Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe transforms traditional tacos into a baked delight, providing a crispy texture without deep frying. The combination of seasoned ground chicken and melted cheese creates a flavorful filling, while the fresh toppings add a burst of freshness. Plus, the easy-to-follow steps make it a stress-free meal for any night of the week.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pound ground chicken
2 tablespoons taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
Juice of 1 lime
2¼ cups shredded Mexican-blend cheese
12 corn tortillas
Olive oil, for brushing each tortilla (approx. ½ teaspoon per tortilla)
1 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon dried dill
¼ cup lemon juice
Optional garnishes: fresh chopped tomatoes, chopped white onion, chopped cilantro

Directions

Preheat the oven to 425°F (or 375°F if your oven typically runs hot).
Brown the ground chicken in a skillet for 10-15 minutes, until the moisture has evaporated and the meat is fully cooked.
Add the taco seasoning and lime juice to the cooked chicken, stirring to combine.
Wrap the tortillas in a towel and microwave on high for 60 seconds to warm them.
Lay the tortillas out on a sheet pan and brush or spray one side with olive oil. Flip them so the oiled side is down.
Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of cheese on half of each tortilla.
Top the cheese with 2 tablespoons of the ground chicken mixture.
Add another tablespoon of cheese on top of the chicken mixture.
Place the tacos in the oven (open) and bake at 425°F for 5 minutes.
Remove the tacos, fold them over, and return them to the oven to bake for an additional 15 minutes.
While the tacos are baking, prepare the ranch-style dipping sauce by whisking together the mayonnaise, dried dill, and lemon juice until smooth.
Once baked, garnish the tacos with chopped tomatoes, onions, and cilantro. Serve with the ranch dipping sauce on the side.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12 tacos
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free shredded cheese and mayonnaise to make the recipe suitable for dairy-free diets.
Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce to the filling for added heat.
Vegetarian Version: Replace the ground chicken with a mixture of black beans and corn for a hearty vegetarian taco.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover taco filling and toppings separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the taco filling in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. For crispy tacos, reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?

Yes, flour tortillas can be used, but they may not crisp up as well as corn tortillas.

2. How can I make these tacos spicier?

Add chopped jalapeños to the filling or drizzle with your favorite hot sauce before serving.

3. Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?

Yes, the filling can be cooked and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before assembling the tacos.

4. Are these tacos gluten-free?

Yes, if you use gluten-free corn tortillas and ensure your taco seasoning is gluten-free.

5. Can I freeze the taco filling?

Yes, the taco filling can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

6. How do I make homemade taco seasoning?

Combine chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper to taste.

7. Can I bake the tacos without folding them?

Yes, you can bake them open-faced, but folding them helps contain the filling and makes them easier to eat.

8. What toppings go well with these tacos?

Fresh chopped tomatoes, onions, cilantro, avocado slices, and a squeeze of lime juice complement these tacos well.

9. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorites can be used.

10. How can I make these tacos vegetarian?

Substitute the ground chicken with a mixture of black beans, corn, and diced vegetables for a vegetarian option.

Conclusion

These baked ground chicken tacos offer a delicious and fun twist on a classic dish. With their crispy shells, flavorful filling, and customizable toppings, they’re sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or hosting a Taco Tuesday gathering, these tacos are a crowd-pleaser that’s both satisfying and easy to make.