Crispy Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos Recipe for Easy Dinners

Name: Crispy Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 4 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend); 1/4 cup green chiles, canned; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 8 medium-sized flour tortillas; Cooking spray or oil

Posted on November 12, 2025

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Introduction

The crunch of a perfectly golden taquito filled with creamy, cheesy chicken is a sound that brings instant joy to my kitchen. I still remember the first time I made these Crispy Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos—it felt like magic pulling them out of the oven, all bubbling and golden brown. The aroma was irresistible, and the taste? Oh, it was perfection! Creamy, savory chicken wrapped in a crisp tortilla shell? You really can’t go wrong.

This recipe became a family favorite almost overnight. It’s the kind of dish you whip up when you’re craving comfort food but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. They’re quick, simple, and perfect for a weeknight dinner, a party appetizer, or just a snack when you’re in the mood for something indulgent.

What makes these taquitos a standout is the combination of shredded chicken and cream cheese—it’s a match made in heaven. Add a touch of seasoning and a crispy shell, and you’ve got yourself a winner. These Crispy Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are easy to make, freezer-friendly, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll want to make them again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy: These taquitos come together in under 30 minutes, making them ideal for busy weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings.
Simple Ingredients: You probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry or fridge. No fancy shopping required!
Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters love these cheesy, crunchy bites. Plus, they’re perfect for little hands!
Versatile: Whether you serve them as a main dish, snack, or party appetizer, these taquitos fit any occasion.
Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch, freeze them, and reheat whenever you need a quick meal or snack.
Unbeatable Flavor: The creamy chicken filling is seasoned to perfection, and the crispy tortilla shell adds a delightful crunch.

What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity without sacrificing flavor. The cream cheese gives the filling a rich and velvety texture, while the seasonings ensure every bite is bursting with taste. And let’s be honest—there’s nothing like that satisfying crunch when you bite into a freshly baked taquito. These aren’t just good—they’re the kind of dish that makes you close your eyes and savor each bite.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses everyday ingredients to create a delicious, satisfying meal. Here’s what you’ll need:

Cooked chicken, shredded: Rotisserie chicken works perfectly for convenience, but you can also use leftover grilled or baked chicken.
Cream cheese, softened: The star of the filling! Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
Shredded cheese: Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend—use your favorite for gooey, cheesy goodness.
Green chiles: These add a mild, tangy kick to the filling (use canned for convenience).
Garlic powder: Adds depth to the flavor without overpowering the dish.
Onion powder: For a subtle sweetness and extra savoriness.
Ground cumin: Brings a warm, earthy note to the seasoning mix.
Salt & pepper: Adjust to taste for the perfect balance.
Flour tortillas: Medium-sized tortillas work best for rolling into taquitos—you can use corn tortillas if you prefer.
Cooking spray: Helps achieve that golden-brown crispiness in the oven.

These ingredients are incredibly versatile—you can swap out cheeses, add more seasonings, or even use different types of tortillas. Don’t forget, if you’re in a pinch, rotisserie chicken is your best friend for saving time!

Equipment Needed

Mixing bowl: For combining the chicken filling.
Spatula or spoon: To mix the filling smoothly.
Sheet pan: For baking the taquitos. Line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup!
Pastry brush: Optional, but handy for brushing oil or butter onto the taquitos.
Knife: For chopping any optional garnishes like cilantro or jalapeños.

If you don’t have a pastry brush, a paper towel lightly dipped in oil works just as well. And honestly, you don’t need anything fancy—just your everyday kitchen tools will do the trick!

Preparation Method

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, shredded cheese, green chiles, garlic powder, onion powder, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well-incorporated and the filling is creamy.
Lay out the tortillas on a clean surface. Spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto the center of each tortilla. Spread it out slightly to ensure even filling.
Tightly roll each tortilla into a taquito shape. Place the rolled taquitos seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet to prevent them from unrolling.
Lightly spray the tops of the taquitos with cooking spray or brush them with oil for an extra crispy texture.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the taquitos are golden brown and crispy.
Remove from the oven and let them cool for a minute or two before serving. This helps the filling set slightly, making them easier to eat.

If you notice your tortillas cracking as you roll them, try warming them slightly in the microwave under a damp paper towel for about 10 seconds. It makes them more pliable!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Warm your tortillas: Cold tortillas can crack when you roll them. A quick warm-up in the microwave or skillet makes them easier to work with.
Don’t overfill: Use just enough filling to roll the tortillas tightly—too much can cause them to tear.
Seal the edges: Brush a little water or egg wash along the edge of the tortilla before rolling to keep them secure.
Achieve maximum crispiness: Don’t skip the cooking spray or oil on top—it’s the secret to that golden-brown crunch.
Freezer tip: If making ahead, freeze the rolled taquitos before baking. When ready to eat, bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.

Trust me, I’ve learned these tips the hard way (yes, I’ve had my fair share of cracked tortillas and soggy taquitos). Follow these tricks, and you’ll have perfect taquitos every single time!

Variations & Adaptations

Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for some heat.
Low-Carb Option: Use low-carb tortillas or lettuce wraps instead of flour tortillas.
Gluten-Free: Swap flour tortillas for gluten-free corn tortillas (just heat them up first to prevent cracking).
Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with black beans or sautéed veggies like bell peppers and onions.
Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cream cheese and vegan shredded cheese for a delicious alternative.

My favorite variation is adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika to the filling—it gives the taquitos a slightly smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy texture. Experiment and make it your own!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These taquitos are best served warm and crispy, right out of the oven. Pair them with a side of guacamole, salsa, or sour cream for dipping. If you’re feeling fancy, a drizzle of chipotle mayo on top is a game-changer!

For storage, place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness—microwaving can make them soggy. If you want to freeze them, wrap each taquito individually in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen when ready to eat.

Pro tip: The flavors deepen overnight, so reheating them the next day might surprise you with even better taste!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Per serving (2 taquitos):

Calories: Approximately 280
Protein: 15g
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 2g

These Crispy Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are a great source of protein thanks to the chicken and cheese. If you’re watching your carbs, you can easily adapt the recipe with low-carb tortillas. Plus, the green chiles and spices add antioxidants and flavor without piling on extra calories.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and insanely delicious dinner idea, these Crispy Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are the answer. They’re perfect for feeding a crowd, satisfying picky eaters, or just treating yourself to something fun and crispy. Plus, you can make them your own with endless variations!

I love these taquitos because they’re a little indulgent but still manageable on a busy day. They remind me that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. So go ahead, give them a try—you’ll be hooked after one bite!

Let me know how yours turn out in the comments below! Did you try any fun variations? Share your thoughts and don’t forget to pin this recipe for later. Happy cooking!

FAQs

Can I make these taquitos ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare and roll the taquitos, then freeze them before baking. When ready to eat, bake them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?

Yes, corn tortillas work well, especially if you’re looking for a gluten-free option. Just warm them slightly before rolling to prevent cracking.

What’s the best way to shred chicken for the filling?

Rotisserie chicken is a quick and easy option. If cooking your own, boil or roast the chicken breasts and shred them using two forks or a hand mixer.

Can I fry these taquitos instead of baking them?

Yes, you can! Heat about 1-2 inches of oil in a skillet and fry the taquitos for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and crispy.

What dips pair well with these taquitos?

Guacamole, salsa, sour cream, or a zesty chipotle mayo are fantastic options. You can also try queso or a creamy ranch dressing for extra indulgence!