Name: Creamy Chicken Taquitos
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 8 ounces cream cheese; 4 ounces diced green chiles; 0.5 cup Sabra Southwest salsa; 3 green onions, diced; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 0.5 teaspoon chipotle chile powder; 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken; 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese; 1/3 cup minced cilantro; Small flour tortillas, 6-inch; Spray olive oil

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There’s something truly special about Creamy Chicken Taquitos. I remember the first time I made them; it was a cozy evening, and I wanted to create something comforting yet fun for dinner. As I rolled each taquito, I could already envision the smiles around the dinner table. The crispy outside coupled with the creamy filling made for an irresistible combination! It became a family favorite that evening, and now these taquitos have a special spot in our weekly meal rotation. The joy of sharing this dish with loved ones is what makes it unforgettable. You can feel the warmth and heart in every bite, and the best part? They’re so easy to whip up!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
40 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
300 kcal

Protein:
15 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
18 g

Tools Used:
Baking Sheet Pan, Parchment Paper Sheets, Non-Stick Skillet

What We Adore About This Creamy Chicken Taquitos

1. A Flavor Explosion

The combination of ingredients in Creamy Chicken Taquitos results in a delightful flavor explosion. From the creamy cream cheese to the spicy pepper jack cheese, each bite tantalizes your taste buds, offering a balance of richness and zest.

2. Easy to Make

These taquitos are incredibly easy to make, which is perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. You won’t need any special skills in the kitchen to create this delicious dish. Just gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and you’ll have a plateful of tasty taquitos!

3. Customizable

Another reason I adore Creamy Chicken Taquitos is their versatility. You can mix and match ingredients based on your preferences. Want to add more spice? Throw in some jalapeños. Prefer a milder dish? Stick to the basics. This recipe allows room for creativity!

4. Perfect for Sharing

These taquitos are perfect for sharing at parties or family gatherings. They’re easy to grab and eat while mingling, making them an ideal appetizer or snack. Plus, they’re so delicious that they’ll have everyone coming back for more!

5. Leftover Friendly

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare!), they reheat beautifully. Just pop them in the oven to regain that crispy texture and enjoy them all over again. The Creamy Chicken Taquitos are just as tasty the next day!

Shopping List for Creamy Chicken Taquitos

When it comes to the ingredients for Creamy Chicken Taquitos, each one plays a vital role in creating that creamy, flavorful filling that wraps nicely in flour tortillas. The key players, like shredded rotisserie chicken and cream cheese, ensure that you get a satisfying bite every time. Let’s explore what you’ll need!

8 ounces cream cheese – This is the base that provides the creamy texture.
4 ounces diced green chiles – These add a mild heat and great flavor.
1/2 cup Sabra Southwest salsa – For a kick of flavor that ties everything together.

3 green onions, diced – These add a fresh crunch.
1 clove garlic, minced – A must-have for that aromatic flavor.
1 teaspoon chili powder – This brings warmth to the filling.

1 teaspoon cumin – For a hint of earthiness.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Adds depth and a touch of smokiness.
1/2 teaspoon chipotle chile powder – For a little extra heat.
2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken – The star protein in your taquitos.

1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese – Melts beautifully and adds flavor.
1/3 cup minced cilantro – For a burst of freshness.
Small flour tortillas, 6-inch – The perfect wrap for your filling.

Spray olive oil – For that golden, crispy finish.

Step by Step Instructions for Creamy Chicken Taquitos

Getting ready to make Creamy Chicken Taquitos is always exciting! The process is straightforward, and the results are mouthwatering. Let’s dive into the simple steps to create these delicious treats.

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F. This is essential for achieving that golden, crispy texture on your taquitos. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a Silpat liner to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.

In a large non-stick skillet set over medium heat, add cream cheese, diced green chiles, salsa, green onions, garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and chipotle chile powder. Stir frequently until the cream cheese is fully melted and the mixture becomes smooth. The aroma will be incredible at this stage!
Once the mixture is smooth, remove it from the heat and gently stir in shredded rotisserie chicken, pepper jack cheese, and cilantro. Make sure the filling is well combined to ensure each taquito is packed with flavor.
Now it’s time to assemble! Take a small flour tortilla and add about 2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture slightly off-center. Make sure to keep the mixture about 1 inch away from the edge of the tortilla to allow for easy rolling.

Roll up the tortilla tightly, making sure to tuck in the sides as you go. Place the rolled taquito seam side down onto the prepared baking dish. Repeat this for the remaining tortillas and filling.
Once all the taquitos are rolled, gently mist them with olive oil. This will help them crisp up beautifully in the oven. You can use a spray bottle or brush the oil on if you prefer.
Bake the taquitos in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until they are lightly golden brown and the edges are crisp. You’ll want to keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overcook.

Once they’re out of the oven, allow the Creamy Chicken Taquitos to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them warm with your favorite dips!

Things Worth Knowing

Watch the Filling: Ensure the filling isn’t too wet or it may make the tortillas soggy.

Perfect Tortilla: Use small, soft tortillas for easier rolling and better texture.
Don’t Overfill: Less is more when it comes to the filling; overstuffing can lead to messiness.
Golden Brown: Aim for a light golden color for the perfect crispiness.

Change It Up

If you’re looking to switch things up with your Creamy Chicken Taquitos, here are some fun tips to consider. You can take this base recipe and adapt it to suit your taste or dietary preferences!

Add More Veggies: Consider incorporating chopped bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
Spice Levels: Adjust the level of heat by adding more chipotle chile powder or including jalapeños in the filling.

Different Cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or Queso Fresco, for varied flavors.
Serving Options: Serve with a side of guacamole, sour cream, or pico de gallo for dipping.
Make it a Meal: Pair with a fresh salad or rice to turn it into a complete meal.

Side Dish Ideas for Creamy Chicken Taquitos

When it comes to serving your Creamy Chicken Taquitos, the options are plentiful! Here are some ideas to complement your delicious dish:

Fresh Salad: A light, vibrant salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette pairs perfectly.
Mexican Rice: Serve with seasoned rice for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Guacamole: Creamy guacamole adds a refreshing element that contrasts beautifully with the crispy taquitos.
Salsa: A fresh salsa or pico de gallo enhances the flavors and adds a burst of freshness.
Vegetable Medley: A sautéed vegetable medley can brighten up the plate and add nutritional value.

Occasions: These taquitos are great for casual dinners, game days, or any festive gathering!

FAQ

You can serve Creamy Chicken Taquitos with a variety of sides. Fresh guacamole, salsa, and sour cream are classic choices that pair well. For a heartier meal, consider adding a side of Mexican rice or a light salad. These accompaniments enhance the flavors and provide a refreshing contrast to the crispy taquitos. Feel free to get creative with your sides, adding dishes that you and your family enjoy!

Yes, you can absolutely freeze Creamy Chicken Taquitos. To do this, prepare the taquitos up to the point of baking. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake directly from the freezer. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time for perfect results!

To amp up the spice in your Creamy Chicken Taquitos, consider adding more chipotle chile powder or include diced jalapeños in the filling. You could also swap out the pepper jack cheese for a spicier variety or incorporate hot salsa instead of mild. Adjusting the spices allows you to customize the flavor to your liking, making it as fiery as you want!

For Creamy Chicken Taquitos, I recommend using small, soft flour tortillas. They are pliable and easy to roll, ensuring your taquitos stay intact during baking. You can also use corn tortillas if you prefer a gluten-free option, just be sure to warm them up first so they are easier to fold. The choice of tortilla can affect the overall texture and flavor, so choose one that suits your taste!

Conclusion

In conclusion, Creamy Chicken Taquitos are a delightful dish that brings comfort and joy to any meal. Their creamy filling wrapped in crispy tortillas is simply irresistible. I encourage you to try making this recipe at home. It’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or simply a fun night in. You won’t be disappointed as you share these tasty treats with your loved ones!

Creamy Chicken Taquitos

The ultimate comfort food, Creamy Chicken Taquitos are a delicious blend of creamy and crispy, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Packed with flavor and easy to make, they’ll be a hit with everyone at the table. Try them tonight!

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 30

Total Time 40

Course Dinner

Cuisine Mexican

Servings 12 taquitos

Calories 300 kcal

Equipment

Baking Sheet Pan
Parchment Paper Sheets
Non-Stick Skillet

Ingredients

8 ounces cream cheese
4 ounces diced green chiles
0.5 cup Sabra Southwest salsa
3 green onions, diced
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
0.5 teaspoon chipotle chile powder
2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
1/3 cup minced cilantro
Small flour tortillas, 6-inch
Spray olive oil

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F. This is essential for achieving that golden, crispy texture on your taquitos. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a Silpat liner to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
In a large non-stick skillet set over medium heat, add cream cheese, diced green chiles, salsa, green onions, garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and chipotle chile powder. Stir frequently until the cream cheese is fully melted and the mixture becomes smooth. The aroma will be incredible at this stage!
Once the mixture is smooth, remove it from the heat and gently stir in shredded rotisserie chicken, pepper jack cheese, and cilantro. Make sure the filling is well combined to ensure each taquito is packed with flavor.

Now it’s time to assemble! Take a small flour tortilla and add about 2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture slightly off-center. Make sure to keep the mixture about 1 inch away from the edge of the tortilla to allow for easy rolling.
Roll up the tortilla tightly, making sure to tuck in the sides as you go. Place the rolled taquito seam side down onto the prepared baking dish. Repeat this for the remaining tortillas and filling.
Once all the taquitos are rolled, gently mist them with olive oil. This will help them crisp up beautifully in the oven. You can use a spray bottle or brush the oil on if you prefer.

Bake the taquitos in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until they are lightly golden brown and the edges are crisp. You’ll want to keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overcook.
Once they’re out of the oven, allow the Creamy Chicken Taquitos to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them warm with your favorite dips!

Notes

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing: You can freeze unbaked taquitos for up to 2 months. Just bake them from frozen, adding extra time.
Pairing: Works great with guacamole, salsa, or sour cream for dipping!
Serving Size: Adjust the amount of filling based on your desired serving size.