The aroma of melting cheese and baked tortillas wafting through my kitchen is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. That’s the magic of Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos, a dish I can’t get enough of! This quick and easy recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights, allowing you to whip up a scrumptious meal in just 25 minutes. Not only do these taquitos bring a delightful crunch to the table, but they’re also so creamy on the inside that they’re sure to please both kids and adults alike. Plus, with a gluten-free option available using corn tortillas, everyone can join in on the fun! Ready to elevate your dinner game with these irresistible taquitos? Let’s dive into the satisfying world of homemade goodness!
Why Are These Taquitos a Must-Try?
Crispy Perfection: These Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos deliver the ultimate crunch while keeping the filling satisfyingly creamy.
Weeknight Wonder: Perfect for busy evenings, you can have a delicious dinner on the table in just 25 minutes!
Versatile & Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite ingredients—black beans or jalapeños add an exciting twist.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: From kids to adults, everyone will be reaching for seconds as they savor this delightful blend of cheeses and spices.
Healthy Twist: With the option to use corn tortillas, you can enjoy a gluten-free meal without sacrificing flavor.
For ease on weeknights, pair these with a quick salsa or homemade sour cream dip, and if you’re looking for more delicious recipes like Garlic Parmesan Chicken, you’ll find a variety of options to keep mealtime exciting!
Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos Ingredients
• Enjoy a delightful, creamy filling wrapped in a crispy tortilla!
For the Filling
- Cooked Chicken – Provides protein and essential texture; use leftover rotisserie chicken for a quicker prep.
- Cream Cheese – Adds creaminess and richness; make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Contributes flavor and enhances creaminess; substitute with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a spicy touch.
- Salsa – Adds a kick of flavor and moisture; choose your favorite brand for a personalized twist.
- Garlic Powder – Enhances overall taste; fresh minced garlic can be used instead.
- Onion Powder – Adds depth of flavor; consider fresh minced onion as a substitute in lesser amounts.
- Cumin – Introduces warm, earthy notes; omit if it’s not your preference.
- Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.
For Assembly
- Small Tortillas – Encases the filling; choose flour or corn, and warm them beforehand to prevent cracking.
- Cooking Spray or Olive Oil – For brushing to achieve crispiness; olive oil adds flavor and helps with browning.
These Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are an easy way to bring a cozy, homemade touch to your dining table!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. This temperature ensures the taquitos will achieve that perfect golden-brown exterior, so they are wonderfully crispy when baked.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and your choice of salsa. Add garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper, then mix everything together until smooth and well combined. This filling will be creamy and flavorful, a delightful core for your Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos.
Step 3: Assemble Taquitos
Warm your small tortillas briefly in the microwave to prevent cracking while rolling. Spoon 2-3 tablespoons of the creamy filling onto each tortilla, spreading it slightly across the center. Roll the tortillas tightly, ensuring the filling is enclosed, and place them seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet to help them keep their shape during baking.
Step 4: Bake the Taquitos
Lightly brush or spray the assembled taquitos with olive oil or cooking spray for an extra crispy finish. Carefully place the baking sheet in the preheated oven, and bake for about 15-18 minutes, or until the taquitos are golden and crisp. Keep an eye on them towards the end to prevent over-baking; you want them perfectly crunchy!
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the taquitos from the oven and let them cool for a minute before serving. These delicious Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are best enjoyed warm, served with your favorite salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for dipping. Gather around and indulge in this delightful homemade dish with family or friends.
Make Ahead Options
These Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are a fantastic option for meal prep, saving you time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the filling up to 3 days in advance; simply combine the shredded chicken, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, salsa, and spices in a bowl, then refrigerate it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy this delicious dish, warm your tortillas to prevent cracking, spoon the filling onto each tortilla, roll them up, and bake as directed. For longer storage, you can also assemble the taquitos and freeze them for up to 2 months; bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to ensure they cook through while remaining perfectly crispy. Enjoy a delightful homemade meal with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos
Tortilla Warmth: Warm tortillas slightly before filling to prevent cracking. This step ensures each taquito rolls smoothly without breaking apart.
Freeze for Later: These taquitos freeze beautifully! Assemble them ahead of time, freeze, and bake directly from the freezer, adding an extra 5 minutes to the baking time.
Choose Your Chicken Wisely: Using rotisserie chicken can save time. For varied flavors, consider adding shredded cooked turkey or canned chicken.
Season to Taste: Don’t be shy with salt and pepper! Adjust seasoning in the filling according to your personal preference for the best flavor in your taquitos.
Customize Your Filling: Feel free to experiment with spices or add-ins like black beans or diced jalapeños for a personalized take on these Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos.
What to Serve with Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos
Nothing enhances the joy of sharing a meal like vibrant sides that complement the flavors of your dish.
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Creamy Guacamole: This rich and buttery dip perfectly balances the crispy taquitos while adding an element of freshness. The smoothness of avocados paired with a tangy lime kick takes your taquito experience up a notch.
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Zesty Salsa: Choose a fresh salsa with diced tomatoes, onions, and cilantro to lift the flavors of your taquitos. The bright acidity of salsa cuts through the richness and brings a wave of delightful taste contrast.
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Black Bean Salad: Nutty black beans mixed with corn, peppers, and a squeeze of lime make for a hearty, protein-rich side that complements the creamy filling in your taquitos. It adds a delightful texture and a burst of flavor to your plate.
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Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Charred corn on the cob slathered in creamy mayo, chili powder, and cheese provides a deliciously sweet and smoky side that pairs beautifully with taquitos. This dish is the essence of summer barbecues and brings a festive touch to your meal.
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Crispy Potato Wedges: Seasoned with chili and lime, these potatoes add a satisfying crunch alongside your taquitos. Their warm, fluffy interior contrasts the crispy exteriors of your dish, creating a balanced plate.
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Light Green Salad: A mixed greens salad drizzled with a zesty vinaigrette offers a fresh and crunchy counterpoint. The refreshing elements cut through the richness of the taquitos and add a burst of color to your dining spread.
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Chilled Horchata: This creamy rice milk drink cinnamon-infused is a soothing, sweet beverage that cools down your palate. It complements the savory flavors of the taquitos and rounds out the meal perfectly.
How to Store and Freeze Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos
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Fridge: Store taquitos in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to retain that perfect crispiness.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze assembled taquitos in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake directly from the freezer, adding about 5 minutes to the original cooking time.
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Reheating: Reheat leftover taquitos in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, ensuring they reach a warm, crispy state again for a delightful meal.
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Wrapping Tips: For best results when freezing, individually wrap each taquito in plastic wrap before stacking in a freezer bag to prevent sticking and freezer burn.
Variations & Substitutions for Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos
Get ready to make these Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos uniquely yours with a few delightful twists!
- Gluten-Free: Use corn tortillas instead of flour to make this dish gluten-free while keeping it just as delicious.
- Cheese Swap: Try mixing in Pepper Jack cheese for an extra kick of flavor, or go for a blend of mozzarella for a gooey stretch.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños directly into the filling for those who love a bit of heat in every bite.
- Protein Variation: Substitute the chicken with shredded beef or cooked turkey to create a whole new flavor profile.
- Vegetarian Twist: Replace the chicken with black beans or cooked quinoa for a hearty vegetarian option that everyone will enjoy.
- Extra Crunch: Consider adding crushed tortilla chips or panko breadcrumbs to the filling for an added layer of crunch.
- Flavor Boost: Enhance the filling with fresh herbs like cilantro or chopped green onions for a refreshing and vibrant taste.
- Sweet Addition: For a unique contrast, try adding a spoonful of sweet corn or diced peaches to the filling for a touch of sweetness.
With these variations, you can easily customize your taquitos to cater to your family’s preferences. Whether you decide to serve them alongside a fresh batch of homemade guacamole or dip them into tangy salsa, you’ll find endless ways to enjoy this fantastic dish. For more flavor inspiration, check out our Garlic Parmesan Chicken or get cozy with Cinnamon Blondies Maple for dessert!
Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken for my taquitos?
I recommend using leftover rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy option, as it provides great flavor and texture. If you’re cooking chicken from scratch, ensure it’s cooked thoroughly and shredded into bite-sized pieces for easy filling.
What’s the best way to store baked taquitos?
Store your Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheating them in the oven or air fryer is the best method to keep them crispy.
Can I freeze these taquitos? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze, assemble taquitos and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once they’re firm, transfer them to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, preheat your oven and bake them directly from the freezer, adding about 5 extra minutes to the original cooking time.
How can I reheat leftover taquitos to keep them crispy?
To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the taquitos on a baking sheet and bake for about 10-15 minutes, until they are heated through and crispy again. This method helps to restore their lovely crunch!
Are these taquitos safe for my pets or those with allergies?
Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos contain ingredients like chicken, cream cheese, and spices, which may not be suitable for pets. For individuals with dairy allergies, consider using dairy-free cream cheese and be cautious with cheese varieties. Always check labels for additional allergens!
Can I customize the filling to be gluten-free?
Yes! For a gluten-free option, simply use corn tortillas instead of flour ones. You can also make the filling more nutritious by adding black beans or swapping in your favorite veggies. Enjoy making these Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos your own!
Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos for a Cozy Night In
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and salsa. Add garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper, then mix until smooth.
- Warm your tortillas briefly in the microwave. Spoon 2-3 tablespoons of the filling onto each tortilla, roll tightly, and place seam-side down on the baking sheet.
- Lightly brush or spray the taquitos with olive oil. Bake for about 15-18 minutes, or until golden and crisp.
- Let the taquitos cool for a minute before serving. Enjoy with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole.
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