Crunchy, Cheesy, and Loaded with Flavor!
Taquitos are one of those irresistible, handheld snacks that disappear the second they hit the table. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner, game day, or meal prep, these baked chicken taquitos deliver all the crispy, cheesy goodness of traditional fried taquitos—without the extra oil!
The key to these taquitos? A flavor-packed, shredded chicken filling mixed with cream cheese, salsa, and plenty of melty cheese, all wrapped in a corn tortilla and baked until golden brown. Serve them up with guacamole, sour cream, or salsa for the ultimate bite!
Let’s get rolling!
Why You’ll Love These Baked Chicken Taquitos
✔️ Crispy & Crunchy – No deep frying needed!
✔️ Flavor-Packed Filling – Creamy, cheesy, and slightly spicy.
✔️ Easy to Make – Quick prep and minimal ingredients.
✔️ Family-Friendly – Kids and adults love them.
✔️ Great for Meal Prep – Freeze for easy grab-and-go snacks.
Cuisine: Mexican, Tex-Mex
Tips for the Best Baked Taquitos
- Warm tortillas before rolling to prevent cracking.
- Brush with oil or spray lightly for extra crispiness.
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Bake on a wire rack for even crispiness.
- Don’t overfill! Too much filling makes them hard to roll.
Substitutions & Variations
- Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or extra chili powder.
- Cheese Options:Â Try pepper jack or Monterey Jack.
- Make It Gluten-Free:Â Use corn tortillas.
- Low-Carb Option:Â Use almond flour tortillas.
- Air Fryer Method: Air fry at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway.
Make a Healthier Version
- Use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese.
- Reduce cheese to lower fat content.
- Use whole wheat tortillas for extra fiber.
- Bake instead of fry (already a healthier option!).
And there you have it!
These crispy, cheesy baked chicken taquitos are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Perfect for dipping, snacking, or even meal prepping. Give them a try and let us know how they turn out!
Categories: Appetizers, Dinner, Mexican Cuisine, Meal Prep
Tags: baked taquitos, crispy taquitos, healthy Mexican, easy dinner, meal prep
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble and freeze before baking. Bake straight from frozen at 425°F for 20-25 minutes.
2. Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?
Absolutely! Flour tortillas roll easier and bake up crisp as well.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
4. How do I reheat taquitos?
Reheat in the oven at 375°F for 10 minutes or air fry at 350°F for 5 minutes.
5. Can I use beef or pork instead of chicken?
Yes! Shredded beef or pulled pork work great.
6. Can I make vegetarian taquitos?
Swap the chicken for black beans, refried beans, or sautéed veggies.
7. How do I prevent tortillas from cracking?
Warm them in the microwave with a damp paper towel before rolling.
8. What’s the best dip for taquitos?
Salsa, guacamole, queso, or sour cream!
9. Can I make these dairy-free?
Yes! Use dairy-free cheese and cashew-based cream cheese.
10. What sides go well with taquitos?
Serve with Mexican rice, black beans, or a fresh avocado salad.
Baked Chicken Taquitos
Description
Taquitos are one of those irresistible, handheld snacks that disappear the second they hit the table.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great!)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup salsa (mild, medium, or spicy)
- 1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese (or cheddar)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ÂĽ teaspoon salt
- ÂĽ teaspoon black pepper
- 10–12 small corn tortillas
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Filling
- In a large bowl, mix shredded chicken, cream cheese, salsa, shredded cheese, and seasonings until fully combined.
Step 2: Warm the Tortillas
- Wrap tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave for 30-45 seconds to make them pliable.
- This prevents cracking when rolling.
Step 3: Roll the Taquitos
- Place 2 tablespoons of the filling on one edge of a tortilla and tightly roll it up.
- Place seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake Until Crispy
- Lightly spray the taquitos with cooking spray (or brush with olive oil).
- Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
- Serve with guacamole, sour cream, or salsa for dipping!