Flautas
Flautas are the perfect combination of crispy, savory, and packed with flavor. These delightful rolled tortillas are filled with a scrumptious mixture of shredded chicken, spices, and cheese, then fried to golden perfection. They’re a great option for family dinners, game day snacks, or even a fun party appetizer. With the ease of using rotisserie chicken and a handful of fresh ingredients, you can whip up these flautas in no time. Let’s dive into the details of creating this mouthwatering dish.
Why This Recipe Works
This flautas recipe is designed for simplicity and flavor. By using rotisserie chicken, we cut down on prep time while still infusing our dish with delicious seasoning. The combination of spices, fresh lime juice, and green chiles adds depth to the chicken filling, while the frying process creates a satisfying crunch. Topping them with fresh pico de gallo, guacamole, and sour cream elevates the experience, making these flautas a hit with everyone at the table.
What We’re Using
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil – for sautéing the onions and jalapeño
- 1/2 yellow onion, chopped – adds sweetness and depth to the filling
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced – for a touch of heat
- 3 cups shredded chicken – we use rotisserie chicken for convenience
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin – aromatic and earthy flavor
- 1 teaspoon chili powder – adds warmth and spice
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt – to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – for that extra layer of flavor
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika – brings a mild smokiness
- 4 oz mild green chiles – adds a nice tang and flavor
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice – for brightness
- 3 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese – for melty goodness
- 12 flour tortillas – the base for our flautas
- Shredded lettuce – for garnish and crunch
- Pico de Gallo – fresh topping
- Salsa – for an extra kick
- Guacamole – creamy contrast
- Sour Cream – for added richness
- Chopped Green Onion – fresh garnish
- Crumbled Queso Fresco – for a touch of saltiness
Prep & Cook Tools
- Skillet – for sautéing the filling and frying the flautas
- Spatula – for flipping and removing flautas from the skillet
- Mixing bowl – to combine the filling ingredients
- Measuring spoons and cups – for accurate ingredient amounts
- Paper towels – to drain excess oil after frying
Directions: Flautas
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a skillet, heat the olive oil or avocado oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced jalapeño, sautéing until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed onion and jalapeño with the shredded chicken, ground cumin, chili powder, kosher salt, garlic powder, paprika, green chiles, and lime juice. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
Step 3: Assemble the Flautas
Lay a flour tortilla on a clean surface. Spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto the center of the tortilla. Sprinkle with a bit of shredded cheese. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling and secure it with a toothpick if necessary. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
Step 4: Fry the Flautas
In the same skillet, add more oil if needed and heat over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place 2-3 flautas in the skillet, seam side down. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 5: Serve with Toppings
Serve the flautas hot accompanied by shredded lettuce, pico de gallo, salsa, guacamole, sour cream, chopped green onion, and crumbled queso fresco. Enjoy the delightful crunch and delicious flavors with every bite!
Fresh Seasonal Changes
- Spring: Add fresh herbs like cilantro and mint for a refreshing twist.
- Summer: Incorporate seasonal corn or diced tomatoes into the filling for a burst of sweetness.
- Fall: Mix in roasted butternut squash or sweet potatoes for a comforting flavor.
- Winter: Use hearty greens like kale or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
Notes from the Test Kitchen
For a healthier version, consider baking the flautas instead of frying. Simply brush them lightly with oil and bake at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes until crispy.
- Experiment with different fillings! Ground beef or black beans make excellent alternatives.
- If you’re short on time, feel free to use canned green chiles and pre-shredded cheese.
Leftovers & Meal Prep
Flautas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy. For meal prep, you can assemble the flautas ahead of time and freeze them before frying. Just fry them directly from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
Helpful Q&A
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
Yes! While flour tortillas are more traditional for flautas, corn tortillas can be used for a gluten-free option. Just be sure to warm them up slightly before filling to prevent them from cracking.
What can I serve with flautas?
Flautas pair well with a variety of sides, including rice, beans, or a simple salad. You can also serve them with Our Favorite Lightened Up Beef Enchiladas With 10 Minute Enchilada Sauce for a complete meal.
How can I make flautas spicier?
To add more heat, include diced serrano peppers or use a spicier variety of salsa as a topping. You can also increase the amount of jalapeño in the filling.
Can I make these flautas vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with a mix of beans, cheese, and your favorite vegetables. Black beans, corn, and sautéed bell peppers work wonderfully in this recipe.
Serve & Enjoy
Now that you’ve mastered the art of making flautas, gather your friends and family around for a delightful meal. These crispy delights are sure to impress, not just for their taste but also for their fun presentation. Whether you enjoy them as a main dish or as an appetizer, flautas bring joy and flavor to any table. Enjoy every crunchy bite and the satisfying feeling of sharing food made with love!
Flautas
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil or avocado oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced jalapeño, sautéing until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed onion and jalapeño with the shredded chicken, ground cumin, chili powder, kosher salt, garlic powder, paprika, green chiles, and lime juice. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Lay a flour tortilla on a clean surface. Spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto the center of the tortilla. Sprinkle with a bit of shredded cheese. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling and secure it with a toothpick if necessary. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
- In the same skillet, add more oil if needed and heat over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place 2-3 flautas in the skillet, seam side down. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve the flautas hot accompanied by shredded lettuce, pico de gallo, salsa, guacamole, sour cream, chopped green onion, and crumbled queso fresco. Enjoy the delightful crunch and delicious flavors with every bite!
Notes
- For a healthier version, consider baking the flautas instead of frying.
- Experiment with different fillings! Ground beef or black beans make excellent alternatives.
- If you're short on time, feel free to use canned green chiles and pre-shredded cheese.
