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Baked Chicken Cream Cheese

Category: Satisfying Main Dishes for Every Occasion

These baked chicken cream cheese taquitos deliver bold flavor and crave-worthy texture. A filling blend of shredded chicken, cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and salsa is seasoned with cumin and chili powder, then rolled into warm tortillas and baked until golden. The result is a crispy exterior with a warm, creamy interior. Brush with olive oil for even crisping, and garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions. Ideal for family dinners or make-ahead meals, these taquitos balance creamy, spicy, and savory notes in every bite.

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Created By Sarah
Last updated on Wed, 25 Jun 2025 11:39:28 GMT
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A plate of food with a tomato on top. | sarahmeal.com

This creamy baked chicken taquito recipe has become one of my favorite go-tos for quick weeknight dinners and casual gatherings. With its golden crispy shell and rich cheesy chicken center, it delivers that perfect contrast of textures with every bite. It is the kind of meal that feels festive but comes together with everyday ingredients.

I first made this when we had unexpected guests and only leftover chicken in the fridge. Now I keep this recipe in regular rotation whenever I need something comforting and quick.

Ingredients

  • Cooked shredded chicken: provides the protein base and keeps things hearty
  • Cream cheese: brings creaminess and helps bind the filling
  • Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: adds richness and bold flavor
  • Salsa: infuses the filling with tangy and zesty notes
  • Ground cumin: gives a warm earthy undertone
  • Chili powder: offers a gentle kick that enhances flavor
  • Sea salt: enhances every element of the filling
  • Freshly ground black pepper: adds mild spice and depth
  • Flour tortillas: are the wrapper and crisp up perfectly in the oven
  • Olive oil: helps achieve an evenly golden finish without frying
  • Fresh cilantro or green onions: offer a burst of freshness as garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit or 200 degrees Celsius. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even browning.
Warm the Tortillas:
Stack the tortillas and wrap them in a slightly damp paper towel. Microwave for 20 to 30 seconds until they become flexible and easy to roll without tearing.
Mix the Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese while it is still soft with the shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, salsa, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is evenly blended into a thick cohesive mixture.
Assemble the Taquitos:
Spoon 2 to 3 tablespoons of the filling mixture into the center of each warm tortilla. Roll them up tightly and place them seam side down on the prepared baking sheet to hold their shape.
Oil and Bake:
Brush or lightly spray each taquito with olive oil. This helps them crisp up evenly. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes flipping each one halfway through for a balanced golden color. For extra crispness place them under the broiler for one to two minutes at the end.
A plate of food with tomatoes and cheese. Save
A plate of food with tomatoes and cheese. | sarahmeal.com

Storage Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a toaster oven or air fryer to maintain crispness. For longer storage freeze individually wrapped taquitos before baking and cook straight from frozen adding a few extra minutes.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap the cheddar cheese for Monterey Jack or pepper jack for added spice. Greek yogurt or sour cream can be used instead of cream cheese for a tangier flavor. Use whole wheat or gluten free tortillas if needed.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side of guacamole or sour cream for dipping. These taquitos also pair well with a green salad or a bowl of tomato rice for a fuller meal. They are ideal for party platters or casual dinners.

A plate of food with a tomato and cheese on top. Save
A plate of food with a tomato and cheese on top. | sarahmeal.com

Cultural Context

Taquitos originated as a border-style comfort food combining traditional Mexican flavors with American convenience. Baking them instead of frying makes them a modern healthier twist that still honors the original spirit of bold filling in a crisp tortilla shell.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?

Yes, but warm them thoroughly before rolling to prevent cracking, and note that corn tortillas may result in a slightly firmer texture.

→ How can I make these taquitos spicier?

Add chopped jalapeños or a spicier salsa to the filling, or increase the chili powder slightly to boost heat.

→ What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat taquitos in a 375°F oven for 8–10 minutes to restore crispness without drying out the filling.

→ Can I freeze these taquitos before baking?

Yes. Assemble the taquitos, place them on a tray to freeze individually, then transfer to a bag. Bake from frozen, adding 5–7 extra minutes.

→ How do I keep the filling from being soggy?

Ensure the chicken is well-drained and avoid overly watery salsa. The mixture should be thick and cohesive before rolling.

Baked Chicken Cream Cheese

Crispy taquitos filled with creamy chicken, cheddar, and salsa. A flavorful and easy baked dish.

Preparation Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
20 minutes
Total Duration
35 minutes
Created By: Sarah

Recipe Category: Main Dishes

Level of Difficulty: Simple

Cuisine Style: Tex-Mex

Servings Yield: 4 Portion Size (10 taquitos)

Diet Preferences: ~

What You'll Need

→ Filling

Ingredient 01 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
Ingredient 02 4 oz cream cheese, softened
Ingredient 03 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Ingredient 04 1/2 cup salsa
Ingredient 05 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
Ingredient 06 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
Ingredient 07 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
Ingredient 08 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ Assembly

Ingredient 09 10 small flour tortillas (6-inch size)
Ingredient 10 2 tablespoons olive oil

→ Optional Garnishes

Ingredient 11 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro or sliced green onions

How to Make It

Instruction 01

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

Instruction 02

Wrap tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave for 20–30 seconds until pliable.

Instruction 03

In a bowl, combine cream cheese, shredded chicken, cheddar, salsa, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper until evenly blended.

Instruction 04

Spoon 2–3 tablespoons of filling onto each tortilla, roll tightly, and place seam-side down on the baking sheet.

Instruction 05

Lightly brush or spray each taquito with olive oil for even crisping.

Instruction 06

Bake for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through. For extra crispness, broil for 1–2 minutes if desired.

Additional Tips

  1. Warming tortillas makes them pliable and prevents cracking during rolling.
  2. Ensure the filling is cohesive but not wet to maintain crisp texture.
  3. Assemble taquitos up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate until baking.

Essential Tools

  • Baking sheet
  • Microwave
  • Mixing bowl
  • Parchment paper
  • Pastry brush or spray bottle

Allergy Details

Always review ingredient labels for allergens, and consult a professional if you're unsure.
  • Contains dairy (cream cheese, cheddar cheese)
  • Contains gluten (flour tortillas)

Nutritional Breakdown (per serving)

These nutritional details are for informational purposes and shouldn't replace medical advice.
  • Calories: 290
  • Fat Content: 17 grams
  • Carbohydrate Content: 18 grams
  • Protein Content: 15 grams