Feast your senses on a plate of these delicious chicken flautas, a traditional Mexican dish packed with an unforgettable combination of flavors. From the crisp, golden-brown exterior to the tender and juicy chicken filling, this dish is a symphony of textures and tastes. Whether you're preparing a family dinner, a get-together with friends, or just looking for a tasty and satisfying meal, chicken flautas are a fantastic option.
They're simple to make, versatile, and an ideal way to introduce the authentic Mexican cuisine experience into your home kitchen.
Why This Recipe Works
First and foremost, the brilliance of this chicken flautas recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability. It requires minimal ingredients, most of which you likely have in your pantry already, and the steps are straightforward enough for cooks of all skill levels. Besides, the core ingredients can be easily tweaked according to your preferences or dietary needs, making this a highly customizable recipe. Love some heat? Add more chili. Want a vegetarian option? Swap chicken for beans. The possibilities are endless.
Moreover, this recipe creates an exquisite balance between different elements. The juicy, well-seasoned chicken pairs perfectly with the crunchiness of the fried tortilla, creating a memorable mouthfeel with each bite. Additionally, the garnish of sour cream, salsa, and guacamole provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the flautas. And the best part? It's not just a Dinner - these chicken flautas are perfect for appetizers, party finger food, or even a hearty snack. It's a recipe that encourages you to roll up your sleeves, get creative in the kitchen, and truly enjoy the process of cooking.
Ingredients
Chicken Breast - This lean protein will be the main filling of your flautas. You can use either fresh or leftover chicken. A potential substitute could be shredded turkey or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian option.
Tortillas: Small-sized flour tortillas are typically used for flautas. They roll easily and get a crispy finish when fried. Corn tortillas are a gluten-free alternative but can be a bit more fragile to work with.
Monterey Jack Cheese - This mild, creamy cheese melts well and complements the chicken. Substitutes can include other melting cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella.
Spices - A mix of cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder will give your flautas a flavor kick. Feel free to adjust to your taste or use a pre-made taco seasoning.
Oil - For frying the flautas. Canola or vegetable oil are good options, but avocado oil is a healthier, high smoke-point alternative.
Tips
- Ensure your chicken is fully cooked and shredded finely to make rolling the flautas easier.
- Warm your tortillas slightly before rolling to prevent them from tearing.
- Use a toothpick to hold the flauta together while frying if needed.
- Do not overcrowd the pan while frying. This keeps the oil temperature stable and ensures even browning.
- Allow your flautas to drain on a paper towel-lined plate after frying to remove excess oil.
How to Serve
Chicken flautas are a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Typically, they are enjoyed as a Dinner, accompanied by Mexican-inspired sides like refried beans or Spanish rice. They can also be part of a larger spread for parties or family gatherings.
- Party Platter: Serve them on a large platter, garnished with fresh cilantro, and surrounded by dips such as guacamole, salsa, and sour cream. Perfect for parties or game nights.
- Dinner: Serve a couple of flautas on a plate with sides like Mexican rice, beans, or a salad. It makes a filling, balanced meal.
- Appetizer: Cut the flautas into smaller pieces and serve with toothpicks. This is a great way to serve them as an appetizer or finger food at gatherings.
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Chicken Flautas
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 10 small flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoonchili powder
- 1 teaspoongarlic powder
- 1 teaspoononion powder
- ½ cup vegetable oil
Instructions
- Mix shredded chicken with spices in a bowl.
- Lay out a tortilla, add some chicken and cheese near one edge, and roll it up tightly.
- Secure with a toothpick if needed.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Fry the flautas until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes on each side.
- Drain on paper towels before serving.
Nutrition
Notes
- Ensure your chicken is fully cooked and shredded finely to make rolling the flautas easier.
- Warm your tortillas slightly before rolling to prevent them from tearing.
- Use a toothpick to hold the flauta together while frying if needed.
- Do not overcrowd the pan while frying. This keeps the oil temperature stable and ensures even browning.
- Allow your flautas to drain on a paper towel-lined plate after frying to remove excess oil.