Creamy Cheesy Chicken Tacos
Creamy Cheesy Chicken Tacos offer a delicious twist on traditional tacos with their rich, creamy filling and cheesy goodness. This recipe features tender shredded chicken mixed with smooth cream cheese and zesty taco seasoning, all wrapped in crispy corn tortillas and baked to perfection.
Topped with melted Fiesta Blend cheese and served with a variety of fresh toppings, these tacos are perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a fun gathering with friends. The combination of flavors and textures ensures each bite is both satisfying and flavorful.
Creamy Cheesy Chicken Tacos
Ingredients
4 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless, baked until cooked thoroughly
8 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
1 packet taco seasoning mix
1 cup Fiesta Blend Cheese, shredded
8 to 10 corn tortillas
Optional toppings:
Lettuce
Onions
Diced tomatoes
Salsa
Sour Cream
Guacamole
Instructions
Step 1:
Preheat the oven to 350*
Place 1 tbsp oil in a skillet and set to the side
Step 2:
After the chicken has been fully cooked, shred it using two forks
In a bowl mix the cream cheese with the taco seasoning and blend really well
Step 3:
Stir the shredded chicken in thoroughly to coat all the chicken.
Place a corn tortilla into a heated skillet with oil for just a few seconds to get it hot, remove tortilla and set to side, repeat with the remaining tortillas
Step 4:
Spray a baking pan with non stick spray
Place a spoonful of the chicken mix in the center of a tortilla and roll up
Place each rolled corn tortilla into the pan
Step 5:
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 30 minutes
Remove the pan and sprinkle with the Fiesta Cheese Blend and return to the oven for another 5 minutes
Step 6:
Remove from the oven, place tortillas onto a serving plate lengthwise in a circle leaving the center open, that has a layer of shredded lettuce on it.
In the center place a bowl of diced tomatoes or salsa, or sour cream or guacamole
Step 7:
Serve with a choice of toppings
Enjoy!
Notes:
Chicken Preparation:
Cooking Chicken: Ensure the chicken breasts are fully cooked before shredding. Baking, grilling, or poaching are all good methods. You can also use rotisserie chicken for added convenience.
Shredding Chicken: Use two forks or a stand mixer to shred the chicken easily. For a quicker option, you can also use a food processor.
Cream Cheese Mixing:
Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. This helps it blend smoothly with the taco seasoning and coat the chicken evenly.
Taco Seasoning:
Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer less spice, use half of the taco seasoning packet or opt for a mild version. You can also mix in additional spices like paprika or garlic powder for extra flavor.
Tortilla Preparation:
Heating Tortillas: Briefly heating the tortillas in oil makes them pliable and less likely to crack when rolling. If you want a lighter version, you can skip the oil and warm them in the microwave or oven.
Corn Tortillas: Corn tortillas are traditional for tacos, but you can substitute flour tortillas if preferred.
Baking Tips:
Even Baking: Arrange the rolled tortillas snugly in the baking pan but not too tightly to allow for even baking and cheese melting.
Check for Doneness: Bake until the tortillas are crispy and the filling is heated through. If you like extra crispy tacos, bake for the full 30 minutes.
Cheese Choice:
Cheese Variations: Fiesta Blend Cheese adds a nice mix of flavors, but you can use other cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a different taste profile.
Serving Suggestions:
Toppings: Customize your tacos with a variety of toppings such as lettuce, onions, diced tomatoes, salsa, sour cream, and guacamole. Fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice can also enhance the flavor.
Presentation: Serving the tacos in a circle on a platter with a bowl of toppings in the center makes for an attractive presentation.
Make-Ahead Options:
Prep in Advance: You can prepare the chicken mixture and tortillas ahead of time. Assemble the tacos and bake just before serving to keep them crispy.
Storage:
Leftovers: Store leftover tacos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
Nutrition Information:
SERVING SIZE: 1
Amount Per Serving:
CALORIES: 320 | TOTAL FAT: 12g | SATURATED FAT: 6g | UNSATURATED FAT: 6g | CHOLESTEROL: 140mg | SODIUM: 28mg | CARBOHYDRATES: 120g | SUGAR: 18g | PROTEIN: 12g
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken such as rotisserie chicken.
Just shred it and mix it with the cream cheese and taco seasoning as directed.
This can save time and add extra flavor.
What if I don’t have Fiesta Blend Cheese?
You can substitute Fiesta Blend Cheese with other cheeses like shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend.
Adjust the amount based on your taste preference.
Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?
Yes, you can use flour tortillas if you prefer.
They may not be as crispy as corn tortillas, but they will still work well in this recipe.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add more spice, you can mix diced jalapeños into the chicken mixture or use a spicier taco seasoning.
You can also add hot sauce or chili flakes to the filling.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken mixture and tortillas ahead of time.
Assemble the tacos and store them in the refrigerator.
Bake them just before serving for the best texture.
How can I make the tacos healthier?
To make the tacos healthier, use low-fat cream cheese and cheese, and opt for more vegetables as toppings.
You can also bake the tortillas without oil for a lighter option.
Can I freeze these tacos?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled but uncooked tacos.
Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
Bake from frozen, adding extra time as needed.
What should I do if the tortillas are too soft after baking?
If the tortillas turn out too soft, you can briefly broil them to crisp up the edges. Just watch them closely to prevent burning.
Can I use a different type of cheese blend?
Absolutely! You can use any cheese blend you prefer or have on hand.
Options like mozzarella, provolone, or a sharp cheddar can also work well.
What are some good topping combinations for these tacos?
Good topping combinations include shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, chopped onions, salsa, sour cream, and guacamole.
You can mix and match based on your preferences to create your ideal taco experience.