Chicken flautas, crispy rolled tortillas filled with seasoned chicken, are a beloved Mexican appetizer or snack. Their crunchy exterior and flavorful filling make them irresistible. This comprehensive guide will walk you through making perfect chicken flautas, from preparing the chicken to achieving that satisfying crunch.
What are Chicken Flautas?
Chicken flautas are essentially rolled tacos, but instead of being soft, they're deep-fried or baked until golden brown and wonderfully crispy. The filling typically consists of shredded chicken seasoned with a blend of spices, often including chili powder, cumin, and garlic. They're then served with various toppings, adding even more flavor and texture.
Ingredients You'll Need
For the Chicken Filling:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
For the Flautas:
- 12 corn tortillas
- Vegetable oil or canola oil, for frying (or cooking spray for baking)
- Your favorite toppings (see below)
How to Prepare the Chicken Filling
- Cook the Chicken: Boil or bake the chicken breasts until fully cooked. Shred the chicken using two forks.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Season the Chicken: Add the shredded chicken, chili powder, cumin, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through and the spices are fragrant.
- Simmer for Flavor: Stir in the chicken broth and simmer for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Assembling and Cooking the Flautas
- Warm the Tortillas: Warm the corn tortillas either by microwaving them for 15-20 seconds or wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 30 seconds to make them pliable. You can also lightly heat them in a dry skillet.
- Fill and Roll: Place about 1/4 cup of the chicken filling in the center of each tortilla. Fold in the sides, then tightly roll up from one end to the other.
- Fry or Bake:
- Frying: Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the flautas in the hot oil, seam-down, and fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Baking: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray a baking sheet with cooking spray. Arrange the flautas on the baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Serving Your Chicken Flautas
Serve your delicious chicken flautas immediately with your favorite toppings. Popular choices include:
- Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip adds richness and healthy fats.
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream provides a cool contrast to the spicy chicken.
- Salsa: Choose your favorite salsa – mild, medium, or hot!
- Shredded Cheese: A sprinkle of shredded cheese adds a savory, salty element.
- Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a vibrant pop of flavor and color.
- Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime juice brightens up the flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make chicken flautas ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Assemble the flautas and fry or bake them just before serving for the best texture.
What kind of tortillas are best for flautas?
Corn tortillas are traditional and work best for flautas, as they hold their shape better than flour tortillas when fried or baked.
How do I make sure my flautas are crispy?
Ensure your oil is hot enough when frying (the oil should shimmer). Don't overcrowd the pan when frying, as this will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy flautas. For baking, make sure to lightly spray your baking sheet to prevent sticking and ensure even browning.
Can I use leftover chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover cooked chicken works perfectly for this recipe. Just shred it and proceed with the seasoning steps.
What are some variations for chicken flauta fillings?
You can experiment with different seasonings, adding ingredients like diced bell peppers, jalapeños, or even some cooked black beans to the chicken filling for extra flavor and texture.
With these instructions and tips, you’re well on your way to making restaurant-quality chicken flautas at home. Enjoy!
