Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos Savory Delight

November 12, 2025May 4, 2025 by Chef Remy

Ingredients

Main Ingredients List

– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded

– 8 oz cream cheese, softened

– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

– 1/2 cup green onions, finely chopped

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1 teaspoon ground cumin

– 1/2 teaspoon salt

– 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

– 10-12 corn tortillas

– Cooking spray

To make Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos, you need a few simple items. The main star is cooked chicken. You can use leftovers or rotisserie chicken. Cream cheese adds a rich texture. Shredded cheddar gives a nice cheesy flavor. Green onions add a fresh crunch. Garlic powder and cumin bring warmth to the mix. Salt and pepper balance everything out. Corn tortillas hold the filling together. A quick spray of cooking spray helps them crisp up nicely.

Optional Toppings

– Sour cream

– Salsa

– Sliced avocado

These toppings add extra flavor and fun. Sour cream cools the spicy notes. Salsa gives a zesty kick. Sliced avocado adds creaminess and freshness. You can mix and match these to suit your taste.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you need to swap ingredients, it’s easy. Use cream cheese with herbs for extra flavor. Any cheese works if you prefer something different. You can substitute chicken with cooked turkey or beans for a veggie option. If you want a gluten-free version, try corn tortillas instead of flour. Just be sure to check the labels for any hidden gluten.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is vital as it ensures your taquitos bake evenly and become crispy.

Prepare the Filling

Next, gather your ingredients. In a large bowl, mix together 2 cups of shredded chicken and 8 ounces of softened cream cheese. Add in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup of finely chopped green onions, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir everything until smooth. This mixture is where the magic happens!

Soften and Fill the Tortillas

Now, let’s soften the tortillas. Place 10 to 12 corn tortillas in a microwave-safe dish. Cover them with a damp paper towel and heat for about 30 seconds. This makes the tortillas easy to roll without cracking. Once softened, lay one tortilla flat. Spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the filling along one edge.

Rolling and Baking the Taquitos

Carefully roll the tortilla around the filling, starting from the edge with the mixture. Tuck in the sides as you roll to keep the filling inside. Repeat this for each tortilla until all are rolled. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to stop sticking. Place the rolled taquitos seam-side down. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray for extra crispiness. Bake them in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Look for a golden brown color. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Tips & Tricks

Tips for Perfecting the Taquitos

– Use warm tortillas. This keeps them soft and easy to roll.

– Mix the filling well. Make sure all flavors blend together.

– Don’t overfill. Use just enough filling to roll without spilling.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

– Skipping the softening step. This can cause cracks in the tortillas.

– Not preheating the oven. A hot oven ensures a crispy texture.

– Forgetting to spray with cooking spray. This step helps achieve golden brown taquitos.

How to Achieve Extra Crispiness

– Use a light coat of cooking spray on top. This helps with browning.

– Bake on a parchment-lined sheet. This prevents sticking and helps crisp.

– Flip the taquitos halfway through baking. This promotes even crispiness on both sides.

Variations

Healthy Ingredient Swaps

You can make these taquitos lighter. Use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese. This swap cuts fat but keeps creaminess. You can also use low-fat cheese for a healthier twist. Swap corn tortillas for whole grain ones to add fiber. These small changes can make a big difference.

Different Protein Options

If you want to switch up the protein, try using turkey instead of chicken. Shredded pork works well too. For a unique flavor, use spicy chorizo. Each option adds its own taste to the dish. Feel free to get creative with your protein choice.

Making Vegetarian or Vegan Taquitos

To make these taquitos vegetarian, replace chicken with black beans or lentils. Use a vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free version. You can also add veggies like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition. This way, you keep the flavors while catering to different diets.

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

After enjoying your taquitos, let them cool down. Place leftovers in an airtight container. Store them in the fridge for up to three days. If you plan to eat them soon, this method keeps them fresh.

Freezing Taquitos for Later

To freeze, wrap each taquito tightly in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight.

Reheating Tips for Best Texture

Reheat your taquitos in the oven for the best texture. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the taquitos on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes. This will keep them crispy and tasty. You can also use an air fryer for a quicker option. Enjoy your delicious leftovers!

FAQs

Can I use flour tortillas instead?

Yes, you can use flour tortillas. They are soft and easy to roll. However, corn tortillas give a nice crunch. If you choose flour, make sure to warm them. This helps prevent tearing.

How do I make the filling spicier?

To spice up the filling, add diced jalapeños or hot sauce. You can also mix in some cayenne pepper or chili powder. Start with a small amount. Taste the mixture before you add more heat. This way, you control the spice level.

What to serve with Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos?

Serve these taquitos with sour cream and salsa for dipping. Guacamole is another great choice. Fresh veggies like sliced cucumbers or a simple salad pair well too. They add a fresh crunch and balance the flavors. Enjoy your meal!

We covered the key steps to making tasty baked taquitos. You learned about the main ingredients, options for toppings, and substitutions. I shared step-by-step instructions to help you bake perfect taquitos. Tips and common mistakes were also outlined. Lastly, we discussed storage and reheating methods. Enjoy trying different variations, like healthy swaps or vegetarian options. Remember, practice makes perfect. Keep experimenting and enjoy your delicious creation