Baked Hard Shell Chicken Tacos Recipe
Introduction
Transform your rotisserie chicken leftovers into a delicious and quick meal perfect for any night of the week. This Baked Hard Shell Chicken Tacos recipe will delight your tastebuds with its eye-catching presentation and dynamic mix of flavors.
Why Make This Recipe
Baked Hard Shell Chicken Tacos are not only a great way to use what you have in your refrigerator but are also a healthier alternative to traditional fried tacos. They’re easy to customize and cater to various dietary preferences, from the types of cheese to the choice of toppings.
How to Make Baked Hard Shell Chicken Tacos
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
– 1 cup salsa
– 1 tsp taco seasoning
– 8 hard taco shells
– 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
– 1 cup chopped lettuce
– 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– Optional toppings: sliced jalapeños, chopped cilantro, lime wedges
Directions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Combine the shredded rotisserie chicken, salsa, and taco seasoning in a skillet over medium heat. Stir until the mix is thoroughly heated.
3. Arrange the taco shells in a baking dish, standing upright. Generously spoon the chicken mixture into each shell.
4. Sprinkle a generous amount of cheese on each filled shell.
5. Bake in the oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and melted.
6. Remove from the oven and garnish with lettuce, tomatoes, and a spoonful of sour cream.
7. Add any additional toppings of your choice and serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for added flavor.
How to Serve Baked Hard Shell Chicken Tacos
Serve these crispy and delectable tacos immediately after preparation to ensure they’re enjoyed at their best. They’re perfect for a family dinner, social gatherings, or taco nights.
How to Store Baked Hard Shell Chicken Tacos
After cooling, you can store any leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container. To reheat, place them in an oven for a few moments just to warm them up and re-crisp the shells.
Tips to Make Baked Hard Shell Chicken Tacos
If you want a little more spice to your tacos, add some cayenne pepper or some hot sauce to the chicken mixture. Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a different flavor.
Variation
If you’re vegetarian, you can make a veggie version using a sautéed mixture of bell peppers, onions, and black beans as a filling.
FAQs
1. Can I prepare the chicken mixture ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the tacos.
2. Can I substitute the hard shell with a soft shell?
Yes, simply replace the hard shell with a soft flour tortilla, fill it up and roll it before baking.
3. Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely, this recipe is versatile and works great with any kind of shredded poultry.