Name: Crispy Chicken Flautas: Quick, Cheesy Comfort Food Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Shredded Cooked Chicken (Rotisserie chicken saves time); 1 can Canned Chopped Green Chiles (Salsa is a substitute if preferred); 1 cup Shredded Cheddar (Try Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a spicy twist); 1 cup Queso Blanco (Or crumbled feta, any melting cheese works); 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt (Skip if using pre-seasoned chicken); to taste Hot Sauce (Optional, for personalization); 4 pieces 7" Flour Tortillas (Corn tortillas are gluten-free); 1 cup Vegetable Oil (Canola oil works well); 1 cup Pico de Gallo (Fresh topping); 1 cup Sour Cream (For added creaminess); 1 cup Guacamole (Delightful addition)

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Have you ever felt a sudden craving for something crispy and comforting? Enter Chicken Flautas, a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that will spark joy at your dinner table. These scrumptious rolls are not only quick to prepare—taking just 10 minutes—but they also lend themselves to endless customization, making them the perfect choice for a cozy weeknight meal or an impressive appetizer for parties. Whether you opt for classic cheddar and queso blanco or employ a little creativity with different cheeses, you’re guaranteed a warm, cheesy center enveloped in a perfectly crunchy exterior. What toppings will you serve on your crispy creations?

Why Are Chicken Flautas So Irresistible?

Crispy, Golden Perfection: These Chicken Flautas boast a delightful crunch that elevates any meal. Quick Prep Time: You can whip these up in just 10 minutes, making them an ideal solution for busy weeknights. Versatile Filling Options: Use rotisserie chicken for convenience or get creative with pulled pork! Flavor Explosion: The combination of cheddar and queso blanco ensures a mouthwatering, cheesy experience in every bite. Perfect for serving alongside Cheesy Garlic Chicken or a fresh side of guacamole, these flautas will be a hit at your next gathering!

Chicken Flautas Ingredients

• Wondering what makes these Chicken Flautas so special? Let’s break it down!

For the Filling

Shredded Cooked Chicken – The heart of your flautas; rotisserie chicken saves time and adds flavor.
Canned Chopped Green Chiles – A splash of mild heat; salsa is a tasty substitute if you prefer.
Shredded Cheddar – Adds creamy richness; try Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a spicy twist.
Queso Blanco (or Crumbled Feta) – Imparts tanginess and melts beautifully; feel free to mix in any melting cheese.
Kosher Salt – Enhances the flavors; skip it if using pre-seasoned chicken.
Hot Sauce (optional) – Personalize the heat level to your liking!

For the Tortillas

7″ Flour Tortillas – A delicious wrap for your filling; corn tortillas offer a gluten-free option.

For Frying

Vegetable Oil (for frying) – Ensures that golden crispiness; canola oil works well for a neutral taste.

For Serving

Pico de Gallo, Sour Cream, and Guacamole – Elevates your flautas, adding freshness that enhances the flavor of these Chicken Flautas.

Now that you have all the essentials, let’s get ready to roll and fry up some crispy, cheesy goodness!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Flautas

Step 1: Warm the Tortillas
Begin by making your tortillas pliable. Wrap 7-inch flour tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave them for about 20 seconds. This step is crucial, as warm tortillas are easier to roll without cracking, ensuring your Chicken Flautas have a perfect wrap.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine shredded cooked chicken, canned chopped green chiles, shredded cheddar, and crumbled queso blanco. Add a pinch of kosher salt and mix until well integrated. This flavorful filling is the heart of your Chicken Flautas, so take a moment to make sure it’s all evenly blended.

Step 3: Assemble the Flautas
Take a warmed tortilla and place a generous amount of the filling near the edge. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling, securing it so that it keeps its shape. If needed, use toothpicks to hold the ends together. Repeat this process until all the filling is enclosed in your delicious Chicken Flautas.

Step 4: Heat the Oil
In a large skillet, pour enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom generously, about 1 inch deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350-375°F. You can test the temperature by dropping in a small piece of tortilla; it should sizzle immediately, indicating that it’s ready for frying.

Step 5: Fry the Flautas
Carefully place a few Chicken Flautas into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the skillet. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them, as the sizzling sound and golden color will signal when they’re perfectly cooked.

Step 6: Drain and Serve
Once the flautas are golden brown, remove them from the oil using tongs and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Carefully remove any toothpicks, allowing your crispy Chicken Flautas to shine. Serve them hot with pico de gallo, sour cream, and guacamole for a delightful meal that everyone will love.

Expert Tips for Perfect Chicken Flautas

Oil Temperature: Keep the oil hot (350-375°F) to achieve that crispy texture. If the oil is too cool, the flautas may become greasy.
Secure Them: Use toothpicks to hold the shape while frying, ensuring the filling stays inside for perfectly rolled Chicken Flautas.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in batches to maintain the oil temperature and achieve even cooking. Too many flautas at once can lead to uneven crispiness.
Test with a Tortilla Piece: Before frying the flautas, test the oil with a small piece of tortilla. If it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready!
Customization Options: Feel free to use different cheese types or add sautéed veggies for a unique flavor twist. The possibilities with Chicken Flautas are endless!

Chicken Flautas Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore these ideas and make this recipe uniquely yours!

Dairy-Free: Substitute cheese with dairy-free alternatives like cashew cheese or nutritional yeast for a creamy taste.
Pulled Pork: Swap shredded chicken for pulled pork for a deeper, richer flavor that pairs beautifully with the spices.
Spicy Flavors: Mix in jalapeños or chipotle peppers to the filling for a delightful kick that will energize every bite.
Veggie Delight: Replace the chicken with sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, and onions for a vegetarian option that satisfies.
Corn Tortillas: Use corn tortillas instead of flour for a gluten-free version that adds a classic touch to your flautas.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to the filling for a bright, aromatic flavor boost.
Cheesy Twists: Experiment with different cheeses such as pepper jack for spice or feta for tang to personalize your flautas.
Boosted Crunch: For extra crunch, roll flautas in crushed tortilla chips before frying! This adds a fantastic texture and flavor.

Why not serve your Chicken Flautas with a side of Cheesy Garlic Chicken and a vibrant pico de gallo? Your guests will be raving about your culinary creativity!

What to Serve with Crispy Chicken Flautas?

Dive into a flavor fiesta that pairs beautifully with these crispy delights, and elevate your meal experience!

Mexican Rice: A fluffy and flavorful side that complements the flautas’ crunch, enhancing your meal with a comforting grain texture.
Refried Beans: Creamy and hearty, refried beans provide a filling accompaniment, balancing the crunch of your flautas with their smoothness.
Fresh Salad: A vibrant salad with chopped lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and a lime vinaigrette adds a refreshing element, cutting through the richness.
Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa is a must-have topping! Its bright flavors contrast beautifully with the cheesy, savory filling of the flautas.
Guacamole: Creamy and rich, guacamole is the quintessential dip, adding a luxurious texture that beautifully complements the crunchiness.
Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream offers a tangy contrast that enhances flavors, making every bite of flautas even more indulgent.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled with a sprinkle of chili powder, buttery corn adds a sweet crunch that pairs perfectly with the flautas.
Margaritas: Sip on refreshing margaritas to brighten your meal! Their acidity balances the richness of the flautas beautifully.
Churros: For a sweet finish, consider serving churros dusted with cinnamon sugar—a delightful dessert that perfectly rounds out your dinner.

How to Store and Freeze Chicken Flautas

Fridge: Store leftover Chicken Flautas in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure they are cooled completely before sealing to keep their crunchiness.

Freezer: To freeze, wrap each flauta individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will stay fresh for up to 2 months; just thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy. Avoid microwaving as it may make them soggy.

Make-Ahead: You can assemble your Chicken Flautas ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before frying, making weeknight meals a breeze!

Make Ahead Options

These Chicken Flautas are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can assemble the flautas up to 24 hours in advance, placing them in an airtight container lined with parchment paper to keep them from sticking together. Prepare the filling (chicken, chiles, cheeses) ahead and refrigerate it, which will save valuable time on busy weeknights. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply heat oil and fry them as instructed. This method ensures they stay just as delicious, yielding a crispy exterior and a warm, cheesy center even when prepped ahead! Enjoy the charm of homemade Chicken Flautas with minimal effort!

Crispy Chicken Flautas Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken should I use for Chicken Flautas?
Absolutely! For these flavorful Chicken Flautas, shredded cooked chicken is ideal. I often recommend using rotisserie chicken for convenience, as it saves time and adds an incredible depth of flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also use pulled pork or even a mix of veggies for a vegetarian option.

How should I store leftover Chicken Flautas?
To keep your leftover Chicken Flautas fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing the container to help preserve their delightful crunch and flavor!

Can I freeze Chicken Flautas?
Yes! If you want to enjoy your Chicken Flautas later, wrap each flauta individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay delicious for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw the flautas in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until hot and crispy.

What can I do if the flautas are falling apart during frying?
Very! If you’re running into trouble with your Chicken Flautas falling apart, here are a few tips. First, ensure that your tortillas are warmed properly so they remain pliable. When assembling, roll the tortilla tightly, and you can even secure the ends with toothpicks if needed while frying. Lastly, maintain a hot oil temperature (350-375°F) to ensure they crisp up quickly, which also helps keep everything securely inside!

Are there any dietary considerations for Chicken Flautas?
Definitely! If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, you can easily customize these Chicken Flautas. For gluten-free options, swap flour tortillas for corn tortillas. Additionally, if someone has cheese allergies, feel free to use a dairy-free cheese alternative or leave out the cheese entirely. There are endless ways to personalize this recipe to suit everyone’s tastes!

How should I serve Chicken Flautas?
To elevate your Chicken Flautas, serving them with fresh pico de gallo, sour cream, and guacamole is a must! This adds a burst of flavor, freshness, and creaminess that perfectly complements the crispy texture. You can also serve them alongside Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.