Oh my goodness, I can hardly contain my excitement about sharing this recipe for **Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos**! These little bundles of joy have been my go-to when I want to impress friends or just cozy up for a night in with a good movie. I remember the first time I made them; I had just had a long week at work, and all I wanted was something quick yet delicious. I whipped these up, and let me tell you, they disappeared faster than I could say “taquito.”
What I love most about these taquitos is how versatile they are. Whether I’m entertaining guests or just feeding my family, they always hit the spot. Plus, they come together in no time! Don’t be surprised if you find yourself making them every weekend.
What’s in Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos?
Let’s break down this scrumptious recipe. Each ingredient plays a role in making these taquitos a delightful snack or meal.
Cooked Chicken: I usually use leftover rotisserie chicken because it’s so convenient, but any shredded chicken works great! It forms a hearty base with loads of flavor.
Cream Cheese: This is the secret ingredient that adds a rich, creamy texture and a mild tang. Softened cream cheese makes it easy to mix in, ensuring that every bite is deliciously smooth.
Shredded Cheese: I like to use either cheddar or a Mexican blend. It melts beautifully and adds that gooey, cheesy goodness we all crave.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of herbaceous flavor. Trust me; I used to think I could leave it out, but it truly elevates the dish!
Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Cumin, Salt & Pepper: These spices bring warmth and depth to the filling. Not too much; just enough to make your taste buds dance!
Tortillas: Small corn or flour tortillas work like magic for wrapping up the filling. They’re the perfect vehicle for all that goodness.
Cooking Oil: This is essential for frying. I recommend using a neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil to keep the focus on the delicious flavors of the taquitos.
Optional Garnishes: Who can resist a dollop of sour cream, a scoop of zesty salsa, or creamy guacamole? These sides just make everything better.
Is Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos Good for You?
Absolutely! While these taquitos are certainly indulgent, they have some redeeming qualities worth noting.
Chicken: Such a great source of protein! It fills you up and helps build those muscles – especially if you’re on a health kick.
Cream Cheese: Okay, let’s not pretend it’s a health food, but it does add some calcium and the satisfying creaminess that makes you feel like you’re treating yourself.
Cilantro and Spices: These are packed with nutrients and antioxidants, plus the spices can add flavor without extra calories.
But hey, moderation is key! If you’re trying to watch your intake, consider baking them instead of frying.
Ingredients
This recipe serves about 4 people (or just me on a hungry day).
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 4 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a Mexican blend)
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– 1/4 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 tsp onion powder
– 1/4 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 small corn or flour tortillas
– Cooking oil (for frying)
– Optional garnishes: sour cream, salsa, or guacamole
How to Make Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos?
Now, let’s dive into making these heavenly taquitos! It’s super simple, and you’ll be amazed at how quickly they come together.
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream cheese, shredded cheese, cilantro, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined. Trust me, this filling will knock your socks off!
2. Heat a small amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Warm the tortillas in the skillet until they are pliable, about 30 seconds per side. This step is essential—nobody wants a tear in their taquito!
3. Take one tortilla and place about 2 tablespoons of the chicken filling in the center. Roll it tightly, tucking in the ends as you go. Keep it snug; this isn’t a burrito contest!
4. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling until you have a lovely batch ready to fry.
5. In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat about 1/2 inch of cooking oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot (you can test with a small piece of tortilla; it should sizzle), carefully add the taquitos in batches if necessary. Fry them until they’re golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Remove the taquitos from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
7. Serve them warm with your choice of sour cream, salsa, or guacamole for dipping. Delish!
Turn It Up: Fun Serving Ideas
Here’s where you can really get creative! If you want to switch things up, try these ideas:
– For added flavor and a kick, throw in some diced jalapeños with your filling.
– If you’re feeling adventurous, experiment with different cheeses—maybe pepper jack for that spicy edge?
– You can always serve these taquitos with a side of refried beans and some Mexican rice for a heartier meal!
I’m telling you, these **Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos** are a crowd-pleaser, and I can’t wait for you to try them. They’re easy, delicious, and a fantastic way to make a cozy gathering feel even more special. So roll up those sleeves, and let’s get cooking! Once you’ve whipped these up, I’d love to hear how they turned out!
