Baked Chicken Tacos Recipe

Baked Chicken Tacos are a fun and delicious twist on a classic favorite. Packed with flavorful shredded chicken, melted cheese, and a crispy shell, these tacos make the perfect weeknight dinner. With simple ingredients and a quick preparation time, these baked tacos are sure to become a household favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 12 hard taco shells
• Optional toppings: salsa, sour cream, avocado, lettuce

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the chicken over medium heat until no longer pink.
3. Shred the cooked chicken using two forks and return it to the skillet.
4. Stir in the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and chicken broth. Simmer for 5 minutes to combine the flavors.
5. Fill each taco shell with the chicken mixture and place them in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top each taco with shredded cheddar cheese and bake for 10-12 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve hot with your choice of toppings such as salsa, sour cream, avocado, and lettuce.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4

Variations

• Add Vegetables: Incorporate some diced bell peppers, onions, or corn into the chicken mixture for extra flavor and texture.
• Use Ground Chicken or Turkey: For a leaner version, you can substitute the shredded chicken with ground chicken or turkey.
• Spicy Tacos: Add some jalapeños or chili powder to the chicken mixture for a spicier kick.
• Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or Mexican blend for added flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover baked chicken tacos can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the tacos back in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave them for 1-2 minutes.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, frozen chicken can be used. Just be sure to thaw it thoroughly before cooking.
2. Can I make these tacos with soft tortillas? While this recipe calls for hard taco shells, you can use soft tortillas if you prefer. Just bake them for a shorter time to avoid overcooking.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the chicken mixture and store it in the refrigerator until ready to assemble and bake the tacos.
4. What if I don’t have taco seasoning? You can make your own taco seasoning using chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
5. Can I add beans to the filling? Absolutely! Add black beans or refried beans to the chicken mixture for added fiber and protein.
6. Can I freeze the baked tacos? Yes, you can freeze the assembled tacos before baking. Wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap, and bake from frozen at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes.
7. Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend.
8. Can I make this recipe spicy? For a spicier version, add jalapeños, chili flakes, or hot sauce to the chicken mixture.
9. How can I make the chicken more tender? If you want even more tender chicken, try slow cooking or poaching the chicken breasts before shredding.
10. How can I make this a vegetarian dish? You can replace the chicken with a mix of beans, corn, and veggies for a delicious vegetarian option.

Conclusion

Baked Chicken Tacos are a quick, delicious, and customizable dish that the whole family will love. With minimal ingredients and a simple cooking process, you can enjoy a hearty meal in just 30 minutes. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with your favorite toppings and fillings, these tacos are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!

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