Discover the Best Crispy Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos Recipe

Crispy, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious, these Crispy Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are the ultimate family-friendly meal or appetizer. With a creamy chicken filling wrapped in a crispy tortilla shell, they’re sure to satisfy your Mexican food cravings without all the guilt. Whip up a batch of these taquitos for a quick weeknight dinner or serve them as a crowd-pleasing snack at your next gathering – either way, they’re a guaranteed hit!

Table of Contents

Key Ingredients for Crispy Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos

The beauty of this Crispy Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos recipe lies in its simple, flavorful ingredients. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this dish so irresistible:

• Shredded Cooked Chicken – A rotisserie chicken is the perfect shortcut, but you can also use leftover grilled or baked chicken breasts.
• Cream Cheese – The creamy base that holds the filling together and adds a delightful richness.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Melty, gooey cheddar cheese takes these taquitos to the next level of cheesy goodness.
• Salsa – Your preferred level of spice and flavor can be achieved by choosing a mild, medium, or hot salsa.
• Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Cumin – These warm spices infuse the filling with irresistible Mexican-inspired notes.
• Flour or Corn Tortillas – Small tortillas are the ideal vehicle for rolling up these tasty taquitos.
• Cooking Spray or Olive Oil – Just a light mist or drizzle helps the tortillas crisp up beautifully in the oven.

Feel free to experiment with different cheese varieties or swap in your favorite salsa for a unique twist on this Crispy Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos recipe.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Crispy Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos

Making these delectable Crispy Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos is a breeze. Just follow these simple steps:

1. Preheat the Oven – Get your oven nice and hot to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Make the Filling – In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, salsa, garlic powder, onion powder, and cumin. Mix until well-blended.
3. Prepare the Tortillas – If using corn tortillas, warm them in the microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel for 15 seconds to make them pliable. Flour tortillas can be used as is or briefly warmed.
4. Fill and Roll – Place 2-3 tablespoons of the creamy chicken filling onto the lower third of each tortilla. Tightly roll up the tortilla, placing the seam side down on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Crisp Them Up – Lightly brush or spray each taquito with olive oil or cooking spray to help them achieve that perfect crunch in the oven.
6. Bake to Perfection – Pop the taquitos in the oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, until the edges are golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on them toward the end to prevent burning.

That’s it! With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a batch of irresistible Crispy Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos ready to devour.

Serving Suggestions and Dipping Options

These Crispy Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are delicious all on their own, but they’re even better when served with tasty dipping sauces and sides. Some of our favorite accompaniments include:

• Sour Cream – A cool and creamy contrast to the warm, crispy taquitos.
• Guacamole – The fresh, zesty flavors of guacamole are a perfect pairing.
• Extra Salsa – Serve with your favorite salsa, whether mild, medium, or hot, for dipping.

For a well-rounded meal, consider serving the Crispy Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos alongside Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh, crunchy salad. They’re sure to satisfy everyone’s Mexican food cravings!

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

One of the best things about this Crispy Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos recipe is that it’s so easy to prepare in advance. The filling can be made up to 2 days ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator, making assembly a breeze when you’re ready to bake.

If you have any leftovers, you can store the taquitos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them back in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 5-7 minutes until heated through and crispy.

For longer-term storage, you can also freeze the assembled taquitos. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a resealable freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, bake the frozen taquitos straight from the freezer at 400°F (200°C) for 18-22 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

Nutritional Information

One serving of these Crispy Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos (2-3 taquitos) contains approximately:

• Calories: 300
• Protein: 20g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 25g

To make the dish a bit healthier, you can use reduced-fat cream cheese and shredded cheese, or opt for whole-wheat or corn tortillas. Serving the taquitos with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables can also help balance out the meal.

FAQs

Can I use different types of cheese in my taquitos?

Yes, you can definitely experiment with different types of cheese to create a unique flavor profile in your taquitos. While cheddar is a classic choice, you might also consider using pepper jack for added spice, mozzarella for a milder taste and stretchy texture, or even a blend of cheeses like Mexican blend or gouda for richness. Remember to adjust the amount based on the cheese’s meltability and flavor strength to maintain a balanced filling.

How can I make my taquitos spicier?

To add some heat to your Crispy Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos, you can incorporate spicy ingredients into the filling. Consider adding diced jalapeños, a splash of hot sauce, or using a spicy salsa. You can also sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or chili powder to the cream cheese filling. If you want to take it up a notch, serve your taquitos with a spicy dipping sauce like chipotle aioli or a jalapeño-infused sour cream.

What can I serve as a healthy side dish with taquitos?

Pairing your Crispy Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos with healthy side dishes can enhance the meal without adding too many calories. Options include a fresh side salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and avocado; roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers; or a light Mexican corn salad with black beans and corn. You can also serve a simple quinoa salad with lime dressing for a nutritious boost to your meal.

Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling for your Crispy Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos in advance to save time. Simply mix together the shredded chicken, cream cheese, and seasonings, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to assemble and bake the taquitos, just take the filling out of the fridge and proceed with the recipe as directed. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining!

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Bacon Ranch Chicken Taquitos
• Cheesy Bacon Wrapped BBQ Meatballs
• Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Skillet
• Bacon Wrapped Cheesy Jalapeño Stuffed Meatloaf

These similar recipes feature tasty chicken, cheese, and bacon combinations that are sure to delight your taste buds. Give them a try for more Mexican-inspired deliciousness!

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