### Creamy Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos: Crispy & Delicious!
Craving a crispy, savory snack or a flavorful dinner that’s easy to prepare? Look no further than these **Creamy Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos**. These taquitos are filled with a rich and creamy chicken mixture and baked to golden perfection, making them a satisfying and delicious choice for any meal or snack time. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a quick weeknight dinner, these taquitos are sure to please.
#### Ingredients:
- **2 cups cooked chicken breast**, shredded or diced
- **1 cup cream cheese**, softened
- **1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese**
- **1/4 cup sour cream**
- **1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro** (optional)
- **1 teaspoon garlic powder**
- **1 teaspoon onion powder**
- **1 teaspoon ground cumin**
- **Salt and freshly ground black pepper**, to taste
- **12 small corn or flour tortillas**
- **Cooking spray** or **2 tablespoons olive oil** (for brushing)
- **Optional toppings* salsa, guacamole, sour cream, chopped green onions
#### Instructions:
1. **Prepare the Filling*
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, sour cream, cilantro (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and the cream cheese is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
2. **Preheat the Oven*
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
3. **Assemble the Taquitos*
- Warm the tortillas slightly to make them more pliable (you can do this in a dry skillet or microwave). Spoon a generous amount of the chicken mixture onto the center of each tortilla. Roll them tightly to form taquitos, placing them seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
4. **Prepare for Baking*
- Lightly spray the taquitos with cooking spray or brush them with olive oil to help them crisp up in the oven.
5. **Bake*
- Bake the taquitos in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Flip them halfway through baking for even crispiness.
6. **Serve*
- Remove the taquitos from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite toppings such as salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or chopped green onions.
#### Tips for Perfect Taquitos:
- **Avoid Overstuffing* Don’t overfill the tortillas to prevent them from breaking or becoming too difficult to roll.
- **Crispiness* For extra crispiness, make sure the taquitos are spread out evenly on the baking sheet so they can crisp up on all sides.
- **Make Ahead* These taquitos can be prepared in advance and frozen. Simply assemble, freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
#### Nutritional Benefits:
These **Creamy Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos** offer a tasty way to incorporate lean chicken into your diet, along with the added benefits of cream cheese and cheese providing calcium and protein. By baking rather than frying, you also cut down on excess fat, making these taquitos a bit healthier without sacrificing flavor.
#### Variations:
- **Spicy Kick* Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for some extra heat.
- **Vegetarian Option* Substitute the chicken with a mix of black beans and corn for a delicious vegetarian version.
- **Different Cheeses* Experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack or Monterey Jack for different flavor profiles.
These **Creamy Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos** are not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious, combining a creamy filling with a crispy exterior for the ultimate snack or meal. Whether served with a side of salsa or just enjoyed on their own, they are sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Enjoy every crispy, cheesy bite!