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Baked Cream Cheese Taquitos are the ultimate finger food for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With a creamy chicken filling tucked inside crispy baked tortillas, this is my go-to when I need something that everyone will rave about and leftovers never last.
I remember making a double batch for movie night and by the end not a crumb was left. Even picky eaters polished off their plates and asked for more.
Ingredients
- Cream cheese: offers richness and binds everything together
- Salsa: brings a tangy kick use your favorite brand and choose mild or spicy depending on your taste
- Cumin: gives a warm earthy background that deepens flavor
- Chili powder: adds a gentle heat and boosts color to the filling
- Garlic powder: brings out savory notes and amps up the overall flavor
- Lime juice: brightens and balances the creamy filling
- Salt: sharpens the flavors so nothing tastes flat
- Cooked and shredded chicken: makes it hearty use rotisserie for ease or any leftovers you have
- Shredded colby jack cheese: melts smoothly and adds extra cheesiness look for freshly shredded if you can
- Finely chopped green onion: brings freshness and a little crunch
- Finely chopped cilantro: gives a toasty herby note that lifts the filling
- Small flour tortillas: wrap the whole thing up choose soft and flexible ones so they roll easily
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Pan:
- Line a baking sheet with foil and spray with cooking spray to keep the taquitos from sticking This step also makes cleanup so much easier
- Mix the Filling:
- Soften the cream cheese in the microwave just until it gives when pressed then mix it with salsa cumin chili powder garlic powder lime juice and salt Once smooth fold in the chicken cheese green onion and cilantro ensuring every bite is loaded with flavor
- Fill and Roll:
- Lay a tortilla flat and spoon about three tablespoons of filling just in from the edge Gently roll it up snugly so nothing falls out and place seam side down on the prepared tray Repeat until all are filled leaving space between each one
- Bake to Crisp and Golden:
- Place the tray in a preheated oven set at four hundred twenty five degrees Fahrenheit Bake until the edges of the taquitos are golden and crisp usually fifteen to twenty minutes Serve warm with dips like sour cream ranch or whatever your family loves
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My favorite part is how the cream cheese ensures every bite stays moist and luscious Even my little niece who insists she hates cilantro devours these without complaint at family dinners
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best crispness They can also be frozen before or after baking Just layer with parchment and seal tightly then bake from frozen adding a few extra minutes
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap shredded turkey or cooked beef for chicken if that’s what you have on hand Monterey jack or pepper jack cheese works beautifully for a spicier touch If you skip cilantro try chopped parsley for a fresh note
Serving Suggestions
Serve them piping hot with extra salsa guacamole or creamy dips Pair with a fresh salad or Mexican style rice for a full meal I love slicing them in half for party platters or lunchboxes
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Where Taquitos Come From
Taquitos are a classic Tex Mex favorite with roots in Mexican cuisine where rolled and fried tortillas are filled with delicious mixtures Baking them instead is a modern twist that keeps things lighter but just as satisfying
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
Yes, corn tortillas can be used, but they may be more prone to cracking. Warm them first for easier rolling.
- → How can I make this dish spicier?
Increase the amount of chili powder or add diced jalapeños to the filling for extra heat.
- → Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
Absolutely! Mix the filling in advance, store it in the fridge, and assemble the taquitos when ready to bake.
- → What are good dipping options?
Try serving with sour cream, ranch dressing, pico de gallo, or guacamole to complement the flavors.
- → Can I freeze the taquitos before baking?
Yes, assemble them and freeze on a tray. Once solid, transfer to a bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.