Baked chicken tacos are the perfect solution for a quick, flavorful meal that everyone will love. This recipe combines succulent chicken with fresh toppings and a crunchy shell, making it an irresistible dish. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy night in, these tacos are sure to impress. Follow along for a simple yet delicious recipe that will become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup taco seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 12 small corn or flour tortillas
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4-6 people, with a preparation time of 15 minutes and a cooking time of 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving of baked chicken tacos (2 tacos) contains approximately:
– Calories: 400
– Protein: 25g
– Carbohydrates: 35g
– Fat: 20g
– Fiber: 5g
This nutritional information is based on a serving size of two tacos.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken and taco seasoning.
- Mix well until the chicken is evenly coated with seasoning.
- Warm the tortillas in the microwave for 30 seconds to make them pliable.
- In a baking dish, arrange the tortillas in a single layer.
- Fill each tortilla with the seasoned chicken mixture.
- Add a spoonful of black beans on top of the chicken.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over each filled tortilla.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and top with diced tomatoes and avocado.
Alternative Ingredients
If you want to customize your baked chicken tacos, consider using ground turkey or beef instead of chicken. You can also swap out regular cheese for dairy-free alternatives. For a gluten-free option, use corn tortillas.
Serving and Pairings
These baked chicken tacos pair wonderfully with a side salad, Mexican rice, or refried beans. You can also serve them with fresh salsa or guacamole for added flavor.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover baked chicken tacos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. These tacos can be frozen, but it’s best to freeze the filling separately from the tortillas to maintain freshness.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using cold tortillas can lead to cracking; always warm them first.
- Overfilling the tacos can cause spills; stick to a moderate amount of filling.
- Not preheating the oven may result in uneven cooking.
- Forgetting to cover with foil can lead to burnt edges.
- Using too much seasoning can overpower the other flavors.
Helpful Tips
- Mix in some corn or bell peppers for extra crunch.
- Experiment with different cheese types for varied flavors.
- Let the tacos cool slightly before serving to avoid burns.
- Serve with lime wedges for a zesty kick.
FAQs
Can I use other meats for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with ground beef, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust the seasoning accordingly.
How can I make these tacos spicier?
Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture before baking. You can also use spicy taco seasoning.
Can I prepare the filling in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken filling a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just assemble and bake when ready to serve.
What can I use instead of sour cream?
Greek yogurt is a great alternative to sour cream and adds a nice tang. You can also use avocado cream for a dairy-free option.
How do I prevent the tortillas from getting soggy?
Warming the tortillas helps prevent sogginess. Additionally, avoid overfilling them with wet ingredients.
Conclusion
Baked chicken tacos are not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. They offer a perfect blend of flavors and textures that will please any crowd. With customizable options and straightforward preparation, this recipe is sure to be a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Baked Chicken Tacos Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup taco seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar or Mexican blend
- 12 small corn or flour tortillas
- 1 can black beans drained and rinsed
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 avocado diced
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- 1 lime cut into wedges
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken and taco seasoning.
- Warm the tortillas in the microwave for 30 seconds to make them pliable.
- In a baking dish, arrange the tortillas in a single layer.
- Fill each tortilla with the seasoned chicken mixture.
- Add a spoonful of black beans on top of the chicken.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over each filled tortilla.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and top with diced tomatoes and avocado.
- Serve with lime wedges and enjoy!