Easy Chicken Flautas Recipe

If you’re craving a crunchy, cheesy, and flavorful meal that comes together quickly, this Easy Chicken Flautas Recipe is exactly what you need. Flautas, also known as rolled tacos, are a delightful Mexican-inspired dish made by rolling seasoned chicken and cheese inside tortillas, then frying them until golden and crispy. Using rotisserie chicken makes this recipe incredibly simple, saving you time without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight, a casual gathering, or just want a tasty snack, these flautas hit the spot every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Convenient: Using shredded rotisserie chicken means minimal prep and maximum taste.
• Crispy and Cheesy: The Monterey Jack cheese melts beautifully inside, complementing the spiced chicken perfectly.
• Customizable: Easily adjust the spice level with chili seasoning or swap out the cheese to suit your preference.
• Perfect for Entertaining: Flautas are finger food favorites, making them ideal for parties or casual meals.
• Versatile Dipping: Pair with salsa and sour cream for a classic combo, or try guacamole and hot sauce for extra zing.

What We’re Using

• 3 cups shredded cooked chicken: Rotisserie chicken works wonders for flavor and ease.
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Creamy and mild, it melts perfectly inside the flautas.
• 1/2 cup salsa: Adds a fresh, tangy kick to the filling.
• 1/2 cup sour cream: Brings richness and a cooling contrast to the spices.
• 1 (4-ounce) can diced green chiles: Adds subtle heat and a smoky depth.
• 1 teaspoon chili seasoning: A blend of spices that elevates the flavor profile.
• Kosher salt and ground black pepper: To taste, enhancing all the other ingredients.
• 12-inch flour or corn tortillas: Soft and pliable for rolling, choose your favorite type.
• Vegetable or canola oil: For frying, ensuring a crispy, golden finish.

Hardware & Gadgets

• Large mixing bowl: For combining chicken, cheese, and seasoning with ease.
• Frying pan or deep skillet: Wide enough to fry several flautas at once.
• Tongs: For safely turning and removing flautas from hot oil.
• Paper towels: To drain excess oil after frying.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accuracy with spices and other ingredients.

Build Easy Chicken Flautas Recipe Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the shredded rotisserie chicken, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, salsa, sour cream, diced green chiles, chili seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined. The chicken should be evenly coated and the cheese distributed throughout.

Step 2: Warm the Tortillas

Warm tortillas slightly in a dry skillet or microwave for 20-30 seconds. This makes them more pliable and less likely to crack when you roll them.

Step 3: Assemble the Flautas

Spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture along one side of each tortilla. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling, making sure the seam is underneath to prevent unrolling during frying.

Step 4: Heat the Oil

Pour vegetable or canola oil into a large skillet to a depth of about 1/2 inch. Heat over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking (about 350°F if you have a thermometer).

Step 5: Fry the Flautas

Carefully place the rolled flautas seam-side down into the hot oil. Fry in batches, avoiding overcrowding the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to turn them gently and remove them when done.

Step 6: Drain and Serve

Transfer the fried flautas to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve hot with extra salsa and sour cream on the side for dipping.

Holiday-Friendly Variations

• Add chopped fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for a bright, festive twist.
• Mix in black beans or corn to the filling for extra texture and flavor, similar to our Tex Mex Chicken Enchilada Bake With Black Beans Corn.
• Use pepper jack cheese instead of Monterey Jack for a spicier kick perfect for celebrations.
• Serve alongside fresh guacamole and pico de gallo for vibrant holiday colors.
• Try stuffing the flautas with a mix of shredded chicken and sautéed peppers, inspired by Peach Poblano Chicken Quesadillas.

Mistakes That Ruin Easy Chicken Flautas Recipe

• Overfilling the tortillas: This can cause the flautas to burst open while frying, making a mess and losing the filling.
• Not warming the tortillas: Cold tortillas are brittle and prone to cracking when rolled.
• Oil not hot enough: If the oil is too cool, flautas absorb excess oil and become greasy rather than crispy.
• Overcrowding the pan: Frying too many at once lowers the oil temperature, leading to soggy flautas.
• Skipping the draining step: Not placing flautas on paper towels results in oily bites.

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

To store leftover flautas, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake them in a 375°F oven for 10-12 minutes or until crispy again. Avoid microwaving as it makes the tortillas soggy.

If you want to freeze flautas, flash freeze them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. Reheat straight from frozen in the oven for best results.

Ask the Chef

Can I bake the flautas instead of frying them?

Absolutely! Baking is a healthier alternative. Place rolled flautas on a greased baking sheet, brush them lightly with oil, and bake at 425°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. They won’t be quite as crispy as fried, but still delicious.

What’s the best cheese substitute if I can’t find Monterey Jack?

Queso Oaxaca, mozzarella, or even a mild cheddar work well. The key is to use a cheese that melts smoothly and has a mild flavor to complement the chicken.

Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?

Yes! You can mix the filling a day ahead and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just assemble and fry when you’re ready to serve for fresh, crispy flautas.

Are corn or flour tortillas better for this recipe?

Both work well, but flour tortillas tend to be more pliable and less likely to crack when rolling. Corn tortillas give a more authentic flavor but can be brittle, so warming them thoroughly is important.

Desserts to Finish

• Classic Cinnamon Sugar Churros – A crispy, sweet way to end your meal.
• Mexican Chocolate Cake – Rich, moist, and perfectly spiced.
• Fresh Fruit Salsa with Cinnamon Chips – Light and refreshing after a savory feast.
• Creamy Vanilla Flan – Smooth and silky custard with a caramel top.

Before You Go

Ready to explore more chicken dishes? Try making Fajita Chicken Kabobs for a smoky, grilled option that’s just as easy and packed with flavor. Whether you stick with these crispy chicken flautas or venture into other recipes, cooking at home has never been more satisfying.

These flautas offer such a wonderful combination of textures and flavors that your family and friends will be asking for seconds. From the tender chicken filling to the crispy golden exterior, this Easy Chicken Flautas Recipe is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. So grab your tortillas and get rolling — deliciousness awaits!

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