Description: A quick, easy, and flavorful recipe for baked taquitos filled with a creamy, cheesy chicken mixture. These taquitos are a healthier alternative to fried versions, delivering a satisfying crunch without the extra grease. Perfect for a weeknight meal, appetizer, or party snack, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great!)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened (full-fat or reduced-fat, your preference)
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese blend)
- ¼ cup salsa (mild, medium, or hot, depending on your spice preference)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 10 small flour or corn tortillas (6-inch size is ideal)
- Cooking spray or olive oil for brushing
Preparation:
These taquitos come together quickly, making them a fantastic option for busy weeknights. The key is to have your chicken pre-cooked and shredded. Using rotisserie chicken is a brilliant shortcut that saves you time and effort. Softening the cream cheese is also essential for ensuring a smooth and creamy filling.
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is crucial for achieving that crispy, golden-brown exterior we all crave in a baked taquito. While the oven is heating, prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. Parchment paper prevents the taquitos from sticking to the pan and makes cleanup a breeze. No need to deal with stubborn, stuck-on cheese!
Step 2: Prepare Filling
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, salsa, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Use a fork or spoon to mix all the ingredients thoroughly until they are well combined. The consistency should be creamy and spreadable. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasonings to your liking. If you prefer a spicier filling, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavor combinations!
Step 3: Assemble Taquitos
This is where the fun begins! Take one tortilla at a time and place it on a clean surface. Evenly distribute about 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto the tortilla, forming a line down the center. Be careful not to overfill the tortillas, as this can make them difficult to roll and prone to bursting during baking. Once the filling is in place, tightly roll the tortilla from one end to the other, securing the seam as you go. Place the rolled taquito seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat this process until all the tortillas are filled and rolled.
Step 4: Bake Taquitos
Once all the taquitos are assembled, lightly brush the tops with cooking spray or olive oil. This step is essential for achieving that beautiful golden-brown color and crispy texture. If you don’t have cooking spray or olive oil, you can also melt a small amount of butter and brush it over the taquitos. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the taquitos are crispy and golden brown. Keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes of baking to prevent burning. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so adjust accordingly.
Step 5: Serve
Remove the baked taquitos from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the filling to set slightly and prevent you from burning your mouth. Serve the taquitos hot, accompanied by your favorite toppings and dips. Sour cream, guacamole, salsa, and pico de gallo are all excellent choices. You can also serve them with a side of rice and beans for a more complete meal.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
These baked cream cheese chicken taquitos are a winner for several reasons:
- Easy and Quick: This recipe requires minimal prep time and uses simple ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthier Alternative: Baking the taquitos instead of frying them significantly reduces the amount of fat, making them a guilt-free indulgence.
- Flavorful and Customizable: The creamy, cheesy chicken filling is packed with flavor, and you can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your personal preferences.
- Versatile: These taquitos can be served as a main course, appetizer, or snack, making them a versatile option for any occasion.
- Kid-Friendly: Kids love the crispy texture and cheesy filling, making them a great way to sneak in some protein.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or pico de gallo for dipping.
- Offer a variety of hot sauces for those who like a little extra spice.
- Serve with a side of rice and beans for a more complete meal.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro and green onions for a fresh and flavorful touch.
- Arrange the taquitos on a platter for a visually appealing presentation.
Tips:
- Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time and effort.
- Soften the cream cheese before mixing it with the other ingredients for a smoother filling.
- Don’t overfill the tortillas to prevent them from bursting during baking.
- Brush the tops of the taquitos with cooking spray or olive oil to achieve a crispy, golden-brown exterior.
- Keep a close eye on the taquitos during the last few minutes of baking to prevent burning.
- Experiment with different cheese blends and salsa varieties to customize the flavor.
- For a spicier filling, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.
- If you don’t have parchment paper, you can lightly grease the baking sheet with cooking spray.
- Leftover taquitos can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 15 minutes Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information: (per taquito, approximate)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Protein: 12g
- Sodium: 250mg
Conclusion
These baked cream cheese chicken taquitos are a delicious and easy-to-make recipe that is sure to become a family favorite. They are perfect for weeknight meals, appetizers, or party snacks. With their crispy texture, creamy filling, and customizable flavor, they are a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a batch of these irresistible taquitos!
Questions and Answers About This Recipe
Q1: Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
A: Yes, you can definitely use corn tortillas! However, corn tortillas tend to be more brittle than flour tortillas, so you might need to warm them slightly before filling them to prevent them from cracking. You can warm them in a dry skillet for a few seconds on each side or wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave them for about 15-20 seconds. Using corn tortillas will also make this recipe gluten-free.
Q2: Can I freeze these taquitos for later?
A: Absolutely! These taquitos freeze beautifully. After baking, let them cool completely. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours, or until they are solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
Q3: I don’t have cheddar cheese. What other cheese can I use?
A: You have plenty of options! Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, Pepper Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend would all work well. You can even use a combination of different cheeses for a more complex flavor. If you’re looking for a sharper flavor, try using a little bit of sharp cheddar or Parmesan cheese.
Q4: I don’t have an oven. Can I cook these in an air fryer?
A: Yes, air frying is a great alternative! Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the assembled taquitos in the air fryer basket in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd them. Air fry for about 8-10 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy, flipping them halfway through.
Q5: Can I add vegetables to the filling?
A: Absolutely! Adding vegetables is a great way to sneak in some extra nutrients and flavor. Some good options include diced bell peppers, onions, corn, black beans, or spinach. Just make sure to chop the vegetables finely and cook them slightly before adding them to the filling to ensure they are tender.
