Cheesy Chicken Taquitos are a crispy, creamy, and utterly satisfying dish that brings together the best of comfort food and finger food. These rolled tortillas are stuffed with a rich filling of shredded chicken, two types of cheese, cream cheese, and a touch of sour cream, all seasoned with warm spices and fresh herbs. Baked until golden and crunchy, they offer a delightful contrast between the crisp exterior and the gooey, savory interior. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a main course, these taquitos are versatile and crowd-pleasing. Serve them with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for dipping, and you’ve got a dish that’s both festive and filling.
INGREDIENTS:
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken breast
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup diced cooked bacon (optional)
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 10 small flour tortillas
- Cooking spray or olive oil for brushing
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mozzarella, cheddar, cream cheese, sour cream, and bacon (if using). Add the chopped herbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until the filling is creamy and evenly blended. The combination of cheeses and seasonings creates a rich, flavorful base that holds together well when baked.
- Fill the Tortillas: Lay out the flour tortillas on a clean surface. Spoon about 2–3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto the center of each tortilla. Spread the filling in a line across the lower third of the tortilla, leaving space at the edges for rolling.
- Roll the Taquitos: Tightly roll each tortilla around the filling to form a taquito. Place them seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. This helps them stay closed during baking and ensures even browning.
- Brush with Oil: Lightly brush the tops of the taquitos with olive oil or spray with cooking spray. This step is essential for achieving a golden, crispy texture without deep frying.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, or until the tortillas are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on them toward the end to avoid over-browning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with additional chopped herbs for a fresh finish. Serve warm with dipping sauces like salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.
Serving Suggestions & Variations:
- Add diced jalapeños or chipotle peppers to the filling for a spicy kick.
- Use whole wheat or corn tortillas for a different texture and flavor.
- Substitute chicken with turkey, beef, or even black beans for a vegetarian version.