Description: These Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are a quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying appetizer or light meal. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavorful chicken, they are fried to golden-brown perfection, offering a delightful crunch with every bite. Perfect for game days, parties, or a fun family dinner!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great!)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend (cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Asadero mix)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste (start with 1/2 teaspoon of each and adjust)
- 12 small flour tortillas (6-inch size recommended)
- Vegetable oil, for frying (approximately 1-2 cups)
- Optional garnishes: Fresh cilantro leaves, lime wedges, diced tomatoes, sour cream, guacamole, salsa, hot sauce
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken: If you’re not using rotisserie chicken, cook your chicken breasts by poaching, baking, or grilling until fully cooked. Let them cool slightly, then shred them using two forks or your hands. Ensure the chicken is evenly shredded for a smoother filling.
Step 2: Soften the Cream Cheese: This is a crucial step! Softened cream cheese is much easier to incorporate into the filling, ensuring a smooth and creamy texture. Leave the cream cheese out at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to an hour before starting. You can also microwave it in 15-second intervals, being careful not to melt it completely.
Step 3: Mix the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, shredded Mexican cheese blend, garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to thoroughly mix all the ingredients until they are evenly distributed and well combined. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning as needed. Some people like a bit more chili powder for extra heat, while others prefer a touch more garlic powder for a more savory flavor.
Step 4: Warm the Tortillas: Gently warming the tortillas is essential to prevent them from cracking or tearing when you roll them. You can warm them in several ways:
- Microwave: Stack the tortillas, wrap them in a damp paper towel, and microwave for 15-20 seconds.
- Oven: Wrap the tortillas in foil and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes.
- Skillet: Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Warm each tortilla individually for a few seconds per side until pliable.
Step 5: Assemble the Taquitos: Lay one warm tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spoon approximately 2 tablespoons of the chicken and cream cheese mixture onto the center of the tortilla. Be careful not to overfill the tortilla, as this can cause it to tear during frying. Fold in the sides of the tortilla slightly, then tightly roll it up from the bottom to the top. Secure the taquito with a toothpick if necessary. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and filling.
Step 6: Fry the Taquitos: Pour vegetable oil into a large, deep skillet or pot until it is about 1/2 inch deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches a temperature of 350-375°F (175-190°C). You can test the oil’s temperature by dropping a small piece of tortilla into it; if it sizzles and turns golden brown in a few seconds, the oil is ready. Carefully place the taquitos into the hot oil in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the taquitos for about 3-4 minutes per batch, turning them occasionally to ensure they are golden brown and crispy on all sides.
Step 7: Drain the Taquitos: Use a slotted spoon or tongs to remove the fried taquitos from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels or a wire rack. This will help absorb any excess oil and keep the taquitos crispy.
Step 8: Serve and Garnish: Arrange the fried taquitos on a serving platter. Garnish with your favorite toppings, such as fresh cilantro leaves, lime wedges, diced tomatoes, sour cream, guacamole, salsa, and hot sauce. Serve immediately while they are still hot and crispy.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
These Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for several reasons:
- Quick and Easy: With only a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, these taquitos can be ready in just 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Incredibly Flavorful: The combination of creamy cream cheese, savory shredded chicken, and zesty Mexican spices creates a delightful flavor profile that is both comforting and satisfying.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your preferences. Use different types of cheese, add other spices, or include vegetables like diced onions or bell peppers.
- Versatile: These taquitos can be served as an appetizer, snack, or light meal. They are also great for parties, game days, or potlucks.
- Kid-Friendly: Kids love the crispy texture and cheesy filling of these taquitos, making them a great way to get them involved in the kitchen.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a variety of dipping sauces, such as sour cream, guacamole, salsa, ranch dressing, or queso dip.
- Arrange the taquitos on a platter and garnish with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and diced tomatoes.
- Serve alongside a side of Mexican rice and refried beans for a complete meal.
- Offer a selection of toppings, such as shredded lettuce, chopped onions, and jalapenos, so guests can customize their taquitos.
- These taquitos are also delicious served cold or at room temperature, making them a great option for picnics or lunchboxes.
Tips:
- Use softened cream cheese for a smoother filling.
- Warm the tortillas to prevent them from cracking during rolling.
- Don’t overfill the tortillas, as this can cause them to tear during frying.
- Fry the taquitos in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Drain the taquitos on paper towels or a wire rack to remove excess oil.
- For a healthier option, bake the taquitos instead of frying them. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the taquitos for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- To make ahead, assemble the taquitos and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before frying.
- You can also freeze the assembled taquitos for longer storage. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag or container and store for up to 3 months. Fry directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 15 minutes Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information: These values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. Calories: Approximately 250-300 per taquito Protein: 15-20 grams Sodium: 300-400 mg
Conclusion:
These Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos are a delightful addition to any culinary repertoire. Their ease of preparation, coupled with their undeniable deliciousness, makes them a go-to recipe for quick lunches, easy dinners, or memorable party snacks. The customizable nature of the recipe allows you to tailor the flavors to your exact preferences, ensuring a personalized culinary experience. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the delightful crunch, the creamy filling, and the satisfied smiles that these taquitos bring!
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use a different type of cheese in the filling? A: Absolutely! The Mexican cheese blend is recommended for its flavor profile, but you can easily substitute it with other types of cheese like cheddar, Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a blend of mozzarella and parmesan. Experiment to find your favorite combination. Just make sure the cheese you use melts well.
Q2: Can I bake these taquitos instead of frying them to make them healthier? A: Yes, you can definitely bake them! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the assembled taquitos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly brush the taquitos with oil or spray them with cooking spray. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through. This method significantly reduces the amount of oil used.
Q3: Can I add any vegetables to the filling? A: Absolutely! Adding vegetables is a great way to enhance the flavor and nutritional value of the taquitos. Diced onions, bell peppers, corn, black beans, or even some spinach can be added to the filling. Sauté the vegetables lightly before adding them to the chicken and cream cheese mixture to soften them and bring out their flavor.
Q4: How can I prevent the tortillas from cracking when I roll them? A: The key to preventing cracking is to warm the tortillas before rolling them. Warming makes them more pliable and less likely to break. Use the microwave, oven, or skillet method as described in the preparation steps. Also, avoid overfilling the tortillas, as too much filling can also cause them to tear.
Q5: Can I make these taquitos ahead of time and freeze them? A: Yes, you can! Assemble the taquitos, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze them until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To cook, you can fry them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. Alternatively, you can thaw them in the refrigerator before frying.
