Cream Cheese and Chicken Taquitos have become a beloved dish in many households, blending the creamy texture of cream cheese with the savory taste of chicken, all wrapped in a crispy tortilla. This dish’s popularity is not just due to its delicious taste but also its versatility, serving as a perfect snack, appetizer, or even a main course.

The history of taquitos, also known as rolled tacos, traces back to Mexican cuisine, where they were traditionally filled with beef or chicken and deep-fried to golden perfection. The introduction of cream cheese into the filling is a relatively modern twist, adding a rich, creamy texture that balances the spiciness of the seasonings and the crispiness of the tortilla.

The Perfect Ingredients

Creating the perfect Cream Cheese and Chicken Taquitos starts with selecting the right ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving the ideal balance of flavors and textures.

Chicken: Best Cuts for Shredding

Breast: Lean and easy to cook, chicken breast is ideal for shredding and offers a mild flavor that pairs well with the cream cheese.
Thighs: For a juicier filling, chicken thighs are an excellent choice. Their higher fat content adds more flavor to the taquitos.

Cream Cheese: Types and Brands

Full-fat Cream Cheese: Offers the creamiest texture and richest flavor. Brands like Philadelphia are renowned for their quality and consistency.
Low-fat or Neufchatel: A good alternative for those looking for a lighter option without significantly compromising on taste.

Tortillas: Corn vs. Flour

Corn Tortillas: Traditional choice that provides a distinct flavor and crispiness when fried.
Flour Tortillas: Softer and more flexible, making them easier to roll without cracking, and offer a milder taste.

Spices and Seasonings

A blend of spices such as chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and salt is essential to infuse the chicken with bold flavors. Adjust the quantities to suit your taste preferences.

Optional Add-ins and Variations

To customize your taquitos, consider adding:

Vegetables: Diced onions, bell peppers, or jalapeños for a crunchy texture and extra flavor.
Beans: Black or refried beans can add heartiness and fiber.
Cheese: Shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese for extra cheesiness and flavor.

Selecting the right ingredients and experimenting with add-ins allows for endless variations of Cream Cheese and Chicken Taquitos, ensuring there’s a combination to satisfy every palate.

Cooking Techniques

Shredding the Chicken

The key to perfectly shredded chicken is cooking it until it’s tender enough to fall apart easily. Boiling or slow cooking are effective methods. Once cooked, let the chicken cool slightly before using two forks or your fingers to shred it into fine pieces. This creates the ideal texture for your taquito filling.

Mixing the Filling

Combine the shredded chicken with softened cream cheese in a large bowl. This is where you can get creative, adding spices, seasonings, and any optional ingredients like chopped onions or green chilies. Mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the cream cheese, ensuring every taquito has a burst of flavor.

Rolling the Taquitos

Lay out your tortillas and spoon a generous amount of the chicken and cream cheese mixture onto each one. Roll the tortillas tightly around the filling, securing the shape. If you’re using flour tortillas, you might not need to secure them, but corn tortillas may require a toothpick to stay closed.

Cooking Methods: Baking vs. Frying

Baking: Preheat your oven and place the taquitos on a baking sheet. Lightly brush them with oil for extra crispiness. Bake until they’re golden and crispy. This method is healthier and easier for large batches.
Frying: Heat oil in a deep skillet and fry the taquitos until they’re crispy and golden brown. This method gives them a traditional texture and flavor but is more labor-intensive and higher in calories.

Step-by-Step Recipe

Preparation of Ingredients

Cook and shred 2 cups of chicken.
Soften 8 ounces of cream cheese.
Prepare your spices, and chop any additional vegetables or add-ins you’re using.

Assembling the Taquitos

In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken with the cream cheese, spices, and any other ingredients until well combined.
Spoon the mixture onto the center of each tortilla, then roll tightly.

Cooking Instructions

For Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the taquitos seam-side down on a baking sheet. Brush lightly with oil and bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy.
For Frying: Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Fry the taquitos in batches, turning them until all sides are golden brown. Drain on paper towels.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Cream Cheese and Chicken Taquitos hot, with sides of guacamole, salsa, and sour cream for dipping. They’re perfect as a main dish with a side of rice and beans or as appetizers for your next party. Garnish with fresh cilantro or lime wedges for an extra touch of flavor.

Nutritional Information

Each Cream Cheese and Chicken Taquito typically contains approximately 200-250 calories, depending on the specific ingredients and cooking method used. The nutritional breakdown includes protein from the chicken, carbohydrates from the tortillas, and fats primarily from the cream cheese and any added oils. They also provide a modest amount of dietary fiber, especially if whole grain or corn tortillas are used and if beans or vegetables are added to the filling.

FAQs

Can I make these taquitos ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the taquitos and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Alternatively, you can freeze them before cooking for longer storage. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking from frozen.
How do I keep the taquitos from falling apart?
Ensure the tortillas are slightly warmed before rolling to make them more pliable. If using corn tortillas, securing them with a toothpick after rolling can help. Baking or frying them seam-side down also prevents them from unrolling.
What are the best dipping sauces?
Popular choices include guacamole, salsa, sour cream, or a homemade queso dip. For a twist, try a cilantro lime sauce or a spicy chipotle mayo.
Can I freeze Cream Cheese and Chicken Taquitos?
Absolutely! Arrange the rolled taquitos on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a freezer bag and store for up to three months. Bake or fry straight from the freezer, adjusting cooking time as needed.

Cream Cheese and Chicken Taquitos are a versatile and delightful dish that combines the creamy richness of cream cheese with the savory taste of shredded chicken, all wrapped in a crispy tortilla. By following these tips and techniques, you can create a delicious meal that’s sure to become a new favorite.