Chicken Flautas

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Chicken Flautas are crispy rolled tortillas filled with shredded chicken and cheese, then fried or baked until golden. A Mexican favorite, they’re perfect as an appetizer, party snack, or a fun dinner served with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.

⏱️ Prep Time

Prep: 15 minutes
Cook: 15–20 minutes
Total: 30–35 minutes

🧰 Equipment

Skillet or frying pan (for stovetop)
Baking sheet (for oven version)
Mixing bowl
Tongs or spatula
Paper towels or cooling rack
Toothpicks (optional for holding flautas closed)

📝 Ingredients

For the Flautas:

2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (seasoned or plain)
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend)
10 small corn or flour tortillas
1/2 tsp cumin
1/2 tsp chili powder
1/4 tsp garlic powder
Salt & pepper, to taste
Oil, for frying (canola or vegetable)

Optional Toppings & Dips:

Guacamole or sliced avocado
Sour cream or Mexican crema
Salsa or pico de gallo
Shredded lettuce
Cotija or queso fresco
Hot sauce

ℹ️ Ingredient Notes

Tortillas: Corn is traditional, but flour tortillas are easier to roll and fry without cracking. Warm them to make them pliable.
Chicken: Use rotisserie, poached, or leftover chicken. Season it if it isn’t already.
Cheese: Melty cheeses like Monterey Jack or Oaxaca work best.

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling:

In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, cheese, and spices. Taste and adjust seasoning.

2. Warm the Tortillas:

Microwave the tortillas for 20–30 seconds or heat in a pan to soften — this prevents cracking during rolling.

3. Roll the Flautas:

Place 2–3 tablespoons of filling along one edge of each tortilla.
Roll tightly into a thin cylinder and secure with a toothpick if needed.

4. Cook the Flautas:

🛢️ Frying (Traditional Method):

Heat 1/2 inch oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Fry flautas seam-side down in batches for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.
Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate or wire rack.

🔥 Baking (Healthier Option):

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
Place flautas seam-side down on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet.
Lightly brush or spray with oil.
Bake for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway for even crispness.

💨 Air Fryer (Best of Both Worlds):

Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
Spray flautas lightly with oil.
Air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway.

5. Serve:

Let cool slightly, remove toothpicks, and serve with your favorite toppings and dips.

🔢 Nutrition Facts (Per 2 flautas, approx.)

Varies by cooking method and tortilla type.

Calories: 320
Protein: 20g
Fat: 18g
Carbs: 20g
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: 480mg

💡 Tips & Variations

🔁 Variations:

Creamy Filling: Mix in a spoonful of cream cheese or sour cream.
Spicy: Add minced jalapeños or chipotle peppers.
Veggie Flautas: Sub chicken for sautéed mushrooms, black beans, and spinach.
Breakfast Flautas: Use scrambled eggs, cheese, and cooked bacon or sausage.