Baked Chicken Tacos – A Mouthwatering, Cheesy Delight That Will Satisfy All Your Taco Cravings

If you’re craving something delicious, cheesy, and easy to make, these Baked Chicken Tacos are the ultimate solution. Juicy shredded chicken, savory refried beans, and zesty salsa are stuffed into crispy taco shells, then topped with a blanket of melted Mexican-style cheese. The result? A perfectly golden, cheesy, crunchy taco that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. Whether it's taco night or you're just looking for a quick and satisfying meal, these Baked Chicken Tacos are sure to become a family favorite in no time!

Scroll down for the recipe!

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The Inspiration Behind Baked Chicken Tacos

There’s nothing quite like the satisfying crunch of a hard taco shell combined with the juicy, flavorful filling inside. These Baked Chicken Tacos take taco night to the next level by baking the tacos with cheese until the edges are crispy and the filling is perfectly warm. The combination of refried beans, chicken, and salsa gives the filling a rich, savory flavor, while the melted cheese on top ties everything together into one delicious bite. It’s an effortless meal that’s perfect for a busy weeknight, game day, or whenever you’re craving something tasty and fun.

Why You’ll Love These Baked Chicken Tacos

Not only are these Baked Chicken Tacos delicious and satisfying, but they’re also incredibly easy to make! With minimal prep and just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have dinner ready in no time. The crispy taco shells hold up beautifully under the cheesy filling, and the combination of shredded chicken, refried beans, and salsa makes for a hearty and flavorful taco that everyone will love. Plus, they’re totally customizable—top them with your favorite taco toppings, or keep it simple with just a little extra cheese!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 10 Tacos):

• Calories: 260 kcal
• Fat: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 19g
• Protein: 12g
• Sodium: 580mg
• Fiber: 3g

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

These Baked Chicken Tacos are a meal all on their own, but you can make them even more exciting by serving them with some classic Mexican-inspired sides. Try them with a fresh side of guacamole or a bowl of salsa and tortilla chips. For a refreshing drink pairing, consider serving them with a margarita or a cold glass of horchata. If you want to take it up a notch, add a side of Mexican rice or a crisp salad with a tangy lime vinaigrette. The possibilities are endless!

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Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have any leftovers (which might be hard to believe), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop the tacos back in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until they’re warmed through and the cheese is bubbly. These tacos can also be frozen for up to 2 months—just wrap them individually in foil and store in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat as needed.

Fun Fact: The Origin of Tacos

Tacos have been a staple in Mexican cuisine for centuries, dating back to the Aztecs, who used tortillas to scoop up fillings like beans, chilies, and even insects. Over time, the humble taco has evolved into a global sensation, with countless variations and fillings, but it remains one of the most beloved and versatile dishes in Mexican cuisine.

Cooking Tips

1. Make it Spicy: If you love a little heat, try adding some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling before baking.
2. Double the Recipe: These tacos are so good, you might want to make a double batch. Just use a larger baking dish to accommodate more tacos!
3. Prevent Soggy Shells: To keep your taco shells extra crispy, try baking them for a few minutes before adding the filling.

Optional Variations

• Add Veggies: Stir in some diced bell peppers or corn for added flavor and texture.
• Go Vegetarian: Swap out the chicken for a plant-based protein or extra beans for a vegetarian version.
• Cheesy Overload: Sprinkle some extra cheese on top of the tacos before baking for an extra cheesy, indulgent treat.

Baked Chicken Tacos Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon neutral-flavored oil (avocado oil, olive oil, etc.)
• ½ cup diced white onion
• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (see Notes)
• 8 ounces refried beans (black or pinto; half of one can)
• 1 cup salsa (any variety)
• 1 tablespoon taco seasoning (store-bought or make your own)
• 10 hard taco shells
• 2 cups shredded Mexican-style cheese blend

Suggested Toppings (All Optional):

• Diced cilantro
• Sliced avocado or guacamole
• Sour cream

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Heat the skillet: Add 1 tablespoon of oil to a large skillet and place it over medium heat. Tilt the skillet to spread the oil evenly, and heat until the oil is shimmering.
3. Cook the onions: Add the diced onions to the skillet and cook for about 3 minutes, or until softened.
4. Prepare the filling: Add the shredded chicken, refried beans, salsa, and taco seasoning to the skillet. Stir to combine, then let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes until fully warmed through.
5. Assemble the tacos: Arrange the taco shells in a 9x13 baking pan, keeping them upright. Spoon the chicken mixture evenly into each taco shell.
6. Add the cheese: Top each taco with a generous amount of shredded Mexican-style cheese.
7. Bake the tacos: Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake the tacos for 6-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the taco shells are golden brown.
8. Serve: Remove the tacos from the oven and let them cool slightly. Add your favorite toppings, such as diced cilantro, sliced avocado, or sour cream, and serve warm.

These Baked Chicken Tacos are the perfect combination of cheesy, crunchy, and flavorful goodness. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for an easy weeknight dinner, these tacos are guaranteed to hit the spot every time. Serve them with all your favorite toppings and sides for a meal that’s as fun as it is delicious!