Indulge in the ultimate fusion of creamy cheese and succulent chicken with our Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos recipe. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or craving a flavorful meal, these taquitos are bound to impress. Packed with shredded chicken, zesty salsa, and aromatic spices, all wrapped up in a warm tortilla and baked to golden perfection. Get ready to elevate your appetizer game or enjoy a delightful main course with this simple yet delectable dish.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• ⅓ cup salsa
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped green onion
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped cilantro
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 cup shredded Colby Jack cheese
• 8-10 small flour tortillas

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with foil, then lightly grease it with cooking spray. Set aside.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, salsa, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, lime juice, and salt until well blended.
3. Add the shredded chicken, Colby Jack cheese, green onion, and cilantro to the cream cheese mixture, stirring until thoroughly combined.
4. Spoon about 3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto each flour tortilla, spreading it about 1 inch from the edge. Roll up the tortillas tightly and place them seam side down on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each taquito.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the tortillas are lightly golden and crispy.
6. Serve the Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos warm, accompanied by your favorite dipping sauce such as sour cream, ranch dressing, or salsa.

Nutritional Information:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 30-35 minutes
• Servings: 8
• Calories may vary depending on ingredients and serving sizes.

Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving Tips:

1. Garnish with extra chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, or sliced jalapeños for added freshness and flavor.
2. Serve alongside your favorite Mexican-inspired sides such as guacamole, pico de gallo, or refried beans for a complete meal.
3. Arrange the taquitos on a platter with a variety of dipping sauces like salsa verde, chipotle aioli, or queso dip for guests to enjoy.
4. For a fun twist, cut the taquitos into bite-sized pieces and serve as appetizers at your next gathering or party.

Storage Tips:

1. Store any leftover taquitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
2. To reheat, place the taquitos on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes or until heated through.
3. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the microwave on a microwave-safe plate for 1-2 minutes, checking periodically until warmed to your liking.
4. Avoid freezing the taquitos as the texture of the tortillas may become soggy when thawed and reheated. It’s best to enjoy them fresh or refrigerated within a few days for optimal taste and texture.

FAQs:

1. Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
   • Yes, you can certainly use corn tortillas for a gluten-free option. However, keep in mind that corn tortillas may require a shorter baking time.
2. Can I prepare the taquitos in advance?
   • Yes, you can assemble the taquitos ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to bake. Just make sure to cover them tightly with plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out.
3. Can I freeze the taquitos?
4. While freezing may affect the texture of the tortillas, you can freeze the unbaked taquitos for up to 1 month. When ready to bake, simply place them directly from the freezer onto a baking sheet and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
5. Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
   • Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a convenient option and adds great flavor to the taquitos. Simply shred the chicken and mix it with the other ingredients as directed.
6. How can I make the taquitos crispier?
   • For extra crispy taquitos, you can brush the assembled taquitos with a little olive oil or melted butter before baking.
7. Can I make these taquitos dairy-free?
   • Yes, you can substitute dairy-free cream cheese and cheese alternatives for a dairy-free version of this recipe.
8. What dipping sauces pair well with these taquitos?
   • Popular dipping sauces include sour cream, guacamole, salsa, ranch dressing, or chipotle aioli.
9. Can I bake these taquitos without using an oven?
   • While baking is the preferred method for achieving crispy taquitos, you can also try cooking them in an air fryer for a similar result.
10. How can I prevent the tortillas from cracking when rolling?
    • To prevent tortillas from cracking, you can warm them slightly in the microwave or on a skillet before filling and rolling.
11. Can I make mini taquitos for appetizers?
    • Absolutely! Simply use smaller tortillas and reduce the filling amount to create bite-sized taquitos perfect for appetizers or snacks. Adjust the baking time accordingly.