Crispy, creamy Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos make the perfect comforting dinner or party snack. Easy to prep, baked to golden perfection!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The best part about this recipe is how each simple ingredient brings something special to the party, whether it’s lush creaminess, a hit of spice, or that essential cheesy goodness. Gather these kitchen staples and get ready to see how easily they transform into Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos magic.
- Cooked shredded chicken: Use rotisserie chicken for convenience or your own perfectly cooked breasts or thighs for irresistible flavor.
- Cream cheese (softened): This is the creamy foundation that holds your filling together, so don’t skip letting it come to room temp.
- Sour cream: Adds a tangy note that balances the richness of the cheese and chicken.
- Shredded Mexican cheese blend: Melty, colorful, and packed with flavor—this cheese duo takes every bite over the top.
- Garlic powder: Infuses each bite with gentle allium warmth for cozy, homemade goodness.
- Onion powder: Rounds out the base flavors to make the filling super savory.
- Chili powder: Adds a friendly kick and gives the taquitos their signature Tex-Mex flair.
- Cumin: Offers the unmistakable earthy note that makes this classic sing.
- Salt: Essential to draw out and enhance every other flavor in the mix.
- Black pepper: Just a pinch for subtle background heat.
- Chopped green onions: These sprinkle in bursts of verdant, zippy freshness.
- Chopped cilantro: Adds herbal brightness and that irresistible, authentic flair.
- Small flour or corn tortillas: Your blank canvas! Use your favorite type—flour for softness, corn for a bit of nostalgia and texture.
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray: The secret to a crispy, golden finish, minus the deep fryer.
How to Make Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by setting the stage for crispy magic. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C), giving it plenty of time to get nice and hot. While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light brush or spritz of oil to prevent sticking and promise easy cleanup later.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Chicken Filling
In a large mixing bowl, add your cooked shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, sour cream, shredded Mexican cheese blend, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, green onions, and cilantro. Use a sturdy spoon or spatula and mix until everything is fully incorporated and velvety smooth. You’re looking for a filling that holds together—creamy, cheesy, and absolutely loaded with flavor.
Step 3: Warm the Tortillas
No one likes a cracked tortilla! Stack the tortillas on a microwave-safe plate, cover them with a damp paper towel, and microwave for 20 to 30 seconds. Warm tortillas are much more pliable and won’t tear when you roll your Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos.
Step 4: Assemble the Taquitos
Working one tortilla at a time, lay it flat and spoon about 2 to 3 tablespoons of your luscious chicken and cheese filling into the center. Roll it up snugly, then place it seam-side down on your prepared baking sheet. Don’t worry if they’re close together—they’ll keep each other shaped as they bake!
Step 5: Crisp the Tops
For irresistibly golden and crispy exteriors, lightly spray or brush the tops of your taquitos with cooking spray or olive oil. This little step gives them the crunch you crave without a drop of deep frying.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Slide your tray into the hot oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the tortillas are crisp and golden brown. You’ll want to keep an eye out for bubbling cheese and hints of toasted edges—it’s a delicious sign your Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are ready!
Step 7: Serve Warm and Enjoy
Let the taquitos cool for just a minute, then plate them up and serve immediately with your favorite dips—think salsa, guacamole, or a cool dollop of sour cream. This is where the fun (and serious snacking) begins.
How to Serve Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos
Garnishes
Elevate every bite of your Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos with a shower of fresh cilantro or green onions on top. Consider a drizzle of crema or a sprinkle of crumbly queso fresco for an extra touch of decadence. Slices of fresh jalapeño or lime wedges on the side add vibrancy and a pop of color that looks as good as it tastes.
Side Dishes
Balance your meal by pairing these taquitos with classic sides. A bright corn and black bean salad, zesty Mexican rice, or even a chilled cucumber tomato salad complement the rich, cheesy filling perfectly. And don’t forget a bowl of salsa or creamy guacamole for all that irresistible dipping action.
Creative Ways to Present
Hosting a get-together? Serve these taquitos arranged in a spiral on a large platter with bowls of assorted dips in the center—an edible centerpiece no one can resist. For a fun family night, let everyone build their own dipping plate with different salsas and garnishes. Or, cut the taquitos in half and stand them upright in shot glasses filled with sauce for a festive, bite-sized appetizer spread.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos (lucky you!), let them cool to room temperature before placing them in an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. They hold up beautifully and make a fantastic next-day snack or lunch!
Freezing
Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are freezer-friendly and perfect for meal prepping. Arrange cooled taquitos in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to two months—just reheat directly from frozen for a quick, homemade treat.
Reheating
To bring back their signature crispiness, reheat taquitos in a hot oven or toaster oven at 400°F for 8 to 10 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make them a bit soggy. If you must microwave, try wrapping in a paper towel and zap for 30 to 60 seconds.
FAQs
Can I make Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the taquitos a day in advance, store them covered in the fridge, and bake them fresh when ready to serve. They’re a lifesaver for party prep!
What’s the best way to shred chicken for this recipe?
You can use two forks to pull apart cooked chicken breasts or thighs easily. Rotisserie chicken is another great shortcut—just shred it while it’s still warm for the best texture.
Should I use flour or corn tortillas?
Both work perfectly in Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos! Flour tortillas are soft and easy to roll, while corn tortillas lend a classic flavor and a bit more texture. Go with your personal favorite or mix the two for variety.
Can I make these taquitos vegetarian?
Yes! Simply swap the shredded chicken for black beans, sautéed mushrooms, or even a blend of roasted veggies. The creamy cheese filling is delicious with almost any veggie mix-ins.
What dips go well with these taquitos?
Salsa, guacamole, and sour cream are traditional favorites, but don’t be afraid to try chipotle ranch, creamy avocado sauce, or even a drizzle of hot honey for a sweet and spicy kick.
Final Thoughts
Once you try Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos, you’ll see just how quickly they earn a regular spot in your dinner rotation. They’re fun to make, irresistibly tasty, and equally perfect for parties or lazy weeknights. Invite your friends or family to join in the cooking (and especially the dipping) and get ready for rave reviews at your table!
Print
Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 10 taquitos
Description
Crispy, creamy Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos make the perfect comforting dinner or party snack. Easy to prep, baked to golden perfection!
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
For Assembly
- 10 small flour or corn tortillas
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
Optional for Serving
- Salsa
- Guacamole
- Sour cream
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, sour cream, shredded Mexican cheese blend, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, green onions, and cilantro. Stir until the mixture is fully incorporated and creamy.
- Warm the Tortillas: To make the tortillas more pliable and easier to roll, place them in the microwave for about 20–30 seconds.
- Fill and Roll: Spoon about 2–3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture into the center of each tortilla. Roll each tortilla tightly and place seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Spray and Bake: Lightly spray the top of each taquito with cooking spray or brush with olive oil. Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, until the tortillas are golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve immediately while warm. Enjoy with salsa, guacamole, or extra sour cream on the side if desired.
Notes
- If using corn tortillas, warm them thoroughly to prevent cracking while rolling.
- You can substitute cooked rotisserie chicken for extra convenience.
- Customize the filling by adding canned green chiles or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Taquitos freeze well and can be reheated in the oven for a quick meal or snack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main-course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 taquito
- Calories: 265 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 14 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg