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Introduction
Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are the perfect balance of crispy, creamy, and satisfying. With tender shredded chicken, rich cream cheese, and bold seasonings wrapped in a toasty tortilla, they make an excellent appetizer, lunch, or dinner. And since they’re baked instead of fried, they’re a lighter option with all the indulgent flavor.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Taquitos, also known as flautas, originated in Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine. Traditionally fried and filled with beef or chicken, they’re a popular street food and party snack. This baked variation reflects modern kitchen adaptations that emphasize convenience and health without sacrificing cultural inspiration or taste.
Ingredients & Quantity
- 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 ground cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 10 small flour or corn tortillas
- Optional: olive oil spray or melted butter for brushing tops
Optional Additions
- Add chopped green onions or jalapeños for extra flavor
- Mix in black beans or corn for added texture
- Swap cheddar for pepper jack or a Mexican cheese blend
- Serve with guacamole, sour cream, or salsa verde for dipping
- Stir in a few dashes of hot sauce if you prefer a spicy kick
Tips for Success
- Use room-temperature cream cheese to blend ingredients smoothly
- Warm tortillas slightly before rolling to prevent cracking
- Don’t overfill the taquitos—1-2 tablespoons of filling is ideal
- Bake seam-side down to keep them securely rolled
- Broil briefly at the end for a golden, crispy finish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. - Prepare the Filling:
In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, salsa, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined. - Assemble the Taquitos:
Warm tortillas slightly in the microwave for 15–20 seconds to make them pliable. Place about 1–2 tablespoons of filling in the center of each tortilla. Roll tightly and place seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. - Bake:
Lightly spray or brush the tops of the taquitos with olive oil or melted butter. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and crispy. For extra crispness, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end. - Serve:
Let cool slightly before serving with your favorite dipping sauces.
Description
These taquitos come out of the oven crispy on the outside and filled with creamy, savory goodness inside. The blend of chicken, cheese, and salsa gives a bold, zesty flavor that hits all the right notes. Perfectly handheld, they’re ideal for parties, weeknight dinners, or snack platters.
Nutritional Information (Per 1 taquito, based on 10 servings)
- Calories: ~180
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 11g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 330mg
- Sugar: 1g
Conclusion
Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are a quick, crowd-pleasing recipe with all the flavors of a comforting Tex-Mex meal, but with a healthier baked twist. They’re easy to make, versatile, and sure to become a go-to favorite in your recipe collection.
Recommendation
Serve them alongside Mexican rice, a fresh salad, or a trio of dips for a fun and flavorful meal. They also freeze well—perfect for meal prep or a make-ahead party snack.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
Swap in low-fat cream cheese and cheese, use whole wheat or low-carb tortillas, and add finely chopped veggies to the filling for a nutrient boost. Baking instead of frying already makes this a guilt-free indulgence, so enjoy with a side of fresh salsa or a dollop of Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
Let me know if you’d like a printable version or air fryer instructions!