Crispy Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos Recipe

If you’re craving a snack that’s bursting with creamy, cheesy goodness and a satisfying crunch, these Crispy Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are exactly what you need. Imagine tender shredded chicken blended with rich cream cheese and spices, all lovingly rolled inside warm tortillas and baked until perfectly golden. This dish offers that wonderful balance between crispy edges and smooth, flavorful filling, making it a total crowd-pleaser for casual dinners, game days, or anytime you want a comforting bite with a fun twist.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the secret to making these taquitos both delicious and irresistible. Each component adds its own magic—from creamy textures to smoky spices—ensuring every bite delivers layers of flavor and just the right crunch.

• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken: The hearty protein base that soaks up all the tasty spices and cream cheese.
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened: Adds that dreamy, creamy texture that makes the filling irresistible.
• ½ cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese: Melts beautifully for extra cheesiness and flavor.
• ¼ cup salsa or diced tomatoes with green chilis: Brings a mild kick and a fresh burst of tomato goodness.
• 1 tsp garlic powder: Infuses a subtle, savory depth.
• 1 tsp onion powder: Balances the garlic with a touch of sweetness.
• ½ tsp smoked paprika: Gives it a warm, smoky undertone that makes these taquitos unforgettable.
• ½ tsp chili powder: Adds a gentle heat to brighten the flavor profile.
• Salt & pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to bring out all the flavors.
• 2 tbsp chopped cilantro (optional): A pop of fresh herbaceous flavor that livens up the filling.
• 10–12 small flour or corn tortillas: The vessels of crispy deliciousness, choose whichever you prefer.
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for brushing): Ensures a golden, crispy texture when baked.

How to Make Crispy Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Start by combining your shredded chicken with softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and salsa or diced tomatoes with green chilies. Sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper, then fold in chopped cilantro if you’re using it. Mix everything thoroughly until you have a creamy, evenly flavored filling that’s bursting with savory goodness and a hint of spice.

Step 2: Assemble the Taquitos

Before you roll, warm your tortillas briefly in the microwave for about 20 to 30 seconds—this makes them flexible and easy to handle. Spoon 2 to 3 tablespoons of the delicious filling onto one edge of each tortilla. Roll them up nice and tight, then place seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This keeps them closed during baking and helps maintain their perfect shape.

Step 3: Brush and Bake

Brush each taquito lightly with olive oil to ensure every edge crisps up beautifully in the oven. Bake at 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220 degrees Celsius) for 15 to 20 minutes until they’re golden and slightly blistered on the outside. The high heat is what guarantees that amazing crispiness that makes these Crispy Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos so addictive.

Step 4: Serve Warm and Enjoy!

Once baked, serve your taquitos right away while they’re warm and crunchy. Don’t forget the fun — a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, fresh salsa or pico de gallo, creamy guacamole, and a squeeze of lime truly elevate every bite.

How to Serve Crispy Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos

Garnishes

Enhance your taquitos with fresh and flavorful garnishes like tangy sour cream or creamy Greek yogurt that cut through the richness of the filling. Fresh pico de gallo adds vibrant color and brightness, while a sprinkling of chopped cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice brings a lovely hint of freshness that’s absolutely irresistible.

Side Dishes

For a well-rounded meal, pair these taquitos with light sides like a zesty green salad, Mexican-style rice, or refried beans. Each side complements the bold flavor and satisfying crunch of the taquitos, creating a perfectly balanced plate that everyone will love.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress, serve your Crispy Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos on a vibrant platter lined with colorful garnishes—think avocado slices, cherry tomatoes, or scattered fresh herbs. You can even cut the taquitos in halves or thirds for easy sharing and dipping, making them perfect finger foods at parties or casual gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store leftover taquitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping them crisp can be tricky, so try to layer them without overcrowding to avoid sogginess.

Freezing

These taquitos freeze beautifully! Arrange unbaked, rolled taquitos on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, bake them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. This way, you can have a quick, delicious snack whenever the craving hits.

Reheating

To revive that beautiful crispiness, reheat the taquitos in the oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 to 12 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep them crunchy. This reheating method helps keep the filling warm and the exterior perfectly crisp.

FAQs

Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?

Absolutely! Both corn and flour tortillas work wonderfully for these taquitos. Just make sure to warm them beforehand to prevent cracking while rolling.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative like a cashew cream or vegan cream cheese, and use a plant-based shredded cheese to keep it creamy and flavorful.

Can I add vegetables to the filling?

Definitely! Finely diced bell peppers, corn, or even sautéed mushrooms can be mixed into the filling for an extra veggie boost without compromising the texture.

How spicy are these taquitos?

The heat level is mild to medium thanks to the chili powder and salsa with green chilis, but you can always adjust the spices to suit your taste or add a pinch of cayenne for more kick.

What’s the best way to shred chicken for the filling?

For perfectly shredded chicken, cook chicken breasts or thighs until tender then use two forks or a stand mixer with the paddle attachment to shred quickly and evenly, which helps the filling blend beautifully.

Final Thoughts

These Crispy Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos have become an absolute favorite in my kitchen because they strike the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy filling and crunchy, golden exteriors. They’re easy to make, hugely satisfying, and such a fun way to enjoy chicken with a twist. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try making them—you’ll be amazed at how quickly they disappear from the plate and how often you’ll want to make them again!