Description
These mini baked chicken tacos are a quick, crispy, and cheesy appetizer perfect for game day or any gathering. Ready in just 20 minutes, they use simple ingredients and are always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (about 8 oz)
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 12–14 mini corn tortillas (street taco size, about 4 inches)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (Mexican blend or cheddar-jack)
- Cooking oil spray (avocado or olive oil recommended)
- Optional toppings: chopped fresh cilantro, diced red onion, pickled jalapeños, sour cream or Greek yogurt, fresh lime wedges, shredded lettuce or cabbage, hot sauce
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. Place a wire rack on the sheet if using.
- In a medium bowl, mix shredded chicken with taco seasoning and salsa until well coated. If chicken is cold, microwave for 30 seconds to blend more easily.
- Stack the mini tortillas and wrap them in a damp paper towel. Microwave for 30-40 seconds until soft and pliable.
- Spoon about 1-1/2 tablespoons of chicken mixture onto each tortilla. Sprinkle with about 1 tablespoon of shredded cheese.
- Fold each tortilla and place seam side down on the baking sheet, nestling them close together. Use a toothpick to secure if needed.
- Lightly spray or brush the tops of the tacos with cooking oil.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, until cheese is melted and tortillas are golden and crisp.
- Let tacos cool for 2-3 minutes. Top with desired garnishes and serve with lime wedges and extra salsa.
Notes
Warm tortillas before filling to prevent cracking. Don’t overstuff to keep tacos crisp. For gluten-free, use certified GF tortillas and seasoning. Tacos can be assembled ahead and baked just before serving. Leftovers reheat best in the oven. Try variations with different proteins or vegetarian fillings.
- Prep Time: 8 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mini taco
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 220
- Fat: 5
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Carbohydrates: 10
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 7
Keywords: mini tacos, baked chicken tacos, game day appetizer, easy chicken tacos, crispy tacos, Mexican appetizer, party food, gluten-free tacos