Creamy Baked Chicken Taquitos – Easy Recipe

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing recipe that’s both comforting and easy to make, these Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are a must-try! Picture this: crispy, golden shells filled with a creamy and flavorful mixture of shredded chicken, cream cheese, and melted cheddar cheese. These taquitos are perfect for a casual gathering with friends, a family dinner, or even a quick weeknight meal.

I remember the first time I made these Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos for my family—it was an instant hit! The combination of crunchy exterior and gooey interior, paired with a generous serving of salsa or guacamole for dipping, is simply irresistible. Whether you have leftover rotisserie chicken to use up or you’re craving a simple yet satisfying dish, these taquitos are sure to please everyone at the table.

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize the fillings to suit your preferences—swap the cream cheese for Greek yogurt, add extra spice with Pepper Jack cheese, or even go vegetarian by using black beans instead of chicken. These Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are a deliciously comforting treat that’s always a hit, whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them as leftovers the next day.

Quick Benefits

• Creamy and Crunchy: The taquitos are crispy on the outside and irresistibly creamy on the inside, providing a delightful texture contrast in every bite.
• Customizable Fillings: You can easily swap ingredients like cream cheese, cheese types, or proteins to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
• Make-ahead and Freezer-friendly: Perfect for meal prep or entertaining, you can assemble and refrigerate or freeze the taquitos before baking, saving time and ensuring a quick, delicious meal or snack.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Baked Chicken Taquitos – Easy Recipe Recipe

• Easy and Quick: Perfect for a fast and fuss-free meal, these taquitos are quick to whip up for a simple weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
• Irresistibly Creamy: The combination of cream cheese, shredded chicken, and melty cheese creates a creamy and decadent filling that will keep you coming back for more.
• Crowd Favorite: Whether serving at a party or a family gathering, these taquitos are always a hit and disappear quickly, leaving everyone satisfied.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to suit your preferences by swapping ingredients such as cheese types, protein choices, and additional fillings to make them your own.
• Make-ahead and Freezer-friendly: Prepare ahead by assembling and freezing the taquitos for a convenient meal option. They can be stored in the fridge for up to three days and reheated in the oven or air fryer.
• Versatile for All Occasions: From game day snacks to baby showers or holiday gatherings, these taquitos are versatile and suitable for various events and seasons.
• Dipping Perfection: Dip the crispy taquitos in guacamole, sour cream, or salsa for an extra burst of flavor that complements the creamy and spicy filling.

Ingredients for Creamy Baked Chicken Taquitos – Easy Recipe

Filling

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

Assembly

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

To Serve

• Sour cream
• Salsa
• Guacamole

Pro Tips for Creamy Baked Chicken Taquitos – Easy Recipe

To make these Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos, consider using rotisserie chicken for a convenient and flavorful option. Remember to shred the chicken before mixing it with the other ingredients for even distribution. Cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese are great choices for their melting properties, but feel free to use your preferred cheese for a unique twist.

For a stress-free prep ahead of time, assemble the taquitos and refrigerate them before baking. This allows for easy and quick baking just before serving, ensuring a crispy texture. Another time-saving tip is to assemble and freeze the taquitos before baking. Bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time for a convenient meal option.

Consider customizing the taquitos to suit different dietary preferences by swapping the chicken for sautéed vegetables or beans for a tasty vegetarian alternative. Serve these taquitos with classic accompaniments such as guacamole, sour cream, and salsa for a well-rounded and satisfying meal or snack that is sure to please a crowd.

How to Make Creamy Baked Chicken Taquitos – Easy Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat the oven to 400°F and place parchment paper on a baking sheet.

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 (optional) 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 tightly and arrange seam-side down on the baking sheet.

Step 5: Oil and Bake

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

Step 6: Cool and Serve

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

Storage Tips

After preparing the Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain their crispy texture, it’s best to reheat the taquitos in the oven or an air fryer instead of using a microwave, which can make them soggy. Simply place them back in the oven until heated through to enjoy them with their crunchy exterior.

For make-ahead convenience, you can assemble the taquitos and freeze them before baking. Once frozen, transfer them to a bag or container for easy storage. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake the frozen taquitos directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. This is a great option for quick and delicious meals or snacks that can be enjoyed at a moment’s notice.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have cream cheese on hand, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt or a spoonful of sour cream for a tangy twist. Additionally, if you find Monterey Jack cheese too mild, try using Pepper Jack cheese to add some heat to the filling.

For a vegetarian option, skip the chicken and instead use black beans as a protein substitute. This swap will still provide a delicious and satisfying filling for your taquitos.

To save time, you can assemble the taquitos ahead of time and refrigerate them until you are ready to bake them. This makes it convenient to have a quick and easy meal ready to pop in the oven for a crowd or a weeknight dinner.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try arranging these baked cream cheese chicken taquitos on a platter in a circular pattern, with bowls of guacamole, sour cream, and salsa placed in the center for easy dipping. This not only makes for an eye-catching presentation but also allows guests to customize their taquitos with their favorite toppings.

Another fun idea is to serve these taquitos as a build-your-own taco bar. Set out a variety of fillings such as different cheeses, proteins (like shredded chicken or seasoned ground beef), sautéed vegetables, and toppings like diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, and fresh cilantro. Let guests fill and roll their own taquitos before baking, creating a fun and interactive dining experience for parties or gatherings.

FAQs for Creamy Baked Chicken Taquitos – Easy Recipe

Can I make these taquitos ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the taquitos and refrigerate them. Bake them just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Can I freeze these taquitos before baking?

Absolutely! Fill and roll the taquitos before baking, then freeze them in a single layer. Once fully frozen, transfer them to a bag or container. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. No need to thaw ahead.

What are some recommended toppings for these taquitos?

Guacamole, sour cream, and salsa are all classic options that complement the creamy, spicy filling of these taquitos. Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings!

Can I make a vegetarian version of these taquitos?

Yes, you can replace the chicken with sautéed vegetables or beans for a delicious vegetarian option. Feel free to experiment with different fillings to suit your preferences.

Conclusion

As you take your last bite of these delicious Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos, savor the memories created around this simple yet satisfying dish. Whether it’s a game night with friends, a cozy family dinner, or a gathering with loved ones, these taquitos never fail to bring joy to the table.

Remember, the beauty of this recipe is its versatility. Feel free to customize the fillings to suit your preferences and get creative with different flavor combinations. From swapping out proteins to adding seasonal ingredients, the possibilities are endless when it comes to making these taquitos your own.

So, the next time you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a quick weeknight meal, turn to these Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos. With their crispy exterior, creamy center, and endless opportunities for personalization, they are sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Enjoy every bite and the moments shared around good food!