cream, sliced avocado, pico de gallo, fresh cilantro, hot sauce, and shredded lettuce. Choose according to your taste preferences.