Shredded Chicken and Cream Cheese Taquitos Recipe
If you love crispy, cheesy, and flavor-packed Mexican food, these Shredded Chicken and Cream Cheese Taquitos are about to become your new go-to recipe! The creamy, seasoned chicken filling wrapped in a crispy, golden tortilla makes every bite irresistible.
I first made this dish when I had leftover shredded chicken and wanted something quick, crunchy, and satisfying. With just a few simple ingredients, I had a plate of golden, crunchy taquitos that disappeared in minutes. Whether you serve them for dinner, game night, or as a party appetizer, they’re always a hit!
Let’s dive into this easy and delicious recipe!
⏱ Recipe Time & Servings
| Preparation Time | Total Cooking Time | Number of Servings |
|---|---|---|
| 10 minutes | 20 minutes | 4 servings (8 taquitos) |
🛒 Ingredients for My Shredded Chicken and Cream Cheese Taquitos
- 2 cups shredded chicken (cooked)
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon taco seasoning
- 8 small corn tortillas
- Oil for frying
- Optional toppings: salsa, fresh cilantro, sour cream, or guacamole
⭐ Pro Tips for Success
- Warm the Tortillas First – Corn tortillas tend to crack when rolled, so warm them in a skillet or microwave to make them pliable.
- Use Fresh Oil for Frying – Old oil can leave a stale taste. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C) for perfect crispiness.
- Don’t Overfill – Adding too much filling can make rolling difficult and cause the taquitos to burst open while frying.
- Secure with Toothpicks – If your taquitos unroll while frying, use toothpicks to hold them together.
- Baking or Air Frying Option – For a lighter version, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-18 minutes, or air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes, flipping halfway.
🍳 Tools Required
- Mixing bowl (for filling)
- Skillet or microwave (to warm tortillas)
- Deep skillet or fryer (for frying)
- Tongs (for handling taquitos)
- Paper towels (for draining excess oil)
🔄 Substitutions and Variations
| Substitution | Original Ingredient | New Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Flour tortillas | Corn tortillas | A softer, chewier texture |
| Greek yogurt | Cream cheese | A tangier, lighter alternative |
| Rotisserie chicken | Shredded chicken | Adds extra seasoning and convenience |
| Pepper jack cheese | Cream cheese | A spicy, melty twist |
| Ground beef | Shredded chicken | A heartier, beefy variation |
⏳ Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the filling ahead of time – Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Assemble the taquitos – Roll them up, then freeze before frying for up to 2 months. Fry directly from frozen for an extra minute per side.
🥄 Step-by-Step Instructions for a Perfect Shredded Chicken and Cream Cheese Taquitos
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of shredded chicken, 1 cup of softened cream cheese, and 1 teaspoon of taco seasoning. Mix well until the chicken is evenly coated with the creamy, seasoned mixture.
Step 2: Warm the Tortillas
To prevent the tortillas from cracking when rolled, warm them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 15-20 seconds per side. Alternatively, wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 30 seconds.
Step 3: Assemble the Taquitos
Place a few tablespoons of the chicken mixture in the center of each tortilla. Roll them tightly, placing them seam-side down on a plate. If needed, secure with a toothpick to hold them together.
Step 4: Fry Until Golden and Crispy
Heat about ½ inch of oil in a deep skillet over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
Carefully place 2-3 taquitos at a time in the hot oil. Fry for 3-4 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden brown and crispy.
Use tongs to transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove any toothpicks and serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Pair with salsa, sour cream, guacamole, or queso dip for the ultimate experience!
🍽 Serving Suggestions for Shredded Chicken and Cream Cheese Taquitos
| Pairing Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Mexican Rice | A classic side that complements the creamy filling. |
| Refried Beans | Adds a hearty, protein-packed element to the meal. |
| Guacamole & Chips | A fresh and creamy contrast to the crispy taquitos. |
| Street Corn Salad | A tangy, slightly spicy addition for balance. |
🥡 Leftovers and Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes, or air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes to retain crispiness.
- Freeze: Place assembled (uncooked) taquitos in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Fry or bake directly from frozen.
🥦 Nutritional Information and Benefits of This Dish
- High in Protein – The shredded chicken provides a great source of lean protein.
- Creamy and Crunchy – The contrast between the crispy shell and creamy filling makes this dish extra satisfying.
- Customizable for Any Diet – Easily adaptable with different proteins, cheeses, or spices.
🍷 Suggested Drink That Pairs With The Dish
Best Drink Pairing: Classic Lime Margarita 🍹
Why? The citrusy, slightly salty flavors of a lime margarita complement the crispy, creamy richness of the taquitos. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, try a sparkling lime agua fresca for a refreshing contrast!
❤️ Enjoy!
These Shredded Chicken and Cream Cheese Taquitos are a crispy, creamy, and flavorful treat perfect for weeknight dinners, game nights, or parties. Whether you fry, bake, or air-fry them, they’re guaranteed to be a crowd favorite!
Give them a try and let me know what you think! 🌮✨🔥
