Baked Chicken Tacos are a fun and easy way to serve up taco night without all the mess! Crispy taco shells are filled with seasoned chicken, beans, and cheese, then baked until everything is warm and melty. This dish is perfect for feeding a crowd or making a quick weeknight meal that everyone will love. You can customize the toppings however you like, making it a versatile and satisfying meal that’s great for the whole family.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 10-12 hard taco shells
- 2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- Toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, salsa (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the Chicken Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, combine the shredded chicken, taco seasoning, and chicken broth or water. Stir until the chicken is well-coated with the seasoning and heated through, about 5 minutes. Stir in the black beans until combined.
- Assemble the Tacos: Place the taco shells in the prepared baking dish, standing them up so they are evenly spaced. Spoon the chicken and bean mixture into each taco shell, filling them about three-quarters full. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of each taco.
- Bake: Carefully place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the taco shells are crispy.
- Add Toppings and Serve: Remove the baked tacos from the oven and let them cool slightly. Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, or any of your favorite taco toppings. Serve warm.
Tips for Perfect Baked Tacos
- Use Sturdy Taco Shells: Look for taco shells that are sturdy enough to hold the filling without breaking. You can also lightly brush the shells with oil to help them stay crispy during baking.
- Prevent Soggy Shells: To keep the shells from getting soggy, bake them for a few minutes before filling them. This helps to keep them nice and crispy.
- Customizable Filling: Feel free to adjust the chicken-to-bean ratio based on your preference. You can also add ingredients like corn or bell peppers for extra flavor.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Chicken Tacos: Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken mixture for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Tacos: Replace the shredded chicken with sautéed bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian option.
- Beef Tacos: Substitute the chicken with ground beef, seasoned and cooked with taco seasoning, for a classic beef taco twist.
- Cheese Lovers’ Tacos: Add an extra layer of cheese inside the taco shells before adding the chicken mixture for a cheesy surprise.
FAQs
Q: Can I make these tacos ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the chicken and bean filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to assemble, simply fill the taco shells, add cheese, and bake.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftover baked tacos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to keep the shells crispy.
Q: Can I use soft tortillas instead of hard taco shells?
A: Yes, you can use soft tortillas, but they will not get as crispy as the hard shells. You could try placing the soft tortillas in an oven-safe mold to help them keep their shape during baking.
Baked Chicken Tacos are a simple and delicious way to enjoy a classic taco night with less mess and more flavor. By baking everything together, the cheese melts beautifully, and the taco shells become crispy, making every bite irresistible. This easy recipe is perfect for family dinners, parties, or any time you need a quick and satisfying meal. Customize the toppings to suit your taste, and enjoy a fun, crowd-pleasing dish that’s sure to be a hit!