Description: These Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are a delightful twist on a classic Mexican favorite. They combine tender shredded chicken with creamy, cheesy goodness, all wrapped up in a crispy tortilla shell. Baked to golden perfection, they’re a healthier alternative to fried taquitos and incredibly easy to make. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or light meal, these taquitos are sure to be a hit with family and friends. The creamy, savory filling and satisfying crunch make them an irresistible treat that’s quick to prepare and customize to your liking. Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing party snack or a simple weeknight dinner, these baked taquitos deliver big flavor and satisfaction.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (about 1 large chicken breast or 2 small ones)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened (full-fat or reduced-fat, your preference)
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a Mexican 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 recommended)
- Cooking spray or olive oil for brushing
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature ensures that the taquitos will bake quickly and achieve a crispy exterior. While the oven is preheating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. The parchment paper prevents the taquitos from sticking to the pan and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling: In a medium-sized mixing 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 thoroughly mix all the ingredients together until well combined. Ensure that the cream cheese is evenly distributed throughout the chicken mixture, creating a smooth and creamy texture. Taste the filling and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
Step 3: Assemble the Taquitos: Take one tortilla at a time and lay it flat on a clean surface. Spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken and cream cheese filling onto the center of the tortilla, spreading it evenly in a line from one edge to the other. Be careful not to overfill the tortillas, as this can cause them to burst open during baking. Once the filling is in place, tightly roll up the tortilla, starting from one end and rolling towards the other. Make sure to keep the roll tight to prevent the filling from spilling out. Place the assembled taquito seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and filling, arranging the taquitos in a single layer on the baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake the Taquitos: Once all the taquitos are assembled on the baking sheet, lightly brush each taquito with cooking spray or olive oil. This step is crucial for achieving a golden and crispy exterior. The cooking spray or olive oil helps the tortillas to brown evenly and prevents them from drying out during baking. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the taquitos are golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on them during baking to prevent them from burning.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy: Once the taquitos are golden brown and crispy, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly on the baking sheet for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the filling to set and prevent it from being too hot to handle. Serve the warm taquitos with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or a drizzle of hot sauce. Arrange the taquitos on a serving platter and garnish with fresh cilantro or chopped green onions for an added touch of freshness and visual appeal. Enjoy these delicious baked cream cheese chicken taquitos as an appetizer, snack, or light meal.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
These baked cream cheese chicken taquitos are incredibly versatile, customizable, and healthier than their fried counterparts. The combination of tender chicken, creamy cheese, and flavorful spices creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. They are quick and easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. Plus, baking them instead of frying significantly reduces the fat content without sacrificing the satisfying crunch. The recipe is also highly adaptable – you can easily swap out the chicken for other proteins like shredded beef or black beans, and experiment with different types of cheese, salsa, and spices to create your own unique flavor combinations. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, you’ll find this recipe simple, straightforward, and incredibly rewarding.
Serving Suggestions:
- Sour Cream: A dollop of cool sour cream adds a tangy contrast to the savory filling of the taquitos.
- Guacamole: Creamy guacamole provides a rich and flavorful accompaniment that complements the chicken and cheese perfectly.
- Salsa: Serve with your favorite salsa, whether it’s mild, medium, or hot, for an extra kick of flavor and spice.
- Pico de Gallo: Fresh pico de gallo, made with diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice, adds a refreshing and vibrant touch.
- Queso Dip: Warm queso dip is a decadent and cheesy indulgence that pairs wonderfully with the crispy taquitos.
- Lettuce Wraps: For a lighter option, serve the taquito filling in crisp lettuce wraps instead of tortillas.
- Mexican Rice and Beans: Complete the meal by serving the taquitos alongside Mexican rice and refried beans for a hearty and satisfying feast.
- Hot Sauce: A drizzle of your favorite hot sauce adds a fiery kick to the taquitos, perfect for those who enjoy a little heat.
- Chopped Cilantro and Green Onions: Garnish the taquitos with fresh chopped cilantro and green onions for a pop of color and freshness.
Tips:
- Use Leftover Chicken: This recipe is a great way to use up leftover cooked chicken. You can also use rotisserie chicken for added convenience.
- Soften the Cream Cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing it with the other ingredients. This will ensure a smooth and creamy filling.
- Warm the Tortillas: Warm the tortillas slightly before assembling the taquitos to make them more pliable and easier to roll without tearing. You can warm them in the microwave for a few seconds or on a dry skillet over medium heat.
- Don’t Overfill the Tortillas: Be careful not to overfill the tortillas, as this can cause them to burst open during baking. Aim for about 2-3 tablespoons of filling per tortilla.
- Seal the Seam: Place the assembled taquitos seam-side down on the baking sheet to help seal the seam and prevent the filling from spilling out.
- Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the filling and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, garlic powder, or cumin to suit your taste preferences.
- Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to experiment with different fillings. Try adding black beans, corn, diced bell peppers, or jalapenos to the chicken mixture.
- Make Ahead: You can assemble the taquitos ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they are cold.
- Freeze for Later: These taquitos can also be frozen for longer storage. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and crispy.
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 15 minutes Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Per taquito, approximate)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Protein: 15 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
Conclusion:
These Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are a fantastic addition to any recipe collection. They offer a delicious combination of flavors and textures, are easy to customize, and can be enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or light meal. The baked preparation method makes them a healthier alternative to fried taquitos, while still delivering the satisfying crunch and savory taste that everyone loves. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll quickly understand why they have become a family favorite in so many households. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a quick weeknight dinner, or simply craving a tasty snack, these taquitos are sure to hit the spot.
Questions and Answers About This Recipe:
Q1: Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
A: Yes, you can definitely use corn tortillas for this recipe. Corn tortillas will give the taquitos a slightly different flavor and texture, but they will still be delicious. Keep in mind that corn tortillas tend to be more fragile than flour tortillas, so be careful not to overfill them or they may tear when you roll them. Warming them slightly before assembling the taquitos can also help prevent tearing.
Q2: What can I substitute for the cream cheese?
A: If you’re looking for a substitute for cream cheese, you can try using Greek yogurt, Neufchâtel cheese (a lower-fat cream cheese alternative), or even a vegan cream cheese substitute. Greek yogurt will add a tangy flavor and a creamy texture, while Neufchâtel cheese will provide a similar taste and consistency to cream cheese but with less fat. Vegan cream cheese substitutes are available in most grocery stores and will work well for those with dietary restrictions.
Q3: Can I add other vegetables to the filling?
A: Absolutely! Adding vegetables to the filling is a great way to boost the nutritional value and flavor of the taquitos. Some popular vegetable additions include diced bell peppers, corn, black beans, onions, and jalapenos. Simply sauté the vegetables before adding them to the chicken and cream cheese mixture.
Q4: How do I prevent the taquitos from getting soggy?
A: To prevent the taquitos from getting soggy, make sure to brush them lightly with cooking spray or olive oil before baking. This will help them to crisp up nicely in the oven. Also, avoid overfilling the tortillas, as this can cause them to become soggy. If you’re making the taquitos ahead of time, store them in the refrigerator on a wire rack to allow air to circulate around them and prevent them from becoming soggy.
Q5: Can I cook these in an air fryer?
A: Yes, you can absolutely cook these taquitos in an air fryer! 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. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy, flipping them halfway through. Air frying is a great way to achieve a crispy texture without using a lot of oil.
