Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos

Introduction

Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are a deliciously creamy and crispy Mexican-inspired snack that will have everyone coming back for more. The soft, flavorful filling made with shredded chicken and cream cheese is wrapped in tortillas and baked to a golden, crispy perfection. These taquitos are perfect for appetizers, game day snacks, or a quick dinner option. With their creamy filling and crispy exterior, they offer the perfect balance of texture and flavor in every bite.

I first made these when I was craving something quick, savory, and satisfying. The aroma of the taquitos baking in the oven was enough to make everyone in the house excited, and the result was a plate full of golden, crispy bites that disappeared in no time. What’s great about these taquitos is how versatile they are. You can dip them in salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for extra flavor, or even add a little heat with some hot sauce.

What I love about this recipe is how easy it is to make with just a few ingredients, and the result is always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving them as a snack for a party or preparing a simple meal for the family, these Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos will always be a hit!

Perfect for:

• Game day snacks
• Family dinners
• Appetizers
• Party food
• Busy weeknight meals

Why You’ll Love This Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos

Here’s why Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos will become your go-to snack or meal:

• Creamy and Flavorful Filling: The cream cheese combined with the chicken creates a rich and flavorful filling that’s both creamy and savory.
• Crispy Texture: After baking, the tortillas become wonderfully crispy, making each bite satisfying and crunchy.
• Easy to Make: With minimal ingredients and simple steps, these taquitos are quick to prepare, making them perfect for busy days.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients, like diced green chilies, shredded cheese, or spices, to make them your own.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: These taquitos are great for making ahead of time and reheating when you need a quick meal or snack.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 12-14 taquitos
• Calories per serving: Approximately 150-180 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 12g, Carbs: 12g, Fat: 8g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos:

• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
• 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 1/2 cup salsa (mild or medium, depending on your preference)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• 10-12 small flour tortillas
• Olive oil spray (for baking)
• Salt to taste

Ingredient Highlights

• Shredded Chicken: You can use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken for convenience, making the recipe quick and easy.
• Cream Cheese: Adds creaminess and richness to the filling, making the taquitos soft inside while maintaining a crispy exterior.
• Salsa: Adds flavor and moisture to the filling. You can choose the spice level depending on your preference.
• Cheddar Cheese (Optional): Adding cheese gives the taquitos a melty, cheesy center, enhancing their flavor and texture.
• Spices: Garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, and cumin infuse the taquito filling with a warm, savory taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos:

Prepare the Filling:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream cheese, salsa, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cumin, and shredded cheddar cheese (if using). Mix until well combined and the filling is creamy.
3. Season: Taste the mixture and add salt or additional spices as needed to adjust the flavor.

Assemble the Taquitos:

4. Warm the Tortillas: Place the tortillas in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds to soften them. This helps prevent them from cracking when rolled.
5. Fill the Tortillas: Spoon a few tablespoons of the chicken and cream cheese mixture into the center of each tortilla. Be careful not to overfill, as this can make rolling them difficult.
6. Roll the Taquitos: Roll each tortilla tightly around the filling, securing the ends. Place the rolled taquitos seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Spray with Oil: Lightly spray the taquitos with olive oil spray to help them crisp up while baking.

Bake the Taquitos:

8. Bake: Bake the taquitos in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
9. Cool: Remove the taquitos from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

How to Serve Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos

Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are versatile and can be served in various ways:

• With Dipping Sauces: Serve with sour cream, guacamole, or salsa for dipping.
• As an Appetizer: These taquitos are perfect for serving as an appetizer at parties or gatherings.
• As a Meal: Pair with a side salad, Mexican rice, or beans for a satisfying dinner.
• For Game Day: Serve with a selection of dips like queso, salsa, or ranch dressing for a tasty snack during the game.
• For Lunch or Dinner: Serve with a side of fresh vegetables or a light slaw for a complete meal.

Additional Tips for Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos

Here are some tips to ensure your Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos turn out perfectly:

• Use Softened Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is softened before mixing to avoid lumps in the filling.
• Don’t Overfill the Tortillas: Overfilling can make rolling the taquitos difficult and cause them to break.
• Spray with Oil: A light misting of olive oil or cooking spray helps the taquitos crisp up while baking.
• Bake at High Heat: Baking at a high temperature (400°F) ensures a golden, crispy exterior.
• Storage: Leftover taquitos can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven to maintain their crispiness.

Recipe Variations for Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos

Here are 10 variations you can try for Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos:

• Buffalo Chicken Taquitos: Add buffalo sauce to the cream cheese filling for a spicy twist.
• BBQ Chicken Taquitos: Substitute salsa for BBQ sauce for a sweet and smoky flavor.
• Cheesy Chicken Taquitos: Add more shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack) to the filling for extra cheese pull.
• Vegetarian Taquitos: Replace the chicken with black beans, corn, and bell peppers for a vegetarian option.
• Spicy Jalapeño Chicken Taquitos: Add diced jalapeños or jalapeño slices to the filling for a spicy kick.
• Cream Cheese and Spinach Chicken Taquitos: Add fresh spinach to the filling for a burst of flavor and color.
• Taco Seasoning Chicken Taquitos: Use taco seasoning instead of individual spices for a more convenient and flavorful mix.
• Ranch Chicken Taquitos: Mix ranch dressing or ranch seasoning into the cream cheese mixture for a creamy, tangy flavor.
• Crispy Air-Fried Taquitos: Use an air fryer to cook the taquitos for an even crispier result with less oil.
• Mini Taquitos: Use smaller tortillas and make mini versions for a bite-sized appetizer.

Freezing and Storage for Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos

• Freezing: To freeze, arrange the taquitos on a baking sheet and freeze them until firm. Transfer to a zip-top bag or airtight container and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding an extra 5-7 minutes to the baking time.
• Storage: Store leftover taquitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.

Special Equipment for Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos

Here are some tools that can make preparing your Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos easier:

• Baking Sheet: A baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat ensures easy cleanup and even baking.
• Oven Thermometer: An oven thermometer ensures that the oven is at the right temperature for optimal crisping.
• Cooking Spray: Helps the taquitos crisp up without the need for excess oil.
• Mixing Bowl: A large bowl for mixing the filling ingredients.
• Tongs or Fork: Use tongs or a fork to handle the hot taquitos once they come out of the oven.

Frequently Asked Questions for Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos

1. Can I use flour tortillas for these taquitos?
   Yes, flour tortillas work best for this recipe, but you can also use corn tortillas for a gluten-free version.
2. Can I make these taquitos ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the taquitos and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
3. Can I freeze these taquitos?
   Yes, you can freeze the taquitos either before or after baking. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container or zip-top bag.
4. How do I make these taquitos spicier?
   Add diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or spicy salsa to the filling for an extra kick.
5. Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
   Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds delicious flavor to the filling.

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Conclusion

Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are a delicious and easy-to-make treat that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering or meal. With a creamy, flavorful filling and a perfectly crispy exterior, these taquitos offer a satisfying snack or dinner. Whether you’re making them for a party, game day, or just a family meal, these taquitos are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

This recipe is simple yet packed with flavor, making it ideal for casual get-togethers or busy weeknights. You can customize the fillings and sauces to suit your tastes, ensuring these taquitos are always a crowd-pleaser.

I’d love to see how your Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!