If you have a craving for something crispy on the outside yet irresistibly creamy inside, you are about to fall in love with this Creamy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe. These taquitos perfectly combine tender shredded chicken with melty cheeses and a medley of spices, all rolled snugly in warm tortillas and baked until golden. The best part is how easy it is to whip up — a handful of simple ingredients come together to create a crowd-pleasing dish that kids and adults alike will rave about. Whether for a casual weeknight dinner or a fun party appetizer, this recipe offers comfort and flavor in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Creamy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe lies in its simple but thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a key role in lending delicious flavor, creamy texture, or that perfect crispy finish. Here’s what you’ll gather to get started:
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast: Use rotisserie chicken for a time-saving shortcut without sacrificing flavor.
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened): Brings irresistible creaminess and binds the filling together perfectly.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds sharp, tangy notes and extra gooeyness.
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Melts beautifully, balancing the sharpness of cheddar with a mild, buttery flavor.
- 1/4 cup salsa: Provides a fresh tomato base with a hint of spice and acidity.
- 1/4 cup sour cream: Enhances creaminess and adds a touch of tanginess to the filling.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses subtle garlic warmth without overpowering the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder: Elevates depth of flavor with a mild onion punch.
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin: Brings earthy, smoky vibes that scream delicious Mexican-inspired comfort food.
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder: Adds gentle heat and complexity to the mix.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the other flavors.
- 12 small flour or corn tortillas: Flour tortillas roll easily and stay soft, while corn tortillas crisp up delightfully during baking.
- Olive oil spray for brushing: Helps achieve that beautiful golden, crispy exterior when baked.
How to Make Creamy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures your taquitos bake evenly and don’t stick, making cleanup a breeze after all the fun.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Filling
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, salsa, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, chili powder, plus a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir this all together until the mixture is creamy and everything is evenly incorporated. This step is key to achieving that luscious filling that tastes like a dream in every bite.
Step 3: Warm the Tortillas
Pop your tortillas in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds to make them pliable and easy to roll without cracking. This little trick saves you from any frustrating tortilla breakage and keeps your taquitos looking neat.
Step 4: Assemble the Taquitos
Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the creamy chicken filling down the center of each tortilla. Roll them up tightly, making sure you tuck in the ends so none of that delicious filling escapes during baking. Place each rolled taquito seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet; this helps them hold their shape perfectly as they cook.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Give the tops a light spray or brush with olive oil to encourage that irresistible golden crispness. Bake for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until you see those taquitos turn beautifully golden and crunchy. Because these are oven-baked, you avoid the messiness of frying while still enjoying that satisfying crunch.
How to Serve Creamy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe
Garnishes
Once baked, these taquitos shine with just a sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro, a dollop of cool guacamole, or a squeeze of lime for brightness. Topping with a light drizzle of sour cream or your favorite salsa can add extra layers of flavor that elevate the experience to something unforgettable.
Side Dishes
Pair your Creamy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe with simple sides like Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad with crunchy veggies. These sides complement the richness of the taquitos while rounding out a balanced meal that everyone will appreciate.
Creative Ways to Present
Make your taquito platter the star of the table by arranging the taquitos in a circular pattern around a bowl of zesty dipping sauces. You can also serve mini taquito skewers with colorful bell pepper slices in between for a fun presentation that delights both kids and adults.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover taquitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps keep them flavorful and fresh, ready for a quick snack or meal the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze unbaked taquitos by arranging them on a baking sheet and freezing until solid, then transferring them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, bake them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating
To reheat and crisp up stored taquitos, place them on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F for 10 minutes or until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make them soggy.
FAQs
Can I use shredded rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that saves time and adds extra flavor, making the Creamy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe even easier to prepare.
Do I have to use both cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese?
While both cheeses add unique flavors and melt beautifully together, you can substitute with your favorite cheeses if needed. Pepper Jack is a great option for a spicy kick.
What’s the difference between flour and corn tortillas for these taquitos?
Flour tortillas are more pliable and easier to roll, while corn tortillas provide a crispier texture once baked. Choose whichever texture you prefer or mix them up for variety.
Can I make these taquitos spicy?
Definitely! Add chopped jalapeños to the filling or use pepper jack cheese instead of Monterey Jack for extra heat. You can also serve with spicy salsa or hot sauce.
Are these taquitos kid-friendly?
Yes, they’re a hit with kids because of the creamy cheese and mild spices. Plus, baking instead of frying makes them a bit healthier without sacrificing fun flavors.
Final Thoughts
There is nothing quite like biting into these creamy, crispy, oven-baked delights. This Creamy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe is a wonderful way to bring a little joy and comfort to your dinner table with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. I can’t wait for you to try making these at home—you’ll find they quickly become a beloved staple in your recipe rotation!
Print
Creamy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 taquitos
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
These Creamy Oven-Baked Chicken Taquitos are a delicious and easy-to-make Mexican-American dish featuring shredded chicken blended with cream cheese, cheddar, and Monterey Jack cheeses, wrapped in tortillas and baked until golden and crispy. Perfect for a kid-friendly main course or a flavorful dinner option.
Ingredients
Filling
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/4 cup salsa
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Taquitos
- 12 small flour or corn tortillas
- Olive oil spray for brushing
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare the filling: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, salsa, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, chili powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until the mixture is creamy and well blended.
- Warm the tortillas: Place tortillas in the microwave for 20–30 seconds to make them pliable and easy to roll without cracking.
- Assemble the taquitos: Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the creamy chicken filling down the center of each tortilla. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling and place each roll seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet to seal them during baking.
- Prepare for baking: Lightly spray or brush the tops of the rolled taquitos with olive oil to help them crisp up in the oven.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the taquitos for 15–20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces such as guacamole, salsa, or sour cream.
Notes
- You can substitute rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra flavor.
- Using corn tortillas will give you a crispier texture, while flour tortillas roll more easily and stay soft.
- Add chopped jalapeños for an extra kick of heat.
- For a spicier option, substitute pepper jack cheese for the Monterey Jack cheese.
