Chicken Flautas
If you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for dinner or a fun appetizer, Chicken Flautas are the way to go! These crispy, rolled tortillas filled with seasoned chicken are a crowd-pleaser, and they come together quickly with minimal fuss. Whether you’re serving them at a party or for a cozy family night, Chicken Flautas will surely impress. Pair them with your favorite salsa and a sprinkle of fresh lime juice for a burst of flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Why This Recipe Works
The beauty of Chicken Flautas lies in their simplicity and versatility. Using cooked chicken means you can whip these up in no time, making them a fantastic weeknight option. The combination of spices like chili powder and ground cumin enhances the flavor of the chicken, while the crispy tortilla adds texture that makes each bite irresistible. Moreover, they can be customized easily with various fillings or toppings, ensuring that everyone gets a taste they love.
What Goes Into Chicken Flautas
To create these delicious Chicken Flautas, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing and adding richness.
- 1 onion (diced): Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 1 large jalapeño pepper (finely chopped): For a spicy kick.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon chili powder: Adds warmth and depth.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin: For an earthy flavor.
- 1 cup shredded cooked chicken: The star of the show; use any cooked chicken you have on hand.
- 1 cup salsa: For dipping and extra flavor.
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (from 1 lime): Brightens up the dish.
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Adds creaminess and flavor.
- 12 (8-inch) flour and corn tortillas: The base for your flautas; use a mix for added flavor.
- ½ cup vegetable oil: For frying and achieving that crispy texture.
Gear Up: What to Grab
Before diving into the cooking process, make sure you have the following kitchen gear on hand:
- Large skillet: For frying the flautas.
- Spatula: To flip the flautas easily.
- Cutting board and knife: For chopping the vegetables.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
- Paper towels: To drain excess oil after frying.
Chicken Flautas: From Prep to Plate
Let’s walk through the steps to create your Chicken Flautas:
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat the 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and finely chopped jalapeño. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
Step 2: Add Seasonings
Sprinkle in the kosher salt, chili powder, and ground cumin. Stir well to combine, allowing the spices to toast slightly for about a minute.
Step 3: Mix in the Chicken
Add the shredded cooked chicken to the skillet, mixing thoroughly to coat the chicken in the spice mixture. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the chicken is heated through. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 4: Prepare the Tortillas
Warm the flour and corn tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave for a few seconds to make them pliable. This will prevent them from cracking when you roll them.
Step 5: Assemble the Flautas
Place a spoonful of the chicken mixture in the center of each tortilla, followed by a sprinkle of shredded Monterey Jack cheese. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling, securing it with a toothpick if necessary.
Step 6: Fry the Flautas
In the same skillet, heat the ½ cup of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place a few flautas in the oil, seam side down. Fry for about 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the oil and place on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 7: Serve with Salsa
Once all flautas are fried, drizzle lime juice over them and serve with salsa on the side. Enjoy your homemade Chicken Flautas!
Low-Carb/Keto Alternatives
If you’re looking to make a low-carb or keto-friendly version of Chicken Flautas, consider these alternatives:
- Use low-carb tortillas made from almond flour or coconut flour.
- Skip the cheese or opt for a lower-carb option like mozzarella.
- Serve with a fresh guacamole instead of salsa.
- Use cauliflower rice as a filling for a twist.
Cook’s Commentary
Chicken Flautas are incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with different fillings such as beans, cheese, or even vegetables. You can also adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer jalapeños or using a milder salsa. For a unique twist, try pairing them with Creamy Roasted Poblano Chicken on the side for a flavor explosion!
Meal Prep & Storage Notes
If you want to prepare Chicken Flautas ahead of time, you can assemble them and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before frying. Just make sure to cover them tightly to prevent them from drying out. Leftover flautas can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to regain their crispiness.
Reader Q&A
Can I use raw chicken instead of cooked chicken?
Yes, you can use raw chicken! Just cook it thoroughly before shredding and mixing it with the spices. You may want to sauté it in the skillet first, then follow the rest of the steps.
What can I use if I don’t have jalapeños?
If you don’t have jalapeños, you can substitute with other peppers like serrano or poblano for a different flavor. Alternatively, you can omit them altogether for a milder dish.
Can I bake the flautas instead of frying them?
Absolutely! To bake them, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the assembled flautas on a baking sheet, brush with a little olive oil, and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until golden and crispy.
What should I serve with Chicken Flautas?
Chicken Flautas pair wonderfully with a side of sour cream, guacamole, or refried beans. You can also serve them alongside a salad or some Honey Mustard Chicken Bowtie Pasta for a complete meal!
Healthy-ish Favorites
If you enjoyed Chicken Flautas, you might also like these healthy-ish dishes:
- Creamy Roasted Poblano Chicken
- Honey Mustard Chicken Bowtie Pasta
- Grilled Vegetable Tacos
- Stuffed Bell Peppers
See You at the Table
Get ready to enjoy a plateful of crispy, flavorful Chicken Flautas that are sure to delight your taste buds! Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself to a delicious meal, these flautas will become a favorite in your home. Don’t forget to share your experience and let us know how your Chicken Flautas turned out. Happy cooking!
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Chicken Flautas
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and finely chopped jalapeño. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Sprinkle in the kosher salt, chili powder, and ground cumin. Stir well to combine, allowing the spices to toast slightly for about a minute.
- Add the shredded cooked chicken to the skillet, mixing thoroughly to coat the chicken in the spice mixture. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the chicken is heated through. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Warm the flour and corn tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave for a few seconds to make them pliable.
- Place a spoonful of the chicken mixture in the center of each tortilla, followed by a sprinkle of shredded Monterey Jack cheese. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling, securing it with a toothpick if necessary.
- In the same skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place a few flautas in the oil, seam side down. Fry for about 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the oil and place on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Once all flautas are fried, drizzle lime juice over them and serve with salsa on the side. Enjoy your homemade Chicken Flautas!
Notes
- Feel free to customize with your favorite fillings like beans or veggies.
- For a healthier option, bake the flautas instead of frying.
- Make ahead by assembling and refrigerating before frying.
