Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos: Crispy, Creamy, Crowd-Pleasers
If you’re looking for a simple, flavor-packed dish that works for dinner, snacks, parties, or even meal prep — Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are the answer. These taquitos are crispy on the outside, creamy and savory on the inside, and baked instead of fried for a lighter, easier twist on a classic favorite.
Made with shredded chicken, cream cheese, and a few bold seasonings, these taquitos are not only delicious — they’re also incredibly easy to throw together with ingredients you may already have in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love These Taquitos
✅ Baked, not fried — Crispy and golden without the mess (or calories) of frying.
✅ Perfectly portable — Great for lunchboxes, parties, or freezer meals.
✅ Crowd-friendly — Kids and adults alike will devour these.
✅ Customizable — Make them spicy, cheesy, or even gluten-free with a few swaps.
Ingredients
2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great!)
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
1–2 tablespoons sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional for extra creaminess)
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon chili powder (or to taste)
Salt and pepper, to taste
10–12 small flour or corn tortillas
Cooking spray or oil, for brushing
Optional:
¼ cup chopped green onions or fresh cilantro
Salsa or hot sauce (to mix in or serve on the side)
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Make the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream cheese, shredded cheese, sour cream (if using), and all seasonings. Mix until everything is well combined and creamy. Fold in green onions or cilantro if using.
3. Soften the Tortillas
Warm the tortillas in the microwave (wrapped in a damp paper towel) for 20–30 seconds to make them easier to roll.
4. Assemble the Taquitos
Place 2–3 tablespoons of filling on the lower third of each tortilla. Roll them tightly and place seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake Until Golden
Lightly spray or brush the tops of the taquitos with oil or cooking spray to help them crisp up. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the edges are golden and crispy.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Serve warm with your favorite dips — salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or a creamy jalapeño sauce all work beautifully.
Tips & Variations
Add heat: Mix in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Make it cheesy: Add extra cheese for a richer, gooier filling.
Use corn tortillas: For a gluten-free version (be sure to warm them first to avoid cracking).
Freeze for later: Assemble and freeze unbaked taquitos; bake straight from frozen at 425°F for 20–25 minutes.
Serving Ideas
Pair with Mexican rice and beans for a full meal.
Serve as a game-day snack with a trio of dips.
Make a batch for meal prep — they reheat beautifully in the oven or air fryer.
Final Thoughts
Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are everything you want in a quick, satisfying meal: crunchy, creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, prepping for a party, or just need something easy and delicious, this recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again.
