Name: Baked Cheesy Cuban Chicken Taquitos
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1 pound ground chicken; 1 yellow onion (chopped); 1 poblano or green bell pepper (chopped); 4 cloves garlic (chopped); 2 teaspoons dried oregano; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (use more or less to taste); Salt and black pepper (to taste); 2 tablespoons chopped pepperoncini; 2 cups red enchilada sauce; 16 6-inch corn tortillas (warmed); Olive oil (for coating); 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese; 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese; 2 avocados (chopped or sliced); Greek yogurt, limes, and sea salt (for serving); 1 jalapeño (seeded if desired and chopped); 2 cups diced pineapple; 1/2 cup cilantro (chopped); 1/4 cup lime juice

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a deliciously cheesy, flavor-packed dish that is perfect for any occasion, look no further than these Baked Cheesy Cuban Chicken Taquitos. With the vibrant flavors of Cuban cuisine and the comfort of cheesy goodness, this dish is bound to become a favorite in your household. The best part? They are baked, not fried, making them a healthier option without sacrificing flavor. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will surely impress your family and friends!

Why It Deserves a Spot

Baked Cheesy Cuban Chicken Taquitos are more than just a tasty snack or appetizer; they are a celebration of flavors and textures. The combination of ground chicken with spices and cheese creates a satisfying filling that is wrapped in warm corn tortillas. When baked, they achieve a crispy exterior while maintaining a gooey, cheesy interior. Topped with fresh ingredients like avocado, cilantro, and a zesty lime dressing, these taquitos are not only delicious but also visually appealing. They are perfect for game day, a casual dinner, or even a festive gathering.

Ingredient Checklist

To prepare the Baked Cheesy Cuban Chicken Taquitos, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 pound ground chicken
1 yellow onion, chopped
1 poblano or green bell pepper, chopped
4 cloves garlic, chopped
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper, use more or less to taste
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons chopped pepperoncini
2 cups red enchilada sauce
16 (6-inch) corn tortillas, warmed
Olive oil for coating
2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
2 avocados, chopped or sliced
Greek yogurt, limes, and sea salt, for serving
1 jalapeño, seeded if desired, and chopped
2 cups diced pineapple
1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
1/4 cup lime juice

Prep & Cook Tools

Large skillet – for cooking the chicken and vegetables.
Spatula or wooden spoon – for stirring.
Baking sheet – for placing the taquitos while they bake.
Parchment paper – for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Mixing bowl – for combining ingredients.
Sharp knife and cutting board – for chopping vegetables.

The Method for Baked Cheesy Cuban Chicken Taquitos.

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, add the chopped onion, poblano or bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and the peppers soften, about 5 minutes.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Add the ground chicken to the skillet and cook until it is no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spatula. This should take about 7-10 minutes.

Step 3: Season the Mixture

Once the chicken is cooked, stir in the dried oregano, ground cumin, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to incorporate all the spices. Add the chopped pepperoncini and sauté for another minute.

Step 4: Add Enchilada Sauce and Cheese

Pour in the red enchilada sauce and mix until everything is well combined. Remove the skillet from heat and fold in the shredded Swiss and pepper jack cheese until melted and creamy.

Step 5: Fill the Tortillas

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Take a warmed corn tortilla and place a generous amount of the chicken and cheese mixture in the center. Roll it tightly, folding in the sides as you go. Place the filled taquito seam side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.

Step 6: Coat and Bake

Lightly brush the tops of the taquitos with olive oil for a golden finish. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.

Step 7: Prepare Fresh Toppings

While the taquitos are baking, prepare your toppings. In a bowl, combine diced pineapple, chopped cilantro, and lime juice. Set aside.

Step 8: Serve

Once the taquitos are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve with chopped avocado, a dollop of Greek yogurt, fresh lime wedges, and the pineapple-cilantro mixture. Enjoy your Baked Cheesy Cuban Chicken Taquitos warm and crispy!

Texture-Safe Substitutions

Ground Turkey: If you prefer, ground turkey can be used instead of ground chicken for a leaner option.
Vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute with other vegetables, such as zucchini or corn, to suit your taste.
Dairy Alternatives: For a dairy-free version, use vegan cheese or omit the cheese altogether and add extra veggies.
Gluten-Free Tortillas: Use gluten-free corn tortillas if you need to avoid gluten.

Chef’s Notes

Make sure to warm your tortillas before filling to prevent them from cracking.
Experiment with different cheeses based on your preference – cheddar or mozzarella would also work well!
Adjust the cayenne pepper to your heat preference; you can also omit it for a milder flavor.
For a fun twist, serve with a side of salsa or guacamole for dipping.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

If you have leftover taquitos, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy. You can also freeze uncooked taquitos before baking. Just assemble them, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer to a zip-top bag and store for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

The Takeaway

Baked Cheesy Cuban Chicken Taquitos are a delightful mix of flavor, texture, and comfort. With an easy-to-follow method and a variety of options for customization, this recipe is both accessible and versatile. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying a cozy night in, these taquitos are sure to please. The combination of spices, cheese, and fresh toppings makes each bite a celebration of Cuban-inspired flavors. So gather your ingredients, roll up those tortillas, and get ready to indulge in a delicious dish that everyone will adore!