- December 24, 2023
A Flavorful Twist to Taco Night
Taco nights are a staple in many households, offering a fun and customizable meal that everyone can enjoy. While traditional tacos are always a hit, sometimes it’s nice to switch things up and try something new. Enter Baked Chicken Tacos – a delightful twist that combines the crunchy texture of baked taco shells with the savory flavors of seasoned chicken and melted cheese. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together with friends and family. Let’s dive into how to make these delicious tacos that are sure to become a new favorite!
Ingredients
Before we get started, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need:
- 1/2 lb. chopped cooked chicken
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 10 Stand and Stuff Taco Shells
- 1 oz. Taco Seasoning (Click for the homemade recipe!)
- 1/2 c. onion, chopped
- 1 can Green Chiles (4.5 oz.), chopped and drained completely
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz.), completely drained
- Toppings like Old El Paso sliced Jalapenos, sour cream, salsa, chopped cilantro, shredded lettuce, or any of your favorite taco toppings!
- 8 oz. (1/2 can) Refried Beans
- 2 c. Shredded Mexican Mix Cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Grease a 9 x 13-inch baking pan using nonstick spray to ensure that the taco shells don’t stick.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion
Heat olive oil in a medium-sized pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2 to 3 minutes, or until the onion becomes clear and aromatic.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken Mixture
Add the chopped chicken, taco seasoning, thoroughly drained tomatoes, and green chiles to the pan. Mix well until completely combined. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 to 8 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Bake the Taco Shells
Place the taco shells upright in the baking dish. Put the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the taco shells until they are crisp, about 5 minutes. When done, remove them from the oven and set them aside.
Step 5: Assemble the Tacos
Place 1 tablespoon of refried beans in the bottom of each taco shell. Add the chicken mixture on top of the beans, then sprinkle generously with shredded Mexican mix cheese. Return the assembled tacos to the oven and continue baking for another 7 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and the edges of the shells are browned.
Step 6: Add the Toppings
Once the tacos are baked to perfection, it’s time to add your favorite toppings. Top the tacos with sliced jalapenos, sour cream, chopped cilantro, salsa, shredded lettuce, or any of your preferred taco toppings.
Serving and Enjoying
Now that your Baked Chicken Tacos are ready, it’s time to serve and enjoy. These tacos are perfect on their own or paired with a side of rice and beans. The combination of crispy shells, savory chicken, and melted cheese, topped with fresh ingredients, makes for an irresistible meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Tips and Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with black beans or grilled vegetables for a vegetarian version.
- Spice Level: Adjust the spiciness by adding more or less jalapenos, or by using a mild or spicy taco seasoning.
- Make-Ahead: Prepare the chicken mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to assemble, just reheat the mixture and proceed with the recipe.
Conclusion
Baked Chicken Tacos offer a fun and flavorful twist to the traditional taco night. With a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, these tacos are sure to be a hit. Enjoy this delightful recipe and make your taco night extra special!
%{currentSlide} of %{totalSlides}
Baked Chicken Tacos: A Flavorful Twist to Taco Night
Ingredients:
- 1/2 lb. chopped cooked chicken
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 10 Stand and Stuff Taco Shells
- 1 oz. Taco Seasoning (Click for the homemade recipe!)
- 1/2 c. onion, chopped
- 1 can Green Chiles (4.5 oz.), chopped and drained completely
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz.), completely drained
- Toppings like Old El Paso sliced Jalapenos, sour cream, salsa, chopped cilantro, shredded lettuce, or any of your favorite taco toppings!
- 8 oz. (1/2 can) Refried Beans
- 2 c. Shredded Mexican Mix Cheese
How to Make:
Step 1: Prepare the oven. Preheat to 400 degrees F. Grease a 9 x 13-inch baking pan using nonstick spray.
Step 2: Heat olive oil in a medium-sized pan over medium heat. When hot, add the onion and sauté for about 2 to 3 minutes or until clear and aromatic.
Step 3: Add the chicken, taco seasoning, thoroughly drained tomatoes, and green peppers. Mix well until completely combined. Reduce the heat to a boil and let it cook for about 5 to 8 minutes.
Step 4: Place taco shells upright in baking dish. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the taco shells until crisp, about 5 minutes. When done, remove them from the oven.
Step 5: Place 1 tablespoon of beans in the bottom of each taco shell. Add the chicken on top, then sprinkle generously with grated cheese. Return to the oven and continue baking the tacos for another 7 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and the edges of the shells are browned.
Step 6: Top the tacos with your preferred toppings, such as jalapenos, sour cream, cilantro, and salsa, before serving.
Enjoy a delightful twist to your taco night with these delicious Baked Chicken Tacos!
Materials
•1/2 lb. chopped cooked chicken
•1 tablespoon of olive oil
•10 Stand and Stuff Taco Shells
•1 oz. Taco Seasoning Click for the homemade recipe!
•1/2 c. onion, chopped
•1 can Green Chiles 4.5 oz., chopped and drained completely
•1 can diced tomatoes 14.5 oz., completely drained
Toppings like Old El Paso sliced Jalapenos, sour cream, salsa, chopped cilantro, shredded lettuce, or any of your favorite taco toppings!
•8 oz. 1/2 can of Refried Beans
•2 c. Shredded Mexican Mix Cheese
How to make Baked Chicken Tacos:
Step 1: Prepare the oven. Preheat to 400 degrees F. Grease a 9 x 13-inch baking pan using nonstick spray.
Step 2: Heat olive oil in a medium-sized pan over medium heat. When hot, add the onion and sauté for about 2 to 3 minutes or until clear and aromatic.
Step 3: Add the chicken, taco seasoning, thoroughly drained tomatoes, and green peppers. Mix well until completely combined. Reduce the heat to a boil and let it cook for about 5 to 8 minutes.
Step 4: Place taco shells upright in baking dish. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the taco shells until crisp, about 5 minutes. When done, remove them from the oven.
Step 5: Place 1 tablespoon of beans in the bottom of each taco shell. Add the chicken on top, then sprinkle generously with grated cheese. Return to the oven and continue baking the tacos for another 7 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and the edges of the shells are browned.
Step 6: Top the tacos with your preferred toppings, such as jalapenos, sour cream, cilantro, and salsa, before serving.
Eat well