These Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are the ultimate comfort snack with a twist—baked to golden perfection and filled with a creamy, cheesy chicken mixture brightened by green chiles. They bring that satisfying crunch without the guilt of frying.
Perfect for sharing at casual get‑togethers, cozy nights treating yourself, or easy weeknight meals. Paired with your favorite dips, they’re bound to disappear fast!
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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2 cups shredded cooked chicken
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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½ cup green chiles, chopped (mild or hot)
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¼ cup diced green onions
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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½ teaspoon ground cumin
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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12 small flour tortillas
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Cooking spray
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 400 °F (200 °C).
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In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, green chiles, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix until well incorporated.
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Warm tortillas slightly to make them pliable.
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Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto each tortilla, roll tightly, and place seam‑side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment.
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Lightly spray each taquito with cooking spray for extra crispiness.
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Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
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Serve hot with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for dipping.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 18 minutes | Total Time: 28 minutes | Kcal: approx. 210 kcal per 2 taquitos | Servings: 6 (2 taquitos each)
Origins of Chicken Taquitos
Chicken taquitos trace their roots to Mexican cuisine, though they’ve become a beloved staple in Tex-Mex kitchens across the United States. Traditionally made with corn tortillas and filled with seasoned meat before being fried, taquitos (also known as flautas in some regions) are commonly served as street food or appetizers. The version featured here—a baked chicken taquito infused with cream cheese—offers a modern twist on the classic, delivering all the bold flavors of traditional Mexican fare with a creamy, indulgent filling and a healthier baking method.
Why Baked Taquitos Are a Game-Changer
One of the standout features of this recipe is that it skips the deep fryer altogether. Instead of submerging each taquito in hot oil, they’re baked in the oven until golden and crispy. This method dramatically reduces the fat content without sacrificing the crunch we all love in a good taquito. Baking also allows for a cleaner cooking process—no splattering oil, less mess to clean up, and more time to enjoy the experience of preparing and eating the dish. It’s a smart choice for families, busy professionals, or anyone trying to balance flavor with a lighter approach to traditional comfort food.
The Cream Cheese Factor
What sets this version apart from traditional taquitos is the inclusion of cream cheese. It transforms the filling into something rich, velvety, and satisfying. Cream cheese blends seamlessly with shredded chicken and shredded cheddar to form a filling that holds together beautifully, even when the taquitos are baked. The creamy texture also contrasts wonderfully with the crispy tortilla exterior, making every bite a delightful play of textures and tastes.
Flavor Enhancers: Chiles, Spices, and Aromatics
To keep the taquitos from feeling one-dimensional, the recipe layers in multiple flavor components. Mild green chiles provide a slight tang and gentle heat, while a mix of garlic powder, onion powder, and cumin adds depth and warmth to the dish. These spices work together to complement the cream cheese and chicken, ensuring that the filling is far from bland. Chopped green onions introduce a fresh, slightly sharp note, enhancing both flavor and texture.
Tortilla Talk: Flour vs. Corn
This recipe uses small flour tortillas, which are easier to roll without cracking—especially when baked. Flour tortillas also have a slightly softer, more tender bite compared to their corn counterparts. However, for a more traditional experience or a gluten-free option, corn tortillas can certainly be substituted. The key to success with either type is to warm them before rolling to ensure flexibility and prevent tearing.
The Perfect Snack, Appetizer, or Main Dish
Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are incredibly versatile. As an appetizer, they pair wonderfully with classic dips like guacamole, salsa, or sour cream. As a main course, a few taquitos served with a side salad, Spanish rice, or black beans create a complete and satisfying meal. They’re also ideal for meal prep—easy to store and reheat, making them great for lunchboxes or quick dinners during busy weeks.
Kid-Friendly and Crowd-Pleasing
If you’re looking for a recipe that appeals to all ages, this one hits the mark. The creamy, cheesy filling is mild enough for children but flavorful enough for adults to enjoy. Plus, the finger-food format makes them fun to eat. For picky eaters, you can easily omit the green chiles or swap them for bell peppers to dial down the spice.
Make-Ahead and Freezer Friendly
Another benefit of this dish is how well it adapts to busy schedules. You can assemble the taquitos ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. They also freeze beautifully—just roll them up, lay them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, and then transfer them to a storage bag. When you’re ready to eat, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time. This makes it incredibly easy to whip up a batch for impromptu guests or snack cravings.
Customizable to Suit Your Cravings
Once you’ve made the base recipe, it’s easy to experiment with different flavor profiles. Add diced jalapeños for more heat, use a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack, or mix in sautéed bell peppers and onions for more texture. You can also play with proteins—try using leftover rotisserie chicken, turkey, or even shredded beef or pulled pork. The recipe’s adaptability means you can make it your own, using whatever you have on hand in the fridge.
Pairing Suggestions
To round out the dish, serve these taquitos with refreshing and vibrant sides. A citrusy cilantro lime rice, fresh pico de gallo, or a tangy corn salad complements the rich filling perfectly. For drinks, consider something equally bright and flavorful: a sparkling limeade, hibiscus tea, or a chilled Mexican lager can bring everything together beautifully.
Healthier Than Takeout
With the option to bake instead of fry, these taquitos are a much healthier alternative to what you’d find at restaurants or in the frozen food aisle. Using real, whole ingredients means fewer preservatives and additives. And because you’re in control of the seasoning and spice levels, it’s easy to adjust the flavor to suit dietary needs or preferences, such as low sodium or reduced fat versions.
Great for Entertaining
Whether it’s game day, a birthday party, or a casual dinner with friends, these taquitos are guaranteed to please. Their compact size makes them ideal for serving on platters, and they stay crisp even when they cool slightly—meaning guests can enjoy them throughout the evening without losing texture. Make a double batch and offer a dipping bar with various sauces to elevate the experience even more.
Storage and Reheating Tips
To keep leftover taquitos crispy, store them in an airtight container lined with a paper towel and reheat them in an oven or air fryer rather than the microwave. This helps retain that golden crunch. If using the air fryer, reheat at 375°F for about 4–6 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy on the outside.
Conclusion
Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are a fantastic example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly crave-worthy. With a creamy, cheesy interior and crispy baked shell, they strike the perfect balance of indulgent and wholesome. Versatile enough to serve as an appetizer, snack, or full meal, these taquitos also adapt easily to different preferences and dietary needs.
Whether you’re hosting a party, prepping for the week, or just looking for a quick, satisfying dinner, this recipe checks every box: easy to make, budget-friendly, delicious, and customizable. Baked instead of fried, they also offer a healthier spin on traditional favorites without compromising flavor or texture. One bite, and they’re sure to become a repeat request in your kitchen.