Introduction
Welcome to a delicious adventure in your kitchen! These Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are the perfect blend of creamy, savory goodness that will immediately fill your home with mouthwatering aromas. With the perfect crunch on the outside and a rich, flavorful filling on the inside, these taquitos make for a fantastic appetizer, snack, or even a delightful dinner option. Plus, they come together quickly, making them ideal for busy weeknights or a fun gathering with friends!
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
- 10 small flour tortillas
- Cooking spray or olive oil
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 10 taquitos
Directions and Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial for achieving that perfect golden brown crispiness.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, shredded cheese, salsa, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined and delightful!
- To prepare the tortillas, warm them in the microwave for about 30 seconds. This will make them pliable and easier to roll.
- Take about 2 tablespoons of the creamy chicken mixture and place it in the center of each tortilla.
- Now, roll the tortilla tightly around the filling, ensuring it’s snug. Place each taquito seam-side down on a baking sheet to keep them secure.
- Continue this process until all the tortillas and filling have been used.
- Once all your taquitos are on the baking sheet, lightly spray them with cooking spray or drizzle a bit of olive oil on top to help them crisp up beautifully.
- Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, watching closely until they turn a gorgeous golden brown and reach that perfect crunch!
- Serve your warm taquitos with additional salsa or your favorite dipping sauce, and watch them disappear!
Notes or Tips
Feel free to customize these taquitos with your favorite ingredients! Black beans, corn, or diced peppers can add an extra burst of flavor and texture. And don’t hesitate to experiment with different cheeses for a unique twist!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe utilizes the oven to bake the taquitos, giving you a healthier alternative to frying. Rolling the tortillas tightly and ensuring they are seam-side down is essential to keep them intact during baking. Additionally, warming the tortillas will prevent them from cracking, ensuring a smooth rolling process.
FAQ
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and roll the taquitos, then store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I freeze the taquitos?
Yes! Place uncooked taquitos in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Bake directly from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Conclusion
These Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are sure to become a family favorite. With their crisp exterior and creamy, savory filling, they offer a wonderful combination of flavors and textures that’s perfect for any occasion. So gather your loved ones, whip up a batch, and enjoy these drool-worthy delights together!