Cheesy Chicken Taquitos Recipe

These cheesy chicken taquitos are a quick and flavorful dish that will have your family or guests coming back for more. Filled with a creamy cheese and salsa mixture, seasoned with cumin, chili powder, and fresh cilantro, these baked rolls are the perfect combination of rich, savory, and slightly spicy. Ready in just 30 minutes, they’re ideal for a fast dinner, snack, or appetizer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cheesy chicken taquitos are an easy, no-fuss dinner that comes together quickly. The soft cheese spread and salsa create a creamy filling that pairs perfectly with the tender pulled chicken, while the warm spices add depth of flavor. Plus, the quick baking time ensures a golden, crispy exterior with a delicious cheesy interior. Serve them with your favorite dip for a meal that’s sure to please.

Ingredients

• 4 ounces soft cheese spread

• ⅓ cup chunky salsa

• ½ teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon spicy chili powder

• 1 teaspoon minced 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

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven:

   • Heat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking tray with foil and spray it with cooking oil. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Filling:

   • Warm the 4 ounces of soft cheese spread in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds until it softens.

   • In a large bowl, mix together the softened cheese, chunky salsa, ground cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, lime juice, and salt.

   • Add the pulled cooked chicken, grated colby jack cheese, green onion tops, and chopped cilantro. Stir everything together until fully combined.

3. Assemble the Rolls:

   • Spoon about 3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto the edge of each small flour tortilla (about 1 inch from the edge).

   • Roll the tortillas tightly and place them seam-side down on the prepared baking tray. Leave about an inch of space between each roll to avoid them touching.

4. Bake the Rolls:

   • Place the tray in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges of the rolls turn a light golden brown.

5. Serve:

   • Serve the cheesy chicken rolls hot with sour cream, ranch dressing, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8 rolls (depending on the size of the wraps)

• Total Time: 30 minutes

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes

  • Cook Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add more chili powder or a few dashes of hot sauce to the chicken mixture for an extra kick.

• Vegetable Add-ins: Add some diced bell peppers, corn, or spinach to the filling for extra texture and flavor.

• Cheese Swap: Use a different cheese like cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a variation in flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover chicken rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes or until warm and crispy. You can also use a microwave, but the texture may be less crispy.

FAQs

Can I use larger tortillas for this recipe?

Yes, you can use larger tortillas, but you’ll need to adjust the amount of filling used in each roll. Larger tortillas may yield fewer rolls, so you may need to bake in batches.

Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the rolls ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Just increase the baking time by a few minutes if they are cold from the fridge.

Can I freeze the cheesy chicken rolls?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled rolls before baking. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

How do I make these rolls less spicy?

If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of chili powder or use a mild salsa. You can also omit the chili powder altogether for a more subtle taste.

Can I bake these without foil?

Yes, if you don’t have foil, you can use parchment paper or bake them directly on a greased baking tray. The foil just helps with cleanup and ensures the rolls don’t stick.

Can I use shredded rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Shredded rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut that will save you time and add extra flavor.

What can I serve with these rolls?

These rolls pair well with a side of guacamole, Mexican rice, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them with a variety of dips like sour cream, salsa, or avocado dip.

Can I make these rolls with ground chicken instead of shredded chicken?

Yes, you can use ground chicken instead of shredded chicken. Just cook the ground chicken first, then mix it with the other ingredients as directed.

How do I get the rolls extra crispy?

To make them crispier, you can lightly spray the tops of the rolls with cooking spray before baking.

Can I make these rolls in a skillet instead of baking them?

Yes, you can pan-fry the rolls in a skillet with a little olive oil, cooking for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden and crispy.

Conclusion

These cheesy chicken rolls are a quick, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With a cheesy, spicy filling wrapped in a soft tortilla and baked to crispy perfection, they make for a delicious appetizer, snack, or main dish. Ready in just 30 minutes, they’re the perfect addition to your dinner rotation!