Name: Cheesy Chicken Taquitos Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 4 ounces soft cheese spread; ⅓ cup chunky salsa; ½ teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon spicy chili powder; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice; ¼ teaspoon table salt; 2 cups pulled cooked chicken; 1 cup grated colby jack cheese blend; 1 tablespoon snipped green onion tops; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro leaves; 8–10 small flour tortillas

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If you’re searching for the ultimate crave-worthy snack or a quick crowd-pleasing dinner, look no further than this Cheesy Chicken Taquitos Recipe. It’s a speedy, flavor-packed dish that wraps creamy cheese, juicy shredded chicken, and zippy Tex-Mex spices all inside a perfectly crisp flour tortilla. Whether you need a party appetizer, a finger-friendly movie night treat, or a last-minute weeknight meal, these taquitos hit every mark — they bake up golden and crunchy in just 30 minutes! Let me show you just how easy it is to deliver big taste and cheesy satisfaction in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of my favorite things about this Cheesy Chicken Taquitos Recipe is how straightforward, yet totally essential, the ingredients are. Each element layers in flavor, texture, or color, so don’t skip any — they all play their part in making these taquitos irresistible.

Soft Cheese Spread: This gives the filling its creamy, tangy base and helps bind the mixture together as it bakes.
Chunky Salsa: Adds brightness, a kiss of acidity, and little pops of veggies throughout every roll.
Ground Cumin: Offers a warm, earthy backbone that makes the taquitos taste undeniably Tex-Mex.
Spicy Chili Powder: Brings the heat and a beautiful brick-red color to the chicken filling.
Garlic Powder: A must for deep, savory flavor in every bite.
Fresh Lime Juice: Squeezed in at the end for a citrusy punch that wakes up the whole dish.
Table Salt: Just a pinch to make all the flavors pop (don’t forget it!).
Pulled Cooked Chicken: Use rotisserie or leftover roasted chicken for ultimate ease and tender texture.
Grated Colby Jack Cheese Blend: Melts beautifully and gives you that dreamy cheese pull.
Snipped Green Onion Tops: These add fresh color and a gentle, oniony crunch you’ll love.
Chopped Fresh Cilantro Leaves: For herby, vibrant flecks that brighten up the filling.
Small Flour Tortillas: Soft enough to roll, sturdy enough to bake without tearing or getting soggy.

How to Make

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by setting your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking tray with foil and give it a light spray of cooking oil. This step sets you up for extra-easy cleanup and ensures the taquitos won’t stick.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

Pop the soft cheese spread in the microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds, just to soften it up — this makes mixing a breeze. In a big mixing bowl, stir together the softened cheese, chunky salsa, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, lime juice, and salt until smooth and well-combined. From there, fold in the pulled chicken, shredded Colby Jack cheese, snipped green onions, and fresh cilantro. Give everything a good stir; you want every bite to have creamy, cheesy goodness and a bit of everything.

Step 3: Assemble the Rolls

Take each flour tortilla and spoon about three tablespoons of your cheesy chicken mixture onto the edge (about one inch from the side). Roll up each one tightly so nothing escapes and set them seam-side down on your prepped baking tray. Giving space between each taquito helps them crisp up all around!

Step 4: Bake the Rolls

Slide your tray into the preheated oven and bake for about 15 to 20 minutes. You’re looking for the edges to turn lightly golden brown, which means your Cheesy Chicken Taquitos Recipe is crisped to perfection and ready to eat!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Let the taquitos cool for just a minute before serving to avoid burnt tongues (they’re steamy inside!). Pile them onto a plate and offer with your favorite dips like sour cream, ranch, or extra salsa—trust me, everyone will dive in for seconds.

How to Serve

Garnishes

Pile your Cheesy Chicken Taquitos Recipe high and shower with extra chopped cilantro, fresh green onions, or a few slices of crisp jalapeño for color and zip. A drizzle of crema or a sprinkle of queso fresco on top is always a hit, too.

Side Dishes

Balance the richness with cool, refreshing sides. A zesty cabbage slaw, a bowl of pico de gallo, creamy guacamole, or a bright corn salad pairs perfectly and makes your plate feel complete.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, slice the taquitos in half and stand them upright in a serving glass or on a platter. Stack staggered rows for a fun look at family dinners, or nestle the taquitos in baskets lined with parchment for casual gatherings. Serve dip in a shot glass for easy dunking!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let your baked taquitos cool completely, then pop them in an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the fridge for up to three days, making them perfect for next-day snacking.

Freezing

This Cheesy Chicken Taquitos Recipe freezes beautifully! Arrange the cooled taquitos on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-close freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to two months — just grab a few whenever the craving strikes.

Reheating

To maintain that coveted crispiness, pop refrigerated or frozen taquitos in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes (add a couple more if frozen). Skip the microwave if you can — the oven brings back their golden crunch.

FAQs

Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?

Yes, you can! Just make sure to warm the corn tortillas first to prevent tearing. They’ll add a little more texture and a rich corn flavor.

What’s the best way to shred chicken for this recipe?

Rotisserie chicken makes prep a breeze, but you can also quickly poach or roast boneless chicken breasts, then use two forks to pull it apart for tender shreds.

Is there a vegetarian version of Cheesy Chicken Taquitos Recipe?

Absolutely! Swap the chicken for beans, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted veggies. The same creamy filling and spice blend will deliver huge flavor, every time.

Can I make these ahead for a party?

Yes, simply assemble and refrigerate the taquitos a few hours ahead. Pop into the oven to bake just before guests arrive for fresh, piping hot snacks.

How do I make the Cheesy Chicken Taquitos Recipe spicier?

Feel free to increase the chili powder, add minced jalapeños, or a few splashes of your favorite hot sauce into the filling to kick up the heat!

Final Thoughts

Nothing brings folks together quite like a platter of crispy, golden taquitos—and this Cheesy Chicken Taquitos Recipe is always the first to vanish at any gathering! Give it a try, play with garnishes and sides, and see how quickly you fall in love with the bold flavors and easy prep. Can’t wait for you to taste the magic!