What’s in Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos?
These Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are a flavor-packed snack or meal that’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. Each ingredient plays a key role in creating the perfect blend of textures and flavors. Let’s break it down:
- Cooked Chicken: The star of the show! Use shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience, or poach and shred your own. The tender chicken provides the perfect base for our creamy filling.
- Cream Cheese: This velvety ingredient binds the filling together while adding a luscious tangy flavor.
- Shredded Cheese: Cheddar or a Mexican blend works beautifully, adding a gooey, melty richness to the filling.
- Green Onions: These add a subtle crunch and a fresh, mild onion flavor that enhances the filling.
- Cilantro: Optional, but highly recommended! Its bright, herbaceous flavor takes the taquitos to the next level.
- Seasonings (Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Cumin, Salt, and Pepper): These elevate the flavor profile with warm, earthy, and savory notes.
- Tortillas: Use small corn or flour tortillas for wrapping. Corn tortillas add a traditional chewiness, while flour tortillas create a softer texture.
- Oil for Frying: Essential for achieving that golden, crispy exterior that makes these taquitos irresistible!
Is Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos Good for You?
While these taquitos are a treat, you can make some swaps to lighten them up without sacrificing flavor. Opt for light cream cheese, bake instead of frying, and consider adding extra fiber with black beans or corn. Packed with protein from the chicken and the option to customize toppings and dips, this dish can balance indulgence and nutrition.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 10-12 small corn or flour tortillas
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
Serves: 4-6
How to Make Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos:
- Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream cheese, shredded cheese, green onions, cilantro, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly and taste to adjust seasoning.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat a few tablespoons of oil over medium heat.
- Assemble the Taquitos: Place 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture in the center of a tortilla. Roll tightly and place seam-side down. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.
- Fry the Taquitos: Once the oil is hot, carefully add the taquitos seam-side down. Fry in batches, cooking 3-4 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
- Drain and Serve: Place fried taquitos on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve hot with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.
Flavor Remixes and Helpful Hints:
- Bake Instead of Frying: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place rolled taquitos on a baking sheet, lightly spray with cooking spray, and bake for 15-20 minutes.
- Add-Ins: Black beans, corn, or jalapeños can add extra texture and flavor.
- Cheese Swap: Experiment with pepper jack or mozzarella for different flavor profiles.
- Dipping Ideas: Pair your taquitos with ranch dressing, chipotle mayo, or a zesty yogurt sauce.
Whether you’re serving these as appetizers, snacks, or a full meal, these Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are always a crowd-pleaser. Try them today and share your creative twists in the comments!
