Description
These Baked Chicken Tacos offer a deliciously crispy and cheesy twist on a classic favorite. Tender, seasoned shredded chicken combined with a melty blend of Colby-Jack and Pepper Jack cheeses are nestled inside crispy corn tortillas baked to perfection. Topped with fresh salsa, diced tomatoes, guacamole, sour cream, and cilantro, these tacos make for a quick, satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Filling
- 1 lb. cooked, seasoned shredded chicken
- 1 ½ cups freshly grated Colby-Jack cheese
- 1 ½ cups freshly grated Pepper-Jack cheese
Tortillas
- 20 street taco corn tortillas
- Olive oil or olive oil cooking spray (for brushing tortillas)
Toppings (Optional)
- Salsa
- Diced tomato
- Guacamole
- Sour cream
- Cilantro
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets: Heat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Prepare Tortillas: Lay the corn tortillas flat on the prepared baking sheets. Lightly brush both sides of each tortilla with olive oil or spray with olive oil cooking spray to help achieve a crispy texture during baking.
- Add Filling and Cheese: Place about two tablespoons of the seasoned shredded chicken down the center of each tortilla. Top the chicken with two heaping tablespoons of a mix of freshly grated Colby-Jack and Pepper-Jack cheeses for a flavorful cheesy melt.
- Initial Bake: Bake the tacos in the preheated oven for 2 minutes, just long enough for the cheese to melt gently.
- Shape the Tacos: Remove the baking sheets from the oven. Carefully fold each tortilla in half, gently pressing them together to form the traditional taco shape without breaking the tortilla.
- Final Bake: Return the shaped tacos to the oven and bake for an additional 12 to 14 minutes or until the corn tortillas are crispy and golden on the outside.
- Serve and Garnish: Remove the baked chicken tacos from the oven and serve them hot. Top with your choice of salsa, diced tomato, guacamole, sour cream, and fresh cilantro to enhance flavors and add freshness.
Notes
- You can substitute the chicken with cooked shredded turkey or beef if desired.
- For extra spice, add jalapeño slices before the final bake.
- If you prefer a softer taco, reduce the final baking time slightly.
- Use parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent the tacos from sticking to the baking sheets.
- Leftover tacos can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness.
