Name: Skinny Baked Cream Cheese Taquitos Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 10
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 cups chicken; 4⅓ oz less fat cream cheese; ¼ cup plain greek yogurt; ⅓ cup salsa; ½ tsp cumin; 1 tsp chili powder; 1 tsp garlic powder; ¼ tsp salt; 1 tbsp green onion; 2 tbsp cilantro; 1 tbsp lime juice; 1 cup colby jack cheese; 8-10 small wheat flour tortillas

Craving a healthier Mexican dish without sacrificing taste? Look no further! The Skinny Baked Cream Cheese Taquitos are packed full of flavor while still being a lower fat option compared to traditional taquitos. They are stuffed with a delicious cream cheese and chicken filling, then baked until crispy. Perfect for serving as a main course, appetizer, or snack, you'll find these taquitos to be a hit at any meal.

Photos of Skinny Baked Cream Cheese Taquitos Recipe

Most of the ingredients for this recipe like cream cheese, chicken, yogurt, salsa, and spices are fairly common and might already be in your pantry. However, the recipe calls for 'less fat cream cheese' and 'plain Greek yogurt', which are healthier alternatives to their regular counterparts. Also, 'colby jack cheese' is a specific type of cheese blend that might not be readily available in some regions. When shopping, look for these specific items to keep this recipe on the healthier side.

Skinny Baked Cream Cheese Taquitos Ingredients

Chicken: The main protein source of this recipe. It's shredded and combined with the cream cheese mixture for a hearty filling.

Less fat cream cheese: This ingredient adds creaminess to the filling while keeping the recipe low-fat.

Plain Greek yogurt: Adds a tangy note and thick consistency to the mixture.

Salsa: Brings spiciness and a savory note to the recipe.

Spices (cumin, chili powder, garlic powder): They add depth and a warm, spicy flavor to the dish.

Green onion: Adds a subtle crunch and a fresh flavor to the filling.

Cilantro: A fresh herb that gives a zesty flavor.

Lime juice: It brightens up the flavors and adds a tangy note.

Colby jack cheese: A blend of Colby and Monterey Jack cheese that adds a rich, creamy element.

Wheat flour tortillas: Used as the wrap for the filling, they become crispy when baked.

One reader, Flossi Jenkins says:

This skinny baked cream cheese taquitos recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are incredible, and the texture is perfect. I love that it's a healthier alternative to traditional taquitos. Plus, they're so easy to make and always a hit with my family. I highly recommend trying this recipe!

Flossi Jenkins

Techniques Required for Making Skinny Baked Cream Cheese Taquitos

How to soften cream cheese: Place the cream cheese in a microwave-safe bowl and heat it in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, or until it softens.

How to combine the ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, Greek yogurt, salsa, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, lime juice, and salt. Then, add in the shredded chicken, colby jack cheese, green onions, and cilantro. Stir until all the ingredients are well combined.

How to roll the taquitos: Add about 3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture about 1 inch from the edge of the flour tortilla. Roll it up and place it seam side down on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with each tortilla, placing them about 1 inch apart on the baking sheet.

How to bake the taquitos: Bake the taquitos in a preheated oven at 425°F for 15-20 minutes or until the tortillas are lightly browning around the edges.

How to serve: Serve the baked cream cheese taquitos with sour cream, ranch dressing, or your favorite sauce.

How To Make Skinny Baked Cream Cheese Taquitos

With its low-fat cheese & yogurt filling, this taquitos recipe is not as sinful but still as delicious. The tortillas are also filled with onions & chicken.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 25 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2cupschicken,cooked and shredded
4⅓ozless fat cream cheese
¼cupplain greek yogurt
⅓cupsalsa
½tspcumin
1tspchili powder
1tspgarlic powder
¼tspsalt
1tbspgreen onion,finely chopped
2tbspcilantro,finely chopped
1tbsplime juice
1cupcolby jack cheese
10small wheat flour tortillas

Instructions

Preheat oven to 425 degrees F and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with foil and spraying it with cooking spray. Set aside.
Soften the cream cheese in the microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds. In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, greek yogurt, salsa, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, lime juice, and salt.
Add in the shredded chicken, colby jack cheese, green onions, and cilantro. Stir until combined well.
Add about 3 Tablespoons of the chicken mixture about 1 inch from the edge of the flour tortilla. Roll it up and place it seam side down on the baking sheet. Repeat with each one and place about 1 inch apart not touching each other on baking sheet.
Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until the tortilla is lightly browning around the edges. Serve with sour cream, ranch, or any favorite sauce!

Nutrition

Calories: 274.95kcal
Fat: 15.91g
Saturated Fat: 6.95g
Trans Fat: 0.03g
Monounsaturated Fat: 5.45g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.03g
Carbohydrates: 20.35g
Fiber: 1.20g
Sugar: 2.09g
Protein: 12.80g
Cholesterol: 48.01mg
Sodium: 489.63mg
Calcium: 175.74mg
Potassium: 175.56mg
Iron: 1.80mg
Vitamin A: 98.45µg
Vitamin C: 1.26mg

Technique Tip for Perfect Skinny Baked Cream Cheese Taquitos

When preparing the chicken mixture for the taquitos, it's important to ensure that the cream cheese is thoroughly softened. This will make it easier to mix with the other ingredients and create a smooth, creamy filling. If the cream cheese is too hard, it can result in lumps in your filling. Also, when rolling the taquitos, be careful not to overfill them. Too much filling can cause the taquitos to burst open during baking. A good rule of thumb is to use about 3 tablespoons of filling per tortilla. Lastly, baking them seam side down helps to keep them closed during the baking process.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Cream Cheese Taquitos

Prep ahead: Prepare the chicken and cream cheese mixture the night before and store it in the refrigerator. This will save you time when assembling the taquitos the next day.

Double batch: Consider making a double batch of the taquitos and freezing the extras. This way, you'll have a quick and convenient meal ready to go whenever you need it.

Assembly line: Set up an assembly line with all the ingredients laid out, making it easier and quicker to fill and roll the taquitos.

Use rotisserie chicken: Save time by using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of cooking and shredding the chicken yourself.

Bake in bulk: Bake a large batch of taquitos at once to save time and have leftovers for future meals.

Substitute Ingredients For Skinny Baked Cream Cheese Taquitos Recipe

chicken - Substitute with shredded turkey: Turkey is a lean and flavorful alternative to chicken, providing a similar texture and taste in the taquitos.
less fat cream cheese - Substitute with low-fat cottage cheese: Low-fat cottage cheese can be used as a healthier alternative to cream cheese, offering a creamy texture with reduced fat content.
plain greek yogurt - Substitute with low-fat sour cream: Low-fat sour cream can replace Greek yogurt, providing a tangy and creamy element to the taquitos while reducing the overall fat content.
wheat flour tortillas - Substitute with corn tortillas: Corn tortillas can be used as a gluten-free alternative to wheat flour tortillas, adding a deliciously rustic flavor to the taquitos.
colby jack cheese - Substitute with reduced-fat cheddar cheese: Reduced-fat cheddar cheese can be used to lower the overall fat content while still providing a rich and savory flavor to the taquitos.

Best Way to Present Skinny Baked Cream Cheese Taquitos

Elevate the plating: When presenting the skinny baked cream cheese taquitos, focus on creating a visually appealing plate. Arrange the taquitos in a neat and organized manner, ensuring they are evenly spaced and the seam side is facing down for a polished look.
Incorporate vibrant colors: Introduce pops of color to the plate by garnishing with fresh salsa and a sprinkle of finely chopped cilantro. This will not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a burst of freshness to the dish.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the taquitos to stand out. Consider using a minimalist approach, ensuring that the focus remains on the tantalizing cream cheese filling and the golden-brown tortilla.
Artful drizzling: Enhance the presentation by skillfully drizzling a creamy sauce over the taquitos. This adds a touch of elegance and elevates the overall aesthetic, showcasing attention to detail and finesse in plating.
Incorporate texture: Introduce textural elements to the plate by serving the taquitos alongside a small mound of tangy sour cream. This not only complements the flavors but also adds a contrasting texture, creating a more dynamic dining experience.

Essential Tools for Making Cream Cheese Taquitos

Oven: Used for baking and roasting food items.
Baking sheet: A flat, metal sheet used for baking items in the oven.
Foil: Used to line baking sheets and wrap food for cooking.
Cooking spray: Used to prevent food from sticking to pans and baking sheets.
Mixing bowl: Used for combining and mixing ingredients.
Microwave: Used for heating and softening ingredients.
Spatula: Used for flipping and transferring food items.
Knife: Used for cutting and chopping ingredients.
Measuring cups and spoons: Used for accurately measuring ingredients.
Baking dish: Used for baking and serving various dishes.
Sauce bowl: Used for serving sauces and dips alongside the taquitos.

How To Store and Freeze Cream Cheese Taquitos

Allow the taquitos to cool completely before storing or freezing.
For short-term storage, place the cooled taquitos in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze the taquitos, follow these steps:
1. Place the cooled taquitos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they are not touching each other.
2. Put the baking sheet in the freezer for 1-2 hours, or until the taquitos are frozen solid.
3. Once frozen, transfer the taquitos to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible from the bag to prevent freezer burn.
4. Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy reference.
5. Frozen taquitos can be stored for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat refrigerated taquitos, place them on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
For frozen taquitos, there's no need to thaw them first. Simply place the frozen taquitos on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. Alternatively, you can microwave them for a quicker option, but they may not be as crispy as oven-reheated ones.
Reheated cream cheese taquitos may have a slightly different texture compared to freshly baked ones, but they will still be delicious and satisfying.

How To Reheat Leftover Taquitos

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover taquitos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through and the tortillas are crispy again. This method helps maintain the texture and crunch of the taquitos.
If you prefer a quicker reheating method, you can use a microwave. Place the taquitos on a microwave-safe plate and heat them on high for 30-60 seconds, depending on the number of taquitos and your microwave's power. However, keep in mind that microwaving may result in a softer texture compared to oven reheating.
For a crispy exterior, you can also reheat the taquitos in an air fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the taquitos in the basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until they are heated through and crispy.
If you have a toaster oven, you can use it to reheat the taquitos as well. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the taquitos on the wire rack. Heat for 5-7 minutes, or until they are warmed through and crispy.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to keep an eye on the taquitos to prevent them from burning or drying out. You can also wrap them loosely in aluminum foil to help retain moisture during the reheating process.
To add some extra flavor and freshness to your reheated taquitos, consider serving them with a side of salsa, guacamole, or sour cream. You can also sprinkle some fresh cilantro or green onions on top for added color and taste.

Random Fact About Cream Cheese Taquitos

The cream cheese taquitos recipe is a healthier alternative to traditional fried taquitos, making it a great option for those looking to enjoy a delicious snack without the guilt.

Is Making Cream Cheese Taquitos at Home Economical?

This skinny baked cream cheese taquitos recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The use of affordable ingredients like chicken, cream cheese, and wheat flour tortillas makes it a budget-friendly option. The addition of salsa, cumin, and lime juice enhances the flavors without breaking the bank. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20, making it a reasonable choice. Overall Verdict: 9/10

Are Cream Cheese Taquitos Healthy or Unhealthy?

This recipe for skinny baked cream cheese taquitos has some healthy elements, but there's room for improvement. On the positive side, it uses lean chicken, Greek yogurt, and whole wheat tortillas, which provide protein, lower fat content, and fiber. The inclusion of spices like cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder adds flavor without excessive calories.

However, the recipe still contains a significant amount of cream cheese and Colby Jack cheese, which are high in saturated fat. While the recipe specifies using less fat cream cheese, the overall cheese content could be reduced to make it healthier.

Reduce the amount of cream cheese and Colby Jack cheese, or opt for lower-fat versions of these cheeses. You can also experiment with replacing some of the cheese with additional Greek yogurt for a protein boost and creamy texture.
Increase the amount of vegetables in the filling. Consider adding sautéed bell peppers, onions, or spinach to boost the nutritional value and fiber content.
Serve the taquitos with a side salad or roasted vegetables to create a more balanced meal.
Instead of sour cream or ranch dressing as a dipping sauce, opt for a fresh salsa or a Greek yogurt-based dip flavored with lime juice and herbs.

Editor's Thoughts on This Skinny Baked Taquitos Recipe

The Skinny Baked Cream Cheese Taquitos recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The combination of tender chicken, tangy cream cheese, and zesty salsa creates a harmonious filling that's both creamy and satisfying. The use of Greek yogurt adds a light and refreshing element, while the blend of spices infuses the taquitos with a warm, aromatic essence. The colby jack cheese adds a rich, gooey finish, perfectly complementing the crispy wheat flour tortilla. This recipe offers a healthier twist on a classic favorite, making it a versatile and enjoyable dish for any occasion.

Enhance Your Skinny Baked Cream Cheese Taquitos Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Guacamole: Create a zesty and creamy guacamole with ripe avocados, diced tomatoes, red onions, and a splash of lime juice for a refreshing side to accompany the taquitos.

Pico de Gallo: Whip up a fresh and vibrant pico de gallo with diced tomatoes, onions, jalapenos, and cilantro for a burst of flavor to complement the baked cream cheese taquitos.

Mango Salsa: Prepare a sweet and tangy mango salsa with diced mangoes, red bell peppers, red onions, and a hint of lime juice to add a tropical twist to the taquitos.

Black Bean Salad: Craft a hearty and protein-packed black bean salad with black beans, corn, red bell peppers, and a zesty vinaigrette dressing to serve alongside the skinny baked cream cheese taquitos.

Cilantro Lime Rice: Whip up a fragrant and citrusy cilantro lime rice with fluffy white rice, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice to provide a light and flavorful side dish for the taquitos.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Skinny Baked Cream Cheese Taquitos

Savory Stuffed Bell Peppers: Use a mixture of ground beef, rice, and seasonings to stuff bell peppers, then bake until tender. Top with cheese and serve hot.

Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon: Marinate salmon in a sweet and savory honey garlic glaze, then bake or grill until flaky and delicious. Serve with steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: Combine ripe mango, coconut milk, and chia seeds to create a creamy and refreshing pudding. Top with fresh fruit and shredded coconut for a tropical twist.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: Simmer ripe tomatoes, onions, and garlic in a creamy broth, then blend until smooth. Stir in fresh basil and cream for a comforting and flavorful soup.

Spicy Shrimp Tacos: Season shrimp with a blend of spices, then sauté until pink and tender. Serve in warm tortillas with shredded cabbage, avocado, and a drizzle of spicy sauce.

Suggested Main Courses and Desserts to Pair with Cream Cheese Taquitos

Main Courses:

Grilled Salmon with Lemon Dill Sauce: Grilled salmon with a tangy lemon dill sauce is a light and refreshing main course option. The salmon is perfectly cooked and flaky, while the sauce adds a burst of flavor that complements the fish beautifully.

Mushroom Risotto with Truffle Oil: Indulge in a creamy and decadent mushroom risotto drizzled with truffle oil. The earthy flavors of the mushrooms combined with the luxurious truffle oil create a dish that is rich and satisfying. This main course is perfect for a cozy night in or a special dinner party.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in a decadent, rich chocolate lava cake that oozes with a molten center when you cut into it. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of warm and cold, and top it off with a drizzle of raspberry sauce for a burst of fruity flavor.

Banana Foster: Satisfy your sweet tooth with a classic banana foster dessert. Caramelize ripe bananas in a buttery, brown sugar and rum sauce, and serve it over a scoop of creamy vanilla bean ice cream. Sprinkle with toasted pecans for a delightful crunch and a hint of nuttiness.

Why trust this Skinny Baked Cream Cheese Taquitos Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional taquitos, combining chicken and cream cheese for a creamy and flavorful filling. With the addition of Greek yogurt and salsa, it provides a lighter alternative without compromising on taste. The use of cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder infuses the dish with aromatic and zesty flavors, while lime juice adds a refreshing citrusy kick. The inclusion of colby jack cheese lends a satisfying gooeyness, and the option to use wheat flour tortillas adds a wholesome touch. This recipe promises a delightful, guilt-free indulgence.

Want to share your thoughts on this Skinny Baked Cream Cheese Taquitos Recipe? Head over to the Recipe Sharing section and join the discussion!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely use a different type of meat such as shredded beef, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just make sure the meat is cooked and seasoned before mixing it with the cream cheese mixture.

Can I make these taquitos ahead of time and reheat them later?

Absolutely! You can prepare the taquitos ahead of time, store them in the refrigerator, and then reheat them in the oven when you're ready to serve. Just make sure to reheat them at 350°F until they are heated through.

Can I freeze the taquitos for later use?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled taquitos before baking. Once assembled, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. When ready to bake, no need to thaw, simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Can I substitute the wheat flour tortillas with corn tortillas?

Absolutely, you can use corn tortillas if you prefer. Just make sure to warm them up slightly before rolling to prevent cracking. You can do this by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for a few seconds.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

If you prefer a spicier flavor, you can add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the cream cheese mixture. You can also use a spicier salsa or increase the amount of chili powder to suit your taste.