If you're searching for a quick and delicious dish that will impress your family or guests, look no further than Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos. These delightful rolled tortillas filled with a creamy mixture of shredded chicken and cream cheese are not only tasty but also incredibly easy to prepare. Perfectly baked until golden brown and crispy, they provide the ideal balance of flavors and textures. Whether you serve them as an appetizer at parties or as a main dish for dinner, these taquitos are sure to become a favorite in your home. Plus, they're versatile enough to customize with your favorite spices or toppings. In just under an hour, you can create a plateful of irresistible taquitos that everyone will love!
Why You'll Love This Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
- Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners
Ingredients for Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos
Here's what you'll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you're feeding
- Cream Cheese: Use full-fat cream cheese for a rich texture; let it soften at room temperature before mixing
- Tortillas: Flour tortillas work best for rolling; choose larger sizes for easier handling
- Shredded Cheese: Cheddar or Monterey Jack adds great flavor; feel free to mix cheeses if desired
- Spices: Cumin and chili powder enhance the flavor; adjust the quantities based on your personal taste preferences
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray it lightly with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Cook the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a pot of boiling water until fully cooked through (about 15-20 minutes). Remove from water and shred using two forks.
Step 3: Mix Filling
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken with softened cream cheese, shredded cheese, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until fully incorporated.
Step 4: Assemble Taquitos
Place about two tablespoons of the filling onto each tortilla. Roll tightly while keeping the filling inside and place seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 5: Bake Taquitos
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Serve
Transfer to plates and serve hot with salsa or guacamole for dipping—perfect finishing touches that complement their flavors!
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
- Temperature Control: Let ingredients reach room temperature before starting for better results
- Tortilla Care: If tortillas are too stiff to roll without breaking, warm them in a microwave for about ten seconds before filling
How to Serve Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos
This Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
- Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the filling for Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos ahead of time. Cook and shred the chicken, then mix it with cream cheese, spices, and any other add-ins. Store this mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days before assembling and baking.
- Storing: Store leftover taquitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer.
- Reheating: To reheat taquitos, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place them on a baking sheet and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy. For microwaving, heat on high for about one minute, but note that this may result in softer tortillas.
Suggestions for Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos
Use Fresh Ingredients
One of the key mistakes when making Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos is using outdated or low-quality ingredients. Freshness directly affects flavor and texture. Always opt for fresh chicken, quality cream cheese, and ripe vegetables. Using stale tortillas can lead to taquitos that fall apart during frying. Additionally, ensure spices are fresh for optimal taste. A small investment in high-quality ingredients can elevate your dish significantly, resulting in crispy, flavorful taquitos that everyone will enjoy.
Don’t Overfill the Taquitos
Another common mistake is overfilling the taquitos with filling. While it may be tempting to pack in more cream cheese and chicken, doing so can lead to a messy cooking process. Overstuffed taquitos may not roll properly and can burst during frying, causing a loss of flavor and presentation. Aim for a moderate amount of filling—just enough to provide flavor without compromising the structure of the tortilla. This balance ensures a crispy exterior while maintaining the deliciousness inside.
Choose the Right Cooking Method
Choosing an incorrect cooking method is a frequent error when preparing Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos. Some people may opt to bake them instead of frying, thinking it’s a healthier option. While baking can work, it often results in less crispiness. For truly satisfying taquitos, frying in hot oil creates that golden-brown exterior that enhances flavor and texture. If you prefer a lighter version, consider air-frying as an alternative while ensuring you achieve the desired crispiness.
Let Them Cool Before Serving
Serving your Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos too soon after cooking is another mistake to avoid. Freshly fried taquitos may seem enticing, but they require a moment to cool before serving. This cooling period allows the filling to set slightly, making them easier to handle and eat without burning your mouth on hot cream cheese or chicken filling. Additionally, letting them cool enhances their crunchiness by reducing steam buildup inside the tortilla.
FAQs
What Are Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos?
Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are rolled tortillas filled with a savory mixture of shredded chicken, cream cheese, spices, and sometimes vegetables like green onions or bell peppers. They are typically deep-fried until crispy but can also be baked or air-fried for a healthier option. These delightful snacks are perfect for parties or as a meal when served with salsa or guacamole.
Can I Make Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos ahead of time by assembling them and storing them in the refrigerator before cooking. Just ensure they are tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container to prevent drying out. When you're ready to serve them, simply fry or bake them straight from the fridge; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if they’re cold.
What Can I Serve With Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos?
Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos pair well with various dipping sauces such as salsa, guacamole, or sour cream. You might also consider serving them alongside fresh salads or vegetable platters for added nutrition and color on your table. Adding sides like Mexican rice or beans makes for a complete meal that satisfies both kids and adults alike.
How Do I Store Leftover Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos?
To store leftover Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos properly, allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer preservation—up to 2 months works well! To reheat frozen taquitos effectively, bake them at 375°F (190°C) until heated through for best results.
Conclusion for Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos
In summary, creating delicious Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos requires attention to detail at every step—from selecting fresh ingredients and avoiding overfilling to choosing an appropriate cooking method and allowing them to cool before serving. By following these guidelines and addressing common mistakes, you will ensure that your taquitos turn out perfectly crispy and flavorful each time you make them. Whether you're serving these tasty bites at a gathering or enjoying them as a quick snack at home, mastering this recipe will surely impress family and friends alike!
Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 (8 taquitos) 1x
Description
Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are a delightful twist on traditional taquitos, featuring a creamy filling that combines tender shredded chicken, rich cream cheese, and savory spices. These crispy rolled tortillas are baked to perfection, making them a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor. Ideal for gatherings, game nights, or as a quick weeknight meal, these taquitos are versatile enough for any occasion. Serve them with your favorite salsa or guacamole for an irresistible appetizer that will have everyone coming back for more. In just under an hour, you can create a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients
- 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 8 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cook chicken in boiling water until fully cooked (15-20 minutes), then shred.
- In a bowl, mix shredded chicken with cream cheese, shredded cheese, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Place about 2 tablespoons of filling on each tortilla; roll tightly and place seam-side down on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve hot with salsa or guacamole.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 taquitos (120g)
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: For extra flavor, add diced jalapeños or green onions to the filling. To make ahead, prepare the filling and store it in the fridge for up to two days before assembling.