Baked Chicken Tacos are a delightful twist on a classic favorite. This dish combines the flavors of seasoned ground chicken with all the classic taco toppings, all baked to cheesy perfection. The result? Crispy taco shells filled with savory chicken, bubbling cheese, and a fresh crunch from the toppings. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, these tacos are sure to be a hit.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 360
- Protein: 28 grams
- Carbohydrates: 35 grams
- Fat: 15 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Sugar: 2 grams
- Sodium: 550 mg
Why Make This Baked Chicken Tacos
Baked Chicken Tacos are not only easy to prepare but also offer a burst of flavor in every bite. The combination of seasoned ground chicken and melted cheese provides a satisfying meal that appeals to both kids and adults. Plus, baking the tacos allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a comforting dish that is perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.
How to Make Baked Chicken Tacos
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 12 taco shells
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 cup lettuce, shredded
- 1 tomato, diced
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup salsa
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your tacos bake evenly and the cheese melts perfectly.
Step 2: Cooking the Chicken
In a skillet, cook 1 pound of ground chicken over medium heat until it is fully cooked, about 7-10 minutes. Stir in 1 packet of taco seasoning and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb all the flavorful spices.
Step 3: Assembling the Tacos
Place the 12 taco shells in a baking dish. Fill each taco shell generously with the seasoned chicken mixture. Top each taco with 1 cup of shredded cheese.
Step 4: Baking
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. The taco shells will become crisp, adding a delightful crunch to each bite.
How to Serve Baked Chicken Tacos
Serve your Baked Chicken Tacos hot out of the oven, garnished with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a dollop of sour cream and salsa on the side. This makes for a visually appealing presentation and allows each diner to customize their tacos to their liking.
How to Store Baked Chicken Tacos
If you happen to have leftovers, allow the tacos to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, until heated through.
Expert Tips for Perfect Baked Chicken Tacos
- You can easily substitute ground turkey or beef if you prefer. The seasoning will work beautifully with any meat.
- For added flavor, mix in some diced onions or bell peppers while cooking the chicken.
- To make them spicier, add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.
- If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cooked chicken and simply mix it with the seasoning.
Delicious Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with a mixture of black beans and corn for a tasty plant-based version.
- Nacho Style: Instead of taco shells, use tortilla chips as the base and pile on the toppings to create a taco-inspired nacho dish.
- Breakfast Tacos: Use scrambled eggs and cheese for a breakfast twist. Serve with salsa and avocado for a delightful morning meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I freeze the Baked Chicken Tacos?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled tacos before baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen for about 15-20 minutes longer than usual. - What toppings can I use?
Besides lettuce and tomatoes, try adding avocado, cilantro, sliced olives, or even guacamole for added flavor. - How spicy are these tacos?
The spice level mostly depends on the taco seasoning used. You can control the heat by choosing a mild seasoning or adding spicy elements like jalapeños. - Can I make these tacos ahead of time?
You can prepare the chicken mixture ahead of time and assemble the tacos just before baking for the best texture. - Is this a healthy recipe?
Baked Chicken Tacos can be a healthier option than traditional fried tacos, especially if you use lean ground chicken and load on veggies.
Conclusion
Baked Chicken Tacos are a fantastic meal option that bring together delicious flavors and textures with minimal effort. Perfect for busy nights or casual gatherings, these tacos will surely become a staple in your home. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the delight of savory chicken bites enveloped in crispy shells, topped with your favorite fresh ingredients. Happy cooking!
Print
Baked Chicken Tacos
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A delightful twist on classic tacos featuring seasoned ground chicken, filled in crispy taco shells and topped with cheese and fresh ingredients.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 12 taco shells
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 cup lettuce, shredded
- 1 tomato, diced
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup salsa
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking.
- Cook 1 pound of ground chicken over medium heat until fully cooked, about 7-10 minutes. Stir in taco seasoning and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Fill each of the 12 taco shells with the seasoned chicken mixture and top with shredded cheese.
- Bake in the oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Notes
You can substitute ground turkey or beef. To customize, add jalapeños for heat or opt for black beans for a vegetarian version.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
