Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos

Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos 🌮🧀

These Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are a healthier, oven-baked twist on the classic fried taquito. Packed with creamy chicken filling and baked to crispy perfection, they’re a crowd-pleasing appetizer, snack, or even a light meal. With their cheesy, savory goodness and crispy tortilla shell, these taquitos are sure to become a family favorite. Plus, they’re easy to make and perfect for parties or weeknight dinners!

Let’s dive into how to make these delicious, crispy taquitos step by step.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Crispy & Creamy : A perfect balance of crunchy tortillas and creamy, cheesy filling.
2. Healthier Option : Baked instead of fried, but still crispy and flavorful.
3. Customizable : Add spices, veggies, or swap ingredients to suit your taste.
4. Quick & Easy : Ready in under 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
5. Crowd-Pleasing : Great for game-day snacks, potlucks, or family dinners.

Ingredients

(Makes 10 taquitos)

• 2 cups cooked chicken , shredded (rotisserie chicken works great! )
• 4 oz cream cheese , softened
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup salsa (mild, medium, or hot depending on your preference )
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper , to taste
• 10 small flour or corn tortillas
• Cooking spray or olive oil (for brushing )

Optional Toppings:

• Sour cream
• Guacamole
• Salsa
• Shredded lettuce
• Diced tomatoes
• Crumbled cotija cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) .
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken , softened cream cheese , cheddar cheese , salsa , garlic powder , onion powder , cumin , salt , and pepper . Mix until well combined and creamy.

Step 3: Assemble the Taquitos

1. Warm the tortillas slightly in the microwave (about 10–15 seconds) to make them more pliable.
2. Place 2–3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto each tortilla, forming a line down the center.
3. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling and place it seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.

Step 4: Bake the Taquitos

1. Lightly brush the tops of the taquitos with cooking spray or olive oil to help them crisp up in the oven.
2. Bake for 15–18 minutes , or until the taquitos are golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Serve

1. Remove the taquitos from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
2. Serve hot with your choice of toppings like sour cream , guacamole , salsa , or fresh garnishes like shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes.

Tips for Success

1. Warm the Tortillas : Heating the tortillas makes them easier to roll without cracking.
2. Use Rotisserie Chicken : Save time by using store-bought rotisserie chicken for the shredded chicken.
3. Add Veggies : Stir in sautéed onions, bell peppers, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
4. Storage : Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days . Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–10 minutes to restore crispiness.
5. Freeze for Later : Freeze unbaked taquitos on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Perfect Pairings

These Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos pair beautifully with:

• Guacamole : Creamy avocado dip adds freshness and richness.
• Salsa : A tangy tomato-based salsa complements the cheesy filling.
• Mexican Street Corn : Serve alongside elote or esquites for a festive touch.
• Refried Beans : A hearty side of refried beans makes this a complete meal.
• Margaritas or Agua Fresca : Pair with a refreshing drink like lime agua fresca or a classic margarita for a fun vibe.

Nutritional Information (Per Taquito, Approx.)

(Based on 10 taquitos)

• Calories : ~180 kcal
• Protein : ~10g
• Carbohydrates : ~12g
• Fat : ~9g
• Fiber : ~1g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific brands and portion sizes.

Final Thoughts

These Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are a delicious, healthier alternative to traditional fried taquitos. With their creamy, cheesy filling and crispy tortilla shell, they’re a satisfying treat that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, snack, or light meal, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone.

The best part? They’re endlessly customizable, so you can tweak the spices, add veggies, or experiment with different toppings to make them your own. So grab your tortillas, whip up that filling, and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.