Creamy Baked Chicken Taquitos: A Cheesy Delight

Looking for a crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to make and impossible to resist? Look no further than these Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos! Crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, these taquitos are a surefire hit for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, feeding your family, or simply craving a delicious weeknight dinner, these taquitos are the perfect choice.

Made with shredded chicken, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and a blend of spices, these Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are a flavor explosion in every bite. The creamy filling wrapped in a crispy tortilla shell is a match made in food heaven. And the best part? They’re so versatile! Serve them with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for dipping, and watch them disappear in no time.

Whether you have leftover rotisserie chicken to use up or you’re looking for a quick and tasty meal idea, these Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are a winner. With simple ingredients and easy prep, you can have these taquitos on the table in no time. So, gather your friends and family, whip up a batch of these irresistible taquitos, and get ready to create some unforgettable memories around the dinner table.

Quick Benefits

• Convenient way to use up leftover chicken, perfect for a quick and tasty meal or snack
• Versatile recipe with options to customize fillings based on personal preferences or dietary restrictions
• Freezer-friendly for easy meal prep, bake from frozen for a hassle-free dinner option
• Crowd-pleasing dish that can be served at parties or gatherings with different dipping sauces

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Baked Chicken Taquitos: A Cheesy Delight Recipe

• Convenience: Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or when friends come over, these taquitos are easy to make with leftover rotisserie chicken.
• Family Favorite: A crowd-pleaser, loved by all ages. Great for game nights, parties, or a simple meal at home.
• Crispy and Creamy: The contrast of the crispy golden shells and the creamy, cheesy filling is addictive and satisfying with every bite.
• Versatile: Easily customizable with various substitutions like Greek yogurt, different cheeses, or vegetarian options like black beans.
• Make-Ahead: Ideal for meal prep, these taquitos can be assembled ahead, frozen, and baked straight from the freezer. Perfect for busy days.
• Variety of Dips: Pair with classic accompaniments like guacamole, sour cream, or salsa. The dipping options elevate the flavors and add a fun twist.
• Memorable: Creating kitchen memories with loved ones while rolling taquitos is a cherished experience. A recipe that brings people together.
• Adaptable: Experiment with different ingredients like roasted corn, chipotle salsa, or shredded turkey to keep the dish fresh and exciting.
• Reheatable: Leftovers can be stored and reheated without losing their crunch. Enjoy them fresh or pack them for a delicious lunch the next day.

Ingredients for Creamy Baked Chicken Taquitos: A Cheesy Delight

Filling

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/4 cup salsa
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• Salt, to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions or cilantro (optional)
• Black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack cheese

Assembly

• Cooking spray or olive oil
• 8 to 10 small tortillas

To Serve

• Salsa
• Sour cream
• Guacamole

Pro Tips for Creamy Baked Chicken Taquitos: A Cheesy Delight

Pro Tips:

For a quick and easy meal, use rotisserie chicken and shred it before mixing with the other ingredients. This saves time and adds great flavor to the filling.

Experiment with different types of cheese such as cheddar or Monterey Jack for melting and flavor. You can even try Pepper Jack for a spicy kick.

To save time, assemble the taquitos ahead of time and refrigerate them. Simply bake when ready to serve for the best texture and flavor.

Freeze assembled taquitos before baking for a convenient make-ahead option. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Classic toppings like guacamole, sour cream, and salsa pair perfectly with the creamy and spicy taquito filling. Feel free to customize with your favorite proteins or vegetarian options like sautéed vegetables or beans for a delicious twist.

How to Make Creamy Baked Chicken Taquitos: A Cheesy Delight

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Warm Tortillas

Place the tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave for 20-30 seconds until soft.

Step 3: Prepare Filling

Combine shredded chicken, cream cheese, shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese, salsa, cumin, chili powder, salt, black pepper, and green onions or cilantro in a mixing bowl.

Step 4: Fill and Roll Tortillas

Place 2 to 3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture in the center of each tortilla. Roll up tightly and arrange seam-side down on the baking sheet.

Step 5: Oil and Bake

Brush taquitos with olive oil or cooking spray. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Let taquitos cool for 2-3 minutes before serving with guacamole, sour cream, and salsa.

Storage Tips

Once the baked cream cheese chicken taquitos have cooled down, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat and restore their crispiness, use an oven or an air fryer instead of a microwave, which can make them soggy. When ready to enjoy again, simply heat them until they are warm and crunchy.

For a make-ahead option, assemble the taquitos and freeze them in a single layer before transferring to a bag or container. When baking from frozen, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. This method allows for quick and convenient meals, whether for a crowd-pleasing party snack or a tasty lunch option. Experiment with different fillings, such as vegetarian options with beans or sautéed vegetables, to customize the taquitos to suit your preferences.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have cream cheese, Greek yogurt or sour cream can be used as a substitute for a tangy twist. Pepper Jack cheese adds a kick of heat if you prefer a spicier taquito. You can also swap the chicken for black beans to create a tasty vegetarian version.

Rotisserie chicken is a convenient and flavorful option for the shredded chicken. Cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese are classic choices, but feel free to experiment with different cheeses for varied flavors. Prepare the taquitos ahead of time and refrigerate before baking for a quick and easy meal.

For make-ahead convenience, assemble the taquitos and freeze them before baking. Bake straight from the freezer with a little extra time in the oven. Serve the taquitos with guacamole, sour cream, and salsa for classic accompaniments that perfectly complement the creamy and savory filling.

Serving Suggestions

For a fun and interactive serving suggestion, create a taquito bar for your next gathering! Lay out a variety of fillings such as shredded chicken, black beans, sautéed vegetables, and different types of cheese. Let your guests assemble their own taquitos before baking for a personalized touch. Provide an array of dipping sauces like guacamole, sour cream, and salsa for everyone to enjoy.

To elevate your weeknight dinner, serve the baked cream cheese chicken taquitos over a bed of cilantro lime rice. The zesty flavors of the rice pair perfectly with the creamy and spicy taquitos, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal. Garnish with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, and a dollop of sour cream for a burst of freshness that will take this dish to the next level.

FAQs for Creamy Baked Chicken Taquitos: A Cheesy Delight

Can I use rotisserie chicken in this recipe?

Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time. Simply shred before mixing with the other ingredients.

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of cheddar or Monterey Jack?

Cheddar or Monterey Jack melts well and adds flavor, but you can experiment with your favorites.

Can I prepare the taquitos ahead of time?

You can assemble the taquitos and refrigerate them, then bake just before serving for best texture.

Can I freeze the taquitos before baking?

Yes, assemble and freeze before baking. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Conclusion

I hope you enjoy making and sharing these delightful Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos with your loved ones as much as I do. The versatility of this recipe allows for endless customization, making it a perfect fit for any occasion. Whether it’s a game night with friends, a cozy family dinner, or a festive gathering, these taquitos are sure to be a hit!

Remember, cooking is all about having fun and making memories in the kitchen. So, don’t be afraid to put your own twist on this recipe – swap ingredients, add your favorite toppings, and make it your own. The joy of cooking lies in the creativity and joy it brings, so embrace it fully with these delicious Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos. Happy cooking!