Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
chicken flautas recipe - Close-up of golden brown, crispy chicken flautas garnished with fresh cilantro and a side of dipping sauce.

Crispy Golden Chicken Flautas


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 12 flautas (4 servings) 1x

Description

This chicken flautas recipe brings you perfectly crispy, golden-brown corn tortillas filled with a savory, seasoned chicken and cheese mixture, inspired by generations of Mexican home cooking. A truly comforting and versatile dish perfect for any occasion.


Ingredients

Scale

2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (from rotisserie or boiled chicken breasts)
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese
1/4 cup finely diced yellow onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp ground cumin
1/4 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
12 small corn tortillas
2-3 cups vegetable oil (or canola/peanut oil), for frying
Optional toppings: sour cream, salsa, guacamole, shredded lettuce, cotija cheese


Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, shredded Monterey Jack (or cheddar), diced onion, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and the filling is uniform.
Step 2: Soften the Tortillas: Wrap a stack of 5-6 corn tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave for 20-30 seconds, or until they are warm and pliable. This prevents them from cracking when rolled. Alternatively, quickly dip each tortilla in warm oil for a few seconds.
Step 3: Fill and Roll the Flautas: Lay a warmed tortilla flat. Place about 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken filling in a line slightly off-center on the tortilla. Tightly roll the tortilla away from you, creating a compact cylinder. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling. You may use toothpicks to secure them if needed, removing them before serving.
Step 4: Fry the Flautas to Golden Perfection: Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet or shallow pot over medium-high heat to 350-375°F (175-190°C). Carefully place 3-4 flautas, seam-side down, into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 2-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides.
Step 5: Drain and Season: Using tongs, carefully remove the cooked flautas from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Immediately sprinkle with a pinch of salt while they're still hot. Remove any toothpicks. Repeat with the remaining flautas.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!: Serve your crispy chicken flautas hot with your favorite toppings like sour cream, salsa, guacamole, shredded lettuce, and crumbled cotija cheese. Enjoy immediately!

Notes

For best results, do not overcrowd the pan when frying; this helps maintain oil temperature and ensures even crisping. If you're not a fan of frying, you can also bake the flautas at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, or air-fry them at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, spraying lightly with oil. They won't be quite as crispy but are a healthier alternative.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Tacos Wraps & Sandwiches
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 3 flautas
  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 450 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 20 g
  • Cholesterol: 55 mg
Logo

Join Eldralys Recipes!

Get the latest recipe trends delivered to your inbox daily.

✓ You're on the list!