Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos
Imagine a cozy evening where the aroma of fragrant spices fills your kitchen, and anticipation builds as you enjoy a deliciously crispy taquito with every single bite. Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos bring that dream to life, combining tender chicken, creamy cheese, and zesty flavors wrapped snugly in a soft tortilla. These taquitos not only make for a delightful appetizer but can easily become the star of your dinner table. Whether you are whipping them up for a gathering or just treating yourself to something special, these taquitos are sure to impress.
Why Make This Recipe
- Perfectly crispy and golden, these taquitos are a crowd-pleaser.
- They are easy to customize with your favorite flavors and ingredients.
- Quick to prepare and bake, making them ideal for busy weeknights.
Let’s delve into what truly sets this recipe apart. If you’re seeking a dish that combines simplicity and taste without compromising on either, then look no further. Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are your answer to a satisfying meal that never fails to deliver on flavor.
Easy Method for Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos
The beauty of making Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos lies in its simplicity. With a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can unleash your culinary creativity. Here’s how to whip up these delicious treats right in your kitchen.
Gather Your Ingredients
Before diving into the cooking process, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup salsa
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 10 small flour or corn tortillas
- Cooking spray or olive oil for brushing
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos
Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This step is crucial as it allows your taquitos to bake evenly, turning crispy and golden.Make the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, salsa, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Use a spatula or fork to mix everything together until it becomes a creamy and well-blended filling. The mixture should be thick yet spreadable, ready to amplify those flavors.Assemble Taquitos
Take each tortilla and place 2-3 tablespoons of the filling on one side. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling, ensuring the seam is on the bottom to prevent it from unfurling during baking. Arrange the rolled taquitos seam-side down on a prepared baking sheet lined with parchment paper.Bake
To achieve that gorgeous golden finish, lightly brush or spray the tops of the taquitos with olive oil or cooking spray. This will help them crisp up beautifully in the oven. Bake for about 15-18 minutes, or until they are golden brown and irresistibly crispy.Serve
Once baked, let them cool slightly and serve hot. These delightful treats are fantastic with dips like sour cream, guacamole, or additional salsa for a wonderful flavor explosion.
Storing Leftover Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos
Now that you’ve treated your family and friends to these delicious taquitos, you might find yourself with leftovers. Here are some handy storage tips to keep your Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos fresh:
- Refrigerate: Store taquitos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days at 40°F (4°C).
- Freeze: If you want to save some for later, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. To avoid freezer burn, ensure they are tightly wrapped or placed in freezer bags.
- Reheat: When you’re ready to enjoy leftover taquitos, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Best Ways to Serve Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos
Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving experience:
- Dipping Options: Serve these taquitos with an assortment of dips, including homemade guacamole, zesty sour cream, and fresh salsa. Each dip adds a new layer of flavor.
- Taco Bar Setup: Create a fun taco bar where everyone can customize their taquitos with toppings such as shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, jalapeños, and shredded cheese.
- Pair with Sides: Complement your taquitos with side dishes like Mexican rice, grilled corn on the cob, or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
- Snack or Appetizer: Cut the taquitos into bite-sized pieces to serve as appetizers at your next gathering. They are sure to become a hit!
Tips to Make Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos
Here are some essential tips to keep in mind while making these scrumptious taquitos:
- Use Shredded Chicken: For the best flavor, use rotisserie chicken or chicken that has been seasoned well. It adds depth to the filling.
- Customize the Heat: If you prefer a spicier option, try using a spicy salsa or add diced jalapeños to the filling.
- Don’t Overfill: Be mindful not to add too much filling to each tortilla to prevent them from bursting during baking. 2-3 tablespoons per tortilla should work perfectly.
Variations You Might Enjoy
If you want to experiment a little with this recipe, consider the following variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for black beans or shredded zucchini for a vegetarian twist. Add some sautéed bell peppers for that extra crunch.
- Cheesy Delight: For an extra cheesy experience, consider adding pepper jack cheese to the filling for a kick of heat with each bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes, you can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Assemble the taquitos before baking.
What if I don’t have tortillas?
A: If you don’t have tortillas, you can make a casserole by layering the filling and cheese in a baking dish, topping it with tortillas and baking until bubbly.
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Absolutely! Chicken thighs work great for these taquitos, providing a richer flavor. Just make sure to shred them well.
Q: How do I make it spicier?
- Add diced jalapeños or chopped green chilies to the filling.
- Use a spicier salsa or a dash of cayenne pepper.
Nutritional Info
While enjoying these taquitos, it’s good to be mindful of their nutritional content. Here’s a basic breakdown per serving (2 taquitos):
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 16g
- Fiber: 2g
Keep in mind that these values might vary based on the ingredients you choose and the serving sizes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos turn out perfectly crispy and delicious every time, avoid these common pitfalls:
- Overstuffing: Trying to add too much filling can lead to an exploding disaster during baking. Stick to the guideline of 2-3 tablespoons per tortilla.
- Skipping Oil: Brushing with oil is essential for achieving that crispy texture. Don’t skip this step.
- Incomplete Mixing: Make sure your filling ingredients are fully mixed. Unblended cream cheese can lead to uneven flavors.
Final Thoughts
Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are a delightful dish that is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a fun gathering with friends. It’s filled with flavors that everyone will love, and the baking method keeps things healthy without sacrificing taste. So whether you opt for a classic version or mix things up with variations and additions, you can’t go wrong with these tasty treats. Enjoy every mouthful, and gather your loved ones around for a meal that’s bound to bring smiles all around.
Print
Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: None
Description
Deliciously crispy taquitos filled with tender chicken and creamy cheese, perfect as an appetizer or a main dish.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup salsa
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 10 small flour or corn tortillas
- Cooking spray or olive oil for brushing
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, salsa, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper until well mixed.
- Place 2-3 tablespoons of filling on one side of each tortilla and roll tightly, placing seam-side down on a baking sheet.
- Brush the tops with olive oil or cooking spray, and bake for 15-18 minutes or until golden and crispy.
- Let cool slightly before serving hot with dips like sour cream or guacamole.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.