Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos Recipe: Crispy, Cheesy & Flavorful Dish

Making Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos was a delightful surprise for me. I never imagined such a simple recipe could pack so much flavor! The creamy, cheesy filling wrapped in a golden, crispy tortilla is pure comfort food.

Whether I’m whipping these up for a quick family dinner or serving them as appetizers at a party, they’re always a hit. And the best part? They’re ready in just 30 minutes, making them a lifesaver on busy days!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These taquitos come together with just a few simple ingredients that deliver big on flavor.

2 cups shredded chicken: Juicy, tender chicken is the star of this recipe, holding all the flavors together.
4 ounces cream cheese (softened): This adds a rich, creamy texture that makes the filling irresistible.
1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend: Freshly shredded cheese melts better and gives a gooey, delicious finish.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the savory notes in every bite.
1 teaspoon chili powder: Adds a mild kick of spice without overwhelming the dish.
½ teaspoon cumin: Brings a warm, earthy flavor that balances the spices.
Salt and black pepper to taste: A classic seasoning duo to tie all the flavors together.
8 small flour tortillas: Perfectly sized for bite-sized, crispy taquitos.
Vegetable oil (enough for frying): Essential for achieving that golden, crunchy exterior.

Note: This recipe serves approximately 4 people.

Variations for Every Taste

Make this recipe your own with these fun and flavorful twists:

Vegetarian-Friendly: Replace the chicken with black beans, roasted peppers, and sweet corn for a hearty, meat-free option.
Spice Boost: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
Cheese Swap: Try cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a bold, cheesy twist.
Protein Twist: Use shredded beef or pork for a delicious variation.

Cooking Time

This recipe is quick and easy, perfect for any schedule.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Equipment You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make these taquitos effortlessly:

Mixing Bowl: For combining the creamy, flavorful filling.
Skillet: To fry the taquitos evenly to golden perfection.
Toothpicks: To keep the taquitos securely rolled while frying.
Wire Rack or Paper Towels: For draining excess oil and keeping them crispy.

How to Make Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos?

These taquitos are so simple to make, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again. Let’s dive in!

Prepare the Filling

Start by combining the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, shredded Mexican cheese blend, garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper in a mixing bowl. Mix everything together until it’s creamy and well-blended. This step is where all the flavors come together, creating a filling that’s rich and irresistible.

Warm the Tortillas

To make the tortillas pliable and easy to roll, warm them slightly. You can do this by covering them with a damp paper towel and microwaving for a few seconds or heating them briefly in a skillet. Trust me, this step is crucial to prevent cracking when you roll them.

Fill and Roll

Spoon about two tablespoons of the filling onto each tortilla and spread it slightly. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling, tucking in the ends for a neat finish. If needed, secure each taquito with a toothpick to keep it from unrolling during frying. This little step ensures perfect results every time.

Fry to Perfection

Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil reaches about 350°F, fry the taquitos in small batches. Turn them frequently to ensure all sides are golden brown and crispy, which takes about 3–4 minutes. Once done, place them on a wire rack or paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Garnish and Serve

Arrange the crispy taquitos on a serving platter. Garnish with fresh cilantro and diced tomatoes for a pop of color. Serve them with lime wedges and dipping sauces like guacamole, salsa, or sour cream for an irresistible finish.

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

Here are some tips I’ve learned to make these taquitos even better:

Roll Tight: Keep the filling from spilling out by rolling the tortillas as tightly as possible.
Don’t Overfill: Stick to about two tablespoons of filling per tortilla for easy rolling.
Oil Temperature: Keep the oil between 350°F–375°F for perfectly crispy taquitos.
Crispiness Hack: Let the taquitos drain on a wire rack instead of paper towels to maintain their crunch.

How to Serve Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos?

Presentation is everything! Stack the taquitos neatly on a platter and garnish with chopped cilantro and lime wedges for a fresh, vibrant look. Pair them with dips like guacamole, salsa, or sour cream for added flavor.

For a complete meal, serve with sides like Mexican rice or a black bean salad. And don’t forget to pair them with an ice-cold margarita or sparkling water with a lime twist for the perfect finishing touch.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional content per serving:

Calories: 313
Protein: 14g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fat: 15g

Make Ahead and Storage

These taquitos are perfect for prepping ahead or storing for later.

Make Ahead: Prepare the filling up to two days in advance and store it in the fridge. Assemble and fry the taquitos when ready to serve.
Refrigeration: Store leftover taquitos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Freezing: Freeze uncooked taquitos on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to two months.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 375°F for 8–10 minutes to maintain their crunch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Here’s why these taquitos will become a favorite in your kitchen:

Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
Crowd-Pleaser: A hit at parties or family dinners, with flavors everyone loves.
Customizable: Easily adaptable to fit dietary preferences or add variety.
Flavorful: The perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and crispy in every bite.
Freezer-Friendly: Great for meal prep and future quick meals.

Once you try these Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos, you’ll see why they’re a staple in my kitchen. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a party appetizer, they’re guaranteed to impress!

Ash Tyrrell