Looking for a delicious, easy-to-make appetizer or main dish that’s sure to impress? These Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are the perfect combination of crispy tortillas, tender shredded chicken, and a rich, creamy filling. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a family dinner, or just craving a flavorful snack, this recipe is a must-try.
In this article, we’ll walk you through:
- The ingredients you’ll need
- Step-by-step instructions for perfect taquitos
- Tips and variations for customization
- Serving suggestions and storage tips
- Why this dish is a crowd-pleaser
Let’s get started!
Ingredients for Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos
To make about 12 taquitos, you’ll need:
For the Filling:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great!)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Monterey Jack)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup diced green chilies (optional for spice)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt & pepper to taste
For Assembly:
- 12 small flour tortillas (or corn tortillas for gluten-free)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or cooking spray
- Toothpicks (to hold taquitos together before baking)
Optional Toppings & Dips:
- Guacamole
- Salsa
- Sour cream
- Pico de gallo
- Hot sauce
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Filling
In a large bowl, mix:
- Shredded chicken
- Softened cream cheese
- Shredded cheese
- Sour cream
- Green chilies (if using)
- Garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper
Stir until well combined.
3. Warm the Tortillas
To prevent cracking, warm the tortillas for 10-15 seconds in the microwave or on a skillet.
4. Assemble the Taquitos
- Place 2-3 tbsp of filling near the edge of each tortilla.
- Roll tightly and secure with a toothpick.
- Place seam-side down on the baking sheet.
- Brush or spray with olive oil for extra crispiness.
5. Bake to Perfection
Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden and crispy.
6. Serve & Enjoy!
Remove toothpicks and serve hot with your favorite dips!
Tips for the Best Baked Taquitos
Use room-temperature cream cheese for smoother mixing.
Don’t overfill—too much filling can cause bursting.
For extra crispiness, spray tortillas lightly with oil before baking.
Make ahead: Assemble taquitos and refrigerate (unbaked) for up to 24 hours.
Variations & Customizations
Spicy Version: Add jalapeños or hot sauce to the filling.
Cheesier: Mix in pepper jack cheese for extra meltiness.
Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with black beans & spinach.
Buffalo Style: Toss chicken in buffalo sauce before mixing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Easy & Quick – Ready in under 30 minutes!
✔ Crispy Outside, Creamy Inside – The perfect texture combo.
✔ Great for Parties – A guaranteed crowd favorite.
✔ Healthier Than Fried – Baking cuts down on oil.
Serving Suggestions
- Appetizer: Serve with a trio of dips (salsa, guacamole, sour cream).
- Main Dish: Pair with Mexican rice and a fresh salad.
- Game Day Snack: Perfect for football nights!
Storage & Reheating
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze unbaked taquitos on a tray, then transfer to a bag. Bake straight from frozen (add 5-10 extra minutes).
- Reheat: Warm in the oven or air fryer for best crispiness.
Final Thoughts
These Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are a flavor-packed, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re meal prepping, hosting friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe delivers crispy, creamy deliciousness every time.
Try it today and watch them disappear!
FAQs
Q: Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?
A: Yes! Corn tortillas work but may crack—warm them well before rolling.
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Assemble and refrigerate (or freeze) before baking.
Q: How do I keep taquitos from unrolling?
A: Place them seam-side down or use toothpicks.
Q: Can I air fry these?
A: Yes! Air fry at 375°F for 8-10 minutes until crispy.
Enjoy your Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos! 🎉 If you loved this recipe, share it with friends and leave a comment below!