Description
These Crispy Baked Chicken Tacos are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fried tacos, featuring seasoned shredded chicken baked inside corn tortillas until perfectly crisp. They are packed with bold Mexican flavors and easy to customize with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Tacos:
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- Cooking spray or a little olive oil for brushing
Optional Toppings:
- Diced tomatoes
- Chopped cilantro
- Fresh lime wedges
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Avocado slices or guacamole
- Pickled jalapeños
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and allow it to fully preheat. This high temperature will help crisp the tortillas nicely.
- Prepare the chicken filling: In a bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated with seasoning.
- Form the tacos: Take each corn tortilla and lightly brush or spray both sides with cooking oil. This will promote even crisping when baked.
- Assemble the tacos: Place a generous spoonful of the seasoned shredded chicken down the center of each tortilla. Sprinkle cheese over the chicken.
- Shape and secure: Fold the tortillas in half to form a taco shape and place them standing up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased to prevent sticking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until tortillas are golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted.
- Add toppings and serve: Carefully remove tacos from the oven, add your favorite toppings such as diced tomatoes, cilantro, sour cream, avocado, and a squeeze of lime. Serve immediately for best texture.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken with cooked ground beef or turkey if preferred.
- If corn tortillas are too fragile, warm them briefly in a skillet to make them more pliable before assembling.
- For extra crispy tacos, you can flip them halfway through baking.
- Use low-fat cheese and Greek yogurt as a healthier alternative to sour cream.
- To make ahead, prepare the filling and assemble tacos without baking; refrigerate and bake just before serving.
