Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos: A Cozy Delight
When the cooler months roll in and the leaves begin to turn, there’s nothing quite like gathering around with friends and family to enjoy a cozy meal. One of my favorite warm, comforting dishes that reminds me of home is Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos. The creamy filling, crispy exterior, and a dash of zesty salsa create a flavor explosion that wraps you in a cozy hug. It’s perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a fun game day snack!
I remember learning to make these golden treasures in my mom’s kitchen, where laughter and spices filled the air. Now, every time I roll up a taquito, a world of nostalgia sweeps over me, transporting me back to those beautiful autumn evenings spent with loved ones. This is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: From gathering ingredients to taking the first warm bite, these taquitos come together in no time, making them the perfect easy weeknight dinner.
- Crispy and Golden: Baked to perfection, these taquitos achieve a delicious crunch that is oh-so-satisfying with every bite.
- Creamy Comfort: The combination of cream cheese and cheddar creates a rich filling that is utterly irresistible and comforting.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love these fun-to-eat rolls, making them a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at family gatherings.
- Versatile: You can easily customize these taquitos with different fillings or toppings, so they can fit any meal occasion or taste preference!
What You’ll Need
Gather These Simple 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
How to Make Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy clean-up and even baking.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, salsa, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is beautifully mixed together.
- Spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the filling onto each tortilla, spreading it evenly in a line.
- Roll up the tortillas tightly, ensuring the seam is down when you place them on the baking sheet.
- Lightly brush each taquito with cooking spray or olive oil to help them achieve that golden, crispy finish.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the taquitos are golden brown and crispy.
- Enjoy warm with sour cream, guacamole, or extra salsa on the side for dipping!
Delicious Variations to Try
- Spicy Kick: Add some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the filling for a zesty flavor that will make your taste buds dance!
- Cheesy Garlic: Swap out some cheddar cheese for Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for an added twist of creamy spiciness.
- Veggie Delight: Mix in some finely chopped bell peppers or spinach for a colorful and nutritious boost that even veggie lovers will enjoy.
- Savory Herb: Season the chicken with fresh herbs like cilantro or oregano to elevate the taste and bring freshness to your dish.
Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips
- Make Ahead: These taquitos can be assembled beforehand and frozen. Just place the unbaked taquitos on a baking sheet and freeze them until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag and bake from frozen at 425°F for 20-25 minutes!
- Customizing Ingredients: Feel free to switch out the chicken for turkey, beef, or even a plant-based substitute to suit your dietary preferences.
- Storage: Store leftover taquitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to keep them crispy.
- Slicing Trick: If you have larger tortillas, slice them in half to create smaller taquitos for a perfect appetizer size—great for gatherings!
What’s Inside – Nutrition Breakdown
- Serving Size: 1 taquito
- Calories: 175
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Sugar: 1g
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 9g
- Sodium: 350mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead?
Yes! Assemble the taquitos and freeze them for a quick meal later.Can I use different ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite flavors and proteins.How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven for that crispy texture.How long does it last?
Leftover taquitos can last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Wrapping It Up
These Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are more than just a meal; they’re a comforting reminder of home and togetherness. With their simple ingredients and delightful crispiness, they’re destined to become a staple in your cozy kitchen. Whether you whip them up for family dinner or enjoy them as a tasty snack, these taquitos surely hit the spot! Save this Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos recipe to your dinner board so it’s ready when you need a cozy treat!
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Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-free (if using corn tortillas)
Description
Creamy and crispy taquitos filled with shredded chicken, cream cheese, and cheddar, perfect for cozy gatherings.
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 your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, salsa, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir until mixed.
- Spoon 2-3 tablespoons of the filling onto each tortilla and spread it evenly in a line.
- Roll up the tortillas tightly, seam down, on the baking sheet.
- Lightly brush each taquito with cooking spray or olive oil.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes, until golden brown and crispy.
- Enjoy warm with sour cream, guacamole, or extra salsa for dipping!
Notes
These taquitos can be frozen uncooked for later. Reheat in the oven to keep them crispy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 taquito
- Calories: 175
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: taquitos, chicken, creamy, easy dinner, game day snack