Introduction
Looking for a cozy, satisfying dish that brings a bit of Mexican flair to your dinner table? These chicken flautas are just the ticket! With their golden-brown, crispy exterior and a delicious, cheesy chicken filling, they’re perfect for a weeknight dinner, game day snack, or even a festive gathering. Let’s dive into this simple yet flavorful recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 10-12 corn tortillas
- Oil for frying
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 10-12 flautas
Directions and Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cheese, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, and salt. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is well combined, creating a rich and flavorful filling.
- Heat a small amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat, allowing it to warm up as you prepare your tortillas.
- Warm the corn tortillas in the skillet for about 30 seconds on each side, just until they’re pliable. This makes rolling them much easier!
- Take a warm tortilla, spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto one end, and roll it up tightly. Feel free to secure it with a toothpick if you need to.
- Repeat the rolling process with the remaining tortillas and filling until you have a delightful batch of flautas ready to fry.
- In a deep skillet, pour enough oil to submerge the flautas. Heat the oil until it’s shimmering, indicating it’s ready for frying.
- Carefully fry the rolled flautas in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them until they’re golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Once crispy, remove the flautas from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. This will help keep them perfectly crisp!
- Serve your delightful chicken flautas with a side of sour cream, salsa, or guacamole for dipping.
Notes or Tips
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the filling. You can also swap out the cheese for a pepper jack blend for an extra flavor boost. If you want to make these ahead, simply prepare and roll the flautas, then refrigerate them for up to a day before frying.
Cooking Techniques
The key to perfect flautas is ensuring the oil is sufficiently heated before frying, so they cook evenly and don’t absorb too much oil. Additionally, warming the tortillas before rolling helps prevent tearing, making the process much smoother. Frying in batches not only ensures that each flauta gets crispy but also keeps your cooking manageable.
FAQ
Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken makes this recipe even easier and saves time.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes, you can! Brush them lightly with oil and bake at 425°F (220°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re crispy and golden.
What can I serve with chicken flautas?
They pair perfectly with sides like Mexican rice, beans, or a fresh salad, alongside your favorite dipping sauces.
Conclusion
These chicken flautas are not just a meal; they’re a celebration of flavors and textures that everyone will love. With their crispiness and savory filling, they’re sure to impress at any table. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy a batch of these tasty delights that will leave everyone coming back for more!