Description
These Baked Chicken Tacos are a quick and delicious weeknight meal featuring tender shredded chicken mixed with zesty Rotel tomatoes and taco seasoning, melted under a crispy layer of cheese on corn tortillas. Baked to golden perfection, these tacos are perfect for a crowd and customizable with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients
Tortillas
- 10-12 small corn tortillas (5-inch size) or flour tortillas
- Cooking spray or neutral oil for brushing
Filling
- 2 cups shredded chicken (rotisserie or cooked chicken)
- 10 oz can Rotel tomatoes and green chiles, drained
- 2 Tbsp taco seasoning
- 1 Tbsp fresh lime juice
Cheese
- 2 cups Mexican-style shredded cheese
Instructions
- Prep Tortillas: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Lay the tortillas on a large rimmed baking sheet, allowing slight overlapping if needed. Spray or brush both sides of each tortilla with cooking spray or neutral oil, arranging them in a single layer. Use two baking sheets or one large 3/4 sheet if available for even baking.
- Mix the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken, drained Rotel tomatoes and green chiles, taco seasoning, and fresh lime juice. Stir the mixture thoroughly until the chicken is evenly coated with the seasoning and lime juice.
- Assemble Open-Face Tacos: Distribute half of the shredded cheese evenly across the prepared tortillas. Spoon approximately 1/4 cup of the chicken filling onto each tortilla, leaving a border around the edges. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top of the filling to create a cheesy topping.
- Bake: Bake the assembled tacos uncovered for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and the tortilla edges become crisp and golden brown. If using two baking sheets, rotate them halfway through baking for even cooking. Upon removal from the oven, use a spatula to gently fold each taco in half while they are still warm and pliable.
- Garnish & Serve: Transfer the folded tacos to a serving platter. Top with your favorite taco garnishes such as sour cream, salsa, chopped cilantro, diced onions, or avocado as desired, and serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- For crispier tacos, use corn tortillas and ensure they are brushed with oil thoroughly before baking.
- Rotisserie chicken can be substituted with any cooked shredded chicken.
- Adjust taco seasoning quantity to taste or use a homemade blend for freshness.
- Use a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
- Serve with fresh lime wedges for an added zesty flavor boost.
- Feel free to add toppings like jalapeños, diced tomatoes, or shredded lettuce for extra texture.
