Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For the creamy chicken filling

01 - 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (about 280 g), preferably rotisserie
02 - 4 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
03 - 1/2 cup (about 56 g) shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
04 - 1/4 cup (60 ml) salsa, your preferred heat level
05 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
06 - 1 teaspoon chili powder
07 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
08 - 1/4 cup chopped green onions or fresh cilantro (optional)

→ For assembly and baking

09 - 8 to 10 small flour or corn tortillas, 6-inch size
10 - Cooking spray or olive oil for brushing

→ For serving and toppings

11 - Guacamole, sour cream, salsa, or fresh pico de gallo, for dipping
12 - Shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, or extra cheese, for garnish (optional)

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat oven to 400°F (204°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease the surface.
02 - Warm tortillas in the microwave for 20–30 seconds to make them pliable and prevent cracking when rolled.
03 - In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, shredded cheese, salsa, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until creamy and well blended. Fold in green onions or cilantro, if using.
04 - Place a warm tortilla on your work surface. Spoon 2–3 tablespoons of the chicken filling down the center. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling, setting each seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling.
05 - Lightly brush or spray each rolled taquito with olive oil or cooking spray. For extra cheesiness, sprinkle additional shredded cheese on top if desired.
06 - Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, flipping taquitos halfway for even crispiness. For an extra golden finish, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end while monitoring closely to prevent burning.
07 - Allow taquitos to cool for 2–3 minutes after baking. Serve with your preferred dipping sauces, such as guacamole, sour cream, or salsa, and garnish as desired.

# Notes:

01 - These versatile taquitos are perfect as starters for gatherings, a fun family dinner, or even as a brunch addition alongside eggs.
02 - For gluten-free taquitos, use corn tortillas and soften by microwaving in a damp paper towel for 20 seconds.
03 - Taquitos can be assembled ahead and frozen. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few additional minutes to the baking time.
04 - For added spice, incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the filling.
05 - Cream cheese ensures a creamy texture and keeps the filling cohesive upon serving.