Chicken Flautas

The moment I think of Chicken Flautas, a wave of nostalgia washes over me. Growing up, these crispy treats were a staple during our family gatherings. I remember my mother bustling around the kitchen, filling soft tortillas with shredded chicken, cheese, and a touch of spice. The aroma would drift through the air, making it almost impossible to resist. We all eagerly anticipated the first bites, dipping them into sour cream and guacamole. It wasn’t just a meal; it was a moment of togetherness, laughter, and love. Now, as I recreate this memory in my own kitchen, I’m reminded of the joy these Chicken Flautas bring to our family. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, they’re always a hit. Join me in making these delicious treats that are perfect for any occasion.

Chicken Flautas Ingredients

When it comes to making delicious Chicken Flautas, the ingredients are key. Each component plays a vital role in creating the perfect flavor and texture. The main ingredients are simple yet impactful, allowing them to shine through while providing a satisfying bite. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1/2 cup salsa (medium or hot for more of a kick): The base flavor that adds zest to your flautas.
• 1/2 cup sour cream: Creamy and tangy, it balances the spices perfectly.
• 4 oz. mild chopped green chiles: Adds a subtle warmth and flavor.
• 2 teaspoons chili powder: A must for that authentic Mexican flavor.
• 1 teaspoon each ground cumin, garlic powder: Essential spices that enhance the overall taste.
• 1/2 teaspoon each onion powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt: A blend of seasonings that create depth in flavor.
• 3 cups shredded cooked chicken (I like to use rotisserie chicken): The star of the show, providing protein and heartiness.
• 1 cup freshly shredded Monterrey Jack cheese: Melts beautifully for that gooey texture.
• 1 cup freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Adds a sharp, rich flavor.
• Cayenne pepper or hot sauce to taste: For those who love a bit of spice.
• 12-14 medium (7-8 inch) flour tortillas: The perfect wrap for your filling.
• Vegetable oil (optional for frying): For that crispy finish.

How to Prepare Chicken Flautas

Making Chicken Flautas is a delightful process that results in a dish perfect for sharing. Follow these steps carefully to ensure your flautas are crispy and stuffed just right. Soon enough, you’ll be enjoying these delicious treats!

1. Begin by adding the salsa, sour cream, green chiles, and all the seasonings (except cayenne) into a large mixing bowl. Stir everything together until well combined. It should be a creamy mixture with all those lovely flavors mingling together.
2. Next, gently incorporate the shredded chicken into the mixture, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. Once the chicken is fully mixed in, follow up by adding the Monterrey Jack cheese and sharp cheddar cheese. Mix until everything is nicely coated, and season with cayenne pepper to taste if you like a little kick.
3. If you’re using lower-quality tortillas, stack about six together and cover them with a dampened paper towel. Microwave them for about 60 seconds to make them pliable. This step is essential as it makes rolling them easier without tearing.
4. Take about 12 to 14 tortillas and lay them flat on your counter. Carefully add approximately three tablespoons of the filling to the bottom third of each tortilla. Make sure not to overfill them as that might cause them to burst during cooking.
5. Now, tightly roll up each tortilla, ensuring the filling is secure. Place them seam-side down on a baking sheet. This helps them keep their shape while you prepare to cook them.
6. If you wish to keep your Chicken Flautas warm while cooking the others, preheat your oven to 200 degrees F and set a wire baking rack over a baking pan. This will ensure they stay crispy.
7. In a large nonstick skillet, heat about one cup of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 325 degrees F. Once it’s hot, carefully add about two to four flautas seam-side down into the oil. Fry them, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown on all sides, which should take about three to four minutes. Be attentive to the oil temperature for the best results.
8. Once cooked, allow the flautas to drain briefly on paper towels. Transfer them to the prepared baking pan to keep warm while you fry the remaining flautas. Make sure they are evenly spaced to maintain their crispy texture.
9. Finally, serve your Chicken Flautas warm with sides of sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or pico de gallo. You can also add a sprinkle of shredded iceberg lettuce for a refreshing crunch.

Recipe Variations about Chicken Flautas

While Chicken Flautas are delicious as is, there are many variations you can try. Here are some tips to switch things up and make this dish your own:

• Swap the protein: Feel free to replace the chicken with shredded beef, pork, or even a mix of veggies for a vegetarian option!
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different cheese varieties such as pepper jack for some heat or mozzarella for a milder flavor.
• Add beans: Incorporate black beans or refried beans into the filling for added texture and flavor.
• Spice it up: Adjust the heat level by adding more cayenne or even jalapeños into the filling for a spicy kick.
• Try baking: Instead of frying, brush the flautas with olive oil and bake them at 425 degrees F for 15 to 20 minutes for a healthier option.
• Freezing tips: Make a double batch and freeze them! They freeze well and can be reheated in the oven or air fryer.

Great Combinations for Chicken Flautas

When serving Chicken Flautas, the options are endless. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

• Serve with fresh sides: Pair them with fresh guacamole, pico de gallo, or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
• Perfect for parties: Set up a flauta bar with different toppings, allowing guests to customize their own!
• Great for lunch: These flautas make for an excellent lunch option, especially when paired with a side of fresh fruit.
• Seasonal servings: Consider adding seasonal veggies or salsas to brighten up your plate during summer.
• Storage tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days.

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, Chicken Flautas are a delightful dish that combines crispy tortillas with savory fillings, making them a perfect choice for any meal. Whether you’re serving them for a casual dinner or a festive occasion, they bring a sense of warmth and comfort to the table. I encourage you to try making them yourself—you’ll find that they not only satisfy your cravings but also create lasting memories with loved ones. Enjoy every crispy, cheesy bite!

Chicken Flautas

The ultimate comfort food, Chicken Flautas are crispy, cheesy, and utterly delicious! Perfect for a fun family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends, these flautas will satisfy any craving. Make them tonight for a delightful experience!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 14 flautas

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Mexican

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1/2 cup salsa medium or hot for more of a kick
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 4 oz. chopped green chiles mild can
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin EACH
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder EACH
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder EACH
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika EACH
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano EACH
• 1/2 teaspoon salt EACH
• 3 cups shredded cooked chicken I like to use rotisserie chicken
• 1 cup Monterrey Jack cheese freshly shredded
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese freshly shredded
• Cayenne pepper or hot sauce to taste
• 12-14 medium (7-8 inch) flour tortillas
• vegetable oil optional for frying

Equipment

• Wooden Spoon
• Oven
• Skillet
• Frying Pan
• Chef's Knife

Method

 

1. Begin by adding the salsa, sour cream, green chiles, and all the seasonings (except cayenne) into a large mixing bowl. Stir everything together until well combined.
2. Next, gently incorporate the shredded chicken into the mixture, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. Once mixed in, follow with the Monterrey Jack cheese and sharp cheddar cheese. Mix until coated and season with cayenne pepper to taste if desired.
3. If you’re using lower-quality tortillas, stack them together and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave for 60 seconds to soften.
4. Lay 12 to 14 tortillas flat on your counter. Add about three tablespoons of the filling to the bottom third of each tortilla. Do not overfill!
5. Tightly roll up each tortilla and place them seam-side down on a baking sheet.
6. Preheat your oven to 200 degrees F to keep the flautas warm while you cook the rest.
7. In a large nonstick skillet, heat about one cup of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until hot. Add flautas seam-side down in batches, frying until golden brown on all sides.
8. Let them drain on paper towels, then transfer to the warm oven.
9. Serve warm with sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or pico de gallo.

Notes

Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Air fryer: They reheat beautifully in the air fryer at 400 degrees F for 6-8 minutes.

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Meet Sadie Mitchell

The Mood Catcher I’m our lead photographer, but my camera is just another tool in the kitchen, right next to my knife and whisk! I am obsessed with capturing the feeling of a meal the steam rising off a bowl or the golden light on a loaf of bread. I cook and style every shoot with the team, ensuring that the photo tells you exactly how cozy and delicious the food will taste.