If you love a comforting dish that checks all the boxes—creamy, cheesy, full of flavor, and supremely craveable—Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are about to become your next obsession. This irresistible recipe pairs tender shredded chicken with smooth cream cheese, zesty salsa, and a warm tangle of spices all wrapped in soft tortillas and baked to golden perfection. It’s one of those meals that vanishes fast, wins over picky eaters, and makes your kitchen smell absolutely incredible. Whether you’re serving a hungry group or meal-prepping for the week, these taquitos are both effortless and absolutely crowd-pleasing!

Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in these taquitos adds something special, from the rich, creamy base to the lively punch of freshness at the end. Don’t skip anything—every bit works together to make Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos irresistible!

  • Cream cheese: The star of the filling, it brings creamy richness that binds everything together.
  • Salsa: A tangy burst of flavor that infuses the filling with moisture and flavor—use your favorite variety!
  • Cumin: Adds earthy warmth and authentic Mexican undertones.
  • Chili powder: Gives just the right amount of gentle heat and deep color.
  • Garlic powder: Essential for extra savoriness and depth.
  • Lime juice: A splash of brightness that keeps the filling from feeling too heavy.
  • Salt: Enhances and balances every flavor in the mix.
  • Cooked and shredded chicken: Use rotisserie for convenience or homemade for extra flavor—either way, tender chicken is a must for the hearty filling.
  • Shredded colby jack cheese: Melts beautifully and adds gooey, cheesy bliss.
  • Finely chopped green onion: Pops of freshness and a mild bite.
  • Finely chopped cilantro: A must for vibrant herbal notes and color.
  • Small flour tortillas: The crisp-but-tender shell that hugs all the filling together—perfectly golden when baked!

How to Make Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Sheet

Start by setting your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. While it preheats, grab a baking sheet and line it with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Give it a generous spritz of cooking spray—this keeps the taquitos from sticking and helps them crisp up just right in the oven.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Chicken Filling

Soften your cream cheese in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese with salsa, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, lime juice, and salt. This dreamy blend makes a luscious, flavorful base. Next, fold in your shredded chicken, colby jack cheese, green onion, and cilantro. Give everything a thorough stir so every bite will have a taste of each wonderful ingredient.

Step 3: Fill and Roll the Taquitos

Take about 3 tablespoons of that tempting chicken mixture and spoon it near the edge of a flour tortilla (leave an inch or so from the edge). Roll the tortilla up snugly, then place it seam-side down on your prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining tortillas, spacing them a little apart so they all get crispy and golden.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide your tray of assembled taquitos into the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. Keep an eye out for that telltale golden-brown color around the edges—once you see it, they’re ready! The filling gets creamy and gooey, while the tortillas become perfectly crisp without any frying mess.

Step 5: Serve and Savor

Let them cool just a minute or two, then pile your Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos high and serve! They’re lovely on their own but even better with your favorite dips or garnishes.

How to Serve Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos

Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Dress your taquitos up with a scattering of fresh chopped cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, or even a drizzle of ranch or hot sauce. Slices of jalapeño, fresh salsa, or a squeeze of lime over the top also take things to the next level, adding color and a final burst of zest.

Side Dishes

Round out your meal with classic sides like Spanish rice, refried beans, or a bright corn salad. For something lighter, a crisp green salad or crunchy slaw balances out the creamy richness of the taquitos beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Try arranging your Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos upright in a serving glass for a striking party appetizer, or layer them on a platter surrounded by mini bowls of dips for a vibrant, interactive spread. They’re also fun sliced in half and arranged in a pinwheel pattern—easy to grab, and eye-catching, too!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store your Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay tasty for up to 3 days. They make an awesome, fuss-free lunch or quick dinner the next day!

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze these taquitos—either before or after baking them! Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep beautifully for up to 2 months and are perfect for meal-prep or last-minute cravings.

Reheating

Warm leftover or thawed taquitos in a hot oven (400 degrees Fahrenheit) for 8-10 minutes to get them crispy again. The microwave works in a pinch, but the tortilla stays best when baked—just a couple extra minutes and they’re good as new!

FAQs

Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?

Absolutely! Corn tortillas work well, but they can be more delicate and may tear when rolling. Try warming them first so they become soft and pliable, making them less likely to crack and easier to work with.

Is it possible to make these vegetarian?

You sure can! Swap the chicken for black beans, sautéed vegetables, or a plant-based protein. The filling still bakes up creamy and delicious, with all the same zesty flavors you love.

Can I prep Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the taquitos a few hours early (or even the night before), cover them tightly, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. This makes them a lifesaver for stress-free entertaining or busy weeknights.

What’s the best way to get them super crispy?

A generous spray of cooking oil over the rolled taquitos before baking gives you the crispiest results. You can even brush a little oil on by hand—this creates that golden, ultra-crunchy finish that rivals anything fried.

What type of salsa works best?

This is totally up to you! Mild, medium, or hot salsa all add flavor, so choose your favorite. Chunkier salsas add more texture, while smoother salsas blend into the filling for extra creaminess.

Final Thoughts

If you’re in the mood for something fun, fuss-free, and packed with flavor, give Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos a try. They’re the kind of recipe you’ll want to keep on repeat—whether it’s for a cozy family dinner, a potluck, or just a snack when you need a little comfort. Happy cooking, and enjoy every cheesy, golden bite!

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Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos Recipe

Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos Recipe


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4.4 from 130 reviews

  • Author: Mary & Susan
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Diet: Halal

Description

Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are a crowd-pleasing, family-friendly snack or main dish featuring tender shredded chicken, creamy cheese filling, a hint of lime, and bold spices, all rolled in flour tortillas and baked until golden. These taquitos are healthier than fried versions and deliver creamy, cheesy flavor in every bite.


Ingredients

Chicken Filling

  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/3 cup salsa
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
  • 1 cup shredded colby jack cheese
  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped green onion
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped cilantro

Assembly

  • 810 small flour tortillas

For Baking

  • Nonstick cooking spray
  • Aluminum foil (for lining baking sheet)

Serving Suggestions (optional)

  • Sour cream
  • Ranch dressing
  • Your favorite sauce

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven
    Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and lightly coat it with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Set aside.
  2. Make the Filling
    Soften the cream cheese in the microwave for 15-20 seconds. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, salsa, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, lime juice, and salt. Add the cooked, shredded chicken, shredded colby jack cheese, green onion, and cilantro. Stir until everything is thoroughly mixed.
  3. Assemble the Taquitos
    Spoon about 3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto each tortilla, placing the filling about 1 inch from the edge. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling and place it seam side down on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling, ensuring the taquitos are spaced about 1 inch apart.
  4. Bake Taquitos
    Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the tortillas are lightly browned and crisp around the edges.
  5. Serve
    Allow taquitos to cool slightly, then serve with sour cream, ranch, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

  • For best results, use room temperature cream cheese for easier mixing.
  • You can substitute rotisserie chicken for convenience in the filling.
  • Feel free to swap flour tortillas for corn tortillas for a different flavor or to make the dish gluten-free.
  • These taquitos can be made ahead and frozen; reheat in the oven for crispiness.
  • Customize with extra veggies or a spicier salsa if you like heat!
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main-course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mexican-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 taquito
  • Calories: 239
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 514mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 41mg

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