If you’re craving a snack or meal that combines crispy, cheesy, and creamy all at once, then you’re going to fall head over heels for this Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos Recipe. These golden little wonders deliver tender shredded chicken wrapped in soft tortillas, stuffed with rich cream cheese and a blend of melted cheddar and Monterey Jack, all seasoned just right to awaken your taste buds. They’re baked to perfection, which means they’re crispy without the extra oil from frying—a total win for your cravings and your kitchen. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just yourself, these taquitos bring warmth, comfort, and a little fiesta to any table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is all about simple, easy-to-find ingredients that each play a vital role in bringing incredible flavor, texture, and color to the dish. From the creaminess of the cheeses to the subtle spice from the cumin, every item is essential for making these taquitos a memorable treat.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: The hearty protein base that soaks up all the creamy, cheesy goodness.
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened: Adds luscious creaminess that binds the filling perfectly.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp and flavorful, it gives a nice depth to the mixture.
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Melts smoothly and adds a mild, buttery taste.
- 1/4 cup salsa or diced tomatoes with green chilies: Injects a zesty, fresh tang with a little heat.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses savory warmth and complexity.
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin: Provides earthy spice that complements the chicken beautifully.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Balances and enhances all other flavors.
- 8–10 small flour or corn tortillas: The vessel for all that delicious filling, warmed to roll easily.
- Olive oil spray (for baking): Helps achieve that irresistible golden, crispy finish.
How to Make Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures it’s hot enough to crisp the taquitos nicely. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light grease. This sets the foundation for easy clean-up and keeps your taquitos from sticking while they bake.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Chicken Filling
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, salsa, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything until it’s lovingly blended. This filling comes together quickly but offers layers of lusciousness and flavor in every bite. Don’t be shy to really get in there and fold everything so every morsel is evenly coated.
Step 3: Warm the Tortillas
To avoid cracked or stubborn tortillas when rolling, warm them briefly in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. This step softens the tortillas just enough to roll tightly without breaking, making assembly a smooth and satisfying part of this recipe.
Step 4: Roll Up the Taquitos
Place 2 to 3 tablespoons of the filling along one edge of each tortilla and roll it up tightly like a little burrito. The snug roll keeps the filling secure as it bakes and crisps. Take your time here to make sure each taquito is packed but gently rolled so it doesn’t burst during cooking.
Step 5: Arrange and Prep for Baking
Set each rolled taquito seam-side down on your prepared baking sheet. This helps them stay closed and crisp on the outside. Lightly spray or brush them with olive oil so they turn golden and crunchy when baking—no deep frying needed!
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake the taquitos for 15 to 18 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they transform from soft to golden brown and irresistibly crispy. The smell alone will have you hovering by the oven, ready to dive in.
Step 7: Serve Warm and Enjoy
Once out of the oven, serve your Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos warm with your favorite dips for the full experience. The combination of crunchy exterior and gooey filling makes this recipe a crowd-pleaser every single time.
How to Serve Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing your taquitos adds not only color but also extra layers of texture and flavor. Fresh cilantro leaves, a squeeze of lime, diced avocado, or a sprinkle of chopped green onions bring brightness and freshness that contrast with the rich filling beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pair these taquitos with classic Mexican sides like Mexican rice, refried beans, or a crisp, refreshing cabbage slaw. These sides complement the creamy chicken filling perfectly and round out your meal for a satisfying bite every time.
Creative Ways to Present
You can serve these taquitos on a festive platter arranged in a circle with small bowls of salsa, guacamole, and sour cream right in the center for dipping. Or try stacking them on a bed of shredded lettuce with drizzled chipotle mayo for a modern twist that elevates presentation and flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps preserve their crispness and prevents the filling from drying out, making them perfect for a quick reheat later on.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these taquitos another day, freeze them before baking by rolling and placing them on a tray to flash freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They freeze beautifully for up to 2 months, allowing you to bake fresh, crispy taquitos any time the craving hits.
Reheating
To reheat, pop your taquitos in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes or until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving as it can make the tortillas soggy. This way, your Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos Recipe tastes just as amazing as the first time around.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time saver and adds great flavor, making your Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos Recipe even more convenient without sacrificing taste.
Are flour or corn tortillas better for these taquitos?
Both work well, but flour tortillas tend to be more pliable which makes rolling easier, while corn tortillas give an authentic flavor and a slightly firmer texture once baked. Choose based on your preference or what you have on hand.
Can I add other fillings like vegetables or beans?
Yes, feel free to customize your filling with finely chopped bell peppers, corn, or black beans for added texture and nutrition. Just be mindful not to add too much moisture to keep the taquitos crispy.
Is it possible to make these taquitos gluten-free?
Definitely! Use gluten-free tortillas to keep the recipe safe for gluten-sensitive eaters. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so it’s an easy swap.
Can I make these taquitos spicy?
For sure! Add chopped jalapeños to the filling, use a spicy salsa, or sprinkle some cayenne pepper into the mixture to kick up the heat just how you like it without overpowering the creamy flavors.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so satisfying about biting into a crispy, cheesy, creamy Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos Recipe that feels like a little celebration in every mouthful. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between ease and flavor, and it’s sure to become one of your go-to dishes for game day, quick dinners, or whenever you want to treat yourself. I can’t wait for you to try it and see just how wonderfully simple and delicious homemade taquitos can be!
