If you’re on the hunt for a heavenly, crowd-pleasing appetizer or a fun weeknight meal, this Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos Recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to. Imagine crispy, golden taquitos filled with a luscious blend of shredded chicken, melty cream cheese, and two kinds of cheese, all seasoned just right to make your taste buds dance. Baked instead of fried, these taquitos offer all the irresistible crunch with less mess and guilt—perfect for sharing with friends or family any night of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple staples that come together to create a wonderfully balanced flavor and texture. From creamy cheeses that add richness to spices that give a gentle kick, each item plays a vital role in crafting the perfect taquito.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: The hearty protein base that makes these taquitos satisfyingly meaty.
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened: Adds a luxuriously smooth texture and mild tang to the filling.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Provides sharpness and beautiful meltiness.
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Offers a creamy, slightly buttery flavor to balance the cheddar.
- 1/4 cup salsa or diced tomatoes with green chilies: Brings a fresh, zesty kick and moisture to prevent dryness.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Delivers a subtle depth of flavor that’s savory and aromatic.
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin: Infuses a warm, earthy note that complements the Mexican-inspired filling perfectly.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that awaken all the flavors.
- 8–10 small flour or corn tortillas: The crispy, handheld vessels that hold all the goodness together.
- Olive oil spray (for baking): Helps achieve that coveted golden, crunchy exterior without frying.
How to Make Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to a toasty 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to keep those taquitos from sticking while they turn perfectly crisp and golden during baking.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine your shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and Monterey Jack cheeses. Stir in the salsa, garlic powder, cumin, and a pinch of salt and pepper. The filling should be creamy, flavorful, and easy to scoop—every bite packed with deliciousness.
Step 3: Warm the Tortillas
To prevent cracking when rolling, warm the tortillas in the microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds. This makes them pliable, so they’ll wrap around the filling like a dream without tearing.
Step 4: Roll Up the Taquitos
Spoon about 2 to 3 tablespoons of the chicken and cheese filling onto each warmed tortilla. Roll them up tightly so the filling stays put while baking, and place each taquito seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet—this helps them keep their shape.
Step 5: Add Olive Oil and Bake
Give your rolled taquitos a light spray or brush with olive oil to encourage that magical golden crunch. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes until they turn irresistibly crispy and bubbly on the outside.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Pull your taquitos out of the oven and let them cool just a bit before serving. The filling will be piping hot and gooey, making it the perfect time to dive in.
How to Serve Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos Recipe
Garnishes
These taquitos love a good topping to elevate their flavor and texture. Fresh chopped cilantro, a dollop of cool sour cream, some sliced avocado or guacamole, and a sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco or shredded cheese make fantastic garnishes that add freshness and richness.
Side Dishes
Pair your taquitos with classic sides like Mexican rice, refried beans, or a crisp green salad with lime vinaigrette. These sides balance the richness of the taquitos and help round out the meal beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos Recipe as part of a taco bar with toppings on the side so everyone can customize. Alternatively, slice them into bite-sized pieces for crowd-friendly appetizers—perfect for parties or casual movie nights.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Got some taquitos left after the meal? Let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the filling flavorful and the tortillas from getting soggy too quickly.
Freezing
You can freeze these taquitos either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, roll them and place on a tray to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes. For post-baking freezing, cool completely, then freeze in a sealed container—reheat from frozen or thaw overnight before warming up.
Reheating
The best way to reheat your taquitos is in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes. This method keeps them crispy and delicious just like fresh out of the oven. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain that satisfying crunch.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that adds great flavor and saves prep time, making the process even easier.
Are corn or flour tortillas better for these taquitos?
Either works wonderfully. Flour tortillas tend to be more pliable and less likely to crack, while corn tortillas bring authentic flavor—just warm them well to avoid breaking during rolling.
Can I make these taquitos vegan or vegetarian?
Definitely! Swap the chicken for seasoned beans or sautéed vegetables and use vegan cream cheese and cheese alternatives. This keeps the creamy, cheesy texture without animal products.
What can I dip these taquitos in?
Traditional dips like sour cream, guacamole, and salsa are perfect companions. You can also try a spicy chipotle mayo or a fresh cilantro lime yogurt dip for something extra special.
Can I bake these taquitos without olive oil spray?
You can brush them lightly with any oil you have on hand or bake them directly, but spraying or brushing oil helps achieve that beautiful, crispy finish everyone loves.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so comforting and downright delicious about this Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos Recipe. It’s a perfect blend of creamy, cheesy filling wrapped in crispy tortillas that are easy to make and ideal for sharing. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or craving a tasty treat, these taquitos will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready for a flavor-packed experience you’ll want to make again and again!
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Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
These Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are a delicious and crispy appetizer or main dish featuring shredded chicken mixed with cream cheese and cheeses, rolled in tortillas, and baked to golden perfection. Perfectly spiced and easy to prepare, they make a great snack or party food.
Ingredients
Filling
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/4 cup salsa or diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Assembly
- 8–10 small flour or corn tortillas
- Olive oil spray (for baking)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking during baking.
- Prepare Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, shredded Monterey Jack, salsa or diced tomatoes with green chilies, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything well until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined.
- Warm Tortillas: Heat the tortillas briefly in the microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds to make them pliable and easier to roll without cracking.
- Roll Taquitos: Spoon 2 to 3 tablespoons of the chicken cheese mixture onto each warmed tortilla. Roll each tortilla tightly around the filling to form taquitos.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the rolled taquitos seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray or brush the tops with olive oil to help them crisp up while baking.
- Bake: Bake the taquitos in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Serve: Remove the taquitos from the oven and serve warm with your choice of sour cream, salsa, or guacamole for dipping.
Notes
- Warming the tortillas prevents cracking when rolling the taquitos.
- You can use either flour or corn tortillas depending on your preference.
- For extra crispiness, place a wire rack on the baking sheet and arrange the taquitos on the rack.
- Adjust seasoning to taste before rolling the taquitos.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
