Baked Chicken Tacos

Baked Chicken Tacos are the weeknight dinner your taste buds have been dreaming of! Imagine warm, crunchy shells packed with juicy shredded chicken, simmered in bold taco spices, and blanketed with bubbling, golden cheese. Every bite is a crave-worthy combo of savory, spicy, and melty goodness.

What makes these tacos a must-try? They're ridiculously easy to prep, bake all at once on a sheet pan, and are always a guaranteed hit—whether it's Taco Tuesday or a big game party. Plus, they're totally customizable with your favorite toppings.

This recipe has been a family favorite in my kitchen for years and never fails to disappear fast. Get ready for the ultimate upgrade to your taco night!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Fuss-free baking—no standing at the stove!
• Ready in just 40 minutes from start to finish
• Perfect for feeding a crowd or hungry family
• Super customizable with your favorite toppings
• Deliciously crispy shells and juicy chicken every time

Key Ingredients for Baked Chicken Tacos

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Shredded Chicken

Shredded chicken is the star of these tacos, soaking up all the taco seasoning and salsa for maximum flavor. You can use rotisserie chicken for ultimate convenience or quickly poach and shred chicken breasts. If you're looking to save time, leftover grilled or baked chicken works great, too!

Taco Seasoning

This blend brings bold, zesty flavor to the filling. Store-bought taco seasoning is a time-saver, but you can make your own with chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and oregano. Adjust the spice level to your taste—try a hot blend for extra kick!

Salsa

Salsa adds moisture, tang, and rich tomato flavor to the chicken mixture. Mild, medium, or hot all work, depending on your preference. Chunky salsa brings extra texture, while a smoother salsa creates a more saucy filling. You can even swap in salsa verde for a tangy twist.

Shredded Cheese

Cheese is essential for that ooey-gooey, melty topping! Use a Mexican blend, cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for extra heat. Pre-shredded cheese is super convenient, but shredding your own melts even better.

Crunchy Taco Shells

Classic crunchy taco shells get wonderfully crisp in the oven. Arrange them upright in a baking dish to keep them from tipping while you fill and bake. Gluten-free shells are a great alternative if needed—just make sure they're sturdy enough to hold all that filling!

Instructions for Baked Chicken Tacos

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Prep the Oven and Dish

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly brush a large 9x13-inch baking dish or sheet pan with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Make the Chicken Filling

In a large bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, taco seasoning, and salsa. Stir until the chicken is completely coated and the mixture is evenly combined.

Fill the Taco Shells

Stand the taco shells side-by-side in the prepared baking dish. Spoon the chicken mixture evenly into each shell, filling them about three-quarters full. Press the filling down gently with the back of your spoon.

Top with Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the top of each taco, making sure every shell gets a gooey, cheesy layer.

Bake Until Crispy and Melty

Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the taco shells are golden brown and crisp.

Add Your Favorite Toppings

Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cilantro, and any other toppings you love. Serve hot and enjoy!

Recipe Variations

Go Low-Carb

Swap out the crunchy taco shells for large romaine lettuce leaves or low-carb tortillas. You’ll get all the savory flavor with far fewer carbs—a great option for keto or paleo eaters!

Spice It Up

Kick up the heat by using hot salsa and adding a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the chicken mixture. You can also use pepper jack cheese and top with sliced jalapeños for some extra zing.

Vegetarian Option

Replace the shredded chicken with canned black beans, crumbled tofu, or sautéed veggies like bell peppers and onions. Season well and follow the same baking method for a tasty meatless twist.

Gluten-Free Tacos

Use certified gluten-free taco shells and double check your taco seasoning and salsa for hidden gluten. You’ll get the same crispy, satisfying bite!

Make It Creamy

Stir a few tablespoons of cream cheese or sour cream into the chicken mixture before filling the shells for a luscious, creamy filling that’s extra indulgent.

Serving Suggestions

Turn your Baked Chicken Tacos into a fiesta by serving them with homemade guacamole, Mexican rice, refried beans, or a bright corn salad. Don’t forget plenty of lime wedges, extra salsa, and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for a fresh, vibrant finish!

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover tacos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as the shells can get soggy. For longer storage, keep the filling and shells separate, and assemble just before baking—assembled tacos do not freeze well, but the chicken mixture can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Chicken Tacos (FAQ)

Q: Can I use flour tortillas instead of crunchy taco shells?
A: Absolutely! You can use small flour tortillas and lay them flat in a baking dish to create baked chicken taco boats. The texture will be softer but still delicious.

Q: Is this recipe spicy?
A: The spice level depends on your salsa and taco seasoning. Use mild versions for a kid-friendly dish, or ramp it up with hot salsa and extra chili flakes.

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: You can prep the chicken mixture and even fill the shells a few hours ahead. Wait to bake until just before serving so the shells stay crisp.

Ready to turn any night into a fiesta? These Baked Chicken Tacos are cheesy, crunchy, and bursting with flavor—plus they’re quick enough for busy weeknights. Give them a try and let me know how your family likes them by leaving a comment or rating below!