Baked Creamy Chicken Taquitos Recipe with Easy Homemade Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Baked Creamy Chicken Taquitos

These baked creamy chicken taquitos are a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a simple yet tasty meal that’s perfect for busy evenings. The recipe is straightforward, taking just about 15 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, so you can have a delicious dinner ready in no time. You’ll appreciate how baking keeps things healthier by using less oil compared to frying, while still delivering a crispy texture that everyone enjoys.

One of the best features is the burst of flavors from fresh ingredients like lime juice and cilantro, making each bite exciting and full of taste. This recipe is versatile too, letting you tweak it for different diets while keeping the core appeal intact. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping, these taquitos will become a go-to favorite that’s both nutritious and satisfying.

For those watching their diet, each serving offers around 158 calories and includes 10g of protein, supporting your daily needs without overloading on fat. Folks like busy parents or working professionals will find it easy to customize and enjoy, making meal times more enjoyable overall.

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Essential Ingredients for Baked Creamy Chicken Taquitos

This section lists all the ingredients needed to make these taquitos just right. Using the exact measurements helps ensure the flavors blend perfectly and the texture turns out crispy and creamy.

  • 3 ounces low-fat cream cheese
  • ¼ cup green salsa
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • ½ teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon granulated garlic or garlic powder
  • 3 tablespoons chopped cilantro
  • 2 tablespoons sliced green onions
  • 2 cups (10-12 ounces) shredded cooked chicken
  • 1 cup (about 4 ounces) grated pepper jack or plain jack cheese
  • 12 soft taco-size tortillas or your choice of tortillas
  • Kosher salt (to taste)
  • Cooking spray or oil (as needed)

These ingredients come together to create a flavorful chicken filling that’s wrapped in tortillas and baked for a crispy finish. Remember, it’s key to use low-fat cream cheese and avoid fat-free versions to keep the creaminess intact.

How to Prepare the Perfect Baked Creamy Chicken Taquitos: Step-by-Step Guide

To get started, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet to make cleanup simple and ensure even cooking. First, soften the cream cheese by microwaving it for 20-30 seconds, then mix in the green salsa, lime juice, cumin, chili powder, onion powder, granulated garlic, cilantro, and green onions until everything blends smoothly. Next, stir in the shredded chicken and grated cheese to form a tasty filling that’s full of flavor.

Once your filling is ready, spoon it onto the tortillas, roll them up tightly, brush with cooking spray or oil, and sprinkle with kosher salt for extra taste. Arrange the rolled taquitos on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until they turn golden and crisp. If you prefer, you can cook them in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes for a quicker option.

For the best results, warm fresh corn tortillas in damp paper towels to avoid cracking, or opt for flour tortillas if you plan to freeze them. This method helps them puff up nicely while baking. Using canned or rotisserie chicken can make the process even easier, and the cooking spray ensures a crisp outer layer without too much oil.

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Baked Creamy Chicken Taquitos

Making adjustments for different needs is simple with this recipe, letting you adapt it for vegan, gluten-free, or low-calorie preferences. One easy swap is replacing shredded chicken with jackfruit or tofu to keep things plant-based while maintaining that hearty texture. If dairy is a concern, try cashew-based cream cheese alternatives that blend well and add creaminess without the lactose.

You can also mix in vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrients and a fresh twist. For those wanting less heat, swap out spices or reduce amounts to suit your taste. These changes make the taquitos a flexible option for everyone from students to seniors looking for lighter meals.

  • Protein swaps: Use jackfruit, tofu, or beans for vegan versions.
  • Seasoning tweaks: Try smoked paprika instead of cumin for a new flavor.
  • Dairy alternatives: Opt for dairy-free sour cream to handle lactose intolerance.

Mastering Baked Creamy Chicken Taquitos: Advanced Tips and Variations

Taking your taquitos to the next level involves a few smart techniques that enhance both flavor and texture. For extra crispiness, try broiling the taquitos for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. When it comes to flavors, adding diced jalapeños can bring a spicy kick, or a cilantro lime mix adds a fresh, zesty note that pairs well with the creamy filling.

Presentation matters too, so consider garnishing with sliced avocado or a drizzle of sauce to make your dish look as good as it tastes. If you’re preparing ahead, roll and store the taquitos in the fridge or freezer for quick meals later. You might also like to check out this chicken taco casserole recipe for another easy chicken idea that complements your taquitos skills.

Tips Benefits
Broil for crispiness Achieves a golden finish
Add jalapeños Boosts spice and excitement
Freeze for later Saves time for busy days

How to Store Baked Creamy Chicken Taquitos: Best Practices

Proper storage keeps your taquitos fresh and ready to enjoy later, making them ideal for meal prep. Keep cooked taquitos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to hold onto that crispy texture. For longer storage, freeze them on a baking sheet first, then move to a bag for up to 2 months.

When you’re ready to eat, reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes to bring back the crunch. This approach works great for families, allowing you to have meals on hand without much fuss. It’s a simple way to make your cooking go further throughout the week. For more storage tips on similar dishes, try this creamy chicken and broccoli pasta recipe on our site.


FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Creamy Chicken Taquitos

What ingredients do I need to make turkey chili?

To make turkey chili, you’ll need ground turkey, onions, garlic, canned tomatoes (diced or crushed), kidney or black beans, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Optional ingredients include bell peppers, jalapeños for heat, and corn. Using lean ground turkey keeps the dish healthier without sacrificing flavor. Adjust spices to suit your taste, and simmer the chili for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to blend well.

Can I make turkey chili in a slow cooker?

Yes, turkey chili works well in a slow cooker. Brown the ground turkey and sauté onions and garlic first for better flavor, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This method allows the spices to fully develop, and the chili becomes tender and rich in taste.

How can I make turkey chili less spicy?

To reduce spiciness in turkey chili, start by using mild chili powder or reducing the amount of hot peppers like jalapeños. You can also add a small amount of sugar or a splash of milk or sour cream when serving to balance the heat. Removing seeds from peppers and opting for milder varieties helps control the spice level without compromising the overall flavor.

What are some good toppings for turkey chili?

Popular toppings for turkey chili include shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, fresh cilantro, diced avocado, and jalapeño slices. Corn tortilla chips or crushed tortilla strips add texture. These toppings complement the chili’s flavors and add freshness or creaminess to each serving.

Is turkey chili a healthy alternative to traditional beef chili?

Turkey chili is generally a healthier option compared to traditional beef chili because ground turkey is leaner and contains less saturated fat. It’s high in protein and can be made lower in calories depending on the recipe. Using plenty of vegetables and beans boosts fiber content. This makes turkey chili a nutritious, filling meal suitable for weight management and heart-healthy diets.

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Baked Creamy Chicken Taquitos


  • Author: Brandi Oshea
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 12 taquitos
  • Diet: Low-fat

Description

🌮 Enjoy a creamy and flavorful chicken filling wrapped in crispy baked tortillas for a delicious and satisfying meal.
🥑 Made with wholesome ingredients and easy homemade sauce, this recipe is perfect for a quick and tasty dinner or snack.


Ingredients

– 3 ounces low-fat cream cheese

– ¼ cup green salsa

– 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

– ½ teaspoon cumin

– 1 teaspoon chili powder

– ½ teaspoon onion powder

– ¼ teaspoon granulated garlic or garlic powder

– 3 tablespoons chopped cilantro

– 2 tablespoons sliced green onions

– 2 cups (10-12 ounces) shredded cooked chicken

– 1 cup (about 4 ounces) grated pepper jack or plain jack cheese

– 12 soft taco-size tortillas or your choice of tortillas

– Kosher salt (to taste)

– Cooking spray or oil (as needed)


Instructions

1-To get started, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet to make cleanup simple and ensure even cooking.

2-First, soften the cream cheese by microwaving it for 20-30 seconds, then mix in the green salsa, lime juice, cumin, chili powder, onion powder, granulated garlic, cilantro, and green onions until everything blends smoothly.

3-Next, stir in the shredded chicken and grated cheese to form a tasty filling that’s full of flavor.

4-Once your filling is ready, spoon it onto the tortillas, roll them up tightly, brush with cooking spray or oil, and sprinkle with kosher salt for extra taste.

5-Arrange the rolled taquitos on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until they turn golden and crisp.

6-If you prefer, you can cook them in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes for a quicker option.

7-For the best results, warm fresh corn tortillas in damp paper towels to avoid cracking, or opt for flour tortillas if you plan to freeze them.

8-This method helps them puff up nicely while baking.

9-Using canned or rotisserie chicken can make the process even easier, and the cooking spray ensures a crisp outer layer without too much oil.

Notes

🌽 Warm fresh corn tortillas in damp paper towels prior to rolling to prevent cracking.
❄️ These taquitos freeze well; bake directly from frozen at 425°F for 20 minutes or air fry for 7-8 minutes.
🍗 Using canned or rotisserie chicken can save time and make the recipe even easier to prepare.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
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  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Snack, Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 taquito
  • Calories: 158
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 300 mg
  • Fat: 7 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 13 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 10 g
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg

Keywords: Baked Taquitos, Creamy Chicken, Homemade Sauce, Mexican Snack

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