Enjoy golden, crispy taquitos filled with a luscious mixture of shredded chicken, cream cheese, and melty cheddar, all wrapped in warm tortillas. Quick to prepare, these crowd-pleasers deliver rich flavor with a hint of Tex-Mex spice from salsa, cumin, and chili powder. Ideal as starters for gatherings or casual meals, they’re easy to make ahead and freeze, plus you can tailor the filling’s heat to your liking. Serve fresh out of the oven with guacamole, sour cream, or salsa, and garnish with your favorite toppings for an irresistible snack or meal.

These baked cream cheese chicken taquitos are my go-to whenever I need something crowd-pleasing for game day or an easy weeknight dinner. They’re crispy on the outside and buttery soft inside with the help of a creamy, cheesy chicken filling. You can prep them ahead, stash in the freezer, and bake straight from frozen for the ultimate low-effort meal.

I first made these on a whim for a potluck, and watched an entire tray disappear in ten minutes. They’ve been requested for every birthday and backyard get-together since.

Ingredients

Shredded cooked chicken: Go for rotisserie chicken for rich flavor and juicy texture
Cream cheese: Softened to room temperature so it blends smoothly into the mix
Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese: Lends a gooey melt and robust flavor; blend both for extra cheesiness
Salsa: Use your favorite heat level to control spice and add tang; replace with homemade pico de gallo for brighter flavor
Ground cumin: Delivers warm Tex-Mex depth; taste and aroma are best with a fresh container
Chili powder: Gives that signature color and flavor; choose a pure chili powder blend if you can
Salt and black pepper: Season to taste and balance all the richness
Chopped green onions or cilantro: Adds herbal brightness; if buying cilantro pick bundles with fresh firm stems and even green leaves
Small flour or corn tortillas: Six inch are ideal for rolling up tight and crisp; for gluten-free go with corn and heat them so they do not crack
Cooking spray or olive oil: Brushing these on gives the perfect golden crisp; for best results use a high quality olive oil
Guacamole, sour cream, salsa or pico de gallo: The best toppings for dipping; feel free to use store bought or homemade
Shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes or extra shredded cheese: Adds a fresh finish and more color; look for crisp lettuce and ripe tomatoes for garnish

Next→