Introduction
Get ready to impress your friends and family with these quick and easy chicken flautas! Perfectly crispy on the outside and bursting with a delicious filling on the inside, these flautas are a fantastic option for dinner or a fun appetizer at your next gathering. The combination of tender shredded chicken, melty cheese, and zesty salsa rolled up in warm tortillas creates an irresistible dish that’s sure to become a favorite!
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 8-10 small flour or corn tortillas
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Sour cream for serving (optional)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 8-10 flautas
Directions and Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cheese, and salsa, mixing well until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and warm each tortilla one at a time until they are pliable, making them easier to roll.
- Place approximately 2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto the center of each tortilla and roll them tightly to encase the filling.
- If necessary, secure the ends of the flautas with toothpicks to help keep them from unrolling during frying.
- In a large skillet, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking.
- Carefully add the flautas to the skillet, seam side down, and fry them until they turn a lovely golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Once cooked, remove the flautas from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain off any excess oil.
- Serve warm with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for garnish, if desired.
Notes or Tips
For extra flavor, consider adding some spices like cumin or chili powder to the chicken mixture. You can also customize your flautas by incorporating beans, vegetables, or your favorite toppings!
Cooking Techniques
The key to perfectly crispy flautas lies in the frying process. Make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the flautas to avoid them soaking up too much oil. A good way to test if the oil is ready is by dropping a small piece of tortilla in; if it sizzles immediately, you’re all set!
FAQ
Can I bake these flautas instead of frying them?
Yes! For a healthier option, you can bake the flautas at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through until they are crispy and golden.
What can I serve with chicken flautas?
These flautas pair beautifully with guacamole, salsa, or a refreshing side salad for a complete meal.
Conclusion
These quick and easy chicken flautas are a delightful dish that brings together simplicity and flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or a fun gathering, they’re sure to be a hit. Enjoy the crunch, savor the filling, and delight in the satisfied smiles around your table!