Name: Skinny Baked Cream Cheese Taquitos
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken (rotisserie worked great); 4 ounces ⅓ less fat cream cheese (softened); ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt; ⅓ cup salsa; 1 tablespoon lime juice; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon cumin; ¼ teaspoon salt; 1 cup Colby Jack cheese; 1 tablespoon finely chopped green onion; 2 tablespoons finely chopped cilantro; 8-10 small wheat flour tortillas

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There’s something magical about cozy nights filled with good food, and one dish that never fails to bring joy is Skinny Baked Cream Cheese Taquitos. I remember the first time I made these for a small gathering with friends. As we settled into the living room, the aroma of these taquitos wafted through the air, and I couldn’t wait to share them. Everyone gathered around the platter, eager to dig in. The crispy tortillas, filled with creamy goodness, made for a perfect appetizer that quickly turned into the star of the evening.

It all started on a weekend when I craved a snack that was both satisfying and light. I had some leftover rotisserie chicken and a few pantry staples that seemed to call out for a little creativity. Little did I know, I’d stumble upon a recipe that would become a staple in my home, perfect for both family dinners and casual get-togethers.

These Skinny Baked Cream Cheese Taquitos are not only delicious but also easy to prepare. The combination of cream cheese and Greek yogurt creates a rich filling that is balanced with a touch of salsa and a dash of spices. Every bite is a delightful explosion of flavors, and the best part? They’re baked instead of fried, making them a healthier choice without sacrificing taste. Whether you’re serving them as a party snack or enjoying them during a movie night, they’re sure to be a hit!

As I rolled the tortillas, I couldn’t help but think about how versatile this recipe can be. You can change up the spices or add in your favorite ingredients to make them your own. I often find myself making a double batch because they disappear so quickly!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
25 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
220 kcal

Protein:
16 g

Diet:
Standard

Fat:
8 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl, Wooden Spoon, Baking Sheet

What Sets This Skinny Baked Cream Cheese Taquitos Apart

They Are Perfectly Crispy

When you bake these Skinny Baked Cream Cheese Taquitos, they achieve that coveted crispy texture without the grease that comes with frying. This means you can enjoy your favorite flavors without feeling heavy afterward.

Healthy Ingredients

This recipe leans on wholesome ingredients. The use of Greek yogurt alongside cream cheese keeps the filling creamy yet lighter than traditional options. Plus, using whole wheat tortillas boosts the fiber content!

Family-Friendly

Kids love these taquitos! They are easy to hold and packed with flavor that even the pickiest eaters enjoy. You can even get the little ones involved in rolling the taquitos—it’s a fun family activity!

Meal Prep Friendly

These taquitos can be prepped in advance, making them a great option for busy weeknights. Just roll them up, freeze them, and when you’re ready, bake them straight from the freezer!

Perfect for Entertaining

Hosting a gathering? These Skinny Baked Cream Cheese Taquitos are an impressive appetizer that requires minimal effort. Serve them with an array of dipping sauces for a fun, interactive experience.

Customizable

Feel free to swap out ingredients or spices based on your preferences. Want to spice things up? Add some jalapeños to the filling. Prefer a vegetarian option? Substitute the chicken with black beans or roasted vegetables!

What to Gather for Skinny Baked Cream Cheese Taquitos

The magic of these taquitos lies in their simple yet flavorful ingredients. A blend of creamy and savory elements makes for a filling that is both satisfying and guilt-free. The star players here are the cream cheese and cooked chicken, paired beautifully with salsa and spices. Together, they create a delicious mix that wraps perfectly in soft tortillas.

2 cups cooked and shredded chicken (I love using rotisserie chicken for convenience)
4 ounces ⅓ less fat cream cheese, softened (this adds creaminess without too many calories)
¼ cup plain Greek yogurt (for a protein boost and tang)
⅓ cup salsa (for a bit of zest)
1 tablespoon lime juice (to brighten the flavors)
1 teaspoon chili powder (adds warmth and depth)
1 teaspoon garlic powder (for that classic flavor)
½ teaspoon cumin (adds a nutty essence)
¼ teaspoon salt (to taste)
1 cup Colby Jack cheese (for that melty goodness)
1 tablespoon finely chopped green onion (for freshness)
2 tablespoons finely chopped cilantro (for a pop of color and flavor)
8-10 small wheat flour tortillas (to hold everything together)

The Process for Making Skinny Baked Cream Cheese Taquitos

Making these Skinny Baked Cream Cheese Taquitos is a breeze! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious snack or meal ready in no time. Let’s get started!

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with foil and spraying it with cooking spray. This helps the taquitos crisp up nicely and makes cleanup a breeze.
In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, Greek yogurt, salsa, lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, and salt. Mix everything until it’s smooth and creamy. You’ll want to ensure there are no lumps and that the spices are evenly distributed.
Once your filling is mixed well, fold in the shredded chicken, Colby Jack cheese, green onion, and cilantro until everything is combined. This filling should be thick and creamy, with little chunks of chicken and cheese throughout.
Take a small amount of the chicken mixture—about 3 tablespoons—and place it about an inch from the edge of one of the wheat flour tortillas. Make sure not to overfill, as this can make rolling difficult.
Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling, starting from the edge with the filling and rolling it away from you. Place the rolled taquito seam-side down on the lined baking sheet. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and filling.
Space the taquitos about one inch apart on the baking sheet to allow even cooking. This also helps them crisp up better.
Bake the taquitos for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the tortillas are lightly browned and crispy around the edges. Keep an eye on them towards the end to ensure they don’t overcook!
Once cooked, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a minute. They’ll be hot! Serve with your favorite dipping sauces, like sour cream or ranch, for an extra flavor kick.
Enjoy your delicious Skinny Baked Cream Cheese Taquitos as a snack, appetizer, or part of a meal. They are sure to please everyone!

Things Worth Knowing

Preheating is Key: Make sure you preheat your oven to ensure even baking. If the oven isn’t hot enough, the taquitos may end up soggy.
Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on your taquitos as they bake. You’re looking for a golden color and a crisp texture.
Don’t Overfill: When rolling your taquitos, avoid overfilling them. If the filling spills out, it can make them hard to roll and cook unevenly.
Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to customize the filling based on what you have at home. Adding cooked veggies can be delicious!

Making Adjustments

These Skinny Baked Cream Cheese Taquitos are quite versatile! Here are some tips to make them your own.

Storage: Store leftover taquitos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to regain their crispness.
Freezing: You can freeze the uncooked taquitos! Just roll them up, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Pairing: Serve these taquitos with fresh salsa, guacamole, or a simple side salad for a complete meal.
Variations: Try adding different spices or chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick. You can also swap the chicken for beans for a vegetarian option.
Garnish: Add a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or sliced avocado on top before serving for added flavor and presentation.

How to Serve Skinny Baked Cream Cheese Taquitos

Serving these Skinny Baked Cream Cheese Taquitos can be as fun as making them! Here are some delightful ideas:

As Appetizers: Perfect for parties, these taquitos can be served as finger food. Pair them with a variety of dips like guacamole, salsa, or ranch dressing.
For Dinner: Serve them on a bed of lettuce with fresh toppings like diced tomatoes, green onions, and a drizzle of Greek yogurt for a wholesome meal.
Snack Time: They make a great snack for movie nights or casual get-togethers. Just set out a platter and let everyone dig in!
Seasonal Occasions: These taquitos are great for any occasion, whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy winter gathering—adapt the flavors according to the season!
Leftover Love: If you have leftovers, they store well in the fridge. You can reheat them in the oven or even in an air fryer to keep them crispy!

FAQ

Absolutely! You can prep the taquitos in advance and store them in the refrigerator before baking. Just make sure to cover them tightly with plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out. When you’re ready to serve, just pop them in the oven. This makes them a perfect option for parties or busy weeknights.

These Skinny Baked Cream Cheese Taquitos are delicious on their own, but they pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with fresh salsa, guacamole, or a zesty ranch dip. You could also add a fresh salad or some roasted vegetables to round out the meal.

Yes! The beauty of these taquitos is their versatility. Feel free to switch up the fillings according to your preferences. You can add black beans, corn, or even different cheeses. For a vegetarian option, just replace the chicken with sautéed vegetables or beans.

To store leftovers, place the taquitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to three days. When reheating, it’s best to use an oven or air fryer to restore their crispy texture. Microwave may make them soggy.

Conclusion

The Skinny Baked Cream Cheese Taquitos not only deliver on flavor but also provide a healthier alternative to traditional taquitos. Their crispy exterior and creamy interior make them irresistible. I encourage you to give them a try; they’re perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as a quick meal at home. Whipping up a batch will certainly bring joy and satisfaction to your table!