Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos Recipe

If you are searching for a dish that’s undeniably delicious, irresistibly crispy, and bursting with creamy, savory goodness, then you must try these Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos. This easy-to-make recipe combines tender shredded chicken with smooth cream cheese and melty cheddar, all wrapped up in a crunchy tortilla shell. It’s a perfect snack, appetizer, or even a main course that will have everyone asking for seconds. The beauty of Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos lies in their simplicity and big flavor punch—trust me, once you make these, they’ll become a fast favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but pack a powerful punch, bringing together creamy textures, savory spices, and that classic taquito crunch. Each item plays a key role in building layers of flavor and mouthwatering appeal you’ll adore.

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds juiciness to the filling.
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened: This adds that luscious, creamy texture that balances the spices beautifully.
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar lends a rich, melty, cheesy flavor that pulls everything together.
• ¼ cup salsa: Choose mild or spicy depending on your craving to add zing and moisture.
• 1 tsp garlic powder: Garlic brings warmth and depth without overpowering the other ingredients.
• 1 tsp onion powder: Adds a subtle savory note that complements the chicken perfectly.
• 1 tsp cumin: A touch of earthy spice that gives the taquitos a subtle southwestern flair.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for enhancing all the natural flavors.
• 10 small flour or corn tortillas: Choose your favorite to roll up the creamy filling and get that coveted crispiness.
• Cooking spray or olive oil for brushing: Helps achieve a golden, crispy exterior during baking.

How to Make Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by heating your oven to 425°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. Setting the right oven temperature and prepping the pan early ensures the taquitos crisp up perfectly without sticking, offering that delightful crunch you crave.

Step 2: Mix the Filling Magic

Grab a large bowl and combine shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, salsa, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir it all together until creamy and well-blended—this flavorful mixture is the heart of your taquitos, bursting with cheesy, spicy goodness.

Step 3: Fill and Roll the Taquitos

Scoop about 2 to 3 tablespoons of your filling onto each tortilla. Roll each one up tightly, making sure to tuck the filling securely inside. Placing rolled taquitos seam-side down on the baking sheet keeps them perfectly intact during baking, locking in all that scrumptious filling.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden

The final step before the magic happens: brush each taquito lightly with olive oil or spray with cooking spray to guarantee a crisp, golden exterior. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes until edges are crunchy and golden brown, signaling they’re ready to devour.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, serve your Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos hot! Pair them with dips like sour cream, fresh guacamole, or extra salsa to elevate each bite. Warning — they’re so addictive, trying to stop at just one might be impossible.

How to Serve Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos

Garnishes

Add a sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro or green onions to brighten the plate and freshen the flavors. A dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of lime juice can also add a tangy contrast that lifts the creamy richness beautifully.

Side Dishes

Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos shine alongside simple, fresh sides like a crunchy cabbage slaw, Mexican-style rice, or black beans. These keep things balanced and add a bit of variety to the meal without overshadowing the star taquitos.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress your guests? Serve these taquitos stacked in a fun tower, drizzle with queso or hot sauce, or even cut them into bite-sized appetizer pieces for parties. A colorful plate with an assortment of dips turns this comfort food into an exciting feast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. They stay surprisingly crispy when reheated properly, making them great for next-day snacks or lunches.

Freezing

These taquitos freeze beautifully! Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Store for up to 2 months to enjoy the convenience of quick homemade snacks anytime.

Reheating

Reheat in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 8 to 10 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving if you can, as it tends to make the tortillas soggy. The oven method keeps that crunch intact and the creamy filling warm and gooey.

FAQs

Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?

Absolutely! Corn tortillas add a nice authentic flavor and work just as well. Just warm them slightly before rolling to prevent cracking.

Is this recipe very spicy?

Not at all—it’s easily adaptable. Use mild salsa for a gentle flavor or a spicy salsa if you prefer some heat.

Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?

You sure can! Make the filling a day in advance and store it in the fridge. It actually helps the flavors meld even better.

What dips go best with these taquitos?

Sour cream, guacamole, and fresh salsa are classic options. You can also experiment with queso dip or a cool cilantro-lime crema.

Can I bake these in an air fryer?

Yes! Air frying at 400°F for about 10-12 minutes works wonderfully, just check halfway to prevent over-browning.

Final Thoughts

These Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are an absolute game-changer in the world of simple, tasty comfort food. Their crispy exterior paired with a rich, creamy, and flavorful filling makes them unforgettable. Whether you’re feeding family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe will quickly become a go-to favorite. So grab those tortillas and get rolling—your next delicious meal is waiting!

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