1. Mix the Filling: Combining the Creamy, Cheesy, Chicken Mixture

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, softened cream cheese, shredded Mexican cheese blend, garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix Thoroughly: Mix all the ingredients together until they are well combined and the mixture is relatively smooth. You can use a spoon, a spatula, or even your hands to mix everything together.

2. Prepare the Tortillas: Ensuring Pliability

1. Warm Tortillas: Slightly warm the flour tortillas to make them more pliable and easier to roll. You can do this by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving them for 15-20 seconds, or by heating them in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few seconds per side.

3. Assemble the Taquitos: Filling and Rolling

1. Spoon Filling: Place a warmed tortilla on a flat surface. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the chicken and cream cheese mixture onto the center of the tortilla.
   • Tip: Don’t overfill the tortillas, or they will be difficult to roll and the filling may leak out during frying.
2. Roll Tightly: Starting at one edge, tightly roll up the tortilla around the filling, like a small burrito.
   • Tip: If you find it difficult to keep the filling contained while rolling, you can fold in the sides of the tortilla slightly as you roll.
3. Secure with Toothpick (Optional): If you’re concerned about the taquitos unrolling during frying, you can secure each one with a toothpick.
4. Repeat: Repeat the filling and rolling process with the remaining tortillas and filling.

4. Fry the Taquitos: Achieving Golden-Brown and Crispy Perfection

1. Heat Oil: In a large pan or skillet, heat about ½ to 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot enough for frying but not smoking.
   • Tip: To test if the oil is hot enough, drop a small piece of tortilla into the oil. If it sizzles and floats to the surface, the oil is ready.
2. Fry in Batches: Carefully place the taquitos in the hot oil, seam-side down, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them in batches to ensure even cooking.
3. Cook Until Golden Brown: Fry the taquitos for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides. Use tongs or a slotted spoon to turn them carefully.
4. Drain Excess Oil: Remove the cooked taquitos from the oil using tongs or a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels or on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain any excess oil.

5. Serve: Garnishing and Enjoying Your Taquitos

1. Garnish (Optional): Garnish the Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos with your favorite toppings, such as chopped cilantro, a squeeze of fresh lime juice, or diced tomatoes.
2. Serve Warm: Serve the taquitos immediately while they are warm and crispy.
3. Dipping Sauces: Offer a variety of dipping sauces, such as sour cream, guacamole, salsa, ranch dressing, or your favorite hot sauce.