Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos

Indulge in the creamy, cheesy goodness of Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos, a perfect blend of comfort food and Mexican flavors. These crispy rolls are ideal for any occasion, from game days to family gatherings. With their delicious filling and crunchy exterior, they are sure to be a hit with everyone. Plus, they are simple to make and can be customized with various toppings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavorful Filling: The combination of cream cheese and spices creates a rich, flavorful filling that pairs perfectly with the crispy tortillas.
• Versatile Toppings: Tailor your taquitos with your favorite garnishes like cilantro or lime wedges to match your taste.
• Crowd-Pleaser: These taquitos appeal to all ages, ensuring that everyone will enjoy them at parties or family dinners.
• Easy Customization: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or spices based on your preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delightful recipe, gather your tools to streamline the cooking process. Having everything ready will help you create the best Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Frying pan
• Slotted spoon
• Paper towels or wire rack for draining

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space for combining ingredients without spills.
• Frying pan: Ensures even cooking and crispy results for your taquitos.
• Slotted spoon: Helps remove taquitos from hot oil while allowing excess oil to drain away.

Ingredients

To make these delicious Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos, you’ll need the following:

• 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

How to Make Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos

Step 1: Mix Filling

In a large bowl, combine the following ingredients:
1. Shredded chicken
2. Cream cheese
3. Shredded Mexican cheese blend
4. Garlic powder
5. Chili powder
6. Cumin
7. Salt and pepper

Mix until well combined.

Step 2: Prepare Tortillas

Warm the tortillas slightly in the microwave or on a skillet to make them pliable for rolling.

Step 3: Assemble Taquitos

Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto each tortilla. Roll tightly and secure with a toothpick if necessary.

Step 4: Fry Taquitos

Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Fry the taquitos in batches, turning them until all sides are golden brown and crispy, which should take about 3-4 minutes per batch.

Step 5: Drain

Remove the taquitos from the oil using a slotted spoon and drain them on paper towels or a wire rack.

Step 6: Serve

Garnish with your choice of toppings such as cilantro, lime wedges, or diced tomatoes. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces for an extra flavor boost!

How to Serve Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos

Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are a versatile dish perfect for any gathering or cozy night in. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to enhance your taquito experience.

With Fresh Salsa

• Fresh salsa adds a burst of flavor and freshness that complements the creamy filling beautifully. Choose from classic tomato salsa or a zesty mango salsa for a sweet twist.

Accompanied by Guacamole

• Creamy guacamole provides a rich contrast to the crispy taquitos, making each bite heavenly. Make your own with ripe avocados, lime juice, and spices for the best taste.

Topped with Sour Cream

• A dollop of sour cream on top of your taquitos offers a tangy flavor that balances the richness of the cream cheese and chicken filling.

Served with Cilantro Lime Rice

• This light and flavorful rice dish pairs nicely with taquitos, adding an aromatic touch that enhances the overall meal.

Garnished with Fresh Cilantro

• Sprinkling fresh cilantro over your taquitos not only adds color but also infuses a refreshing herbal note that brightens each bite.

With Lime Wedges

• Squeezing fresh lime juice over the taquitos just before eating elevates the flavors and adds a delightful zest.

How to Perfect Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos

To ensure your Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Warm Tortillas: Warming tortillas makes them pliable, preventing tears when rolling your taquitos.
• Don’t Overfill: Use about 2 tablespoons of filling per tortilla to prevent spills during frying.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep oil at medium-high heat for even cooking; too low will make them greasy, while too high may burn them.
• Fry in Batches: Frying in small batches allows each taquito to cook evenly and become crispy.
• Drain Properly: Let fried taquitos rest on paper towels or a wire rack to remove excess oil for a crunchier texture.
• Experiment with Spices: Adjust spices like chili powder or cumin according to your taste preference for a custom flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos

Pairing side dishes with your Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Mexican Street Corn: Grilled corn on the cob topped with mayo, cheese, and chili powder creates a flavorful side that complements taquitos perfectly.
2. Black Bean Salad: A refreshing salad made with black beans, corn, diced peppers, and avocado offers protein and fiber alongside your taquitos.
3. Spanish Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices provides a hearty base that balances the crispiness of the taquitos.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted veggies add nutrition and can be seasoned simply with olive oil and salt for an easy side.
5. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with various salsas provide an extra snack option before or alongside your main dish.
6. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad featuring mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and avocado drizzled with vinaigrette offers freshness against the rich filling of the taquitos.
7. Queso Dip: A warm cheese dip is always a crowd-pleaser; serve it alongside for dipping or drizzling over your taquitos for added creaminess.
8. Cilantro Lime Quinoa: This protein-packed grain dish offers bright flavors that complement both the chicken filling and other sides beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Overfilling the tortillas: Adding too much filling can cause the taquitos to burst while frying. Use about 2 tablespoons of filling per tortilla for optimal results.
• Not warming the tortillas: Cold tortillas can crack when rolled. Always warm them slightly in the microwave or on a skillet before assembling.
• Using the wrong oil temperature: If the oil is not hot enough, taquitos will absorb too much oil and become greasy. Heat oil to medium-high before frying for crispy results.
• Skipping seasoning: A bland filling can make your taquitos unappetizing. Don’t forget to season well with salt and pepper, along with spices like chili powder and cumin.
• Frying too many at once: Overcrowding the pan can lower the oil temperature and lead to soggy taquitos. Fry in small batches for even cooking.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover taquitos in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos

• Place cooled taquitos in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They will last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos

• Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
• Microwave: Place taquitos on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add taquitos and cook for 3-5 minutes on each side until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos?

Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are crispy rolled tortillas filled with a creamy mixture of shredded chicken and cheese, seasoned with spices.

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes! Rotisserie chicken is an excellent choice as it saves time and adds great flavor to the filling.

How do I customize my Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or corn to the filling or use different types of cheese based on your preference.

Are Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos gluten-free?

If you use gluten-free tortillas, they can be made gluten-free. Always check labels when purchasing tortillas.

How do I serve Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos?

Serve them with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream as dipping sauces for added flavor.

Final Thoughts

Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with various fillings and toppings according to your taste. Whether it’s game day or a simple family dinner, these taquitos are sure to please everyone. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy every crispy bite!