Introduction
Get ready to treat yourself to a deliciously satisfying meal that’s sure to please the whole family! These Chicken Flautas are golden brown, crispy on the outside, and filled with a rich combination of tender shredded chicken and melted cheese. Perfect for a cozy dinner or an exciting taco night, these flautas embody the comfort of homemade Mexican cuisine. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces, and you’ll have a dish that’s not only easy to make but also bursting with flavor.
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. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated, creating a savory filling.
- Heat a small amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat, preparing to warm the tortillas.
- Warm the corn tortillas in the skillet for about 30 seconds on each side until they are soft and pliable. This step is key to rolling them without tearing.
- Take a warm tortilla and spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto one end. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling.
- If necessary, secure the flauta with a toothpick to keep it tightly rolled. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and filling.
- In a deep skillet, heat enough oil to submerge the flautas once they are ready to fry.
- Carefully fry the rolled flautas in batches until they turn a delightful golden color and become crispy, about 3-4 minutes on each side.
- Once cooked, remove the flautas from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- Serve your crispy flautas with sour cream, salsa, or guacamole for a perfect dipping experience!
Notes or Tips
For an extra kick, consider adding finely chopped jalapeños or diced bell peppers to the filling. If you dislike frying, you can also bake the flautas in the oven at 425°F for 20-25 minutes until they are golden brown, brushing them lightly with oil before baking to achieve that lovely crispiness. Enjoy them fresh for the best flavor, but if you have leftovers, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cooking Techniques
Mastering the art of making flautas lies in the perfect tortilla preparation. Warming them gently helps to maintain their integrity, allowing for easy rolling. Furthermore, frying at the right temperature ensures that they cook evenly, and using enough oil prevents them from becoming soggy. Remember to monitor closely while frying to achieve that irresistible crispy texture.
FAQ
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just allow it to come to room temperature before assembling the flautas.
What are some good sides to serve with flautas?
Alongside sour cream, salsa, or guacamole, consider serving a light salad or Mexican rice. Refried beans also make an excellent pairing!
Conclusion
These Chicken Flautas are the perfect combination of crunchy, cheesy, and flavorful, making them a delightful addition to your recipe repertoire. Whether served at a family gathering or enjoyed as a casual dinner, they are sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, and let’s create a meal that fills the belly and warms the heart!