Introduction
When it comes to comfort food, nothing quite hits the spot like crispy Chicken Flautas. These delightful little rolls are golden brown and bursting with flavor, making them the perfect addition to any meal or a fantastic snack for a gathering. Filled with shredded chicken and gooey cheese, they’re both satisfying and fun to eat. Let’s dive into the wonderful world of making homemade flautas that are sure to impress your family and friends!
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, ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, and salt. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated, creating a flavorful filling.
- Heat a small amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat, just enough to warm the tortillas.
- Warm the corn tortillas in the skillet for about 30 seconds per side, or until they are soft and pliable.
- Once warmed, take a tortilla and place about 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture on one end. Roll it tightly to secure the filling inside.
- If desired, secure the flauta with a toothpick to keep it rolled tightly. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and filling.
- In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat enough oil to completely submerge the flautas. Fry the flautas in batches until they are golden and crispy, approximately 3-4 minutes on each side.
- Once fried, remove the flautas from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- Serve warm with your choice of sour cream, salsa, or guacamole for dipping.
Notes or Tips
- For an extra kick, consider adding some diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the filling.
- If you prefer a healthier version, you can bake the flautas in the oven at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until crispy.
- Feel free to customize the filling with other ingredients like beans, corn, or bell peppers!
Cooking Techniques
The key to perfect flautas lies in warming the tortillas properly. This makes them pliable and easier to roll without tearing. Additionally, frying at the right temperature is crucial; too hot and they will burn, too cool and they will soak up excess oil instead of becoming crispy. Keep an eye on them as they cook, and enjoy the delightful aroma that fills your kitchen!
FAQ
Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken? Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works wonderfully for this recipe, saving you time and adding extra flavor.
How do I store leftover flautas? Leftover flautas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven for best results.
Can I freeze flautas? Yes! You can freeze uncooked rolled flautas. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer them to a resealable bag. When ready to eat, fry them straight from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the cooking time.
Conclusion
Homemade Chicken Flautas are not only a fantastic way to enjoy your favorite flavors rolled up in a crispy tortilla, but they also bring a wonderful sense of warmth and comfort to any meal. Perfect for entertaining or simply treating yourself, these flautas are sure to become a beloved recipe in your home kitchen. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s make some delicious memories together!