Baked BBQ Chicken Tacos

Gather ‘round, friends! If you’re anything like me, you savor every opportunity to enjoy a delicious meal without breaking a sweat in the kitchen. That’s where my Baked BBQ Chicken Tacos come into play. Picture this: a cozy evening, the tantalizing aroma of BBQ wafting through the air, and friends or family gathered around the table, ready to indulge. These tacos are not just a recipe; they’re a celebration of flavor and togetherness. I remember the first time I made them, everything came together beautifully. The chicken mixed with BBQ sauce, the cheesy goodness melting in the oven, and of course, the crispy taco shells – it was a moment I won’t forget.

Every bite of these Baked BBQ Chicken Tacos transports me to happier times. They are the perfect blend of sweet and smoky, and each taco is a handheld delight filled with flavors that dance on your taste buds. I love setting up a taco bar with various toppings, so everyone can customize their own. Whether it’s adding a handful of fresh cilantro or a scoop of corn salsa, the possibilities are endless. This recipe is all about getting creative and making it your own. The simplicity of the preparation means you can focus more on enjoying the company around you, making it an ideal choice for gatherings or a quick family dinner.

So, let’s dive into this delightful journey of creating Baked BBQ Chicken Tacos. Trust me, you won’t regret it, and your loved ones will be asking for seconds!

What to Buy for Baked BBQ Chicken Tacos

When preparing Baked BBQ Chicken Tacos, the ingredients are as important as the method. Each component plays a vital role in creating that irresistible taste. The fresh vegetables provide crunch, while the chicken and cheese add richness. Let’s explore the must-have ingredients that will ensure your tacos are a hit!

• 12 hard taco shells – These provide the perfect crunchy base for your fillings.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – Used to sauté the onion, adding a delicious flavor.
• 1/3 cup chopped red onion – Adds a sweet crunch that complements the chicken.
• 1 clove garlic, minced – A must for that aromatic base.
• 3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken – The star of the show, it adds a hearty protein base.
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce – This sweet and tangy sauce ties all the flavors together.
• 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese, divided – Melts beautifully, adding creaminess.
• 1 tablespoon cilantro – Fresh herbs enhance the flavor profile.
• Finely shredded purple cabbage – For a crunch and vibrant color.
• Corn salsa – A fresh topping option that adds sweetness.
• Avocado – Creamy texture that balances the tacos.
• Fresh cilantro – For garnish, it brightens up the dish.

The Method for Baked BBQ Chicken Tacos

Cooking these Baked BBQ Chicken Tacos is a breeze! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a mouthwatering meal ready in no time. Let’s get started on this culinary adventure!

1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. This ensures that your taco shells get crispy and delicious. Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by lining it with parchment paper or greasing it with nonstick cooking spray. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Once preheated, place the hard taco shells in the prepared pan, standing them up. Bake them for about 5 minutes until they become crisp. This step is crucial for achieving that delightful crunch that we adore in tacos.
3. While the shells are baking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, add the chopped onion and sauté it for about 3 minutes or until it softens and becomes translucent. You’ll start to smell the aromatic goodness!
4. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can be bitter.
5. Now it’s time to add the shredded rotisserie chicken and BBQ sauce into the skillet. Stir everything together until the chicken is well coated in the sauce. This should take just a couple of minutes.
6. Once mixed well, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in 1 cup of shredded Mexican blend cheese and the chopped cilantro. This will give the mixture a rich, cheesy flavor.
7. Spoon the chicken mixture evenly into the taco shells, filling them generously. Top each taco with the remaining shredded cheese, and feel free to prop the tacos against each other to help keep them standing.
8. Return the filled tacos to the oven and bake for an additional 7 to 10 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, creating that perfect cheesy topping.
9. Once out of the oven, allow them to cool for a minute before serving. Now it’s time to get creative with your toppings! Top with finely shredded purple cabbage, corn salsa, avocado, or any of your favorite toppings.

Making Adjustments

Sometimes, you may want to tweak a recipe to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are some tips for adjusting the Baked BBQ Chicken Tacos to make them even more your own!

• Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked taco filling for future meals. Just thaw and assemble when you’re ready to eat.
• Pairing: Serve these tacos with a side of Mexican rice for a complete meal.
• Spice Level: Adjust the spice level by adding jalapeños or a spicy BBQ sauce.
• Healthier Version: Use whole grain taco shells and low-fat cheese for a lighter option.

Serving Ideas for Baked BBQ Chicken Tacos

These Baked BBQ Chicken Tacos are not just delicious; they are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Here are some ideas to make your meal even more enjoyable:

• Taco Bar: Set up a taco bar for gatherings. Provide a variety of toppings such as shredded cabbage, corn salsa, and avocado so everyone can customize their tacos.
• Great for Parties: These tacos work well for game days, family gatherings, or casual dinners. They’re always a crowd-pleaser!
• Seasonal Sides: Pair with a fresh summer fruit salad or roasted vegetables for a seasonal touch.
• Lunch or Dinner: These tacos are suitable for both lunch and dinner. They reheat well and can easily be packed for a work lunch.
• Storage Tips: Store any leftover filled tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Baked BBQ Chicken Tacos are a flavorful and fun meal that brings everyone together. Their simplicity and deliciousness make them a perfect choice for any occasion. I encourage you to give them a try; you’ll be amazed at how quickly they become a family favorite. Gather your loved ones, whip up a batch, and enjoy every delicious bite together!

Baked BBQ Chicken Tacos

The ultimate comfort food for any gathering! These Baked BBQ Chicken Tacos combine tender shredded chicken, zesty BBQ sauce, and gooey cheese in crispy taco shells. A simple yet flavorful dish that will satisfy your cravings and make any meal special!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 10 tacos

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Mexican

Calories: 305

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 12 pieces hard taco shells
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/3 cup chopped red onion
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce can use store bought
• 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese divided
• 1 tablespoon cilantro
• finely shredded purple cabbage
• Corn Salsa
• Avocado
• Fresh cilantro

Equipment

• Wooden Spoon
• Blender
• Frying Pan
• Skillet
• Oven
• Mixing Bowl
• Chef's Knife
• Baking Sheet

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. This ensures that your taco shells get crispy and delicious. Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by lining it with parchment paper or greasing it with nonstick cooking spray. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Once preheated, place the hard taco shells in the prepared pan, standing them up. Bake them for about 5 minutes until they become crisp. This step is crucial for achieving that delightful crunch that we adore in tacos.
3. While the shells are baking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, add the chopped onion and sauté it for about 3 minutes or until it softens and becomes translucent. You’ll start to smell the aromatic goodness!
4. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can be bitter.
5. Now it’s time to add the shredded rotisserie chicken and BBQ sauce into the skillet. Stir everything together until the chicken is well coated in the sauce. This should take just a couple of minutes.
6. Once mixed well, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in 1 cup of shredded Mexican blend cheese and the chopped cilantro. This will give the mixture a rich, cheesy flavor.
7. Spoon the chicken mixture evenly into the taco shells, filling them generously. Top each taco with the remaining shredded cheese, and feel free to prop the tacos against each other to help keep them standing.
8. Return the filled tacos to the oven and bake for an additional 7 to 10 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, creating that perfect cheesy topping.
9. Once out of the oven, allow them to cool for a minute before serving. Now it’s time to get creative with your toppings! Top with finely shredded purple cabbage, corn salsa, avocado, or any of your favorite toppings.

Notes

• Tip 1: If you have leftover cooked chicken, you can use it to make the tacos!
• Tip 2: Feel free to top the tacos with your favorite taco toppings.

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Meet Stella Ross

I’m Stella, and I believe that even a busy Tuesday night deserves a special meal. I love taking simple pantry ingredients and turning them into something that feels like a hug in a bowl. I hope this recipe brings a little bit of coziness to your kitchen today!"