Description
Crispy and flavorful baked cheesy chicken taquitos made with shredded chicken, green salsa, cream cheese, green chiles, and Pepper Jack cheese rolled in small flour tortillas and baked to golden perfection. These taquitos are perfect for a snack or party appetizer, offering a delicious combination of creamy, spicy, and cheesy flavors with a crispy outer shell.
Ingredients
Filling
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- ¼ cup green salsa
- 3 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 4 ounce can chopped green chiles
- 3 scallions, chopped
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 cups shredded Pepper Jack cheese
Assembly
- 12 small flour tortillas
- Spray oil for cooking
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it reaches the ideal temperature for baking the taquitos evenly and getting them crispy.
- Prepare Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, green salsa, softened cream cheese, chopped green chiles, chopped scallions, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and shredded Pepper Jack cheese. Mix all ingredients thoroughly until well incorporated to create a creamy and flavorful filling.
- Fill Tortillas: Evenly divide the prepared filling among the 12 small flour tortillas. Spread the filling along each tortilla and then roll them tightly into taquitos.
- Arrange on Baking Tray: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray it with cooking oil spray to prevent sticking. Place the rolled taquitos seam side down in a single layer on the prepared tray.
- Apply Oil Spray: Lightly spray the tops of the taquitos with cooking spray to help them crisp up nicely in the oven during baking.
- Bake: Bake the taquitos in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the tortillas are crisp and the edges turn golden brown. This baking method ensures a crunchy texture without frying.
- Serve: Remove the taquitos from the oven and serve hot with your favorite taco toppings and dips such as salsa, guacamole, and sour cream for a delicious and satisfying meal or appetizer.
Notes
- You can substitute the flour tortillas with corn tortillas for a gluten-free version, though they may be less pliable for rolling.
- For spicier taquitos, increase the amount of green chiles or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- To make ahead, assemble the taquitos and refrigerate them until ready to bake.
- Use a cooking thermometer to ensure the chicken filling is heated through if using leftover cooked chicken.
- Adjust the oven rack to the middle position for even baking and browning.
