Baked Chicken Flautas are a delicious and healthier twist on the traditional fried version, offering a crispy exterior filled with tender, seasoned chicken. These rolled tortillas are stuffed with a flavorful mixture of shredded chicken, cheese, and spices, then baked until golden and crunchy. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun appetizer at parties, they are easy to customize with your favorite toppings like salsa, guacamole, or sour cream. Not only are they lower in calories than their fried counterparts, but the baking method allows the chicken to remain moist and flavorful while the tortillas get perfectly crisp. Enjoy these tasty flautas with your favorite dipping sauces for a satisfying meal everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 10-12 corn or flour tortillas
- Cooking spray or olive oil
- Optional toppings: salsa, guacamole, sour cream, chopped cilantro
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cheese, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Warm the Tortillas: To make rolling easier, warm the tortillas in a microwave or on a skillet for a few seconds until they are pliable.
- Assemble the Flautas: Place about 2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture on one end of each tortilla. Roll it tightly, starting from the filled end, and place seam side down on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.
- Bake: Lightly spray the flautas with cooking spray or brush with olive oil for a golden finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are crispy and golden brown.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm with your favorite toppings and dips.
Baked Chicken Flautas are a fun and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or as finger food for gatherings. Their crispy texture and savory filling make them a delightful addition to any meal!