Looking to spice up your taco night? This baked chicken tacos recipe is the answer! Juicy chicken seasoned to perfection, all wrapped in warm tortillas and baked to crispy goodness. It’s a delicious, easy-to-make meal that the whole family will love. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering dish that brings a twist to traditional tacos!
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 cup taco seasoning
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- 1 cup salsa
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- 1 avocado, sliced (optional)
- Lime wedges, for serving
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 25 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (2 tacos) contains approximately 350 calories, 20g protein, 15g fat, 30g carbohydrates, and 4g fiber. These values are based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, taco seasoning, black beans, and corn.
- Mix until well combined.
- Heat tortillas briefly in a skillet to make them pliable.
- Fill each tortilla with the chicken mixture and roll tightly.
- Place the rolled tacos in a greased baking dish.
- Pour salsa evenly over the top of the tacos.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and avocado slices before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute ingredients based on your preferences. Use ground turkey or beef instead of chicken, or swap black beans for pinto beans. You can also use gluten-free tortillas for a gluten-free option!
Serving and Pairings
These baked chicken tacos pair wonderfully with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh garden salad. You can also serve them with a dollop of sour cream or guacamole for extra flavor.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place tacos in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just be sure to wrap them tightly.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overfilling the tortillas can cause them to burst.
- Not heating the tortillas can lead to cracks while rolling.
- Using too much seasoning can overpower the dish.
- Forgetting to grease the baking dish may cause sticking.
- Baking for too long can result in dry tacos.
Helpful Tips
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quick prep.
- Experiment with different cheeses for varied flavors.
- Add chopped veggies like bell peppers for extra crunch.
- Serve with fresh lime juice for a zesty kick.
FAQs
Can I make these tacos ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the tacos ahead of time. Just bake them before serving for a quick meal!
What other toppings can I use?
You can use toppings like jalapeños, diced onions, or shredded lettuce for extra flavor and crunch.
Are these tacos spicy?
The spice level can be adjusted based on the taco seasoning used. Opt for mild seasoning for less heat.
Can I use whole wheat tortillas?
Absolutely! Whole wheat tortillas are a healthier option that adds fiber to the dish.
How can I make these vegetarian?
Substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or extra beans for a delicious vegetarian option.
Conclusion
Baked chicken tacos are a delightful twist on a classic dish, perfect for any occasion. Easy to make and customizable, they can satisfy everyone at the table. Try this recipe for a convenient and tasty dinner option that everyone will love!
Baked Chicken Tacos Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 cup taco seasoning
- 1 cup black beans drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn frozen or canned
- 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar or Mexican blend
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- 1 cup salsa
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- 1 avocado sliced (optional)
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, taco seasoning, black beans, and corn.
- Heat tortillas briefly in a skillet to make them pliable.
- Fill each tortilla with the chicken mixture and roll tightly.
- Place the rolled tacos in a greased baking dish.
- Pour salsa evenly over the top of the tacos.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and avocado slices before serving.
