Crispy, golden, oven-baked taquitos filled with a creamy, cheesy chicken mixture. These taquitos make an easy weeknight dinner, a crowd-pleasing appetizer, or a quick freezer-friendly snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These baked chicken taquitos deliver all the crunch and flavor of traditional fried taquitos without the hassle or extra oil. The filling is rich, savory, and simple to prepare, and the entire dish uses everyday ingredients you likely already have on hand. They are kid-friendly, make-ahead friendly, and perfect for dipping into your favorite sauces.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 10–12 small flour or corn tortillas
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack, sour cream, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix until fully combined and creamy.
3. Warm the tortillas for 10–15 seconds in the microwave to make them pliable.
4. Add 2–3 tablespoons of filling down the center of each tortilla, then roll tightly into taquitos.
5. Place the rolled taquitos seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Brush the tops lightly with olive oil.
7. Bake for 15–18 minutes or until the taquitos are crisp and lightly golden.
8. Serve hot with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 10–12 taquitos, serving 4 people as a main dish or 6–8 as an appetizer.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15–18 minutes
Total time: about 25–30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy version: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Extra cheesy: Add an additional 1/4 cup shredded cheese.
• Tortilla options: Use whole wheat or gluten-free tortillas if preferred.
• Add vegetables: Finely chopped bell peppers or spinach mix well into the filling.
• Air fryer option: Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Place assembled (unbaked) taquitos on a tray, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They keep for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes or air fry for 5–7 minutes until crisp.

FAQs

How do I keep the taquitos from unrolling while baking?

Place them seam-side down on the tray and warm tortillas before rolling to prevent cracking.

Can I use canned chicken?

Yes, drained canned chicken works when you’re short on time, though shredded cooked chicken has better texture.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Low-fat cream cheese works, but the filling will be slightly less creamy.

Are corn or flour tortillas better for taquitos?

Corn tortillas give a crisp traditional texture, while flour tortillas are softer and easier to roll.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, assemble them, refrigerate for up to 24 hours, then bake when ready.

Can I fry these instead of baking?

Yes. Pan-fry in a thin layer of oil until golden and crisp on all sides.

How do I prevent tortillas from tearing?

Warm them briefly to make them soft and flexible.

Can I add beans to the filling?

Yes, mashed black beans or refried beans mix well and add extra creaminess.

What dipping sauces pair best with taquitos?

Salsa, guacamole, sour cream, creamy cilantro sauce, or queso dip work well.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes. These taquitos freeze beautifully, making them ideal for batch cooking.

Conclusion

These baked cream cheese chicken taquitos are simple, flavorful, and wonderfully versatile. With minimal ingredients and quick preparation, they’re perfect for busy days or casual gatherings. Make a batch fresh or keep some in the freezer for an easy meal anytime.

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