Looking for a quick, easy, and utterly delicious weeknight dinner or party appetizer? Then you’ve come to the right place! These baked cream cheese chicken taquitos are crispy on the outside, creamy and flavorful on the inside, and surprisingly simple to make. Forget takeout; this is a homemade delight that’s sure to become a new family favorite.
What Makes These Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos So Good?
Think about it: creamy, cheesy filling paired with tender chicken, all wrapped up in a crispy tortilla and baked to golden perfection. Seriously, what’s not to love? These aren’t your average taquitos. We’re ditching the deep fryer for a healthier baked version that doesn’t sacrifice any of that satisfying crunch. Plus, the cream cheese adds a tangy richness that elevates the whole experience.
Gathering Your Ingredients
Before we get started, let’s make sure we have everything we need. The ingredient list is relatively short and sweet, which is another reason why this recipe is such a winner.
- Cooked Chicken: Shredded or diced. Rotisserie chicken is a lifesaver here, but leftover grilled or baked chicken works perfectly too.
- Cream Cheese: The star of the show! Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
- Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar adds a classic cheesy flavor.
- Taco Seasoning: Adds that authentic Tex-Mex kick.
- Green Onions: Chopped, for a bit of freshness and flavor.
- Tortillas: Corn or flour tortillas, depending on your preference. Corn tortillas tend to get crispier, but flour tortillas are more pliable.
- Cooking Spray: Essential for achieving that crispy baked finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Baking Perfection
Ready to get cooking? Follow these simple steps for taquito success!
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet with cooking spray.
- Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, taco seasoning, and green onions. Mix until everything is well combined.
- Fill the Tortillas: Warm the tortillas slightly to make them more pliable (you can microwave them for a few seconds or warm them on a dry skillet). Place a spoonful of the chicken mixture onto each tortilla, near one edge.
- Roll ‘Em Up: Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling, like a small burrito. Place the taquitos seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake to Crispy Goodness: Spray the taquitos lightly with cooking spray. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.
- Serve and Enjoy: Let the taquitos cool slightly before serving. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces, such as salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or a creamy cilantro-lime sauce.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Taquitos Ever
Want to take your taquito game to the next level? Here are a few extra tips to keep in mind:
- Don’t Overfill: Too much filling will make the taquitos difficult to roll and they might burst open during baking.
- Warm Tortillas are Key: Warmed tortillas are much more pliable and less likely to crack.
- Get Creative with the Filling: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, spices, or veggies. Black beans, corn, or diced tomatoes would be great additions.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for extra heat.
- Make Ahead: You can assemble the taquitos ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.
Serving Suggestions and Dipping Sauces
These baked cream cheese chicken taquitos are fantastic on their own, but they’re even better with the right dipping sauce. Here are a few ideas:
- Salsa: A classic choice that adds a fresh, vibrant flavor.
- Guacamole: Creamy and delicious, perfect for dipping or topping. Learn how to make perfect guacamole here.
- Sour Cream: A simple and tangy option.
- Creamy Cilantro-Lime Sauce: A refreshing and flavorful sauce that complements the chicken and cheese perfectly.
Conclusion
So there you have it – a super simple, incredibly tasty recipe for baked cream cheese chicken taquitos that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a crowd-pleasing appetizer, or just a fun way to use up leftover chicken, these taquitos are sure to be a hit. Give them a try and let us know what you think! Don’t forget to experiment with different fillings and dipping sauces to create your own signature taquito creation. Happy baking!
