Crispy Chicken Flautas: A Mexican Fiesta

Craving authentic chicken flautas? This recipe's a winner! Crispy, flavorful, and ready in under an hour. Get ready for a proper Mexican fiesta! #chickenflautas

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Ever find yourself craving something crispy, savory, and totally satisfying? These chicken flautas are it . Honestly, they're a little addictive. They're super flavorful and have a satisfying crunch.

Brief Overview

Flautas , or rolled tacos, are a mexican staple. these mexican chicken flautas are easier than you think. this flautas recipe is beginner-friendly, taking about 45 minutes from start to finish.

This recipe makes around 4 servings, perfect for a fun mexican night dinner.

Main Benefits

The real magic lies in the baked chicken filling, which is so flavourful. these chicken flautas are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! make this recipe if you want something quick, easy and delicious mexican dinners .

Okay, so let’s talk about these mexican chicken flautas for a sec, these are the ultimate comfort food with a crispy twist.

I mean, who doesn't love something crunchy and filled with deliciousness? these aren't just any rolled tacos; they're authentic mexican recipes made accessible for everyone.

Think of them as the cooler, crispier cousin of the burrito!

I remember the first time i made these. i was trying to impress my friends with a mexican dinner recipes night, and oh my gosh, they were a hit! honestly, i was a bit nervous about frying them, but it turned out to be super easy.

What Makes These Chicken Flautas So Special?

Let's be real, there are a ton of chicken flautas recipe out there. what sets these apart? well, for starters, they are baked, it makes them extra crispy without the extra oil from the frying.

We're talking maximum crunch with less guilt. plus, the filling is bursting with flavor.

Alright, let's talk about what you'll need to make these killer chicken flautas . think of this as your treasure map to mexican deliciousness.

Honestly, having the right stuff makes all the difference.

Ingredients & Equipment

Main Ingredients

Okay, for that killer chicken flautas filling, you'll need:

• 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Quality alert: Go for organic if you can afford it, the flavor is just better .
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped (about 1 cup)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon (5ml) chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) cayenne pepper (optional, but trust me, a little kick is amazing )
• 1/2 cup (120ml) chicken broth
• 1/4 cup (60ml) tomato sauce
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup (60ml) chopped fresh cilantro

For the actual flautas , you'll grab:

• 12 corn tortillas (6-inch diameter) pro-tip: Freshly made ones rock, but store-bought works too
• Vegetable oil, for frying (about 3 cups / 720ml)
• Toothpicks (optional, but helpful to keep things tidy)

And don't forget your toppings! Sour cream, guacamole, and salsa are a must for dipping these Mexican chicken flautas .

Seasoning Notes: Level Up Your Flavor

This is where the authentic mexican recipes magic happens. don't skip the spices! the combo of chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika is straight fire.

Smoked paprika, seriously. essential spice combinations: chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano if you are short on spices, taco seasoning is a good substitute.

Flavor enhancers and aromatics: onion, garlic, cilantro quick substitution options: taco seasoning instead of chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano

A little cayenne pepper adds a nice zing, but leave it out if you're not into the heat. and honestly, fresh cilantro at the end just brings everything together.

You know? makes it pop.

Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple

No need for fancy gadgets here. You'll need:

• Large pot or Dutch oven (for cooking the chicken)
• Large skillet (for the filling)
• Slotted spoon
• Paper towels (for draining)
• Deep-fry thermometer (optional, but helpful for that perfect crisp)
• Tongs (for handling hot flautas)
• Baking sheet

A big pan to heat the oil in is really all you need. essential tools only: pot, skillet, slotted spoon, and tongs.

A skillet will do to cook the chicken and heat the oil, you can substitute the dutch oven and the large pot with that skillet.

And hey, if you don't have a deep-fry thermometer, no sweat! just make sure the oil is hot enough that a tiny piece of tortilla sizzles and turns golden brown quickly.

Now you have all you need to start your own mexican night . don't forget this chicken flautas recipe is going to become a family favorite.

Alright, let's dive into making some seriously delicious crispy chicken flautas ! forget those bland weeknight dinners, we're bringing a mexican night fiesta right to your kitchen.

Trust me, this chicken flautas recipe will become a staple in your repertoire of mexican dinner recipes . plus, who can resist those rolled tacos ? let's face it, they are like a hug in a tortilla.

I found myself making these because the kids love mexican dinners .

Prepping for Flauta Perfection

Essential Mise en Place for the Best Chicken Flautas

Honestly, getting organized is half the battle. before you even think about turning on the stove, make sure you've got everything chopped, measured, and ready to go.

This includes shredding your cooked chicken. you could boil or bake the chicken. aim for an internal temperature of 165° f ( 74° c) when it's cooked through.

I like to do this the day before to save time, you know?

Time-Saving Organization Tips

To save time, use rotisserie chicken. it's a total lifesaver. also, prep your toppings ahead of time. dice those tomatoes, shred that lettuce, and get your salsa ready.

Trust me, you'll thank yourself later.

Safety First!

Be super careful when you are frying. Hot oil is not your friend! Always use tongs to add and remove flautas from the oil. And never, ever leave hot oil unattended.

The Step-by-Step Flauta Process

Let's Roll: Your Guide to Perfect Flautas Recipe

1. Cook the Chicken: Boil or bake 1.5 lbs (680g) chicken breasts. Then shred it.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil. Cook 1 chopped onion until soft. Add 2 minced garlic cloves for 1 minute.
3. Spice it Up: Stir in 1 teaspoon (5ml) chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) cumin, 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) smoked paprika, 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) oregano, and 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) cayenne if you dare. Cook for 30 seconds.
4. Mix and Simmer: Add chicken, 1/2 cup (120ml) broth, and 1/4 cup (60ml) tomato sauce. Simmer for 10- 15 minutes , until thick. Add 1/4 cup (60ml) cilantro.
5. Warm Tortillas: Warm 12 corn tortillas to prevent cracking. Trust me, this is KEY.
6. Assemble: Put 2-3 tablespoons of filling in each tortilla. Roll tightly. Use toothpicks if needed.
7. Fry to Golden Perfection: Heat oil to 350° F ( 175° C) . Fry flautas for 2- 3 minutes per side.
8. Drain and Devour: Drain on paper towels. Remove toothpicks. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings!

Pro Tips for Epic Chicken Flautas

Expert Techniques and Shortcuts for the Win

• Warm Tortillas are the Secret: Seriously, don't skip warming the tortillas. A little time in the microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel is all you need.
• Don't Overfill Them: Resist the urge to stuff those flautas to the brim. Too much filling and they'll burst in the oil.

Common Mistakes to Dodge

The biggest mistake? Frying in oil that isn't hot enough. You want that oil shimmering. Also, overcrowding the pan leads to soggy flautas. Fry in batches, my friend.

Make-Ahead Magic

You can totally prep the chicken filling a day ahead. just store it in the fridge. then, when you're ready to roll, it's a breeze.

That is, in case your goal is creating authentic mexican recipes .

Honestly, this mexican chicken flautas recipe is a game changer. it is also great if you are looking for authentic mexican recipes .

So grab your ingredients and get ready to make some seriously delicious food!

Alright, friend, let's talk about how to make these chicken flautas the absolute best they can be! we're not just making flautas recipe here; we're crafting a little piece of mexican sunshine.

So, grab a margarita, and let's get into the details!

Recipe Notes

Honestly, these notes are where the magic really happens. I messed up so many Mexican Dinners before I figured these out. But hey, live and learn, right?

Serving Suggestions: Dishing up Deliciousness

Picture this: crispy, golden chicken flautas arranged artfully on a platter. a dollop of sour cream, a vibrant scoop of guacamole, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.

Boom! restaurant-worthy presentation, my friend. some mexican rice on the side never hurts. or even a simple black bean salad.

I even add some mexican street corn salad. i think your serving presentation is half of your diner experience. don't skimp on making it pretty.

Oh, and let's not forget the drinks. A classic margarita? Yes, please! A cold Mexican beer? Absolutely. Get your Mexican Night started right.

Storage Tips: Saving the Flavor

Got leftovers? Lucky you! These chicken flautas are just as good the next day. Keep them in the fridge. They will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

For reheating, the oven is your best friend. A toaster oven even. It's will help keep that crisp. I don't use a microwave, as they will become soggy.

You can freeze them, too! wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then put them in a freezer bag. they'll last for up to 2 months.

Reheat them straight from frozen in the oven.

Variations: Tweak It Your Way

Want to make these chicken flautas your own? Go for it! This Chicken Flautas Recipe is totally flexible.

• Dietary Adaptations: Need gluten-free? Easy! Just use gluten-free tortillas. For a dairy-free option, skip the sour cream or use a dairy-free alternative.
• Seasonal Swaps: Feeling adventurous? In the summer, add some grilled corn to the chicken filling. In the fall, a sprinkle of roasted butternut squash would be divine. What about tomatillos instead of tomatoes?

I used to live in Arizona. I would always visit local farmers and get my spices and vegetables from them.

Nutrition Basics: Fueling Your Fiesta

Okay, let's keep it real. these chicken flautas are a treat , not a health food. but everything in moderation, right? per serving, you're looking at roughly 450 calories.

35g of protein. lots of happy-making flavor!

The key health benefits ? well, you're getting a good dose of protein from the chicken. i love using organic free range chicken.

A good protein is important for muscle growth. and, hey, all that cilantro is packed with vitamins.

Honestly, if you follow this Flautas Recipe , you can make magic in your kitchen. Remember, cooking is all about experimenting and having fun.

These authentic mexican recipes are a perfect way to start. i even have some friends with mexican dinner recipes passed down for generations.

I know you'll make some amazing rolled tacos . now go get cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are my chicken flautas falling apart when I fry them?

There are a few reasons why your chicken flautas might be having a bit of a "technical difficulty" and falling apart. Firstly, make sure you're warming the tortillas before rolling. A quick zap in the microwave or a warm pan makes them more pliable. Secondly, don't overfill them! Too much chicken filling puts stress on the tortilla. Finally, those toothpicks are your friends! Securely placing those chaps will keep everything neat and in place.

Can I bake chicken flautas instead of frying them?

Absolutely! Baking is a great, healthier option. Simply preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), brush the rolled flautas lightly with olive oil, and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until they're golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on them as every oven is different! They won't be quite as crispy as fried flautas, but they're still delicious and a lot less greasy, innit?

What's the best way to store leftover chicken flautas?

If you've managed to resist scoffing them all in one go (impressive!), store your leftover chicken flautas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to re-crisp them. Microwaving will make them a bit soft, but it's a quick option if you're in a rush. A quick blast in the air fryer would also work wonders!

Can I make the chicken filling for the chicken flautas ahead of time?

You bet your bottom dollar you can! Making the chicken filling in advance is a fantastic way to break up the cooking process. Simply prepare the filling according to the recipe, let it cool completely, and then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This is the sort of time saving tip Mary Berry would be proud of!

Are there any variations I can try with these chicken flautas?

Oh, the possibilities are endless! For a spicy kick, add a finely chopped jalapeño to the chicken filling. You could also swap the chicken for shredded turkey or even try a vegetarian version with sweet potatoes, black beans, and corn. Experiment with different cheeses in the filling too, like Monterey Jack or cheddar. Get creative and make it your own, it's all gravy!

What kind of tortillas work best for chicken flautas?

Corn tortillas are traditionally used for flautas, and they provide that authentic flavor and slightly chewy texture that everyone loves. Look for 6-inch diameter corn tortillas – they're the perfect size. However, if you prefer, you can use flour tortillas, but they will result in a softer, less crispy flauta. Warming the corn tortillas is absolutely critical, whether you go with baking or frying them!

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