Description
These mini baked chicken tacos are a delicious and versatile dish perfect for any occasion, from quick weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. Made with seasoned shredded chicken, melty Colby Jack cheese, and crispy corn tortillas, these bite-sized tacos are easy to prepare and customizable with your favorite toppings. Serve them with sour cream, salsa, and fresh cilantro for a satisfying and flavorful meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. cooked shredded seasoned chicken breast (3–4 cups shredded chicken breast, see notes for cooking options)
- 8 oz. shredded Colby Jack cheese
- 20–24 street taco corn tortillas
- Olive oil or cooking spray
To Serve:
- Sour cream
- Salsa
- Fresh chopped cilantro
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Heat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Prepare the Tortillas: Place tortillas on a baking sheet. Brush or spray both sides with olive oil. This helps the tortillas crisp up during baking.
- Fill the Tacos: Add a heaping tablespoon of the shredded chicken mixture to the center of each tortilla. Top with a heaping tablespoon of shredded Colby Jack cheese. Depending on the size of your baking sheet, you may need a second one to accommodate all the tortillas.
- First Bake: Bake the tortillas for 2 minutes, or until the cheese begins to melt. This initial bake helps soften the tortillas, making them easier to fold.
- Fold the Tacos: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and carefully fold each tortilla in half, forming a taco shape. Press them gently to ensure they hold their shape.
- Final Bake: Return the folded tacos to the oven and bake for another 12-15 minutes, or until the corn tortillas are crispy and golden brown.
- Serve: Serve the tacos hot, with sour cream, salsa, and fresh chopped cilantro on the side. Enjoy!
Notes
For the shredded chicken, you can use different cooking methods depending on your preference:
- Boiling: Boil chicken breasts in water or broth until tender, then shred.
- Slow-Cooking: Slow-cook chicken breasts with seasonings for several hours, then shred.
- Roasting: Roast chicken breasts seasoned with spices for a richer flavor, then shred.
You can also experiment with different fillings and toppings to customize these tacos to your taste. Try using seasoned ground beef, pulled pork, or a vegetarian option like black beans or sautéed vegetables. Adjust the seasonings and toppings to match your preferences, making this recipe as flexible as it is delicious.