If you’re in search of a delightful and easy-to-make appetizer or meal, look no further than Cream Cheese and Chicken Taquitos. These crispy, savory taquitos are packed with a flavorful blend of chicken and creamy cheese, making them a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a family dinner, or simply craving a tasty snack, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Let’s dive into how you can make these mouthwatering taquitos at home.
Ingredients
To make Cream Cheese and Chicken Taquitos, you’ll need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 12 small flour tortillas
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.
- Assemble the Taquitos: Place a small amount of the chicken mixture in the center of each tortilla. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling, securing it with a toothpick if necessary.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Fry the Taquitos: Once the oil is hot, carefully place the taquitos seam-side down in the skillet. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the taquitos from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
- Enjoy: Serve the Cream Cheese and Chicken Taquitos with your favorite dipping sauces, such as salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.
Tips for Perfect Taquitos
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh chicken and high-quality cheeses.
- Customize Your Fillings: Feel free to add other ingredients to the filling, such as diced bell peppers, jalapeños, or black beans, to suit your taste preferences.
- Avoid Overcrowding the Pan: Fry the taquitos in batches to ensure they cook evenly and become crispy.
Nutritional Information
While exact nutritional values may vary based on portion size and specific ingredients used, these taquitos are generally a good source of protein and calcium. However, due to the frying process, they are also higher in fat, so enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Why You’ll Love These Taquitos
Cream Cheese and Chicken Taquitos offer a perfect blend of creamy and savory flavors with a crispy texture. They are versatile, easy to make, and can be enjoyed as an appetizer, snack, or even a light meal. Plus, they are a great option for meal prepping or freezing for later use.
Serving and Storage Tips for Cream Cheese and Chicken Taquitos
Serving Tips
- Serving Temperature: Cream Cheese and Chicken Taquitos are best enjoyed warm and crispy. Serve them immediately after frying for the best texture and flavor.
- Dipping Sauces: Pair your taquitos with a variety of dipping sauces to enhance their flavor. Popular choices include salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or a spicy ranch dip.
- Garnishes: Add a touch of freshness by garnishing your taquitos with chopped fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, or sliced jalapeños. A squeeze of lime juice can also add a zesty kick.
- Accompaniments: Serve your taquitos with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a simple salad to make it a complete meal. You can also offer a side of Mexican street corn or a fresh corn salad for added variety.
- Presentation: Arrange the taquitos on a platter or serving tray and sprinkle with a bit of shredded cheese or chopped green onions for a decorative touch.
Storage Tips
- Cooling: Allow the taquitos to cool to room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make them soggy.
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover taquitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze taquitos. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen taquitos to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
- Reheating: To reheat taquitos, you can use an oven or air fryer to retain their crispiness. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) or air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Bake or air fry the taquitos for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are heated through and crispy again. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the taquitos soggy.
- Re-frying: If you prefer, you can also re-fry leftover taquitos. Heat a small amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat and fry the taquitos for a couple of minutes on each side until they are crispy and heated through.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Cream Cheese and Chicken Taquitos remain delicious and enjoyable, whether you’re serving them fresh or storing them for later.
1. Can I make Cream Cheese and Chicken Taquitos ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the taquito filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Assemble and roll the taquitos just before frying. If you want to make them in advance, you can also freeze the assembled taquitos (before frying) for up to 2-3 months. To cook, fry them from frozen or bake them after thawing.
2. Can I bake the taquitos instead of frying them?
Absolutely! Baking is a healthier alternative to frying. To bake your taquitos, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the taquitos in a single layer on a baking sheet and lightly brush them with oil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. You may need to flip them halfway through for even cooking.
3. What can I use instead of flour tortillas?
If you prefer, you can use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas for a gluten-free option. Corn tortillas are slightly more fragile, so you may need to warm them in a dry skillet or microwave to make them more pliable before filling and rolling. Alternatively, you can use whole wheat tortillas for a healthier twist.
4. How can I make the filling spicier?
To add some heat to the filling, you can incorporate ingredients such as chopped jalapeños, diced green chilies, or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also mix in some hot sauce or a spicy salsa into the cream cheese mixture. Adjust the amount according to your spice preference.