Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a fan of Tex-Mex cuisine, these Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos will quickly become a go-to dish. The crispy exterior of the taquito gives way to a creamy, cheesy chicken filling that’s packed with flavor. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying a weeknight dinner, these taquitos are sure to impress. Plus, they’re beginner-friendly, so anyone can make them with ease.

With the option to customize the fillings, toppings, and even make them gluten-free, these taquitos are versatile for any occasion. And did we mention they bake to crispy perfection with a golden finish? What’s not to love!

Ingredients

For the creamy chicken filling:

• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works perfectly)

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened at room temperature

• ½ cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese

• ¼ cup salsa, your preferred heat level

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon chili powder

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

• ¼ cup chopped green onions or fresh cilantro (optional for freshness)

For assembly and baking:

• 8-10 small flour or corn tortillas, 6-inch size

• Cooking spray or olive oil for brushing

For serving and toppings:

• Guacamole, sour cream, salsa, or fresh pico de gallo for dipping

• Shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, or extra cheese for garnish (optional)

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

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it lightly.

2. Warm the tortillas in the microwave for 20-30 seconds to make them pliable and avoid cracking while rolling.

3. In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, shredded cheese, salsa, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is creamy and well blended. If desired, add green onions or cilantro for a burst of freshness.

4. Place a warm tortilla on your workspace and spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture along the center. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling, ensuring the seam is tucked underneath. Repeat this process with all the tortillas and filling.

5. Lightly brush or spray each taquito with olive oil or cooking spray. For extra cheese, sprinkle more shredded cheese on top.

6. Place the taquitos on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even crispiness. For an extra golden touch, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end (watch closely to prevent burning).

7. Allow the taquitos to cool for 2-3 minutes before serving with your favorite dipping sauces like guacamole, sour cream, or salsa.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 (8-10 taquitos)

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes

• Cooking Time: 18 minutes

• Total Time: 33 minutes

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use corn tortillas to make these taquitos gluten-free. Make sure to wrap the tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave them for 20 seconds to soften them up before rolling.

• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños to the chicken mixture or stir in a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for an added heat element.

• Cheese Lovers: For a cheesier filling, increase the amount of shredded cheese or use a combination of cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover taquitos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: You can assemble the taquitos ahead of time and freeze them before baking. Place them on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, and then transfer to freezer bags. When ready to eat, bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 5 minutes to the cooking time.

• Reheating: Reheat taquitos in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to restore their crispy texture. You can also reheat them in an air fryer for 5-6 minutes at 375°F for an even crunchier result.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cheese for the filling?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with other types of cheese like mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.

2. How can I make these taquitos spicier?

Add diced jalapeños to the chicken filling or drizzle some hot sauce over the taquitos before serving for a spicy kick.

3. Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken works perfectly for this recipe, saving you time and adding great flavor.

4. Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the taquitos and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, freeze them before baking for future use.

5. What kind of tortillas should I use?

You can use either flour or corn tortillas depending on your preference. Flour tortillas give a softer texture, while corn tortillas will be a bit more crispy.

6. Can I bake these taquitos without oil?

Brushing with oil helps achieve that crispy golden exterior, but if you want to skip the oil, you can still bake them – they might not be as crispy, though.

7. How do I keep the taquitos from cracking when rolling?

Warm the tortillas in the microwave before filling them. This helps to keep them pliable and prevents cracking.

8. Can I add vegetables to the filling?

Yes! You can mix in diced bell peppers, onions, or even spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.

9. How can I make these taquitos vegetarian?

Replace the chicken with beans, cheese, or even roasted vegetables for a delicious vegetarian version.

10. Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

Absolutely! You can substitute shredded beef or even turkey in place of the chicken for a different flavor.

Conclusion

Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are a delightful dish that’s perfect for nearly any occasion. With a crispy exterior and creamy, cheesy chicken filling, these taquitos will be a hit with both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re making them for a party or an easy weeknight dinner, this recipe is simple, customizable, and guaranteed to satisfy. Enjoy them with your favorite toppings and dipping sauces for an extra burst of flavor!