Name: Baked Chicken Tacos
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: undefined
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced) 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade seasoning) 1/4 cup water 12 small taco shells 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese 1/2 cup sour cream (optional) 1/4 cup salsa (optional) 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional) 1/2 cup shredded lettuce (optional) 1/4 cup diced tomatoes (optional) 1/4 cup sliced jalapeños (optional)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Baked chicken tacos are the perfect combination of convenience and flavor. The seasoned chicken provides a delicious base, while the crunchy taco shells and melted cheese create a satisfying texture. Baking the tacos not only gives the shells a golden crispiness but also helps the cheese melt perfectly, holding all the ingredients together. Whether you’re serving them at a family dinner or a party, these baked chicken tacos are sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade seasoning)
1/4 cup water
12 small taco shells
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
1/4 cup salsa (optional)
1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
1/2 cup shredded lettuce (optional)
1/4 cup diced tomatoes (optional)
1/4 cup sliced jalapeños (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large skillet, cook the shredded or diced chicken over medium heat. Add the taco seasoning and water, stirring to combine. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, until the chicken is heated through and the sauce thickens slightly.
While the chicken is cooking, arrange the taco shells upright in a baking dish. If the shells don’t stand on their own, you can place them in between other ingredients or crumpled foil to hold them up.
Once the chicken is ready, spoon the seasoned chicken evenly into each taco shell.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the chicken in each taco shell.
Bake the tacos in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the taco shells are crispy and the cheese is melted.
Remove from the oven and top with your favorite taco toppings like sour cream, salsa, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, green onions, and jalapeños.
Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 servings (3 tacos per person)
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Different proteins: Feel free to swap the chicken for ground beef, turkey, or even a vegetarian option like black beans or grilled vegetables.
Cheese options: Use a blend of cheeses, such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or Mexican cheese, for a more complex flavor.
Spicy kick: Add some chili powder, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to the chicken mixture to spice things up.
Taco fillings: Experiment with other fillings like sautéed onions and peppers, avocado, or olives for extra flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover baked chicken tacos can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat the tacos in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until the shells are crispy again and the cheese is melted. If you prefer, you can reheat the chicken separately and then assemble the tacos fresh.

FAQs

1. Can I use soft tortillas instead of taco shells?

Yes, soft tortillas will work as well. Just fold them in half after adding the chicken and cheese, and bake them until they’re golden and crispy.

2. Can I use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. Just shred the chicken and heat it with the taco seasoning before filling the shells.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just assemble and bake the tacos when you’re ready to serve.

4. Can I freeze baked chicken tacos?

While baked chicken tacos are best fresh, you can freeze the filled taco shells before baking. Wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, just thaw and bake as directed.

5. Can I use hard taco shells from a kit?

Yes, you can use taco shells from a kit, but for the best texture, I recommend using fresh taco shells that you can bake to your desired level of crispiness.

6. What can I serve with these tacos?

Baked chicken tacos are great on their own, but you can serve them with a side of Mexican rice, guacamole, or a simple salad to round out the meal.

7. How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add more taco seasoning or chili powder to the chicken, or top the tacos with sliced jalapeños, hot sauce, or a spicy salsa.

8. Can I make these tacos without cheese?

Yes! If you prefer a dairy-free version, you can skip the cheese and load up the tacos with extra veggies or avocado for creaminess.

9. How do I prevent the taco shells from getting soggy?

To avoid soggy taco shells, make sure the chicken filling isn’t too watery. Drain any excess moisture from the chicken mixture before filling the shells.

10. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Definitely! Feel free to use mozzarella, pepper jack, or even a vegan cheese for a different twist.

Conclusion

Baked chicken tacos are a fun and easy dinner that brings the flavors of tacos to a whole new level. With seasoned chicken, melted cheese, and the option to customize with your favorite toppings, they’re perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re feeding a family or having friends over, these baked chicken tacos are sure to be a hit with everyone!