If you’re craving a crunchy, cheesy snack or a quick dinner that packs a punch of flavor, these Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are exactly what you need. With tender shredded chicken combined with creamy cheese and spices, wrapped tightly in soft flour tortillas, then fried to golden perfection, they’re a crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly simple to make.
Ready in just about 30 minutes, these taquitos are perfect for busy weeknights, parties, or whenever you want a delicious handheld treat. Serve them with fresh garnishes and dips like salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for a complete meal.
This article will guide you step-by-step through making these irresistible taquitos, including tips for frying, baking alternatives, and answers to common questions.
🛒 Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend (cheddar, Monterey Jack, etc.)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 12 small flour tortillas
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges
- Diced tomatoes
🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, shredded Mexican cheese, garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix until well incorporated and creamy.
Step 2: Warm the Tortillas
To make the tortillas pliable and easier to roll, warm them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 20 seconds per side, or wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 30 seconds.
Step 3: Assemble the Taquitos
Place about 2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture on one end of each tortilla. Roll tightly and secure with a toothpick if necessary to prevent unrolling during frying.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
Pour vegetable oil into a large skillet to a depth of about ½ inch. Heat over medium-high until shimmering and hot (around 350°F / 175°C).
Step 5: Fry the Taquitos
Carefully place the rolled taquitos seam side down into the hot oil. Fry in batches, turning occasionally, for about 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
Step 6: Serve
Remove toothpicks, arrange taquitos on a platter, and garnish with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and diced tomatoes. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.
🍳 Baking Alternative
For a healthier option, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the assembled taquitos seam side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly brush or spray them with oil and bake for 15–20 minutes, turning halfway through until crisp and golden.
💡 Tips & Tricks
- Don’t overfill your tortillas to make rolling easier.
- Warm tortillas properly to prevent cracking.
- Use cooked chicken from rotisserie, leftovers, or quick poaching for convenience.
- If frying, watch the oil temperature carefully to avoid burning or greasy taquitos.
- Try adding chopped jalapeños or hot sauce in the filling for a spicy kick.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?
Flour tortillas work best because they are more pliable and less likely to crack when rolled. If using corn tortillas, warm and handle very gently.
Can I freeze assembled taquitos?
Yes! Freeze them unbaked on a tray until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake or fry from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
What cheese can I use if I don’t have a Mexican blend?
Cheddar, Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a mix of these cheeses work well.
How do I keep taquitos from falling apart while frying?
Make sure to roll them tightly and fry seam side down first to seal them.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Absolutely! Baking is a healthier option and still yields crispy taquitos.
Print
Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos: Crispy, Cheesy, and Ready in 30 Minutes!
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 taquitos
Description
Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavorful shredded chicken, perfect for a quick 30-minute snack or meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 small flour tortillas
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Optional garnishes: cilantro, lime wedges, diced tomatoes
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix shredded chicken, cream cheese, shredded cheese, garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Warm tortillas slightly to make them pliable.
- Place about 2 tablespoons of filling on each tortilla and roll tightly.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat.
- Fry taquitos in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Drain on paper towels and serve with optional garnishes.
Notes
- For a healthier option, bake taquitos at 425°F (220°C) for 15-20 minutes until crispy.
- Use corn tortillas for a gluten-free version.
- Serve with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
📝 Final Thoughts
These Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are an easy, flavorful way to bring a touch of Mexican-inspired comfort food to your table in under 30 minutes. Crispy, cheesy, and packed with tender chicken and bold spices, they’re perfect for family dinners, parties, or snack cravings.
Try them with your favorite garnishes and dips, and enjoy a crunchy bite of deliciousness any day of the week!