These baked shredded chicken tacos are a flavorful and convenient way to enjoy a family favorite. Perfectly seasoned chicken is combined with gooey melted cheese and tucked into crispy taco shells for a satisfying meal. Baking the tacos not only enhances their crispness but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, as it’s easy to prepare and incredibly delicious. Serve them with your favorite toppings like salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or fresh cilantro for a customizable taco experience.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie or homemade)
- 1 cup salsa (mild, medium, or hot, based on preference)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend)
- 10-12 hard taco shells
- Cooking spray or a small amount of oil
Optional Toppings:
- Diced tomatoes
- Shredded lettuce
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Diced avocado or guacamole
- Sour cream
- Hot sauce
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with foil for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the chicken filling: In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken with salsa, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Assemble the tacos: Fill each taco shell with a generous amount of the chicken mixture. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top of the filling. Place the filled taco shells upright in the prepared baking dish.
- Bake the tacos: Cover the baking dish loosely with foil and bake for 10 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the taco shells are crispy.
- Serve and enjoy: Remove the tacos from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve warm with your choice of toppings.
This dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a delightful combination of textures and flavors. Enjoy these baked shredded chicken tacos with a side of rice and beans for a complete meal!
