Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos Recipe

If you are craving a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a fun weeknight dinner, these Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are going to become your new favorite go-to recipe. Crispy on the outside and luxuriously creamy on the inside, each bite bursts with the perfect blend of tender shredded chicken, tangy cream cheese, and a subtle kick from cumin and spices. Baked to golden perfection, these taquitos satisfy that crunchy craving without the extra oil from frying, making them a deliciously healthier yet indulgent treat that’s smart, simple, and downright addictive.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses straightforward and pantry-friendly ingredients that pack big flavor. Each component plays a crucial role in balancing creaminess, savoriness, and a touch of spice, ensuring every bite of these taquitos delivers on taste and texture.

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: The hearty, protein-rich base that makes these taquitos filling and satisfying.
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened: Adds luscious creaminess that binds the filling and keeps it irresistibly moist.
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese: Brings a sharp, melty layer to complement the cream cheese perfectly.
• ¼ cup salsa: Introduces a burst of tangy freshness and vibrant color to brighten the filling.
• 1 tsp garlic powder: Enhances savory depth with subtle garlicky warmth.
• 1 tsp onion powder: Provides a sweet and savory underpinning to balance the filling flavors.
• 1 tsp cumin: Gives a smoky, earthy tone that perfectly elevates the chicken and cheese mix.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for rounding out and sharpening all the combined flavors.
• 10 small flour or corn tortillas: The crispy vessel that holds all that cheesy, chicken goodness together.
• Cooking spray or olive oil for brushing: Helps achieve that gorgeous, golden, and crunchy exterior without deep frying.

How to Make Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Oven

Start by heating your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220 degrees Celsius) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This high temperature is perfect for crisping up those tortillas without drying out the filling, setting the stage for perfectly baked taquitos.

Step 2: Whip Up the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine your shredded chicken with the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, salsa, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until the mixture is creamy and well blended — this filling is the heart and soul of your Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos, offering rich flavor and a silky texture that you’ll love.

Step 3: Assemble the Taquitos

Spoon about 2 to 3 tablespoons of the flavorful filling onto each tortilla. Roll them up tightly to keep all the delicious filling inside, then place each taquito seam-side down on your parchment-lined baking sheet. This helps them hold their shape and crisp up beautifully during baking.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

Lightly brush or spray the tops of the rolled taquitos with olive oil or cooking spray. This step is key to achieving that irresistible, crunchy exterior. Bake them in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy, filling your kitchen with tantalizing aromas.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once out of the oven, these taquitos are ready to shine! Serve them warm alongside your favorite dips like sour cream, guacamole, or additional salsa for double the yum. They’re guaranteed to disappear fast — perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as a cozy treat at home.

How to Serve Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like fresh chopped cilantro, a squeeze of lime juice, or a sprinkle of diced green onions make a huge difference. These touches add freshness and a pop of color that complement the richness of the taquitos wonderfully.

Side Dishes

Pair your Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos with a crisp salad, Mexican-style rice, or a side of black beans for a well-rounded meal. These sides offer a nice balance to the crispy richness, keeping your plate vibrant and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun party platter, arrange taquitos with small bowls of assorted dips like chipotle mayo, creamy avocado salsa, or even a zesty pico de gallo. You could even add a sprinkle of cotija cheese and sliced jalapeños on top for an extra layer of flavor and excitement.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, store the taquitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making them ideal for quick lunches or snacks on the go.

Freezing

Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos freeze beautifully! Arrange them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months, perfect for meal prepping or spontaneous cravings.

Reheating

To reheat, bake the taquitos from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 12-15 minutes or until heated through and crispy again. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep their signature crunch crisp and delicious.

FAQs

Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?

Yes! Both flour and corn tortillas work well for these taquitos. Corn tortillas tend to crisp nicely but can be a little less pliable, so warming them before rolling helps prevent cracking.

What can I substitute for cream cheese?

If you want to switch it up, you could try using ricotta or a smooth goat cheese for a different but equally creamy texture. Just keep in mind the flavor will vary slightly.

Can these be made ahead and baked later?

Absolutely! You can assemble the taquitos and store them in the refrigerator for a few hours before baking. This makes them super convenient for preparing in advance for parties or busy weeknights.

Is it possible to make these taquitos spicy?

Definitely. Adding chopped jalapeños to the filling, using spicy salsa, or sprinkling cayenne pepper in the mixture will give your Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos a nice kick.

What dips go best with these taquitos?

Classic choices include sour cream, guacamole, and salsa. You can also try queso dip, chipotle mayo, or a fresh cilantro-lime crema to amp up the flavor experience.

Final Thoughts

This recipe for Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos is a true winner — simple, flavorful, and crispy without the fuss of frying. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just sneaking a snack for yourself, these taquitos bring warmth and comfort in each bite. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try them soon; they’re the kind of recipe that quickly earns a permanent spot in your kitchen rotation!

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