If you’re seeking a crave-worthy dinner or a crowd-pleasing snack, look no further than these Creamy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos. Each taquito features a golden, crisp tortilla wrapped around a dreamy chicken and cheese filling, effortlessly marrying comfort and flavor in every bite. Thanks to a creamy mixture of tender chicken, zesty salsa, a blend of seasonings, and a double hit of cheese, you’ll serve up a plate that’s equal parts satisfying and fun—no deep frying required! This recipe proves you don’t need complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients to create something totally irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This irresistible recipe calls for straightforward, easy-to-find ingredients, but each one is a true workhorse that builds the amazing taste and signature texture of Creamy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos. Gather everything before you start, and you’ll be set up for a speedy, enjoyable cooking session!
- Cooked shredded chicken: The juicy star of the filling—rotisserie chicken or leftover roast chicken works perfectly.
- Cream cheese (softened): The secret to ultra-creamy, luscious taquitos; letting it come to room temperature ensures easy mixing.
- Shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese: Adds melty richness and a touch of sharp or spicy flavor to the filling.
- Salsa: Adds a pop of tang, a hint of heat, and helps marry the creamy ingredients with a little moisture and zing.
- Garlic powder: Gives the filling that irresistible savory boost, infusing everything with a mellow, garlicky note.
- Onion powder: Adds sweet depth, rounding out the flavors without overpowering the dish.
- Ground cumin: Earthy and fragrant, this classic spice gives your taquitos that authentic Tex-Mex personality.
- Chili powder: Just enough to bring gentle warmth and beautiful color to your filling.
- Salt: Brings all the flavors together and brightens up the cheese and chicken.
- Flour or corn tortillas (small): The all-important wrapper! Choose your favorite for the perfect crunchy exterior.
- Olive oil spray or cooking spray: Essential for that beautiful, golden, oven-baked crispiness.
How to Make Creamy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by turning your oven up to 425°F (220°C), which ensures your Creamy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos get beautifully crisp. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper—this makes for quick cleanup and prevents sticking, so every taquito comes out perfectly.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Chicken Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine your shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, shredded cheese, salsa, and all the spices. Mix everything until the filling is creamy, combined, and flecked with cheese. You want a scoopable, thick mixture that holds together but is delightfully spoonable—don’t be afraid to taste (with a clean spoon) and adjust for an extra pinch of salt or more chili powder if you love heat!
Step 3: Warm and Fill Tortillas
Gently warm each tortilla, just until pliable—this could be a few seconds in the microwave under a damp paper towel, or on a hot pan. This crucial step prevents cracking as you roll. Spoon 2 to 3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture near the edge of each tortilla, then roll tightly to create that signature taquito shape, placing them seam-side down on your prepared baking sheet as you go.
Step 4: Spray and Bake
Before they hit the oven, mist the tops of your taquitos lightly with olive oil spray or cooking spray. This is the secret for a crispy, golden finish without the need for deep frying. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until they achieve a gorgeous golden color and you hear a slight sizzle—your kitchen will smell incredible!
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Let the Creamy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos cool for just a minute before serving (especially if little hands are involved), then dish them up with an array of tempting dips like sour cream, guacamole, or extra salsa. Get ready for delighted smiles and empty plates!
How to Serve Creamy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos
Garnishes
Top your taquitos with a fresh shower of chopped cilantro, dollops of sour cream, or finely diced tomatoes for bursts of color and cool contrast. A sprinkle of crumbled cotija or a squeeze of lime elevates every bite and makes your platter extra inviting.
Side Dishes
Pair Creamy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos with Mexican rice, refried beans, elote-style corn, or even a vibrant chopped salad for a complete meal. If you’re serving snack-style, a big bowl of fresh pico de gallo or a simple guacamole on the side is all you need for happy dipping.
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging your taquitos in a spiral on a platter for party flair, tuck them in lunchboxes for a fun handheld treat, or slice them in half for bite-sized appetizers. They’re also perfect stacked in a basket for casual get-togethers—just add napkins and let everyone help themselves.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover Creamy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos, simply cool them to room temperature, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay delicious for up to 3 days, perfect for a quick lunch or snack later in the week.
Freezing
These taquitos freeze fantastically! Assemble them up to the baking step, then place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag and they’ll keep for up to 2 months. When cravings strike, just bake from frozen—no thawing needed, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating
To recapture that just-baked crunch, reheat taquitos in a hot oven (400°F/200°C) or an air fryer for a few minutes until heated through and crispy. If you’re short on time, the microwave works, though the exterior will be much softer.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for Creamy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut and brings loads of flavor. Simply shred and use it in place of cooked chicken for extra convenience.
Are corn or flour tortillas better for this recipe?
It’s entirely up to your taste! Flour tortillas create a softer, more flexible wrap, while corn tortillas offer a traditional flavor and extra crunch. Choose whichever your family loves—or make a mix of both!
How can I make these Creamy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos spicier?
If you crave a bigger kick, use spicy salsa, add a pinch or two more chili powder, or include finely chopped jalapeños in the filling. Hot pepper jack cheese also boosts the heat.
Can I prepare these taquitos ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble your taquitos and either cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking, or freeze them unbaked for longer storage. They bake beautifully straight from the fridge or freezer.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you’re out of cream cheese, Greek yogurt or plain ricotta cheese can stand in, though the texture will be a bit different. These swaps keep things creamy while lightening it up a bit.
Final Thoughts
Once you try making Creamy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos at home, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them. They’re crunchy, creamy, endlessly customizable, and always a hit with kids and adults alike. Don’t hesitate—gather your ingredients and treat yourself to a homemade batch of these golden taquitos tonight!
Print
Creamy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: 10–12 taquitos
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Creamy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a family meal or party appetizer. Stuffed with a creamy chicken and cheese filling, these taquitos bake up golden and crispy for a satisfying snack or main course.
Ingredients
For the filling:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 4 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese
- 1/4 cup salsa
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For assembling:
- 10–12 small flour or corn tortillas
- olive oil spray or cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream cheese, shredded cheese, salsa, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, chili powder, and salt. Mix until creamy and well combined.
- Assemble the taquitos: Warm the tortillas slightly to make them pliable. Place 2–3 tablespoons of the filling near one edge of each tortilla. Roll up tightly and place seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops with olive oil or cooking spray.
- Bake: Bake the taquitos for 15–18 minutes or until golden and crispy.
- Serve: Serve warm with sour cream, guacamole, or salsa for dipping.
Notes
- For a spicier version, use hot salsa or add chopped jalapeños to the filling.
- These taquitos freeze well—assemble, freeze before baking, and bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
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