When the craving for something indulgent but homemade strikes, I often turn to the unforgettable flavor of Baked Cheesy Cuban Chicken Taquitos. Picture this: tender seasoned chicken mingling with sweet caramelized onions and vibrant peppers, all wrapped in warm, crisp corn tortillas. It’s like a flavorful fiesta nestled in every bite! And the best part? They come straight out of the oven with that gooey Swiss cheese melting over the top, creating a tantalizing blanket of flavor.
Perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back gatherings, these taquitos offer a delightful twist on traditional Tex-Mex fare. I stumbled upon this recipe while exploring Cuban cuisine, and its fusion of tastes has become a staple in my home. Plus, with the option to whip up a tangy pineapple salsa on the side, you’ll find it’s not just a meal—it’s a celebration! Let’s dive into making these delicious bites that are sure to impress friends and family while keeping your taste buds dancing.
Why Should You Try Baked Cheesy Cuban Chicken Taquitos?
Explosive Flavor: The combination of seasoned chicken, caramelized onions, and sweet peppers results in a symphony of tastes that will make your taste buds sing.
Easy to Make: With just a handful of ingredients and a straightforward baking method, dinner is a breeze.
Fun for Everyone: These taquitos are perfect for sharing at parties or a cozy family dinner, bringing everyone together.
Gooey Cheese Heaven: The melted Swiss and pepper jack cheese create a deliciously creamy topping that elevates the entire dish.
Crispy Perfection: Baked to golden brown, the crispiness of the corn tortillas beautifully contrasts with the tender filling, making each bite irresistible.
Baked Cheesy Cuban Chicken Taquitos Ingredients
For the Filling
• Ground Chicken – Primary protein; feel free to substitute with shredded chicken or turkey for a leaner option.
• Yellow Onion – Adds sweetness and depth; red onion can be used for a milder taste.
• Poblano or Green Bell Pepper – Provides texture and sweetness; any color bell pepper works, but poblano adds a mild kick.
• Garlic (4 cloves, chopped) – Enhances flavor; no substitutions suggested for maximum impact.
• Dried Oregano (2 tsp) – Adds aromatic quality; Italian seasoning can be used if unavailable.
• Ground Cumin (1 tsp) – Contributes warmth and earthiness; best not to substitute to preserve flavor.
• Cayenne Pepper (1/2 tsp) – Adds heat; adjust according to taste or omit for a milder flavor.
• Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; add to taste.
• Chopped Pepperoncini (2 tbsp) – Offers tanginess; replace with jalapeños for more heat if desired.
For the Taquitos
• Red Enchilada Sauce (2 cups) – Moisture and flavor enhancer; homemade or store-bought works well.
• Corn Tortillas (16, 6-inch, warmed) – The traditional base for the taquitos; can substitute with flour tortillas if preferred.
• Olive Oil – For coating tortillas to achieve crispiness; a light cooking spray can also be used.
• Shredded Swiss Cheese (2 cups) – Provides creaminess; mozzarella or cheddar can be a flavorful alternative.
• Shredded Pepper Jack Cheese (1 cup) – Brings a spicy kick; swap with Monterey Jack for less heat.
For Toppings
• Avocados – Adds creaminess and freshness; guacamole can be used as a substitute for added flavor.
• Greek Yogurt – A cooling element; sour cream serves as a suitable alternative.
• Lime – Brightens the dish; fresh lime juice enhances flavor best.
For the Pineapple Salsa
• Jalapeño (1, seeded and chopped) – Introduces heat to the salsa; omit for a milder taste.
• Diced Pineapple (2 cups) – Adds sweetness; mango is a delicious substitute for a tropical twist.
• Cilantro (1/2 cup, chopped) – Provides freshness; this can be omitted if it’s not your favorite.
Enjoy the process of creating these Baked Cheesy Cuban Chicken Taquitos, where each ingredient combines to deliver a deliciously memorable meal!
How to Make Baked Cheesy Cuban Chicken Taquitos
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Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). This is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy texture for your taquitos.
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Cook the ground chicken in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes. Add the yellow onion and poblano or green bell pepper, cooking until softened and fragrant.
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Stir in the chopped garlic, dried oregano, ground cumin, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Pour in 1/2 cup of water, then cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Mix in the chopped pepperoncini, and set this savory filling aside.
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Warm the corn tortillas in the microwave for 30-second intervals until they are pliable. Brush one side of each tortilla with olive oil to ensure that crispy finish.
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Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture down the center of each tortilla. Roll them up tightly and place seam-side down on a greased baking sheet.
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Bake the taquitos for 10 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy. Then pour the red enchilada sauce over them and sprinkle with the shredded Swiss and pepper jack cheese. Return to the oven, baking for another 10 minutes, until the cheese is melty and bubbling.
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Make the pineapple salsa by combining diced pineapple, chopped jalapeño, and cilantro in a bowl. Mix everything well to allow the flavors to integrate.
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Serve the baked taquitos hot, topped with avocado slices, a dollop of Greek yogurt, and your homemade pineapple salsa.
Optional: Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice over the taquitos for an added burst of flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Baked Cheesy Cuban Chicken Taquitos?
Pair these flavorful taquitos with delightful sides and drinks that complement their deliciousness!
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Creamy Avocado Salad: A refreshing avocado salad with zesty lime dressing provides a cool contrast to the warm, baked taquitos, balancing flavors perfectly.
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Cilantro Lime Rice: This fragrant rice dish brings a burst of freshness that pairs beautifully with the savory chicken filling, enhancing the overall meal experience.
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Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add a delightful sweetness and crunchy texture, making each bite of the taquito even more enjoyable.
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Fresh Fruit Salsa: A vibrant fruit salsa with mango and pineapple brightens up the meal, introducing a touch of sweetness that beautifully complements the savory taquitos.
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Chilled Cucumber Salad: This crisp and light cucumber salad with a vinegar dressing cools the palate, offering a pleasant respite from the rich flavors of the taquitos.
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Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Grilled and seasoned corn achieves a smoky sweetness that pairs exceptionally with the cheese and spices of the taquitos, creating a delightful balance.
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Classic Margarita: A refreshing classic margarita with lime and a hint of salt invigorates the meal, providing a bright and tangy contrast to the creamy cheese.
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Sangria: This fruity concoction of red wine and fruits adds a festive touch, enhancing the overall dining experience with its refreshing notes.
Choose any combination for a meal that feels like a fiesta, celebrating the vibrant flavors that dance around your table!
Storage Tips for Baked Cheesy Cuban Chicken Taquitos
Fridge: Store your taquitos in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven to retain their crispy texture and gooey cheese.
Freezer: You can freeze leftover taquitos wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating: For the best results, reheat the taquitos in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes. This keeps them crispy and enhances the melted cheese experience in your Baked Cheesy Cuban Chicken Taquitos.
Make-Ahead: Prepare the filling and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before assembling and baking, making mealtime a breeze when you’re short on time.
Baked Cheesy Cuban Chicken Taquitos Variations
Customization is key to making these taquitos your own, so feel free to explore these delicious twists!
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Veggie Delight: Substitute ground chicken with sautéed zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms for a wholesome vegetarian option. This colorful blend keeps the dish light yet flavorful!
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Cheese Swap: Experiment with different cheese combinations, like a mix of mozzarella and gouda or pepper jack for a spicy kick. Each variety brings a unique melting quality that elevates the drizzly cheese topping.
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Crunch Factor: Add some finely diced corn or black beans into the filling for extra texture. These ingredients not only enhance flavor but create a delightful surprise in each bite.
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Heat Lovers: Incorporate finely chopped jalapeños into the chicken mixture for those who enjoy a spicy bite. Adjust the amount to suit your heat tolerance and experience a salsa-embedded kick!
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Tortilla Twist: Swap corn tortillas for whole wheat or spinach tortillas for added nutrition without sacrificing flavor. This change not only enhances the dish’s visual appeal but also adds a lovely earthiness.
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Fruity Flavor: Try adding diced mango instead of pineapple in the salsa for a tropical twist. The sweet and tangy notes of mango complement the savory taquitos beautifully.
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Nutty Flavor: Incorporate chopped almonds or walnuts in the filling for a surprising crunchy texture. This nutty addition rounds out the flavors perfectly while offering a hearty twist.
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Smoky Essence: Add a dash of smoked paprika to the filling for a comforting smoky depth. It enriches the overall flavor profile and brings a BBQ vibe to your taquitos!
Make Ahead Options
These Baked Cheesy Cuban Chicken Taquitos are a fantastic option for meal prep, making weeknight dinners a breeze! You can prepare the savory filling (chicken, onions, and peppers) and refrigerate it for up to 3 days; this allows the flavors to deepen. Additionally, you can assemble the taquitos and store them on a greased baking sheet, covered tightly with plastic wrap, for up to 24 hours before baking. To maintain quality, warm the corn tortillas well to prevent cracking, and brush each taquito with olive oil for that crispy texture. When ready to enjoy, simply bake them straight from the fridge, adding the enchilada sauce and cheese during the last 10 minutes for a gooey finish. Enjoy delicious, homemade taquitos with minimal last-minute effort!
Expert Tips for Baked Cheesy Cuban Chicken Taquitos
• Warm Tortillas: Ensure tortillas are warm and pliable to prevent cracking while rolling. Use the microwave for easy warming in 30-second intervals.
• Extra Crispiness: Brush the outside of the taquitos with olive oil before baking to achieve that delightful crispiness everyone loves in baked cheesy taquitos.
• Watch the Bake: Keep an eye on the taquitos while they bake; if you notice them browning too quickly, reduce the baking time or temperature slightly.
• Let It Marinate: For deeper flavor, let the chicken filling sit for about an hour before assembling the taquitos. This enhances the taste of your baked cheesy Cuban chicken taquitos.
• Add More Texture: Feel free to throw in some black beans or corn to the chicken mixture for added texture and fiber—it’s a delicious twist!
Baked Cheesy Cuban Chicken Taquitos Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for the filling?
Absolutely! Ground chicken is perfect for these taquitos, giving it a tender consistency. If you prefer, shredded chicken or turkey works well too, offering a leaner option that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
How should I store leftover taquitos?
You can store your Baked Cheesy Cuban Chicken Taquitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to reheat them in the oven to restore that desirable crispiness.
Can I freeze these taquitos?
Very much so! To freeze, wrap the taquitos tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time for perfectly crispy results.
What should I do if my taquitos are cracking while rolling?
If your tortillas are cracking, they might be too cold or not pliable enough. Warm them in the microwave using 30-second intervals until they are flexible. You can also brush them lightly with olive oil to help keep them intact during rolling.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Certainly! These taquitos can be made gluten-free by using corn tortillas instead of flour. Also, if you’re preparing them for someone with dairy allergies, you can use dairy-free cheese alternatives, making sure to check for allergens in the other ingredients as well.
Can I prep the filling in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the filling ahead of time! Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before you assemble and bake the taquitos. This way, you can have a quick and tasty dinner ready to go when you’re short on time!
Baked Cheesy Cuban Chicken Taquitos: Flavorful Family Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C).
- Cook the ground chicken in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes. Add the yellow onion and poblano or green bell pepper, cooking until softened and fragrant.
- Stir in the chopped garlic, dried oregano, ground cumin, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Pour in 1/2 cup of water, then cook for an additional 5 minutes. Mix in the chopped pepperoncini, and set aside.
- Warm the corn tortillas in the microwave until pliable. Brush one side of each tortilla with olive oil.
- Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture down the center of each tortilla. Roll them up tightly and place seam-side down on a greased baking sheet.
- Bake the taquitos for 10 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Pour the red enchilada sauce over them and sprinkle with Swiss and pepper jack cheese. Return to the oven for another 10 minutes.
- Make the pineapple salsa by combining diced pineapple, chopped jalapeño, and cilantro in a bowl.
- Serve the baked taquitos hot, topped with avocado slices, Greek yogurt, and pineapple salsa.