Get ready to revolutionize your weeknight dinners with these mouthwatering Freezer Chicken Taquitos that are about to become your new secret weapon! Imagine having deliciously crispy, cream cheese-packed taquitos ready to pop in the oven at a moment's notice – no complicated prep required. Whether you're a busy parent, a meal prep enthusiast, or simply someone who loves convenient and tasty food, these taquitos are your ticket to an instant crowd-pleasing meal that'll have everyone asking for seconds.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 teaspoon taco seasoning
- 8 small flour tortillas
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before beginning preparation.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded cooked chicken, softened cream cheese, shredded cheese, and taco seasoning. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated and create a smooth, cohesive filling.
- Warm the flour tortillas slightly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to make them more pliable and easier to roll.
- Place a tortilla on a clean work surface and spread approximately 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken and cream cheese mixture along one edge of the tortilla.
- Tightly roll the tortilla from the filled edge, creating a compact cylinder. Press gently to seal the edge.
- Repeat the rolling process with remaining tortillas and filling until all taquitos are prepared.
- For freezing: Place rolled taquitos on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching each other. Freeze for 1-2 hours until solid.
- Transfer frozen taquitos to a freezer-safe storage bag or container. They can be stored frozen for up to 3 months.
- To cook from frozen, preheat oven to 425°F (218°C). Lightly spray a baking sheet with cooking spray.
- Arrange frozen taquitos on the baking sheet, leaving space between each. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, turning once halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes before serving. Optionally, serve with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole.
Tips
- Room Temperature Magic: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
- Tortilla Tip: Warm tortillas briefly in the microwave to prevent cracking when rolling.
- Filling Technique: Don't overstuff your taquitos – 2-3 tablespoons of filling is the sweet spot for easy rolling and even cooking.
- Freezing Hack: Freeze taquitos on a baking sheet before transferring to a storage bag to prevent them from sticking together.
- Crispy Coating Secret: A light spray of cooking oil before baking ensures a golden, crispy exterior.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for an extra flavor punch.
- Make-Ahead Meal Prep: These taquitos can be stored frozen for up to 3 months, making them perfect for advance planning.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 251kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 60mg
