Chicken Flautas Recipe

Shredded cooked chicken: Pre-cooked and shredded chicken, which can be from a rotisserie chicken or homemade.

Shredded cheese: Any melting cheese like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend.

Small flour tortillas: Soft tortillas that are smaller in size, perfect for rolling into flautas.

Vegetable oil: Used for frying the flautas to achieve a golden brown and crispy texture.

When rolling the tortillas, ensure they are tightly wrapped to prevent the filling from spilling out during frying. To secure them, you can use a toothpick, which can be removed after frying. Additionally, make sure the oil is at the right temperature by testing it with a small piece of tortilla; if it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready.

• shredded cooked chicken - Substitute with shredded cooked turkey: Turkey has a similar texture and flavor profile to chicken, making it an excellent substitute.

• shredded cooked chicken - Substitute with shredded cooked pork: Pork can provide a richer flavor and is a good alternative for those who prefer a different meat.

• shredded cheese - Substitute with crumbled queso fresco: Queso fresco adds a mild, creamy flavor that complements the other ingredients well.

• shredded cheese - Substitute with vegan cheese: For a dairy-free option, vegan cheese can provide a similar texture and flavor.

• small flour tortillas - Substitute with corn tortillas: Corn tortillas offer a different texture and are a traditional choice in many Mexican dishes.

• small flour tortillas - Substitute with whole wheat tortillas: Whole wheat tortillas are a healthier option and provide a slightly nutty flavor.

• vegetable oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a high smoke point and neutral flavor, making it a good alternative for frying.

• vegetable oil - Substitute with grapeseed oil: Grapeseed oil is another neutral oil with a high smoke point, suitable for frying.

• Allow the chicken flautas to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy.
• For short-term storage, place the cooled flautas in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To freeze, arrange the cooled flautas in a single layer on a baking sheet. Place the sheet in the freezer for about 1-2 hours, or until the flautas are firm.
• Once frozen, transfer the flautas to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date and store for up to 3 months.
• When ready to reheat, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the frozen flautas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. Alternatively, you can reheat them in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes.
• For a quicker option, reheat the flautas in the microwave. Place them on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, though they may not be as crispy.
• Serve the reheated chicken flautas hot with your favorite dipping sauce or salsa.

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the leftover chicken flautas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-15 minutes until they are heated through and crispy.

• For a quicker method, use an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the chicken flautas in a single layer and cook for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating.

• If you prefer using a skillet, heat a small amount of vegetable oil over medium heat. Place the chicken flautas in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are warmed through and regain their crispiness.

• For a microwave option, place the chicken flautas on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to prevent them from drying out. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway to ensure they are evenly heated. Note that this method may not retain the original crispiness.

• To add a bit of steam, place the chicken flautas in a steamer basket over boiling water. Cover and steam for about 5 minutes. This method will keep them moist but may soften the tortillas slightly.

• Mixing bowl: Use this to combine the shredded chicken and cheese evenly.

• Skillet: This is essential for frying the rolled tortillas to achieve a golden brown and crispy texture.

• Tongs: Handy for turning the flautas in the hot oil and removing them once they are done.

• Paper towels: Place these on a plate to drain excess oil from the fried flautas.

• Plate: Use this to hold the flautas after they have been drained on the paper towels.

• Spatula: Useful for gently pressing down the flautas in the skillet to ensure even frying.

• Measuring cups: These help in accurately measuring the shredded chicken, cheese, and oil.

• Knife: If your chicken is not already shredded, you will need this to cut it into fine pieces.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to shred or cut the chicken.

• Serving dish: Perfect for presenting the hot flautas with your favorite dipping sauce.

Prepare the filling: Mix the shredded chicken and shredded cheese in advance and store in the refrigerator to save time when assembling the flautas.

Use pre-cooked chicken: Purchase pre-cooked chicken from the store to skip the cooking step entirely.

Heat oil efficiently: Use a deep fryer or a wide skillet to heat the vegetable oil more quickly and evenly.

Batch frying: Fry multiple rolled tortillas at once to reduce overall cooking time.

Pre-warm tortillas: Microwave the flour tortillas for a few seconds to make them easier to roll without cracking.