Baked cream cheese chicken taquitos served with salsa and guacamole

Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos

These Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are not just delicious; they’re also incredibly versatile and easy to make. Here are some key reasons you’ll love this recipe:

  • Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps and minimal ingredients, you can whip these taquitos together in no time. Perfect for a busy weeknight!

  • Perfect for Beginners: If you’re new to cooking, this recipe is a great starting point. It requires no complicated techniques, just mixing, rolling, and baking.

  • Ideal for the Whole Family: Everyone will enjoy these flavorful taquitos. They make a fantastic dinner or snack that both kids and adults will love.

  • Economical: Made with simple ingredients, this recipe won’t break the bank. It’s a budget-friendly meal option.

  • Customizable: You can easily tweak the ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Whether you want it spicy or mild, there’s room for creativity!

The Necessary Ingredients

To make these scrumptious Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos, gather the following ingredients:

  • 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 8-10 small corn or flour tortillas
  • Cooking spray
  • Salsa or guacamole for serving

Notes and Substitutions on Ingredients:

  • Shredded Chicken: You can use leftover chicken from a previous meal or rotisserie chicken from the store. If you need a vegetarian option, consider using shredded jackfruit or beans.

  • Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess to the filling but can be swapped out with Greek yogurt or dairy-free cream cheese for a lighter or vegan option.

  • Tortillas: Flour tortillas are softer and more flexible, making them easier to roll. Corn tortillas can be used as well but will require careful handling to avoid breaking.

How to Prepare the Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos Step by Step

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C): Preheating ensures the taquitos cook evenly and get crispy. It’s an important step for that golden-brown finish.

    • Pro Tip: Make sure your oven is fully preheated before putting in the taquitos for the best results.

  2. Prepare the filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream cheese, shredded cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until well combined.

    • Pro Tip: Use a fork to mix ingredients thoroughly; this helps break up the cream cheese and evenly distribute flavors.

  3. Warm the tortillas: Heat the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until they are pliable. This prevents them from cracking when rolling.

    • Pro Tip: If using a microwave, wrap the tortillas in a damp paper towel and heat for about 30 seconds to maintain moisture.

  4. Assemble the taquitos: Spoon a small amount of the chicken mixture onto each tortilla and roll them tightly. Ensure they are rolled nicely to contain the filling.

    • Pro Tip: Do not overfill the tortillas; keeping the amounts smaller makes them easier to roll and prevents bursting during baking.

  5. Place on a baking sheet: Arrange the rolled taquitos seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This keeps them from unrolling and helps with easy cleanup.

    • Pro Tip: Give some space between each taquito to allow for even cooking.

  6. Spray with cooking spray: Lightly spray the tops of the taquitos with cooking spray. This helps achieve a crispy texture.

    • Pro Tip: You can also use olive oil for a healthier option, just brush it lightly over the tops.

  7. Bake until golden and crispy: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t burn.

    • Pro Tip: If you like extra crunch, broil them for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end of the cooking time.

  8. Serve with salsa or guacamole: Enjoy these taquitos fresh from the oven! Pair with your favorite salsa or guacamole for added flavor.

    • Pro Tip: Garnish with fresh cilantro or avocado slices for a beautiful presentation.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos, the options are plentiful. Here are some creative ideas:

Perfect Pairings

  • Drinks: Serve with a light beer, a refreshing margarita, or a soda. Some like to enjoy these with a cold iced tea.
  • Side Dishes: Pair with a simple side salad, Mexican rice, or refried beans for a complete meal.

Occasions

  • Weeknight Dinner: Quick and easy, these taquitos can be your go-to for busy evenings.
  • Game Day Snack: Perfect finger food for your next gathering or sports game.
  • Movie Night: Great for serving at a cozy home movie night with friends or family.

Serving Tips

  • Serve the taquitos hot straight out of the oven, as they taste best when fresh.
  • Consider providing a variety of dipping sauces, including salsa, guacamole, and ranch dressing, for added flavor.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To keep your Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos fresh, follow these storage and reheating tips:

Refrigerated

  • Duration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Type of Container: Use glass or BPA-free plastic containers to ensure they stay fresh.

Freezed

  • If possible: You can freeze uncooked taquitos before baking. Arrange them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag.
  • Packaging: Make sure to remove as much air as possible when sealing.
  • Defrosting: To reheat, allow to thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Reheating

  • Best method: Bake in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain their crispiness.
  • If you prefer, they can be reheated in the microwave, but they may lose their crispy texture.

Guaranteed Success Tips

To ensure your Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos turn out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:

  • Don’t overstuff: Fill each tortilla just enough to hold together without bursting.
  • Use fresh ingredients: Fresh chicken and high-quality cheese make a significant difference in flavor.
  • Allow to cool before storing: Prevents condensation inside your storage container, which can make the taquitos soggy.
  • Roll them tightly: A tight roll keeps the filling secure while baking.
  • Check oven temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate cooking temperatures.

Recipe Variations

If you want to get creative, here are some fun variations you can try:

  • For a spicy version: Add 1 teaspoon of Espelette pepper or diced jalapeños to the filling for some heat.

  • For a vegan version: Replace the chicken with black beans and the cream cheese with a plant-based alternative.

  • For a Tex-Mex twist: Add some corn, diced bell peppers, or olives to the filling for added texture and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just ensure it’s fully cooked and shredded before adding it to your filling.

Q: What can I use instead of chicken?
A: You can replace the chicken with shredded beef, turkey, or a plant-based protein like tofu.

Q: My taquitos turned out soggy; what went wrong?
A: This can happen if the tortillas are too wet or if they’re not baked long enough. Make sure to warm them adequately and allow for enough baking time.

Q: Can I make the filling ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to assemble.

Q: Are these taquitos gluten-free?
A: Yes, if you use corn tortillas and check other ingredients for gluten content, they can be gluten-free.

Q: What should I serve with the taquitos?
A: They go well with salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Q: Can I bake these taquitos in an air fryer?
A: Yes, you can! Cook them at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes for a crispy texture.

Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos

Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos

Delicious and versatile Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos that are easy to make and perfect for the whole family.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course, Snack
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 4 servings
Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the filling

  • 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken Can use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken.
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened Can substitute with Greek yogurt or dairy-free cream cheese.
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • to taste Salt and pepper

For assembly

  • 8-10 small corn or flour tortillas Flour tortillas are softer and more flexible.
  • as needed Cooking spray Can use olive oil as a healthier option.
  • to serve Salsa or guacamole For serving

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream cheese, shredded cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  • Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until pliable.
  • Spoon a small amount of the chicken mixture onto each tortilla and roll tightly.
  • Arrange the rolled taquitos seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  • Lightly spray the tops of the taquitos with cooking spray.

Baking

  • Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
  • Serve with salsa or guacamole.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can freeze uncooked taquitos for later baking.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 15gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 8gSodium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1g
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
share this :