When you’re craving something crunchy, creamy, and packed with flavor, these Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are the answer. They combine shredded chicken with rich, tangy cream cheese, rolled up in tortillas, and baked until perfectly golden and crispy.
Forget the fryer—this baked version keeps things lighter but just as satisfying. Perfect for appetizers, lunches, or a fun Tex-Mex dinner with all your favorite toppings.
🥄 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Baked, not fried: All the crunch without the grease.
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Creamy & cheesy filling: Chicken + cream cheese = irresistible.
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Family-friendly: Kids and adults both love them.
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Great for parties: Easy to make in batches.
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Perfect for meal prep: Freeze and reheat beautifully.
📝 Ingredients (6 Servings)
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2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
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4 oz cream cheese, softened
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1 cup shredded Mexican blend or cheddar cheese
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1/2 cup salsa (mild or spicy)
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp chili powder
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1/2 tsp cumin
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Salt & black pepper, to taste
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10–12 small flour or corn tortillas
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Olive oil spray or melted butter (for brushing)
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Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, cilantro, sour cream, guacamole
⏱ Prep & Bake Time
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Bake Time: 20 minutes
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Total Time: 30 minutes
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Yield: 6 servings (10–12 taquitos)
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a bowl, mix shredded chicken, cream cheese, shredded cheese, salsa, and seasonings until well combined.
Step 3: Assemble Taquitos
Spoon 2–3 tablespoons of filling onto the lower third of each tortilla. Roll up tightly and place seam-side down on the baking sheet.
Step 4: Brush & Bake
Lightly brush with olive oil or melted butter. Bake for 18–20 minutes until crispy and golden.
Step 5: Serve
Serve hot with your choice of toppings—fresh diced tomatoes, cilantro, sour cream, or guacamole.
🌞 Why They’re a Summer Favorite
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Lighter bake method: No deep frying needed.
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Great for gatherings: Perfect finger food for backyard parties.
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Quick & easy: Fast assembly and bake time.
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Pairs with fresh summer sides: Serve with corn salad, pico de gallo, or grilled veggies.
💡 Tips & Variations
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Swap proteins: Try with shredded pork, beef, or rotisserie chicken.
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Add veggies: Sautéed peppers, onions, or corn add flavor and texture.
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Use Greek yogurt: Lighten up by replacing half the cream cheese.
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Spice it up: Add jalapeños or hot sauce to the filling.
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Make ahead & freeze: Assemble taquitos, freeze on a tray, then bake from frozen (adding 5–7 minutes to bake time).
🧊 Storage & Reheating
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
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Freezer: Freeze baked taquitos for up to 2 months.
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Reheat: Bake at 350°F or use an air fryer for extra crispiness.
Perfect for quick lunches or busy weeknights!
🌮 What Makes Taquitos Different from Tacos?
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Taquitos are rolled tortillas filled with meat & cheese, then fried or baked until crispy.
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Tacos are usually folded and served soft or lightly crisped.
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The result? Taquitos are crunchy, snackable, and perfect for dipping!