If you’re craving a crispy, flavorful snack that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Baked Chicken Flautas Recipe is going to become your new go-to. These golden wonders bring together tender shredded chicken, creamy cheeses, and a touch of spice all wrapped in soft tortillas that bake to perfection without the mess of frying. Perfectly crispy on the outside and bursting with a savory filling, this dish is as simple to prepare as it is delicious, making it an ideal choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe is carefully chosen to build layers of flavor and texture that make the Baked Chicken Flautas Recipe so irresistible. From the creamy cheeses to the punch of chili powder, every component plays a vital role.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: Provides tender protein and the hearty base of the filling.
- 2 cups Monterey Jack cheese, grated: Adds a mild, melty richness that binds everything together.
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened: Contributes creamy smoothness and helps hold the filling in place.
- 1 tablespoon chili powder or taco seasoning: Delivers that essential kick and a touch of smoky warmth.
- â…“ cup salsa of choice: Brings a fresh, tangy vibrance to brighten the filling.
- 8 flour tortillas (soft taco size): The soft yet sturdy wrapper that crisps up beautifully in the oven.
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Enhance and balance all the flavors.
- Neutral cooking oil, as needed: Helps achieve that perfect golden crust during baking.
How to Make Baked Chicken Flautas Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil — this makes clean-up a breeze — and brush it lightly with oil to prevent sticking while adding a crisp texture to your flautas.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken, grated Monterey Jack cheese, softened cream cheese, chili powder or taco seasoning, and your chosen salsa. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined into a creamy, flavorful filling that will be the star of your flautas.
Step 3: Fill the Tortillas
Lay out each flour tortilla flat, then spoon a generous line of the chicken mixture down the center. Roll each tortilla tightly to enclose the filling, making sure to place the rolled flautas seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet to help them stay closed while baking.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Brush the tops and sides of your rolled flautas lightly with oil. This step is key for developing that irresistible golden-brown, crispy exterior. Bake in your preheated oven for 10 to 15 minutes, or until they are bubbling and crisped to perfection.
How to Serve Baked Chicken Flautas Recipe
Garnishes
Nothing elevates baked chicken flautas like fresh toppings. Sprinkle chopped cilantro or sliced green onions over the top for a refreshing bite, or add a dollop of sour cream or guacamole for creamy contrast. A squeeze of fresh lime juice right before serving brightens and rounds out the flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
Keep your meal balanced and exciting with some classic Mexican-inspired sides. A zesty Mexican street corn salad, a simple black bean and corn salsa, or even a crunchy cabbage slaw with lime vinaigrette all pair wonderfully, enhancing the meal’s fresh and festive vibe.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve these flautas as a party platter with individual dipping bowls of salsa, queso, and chipotle mayo. Alternatively, slice them into bite-sized pieces and serve as finger foods at your next gathering. Using colorful plates and garnishing with edible flowers or sliced radishes can add an extra special touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover baked chicken flautas in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep the crust crisp, separate with parchment paper and avoid stacking if possible.
Freezing
These flautas freeze beautifully. Arrange the rolled flautas on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep for up to two months, ready for a quick, indulgent snack whenever you need.
Reheating
Reheat your flautas in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 8 to 10 minutes to restore their crispness. Avoid microwaving if possible because it can make the tortilla soggy. If you’re in a hurry, a toaster oven also works great.
FAQs
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
Absolutely! Corn tortillas give a more authentic flavor and a slightly different texture. Just warm them slightly before rolling to prevent cracking during baking.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, swap out chicken for sautéed mushrooms, roasted vegetables, or beans combined with the cheeses and seasonings for a delicious vegetarian option that’s just as satisfying.
Can I prepare these ahead of time and bake later?
Definitely! You can assemble the flautas, then cover and refrigerate them for a few hours before baking. This makes dinner prep even easier when time is tight.
What dipping sauces work best with baked chicken flautas?
Salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or a creamy chipotle sauce are all excellent choices that complement the flavors perfectly and add moisture and freshness.
How can I make the flautas extra crispy without frying?
Brushing them generously with oil and baking at a high temperature helps achieve crispiness. You can also broil them for a minute or two at the end, but watch carefully to avoid burning.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Chicken Flautas Recipe is a total winner when you want amazing flavor with minimal fuss. The blend of melty cheese, tender chicken, and just the right spice tucked into crispy tortillas creates a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. Give this recipe a try—you might just find it becoming a staple in your kitchen for when you want to impress with something that’s both tasty and easy!
Print
Baked Chicken Flautas Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
This Baked Chicken Flautas recipe features crispy, golden tortillas filled with a flavorful mixture of shredded chicken, Monterey Jack cheese, cream cheese, and a hint of chili powder. Baked to perfection, these flautas offer a healthier alternative to the traditional fried version while still delivering a satisfying crunch and rich taste. Perfect for a quick and easy appetizer or a tasty main dish served alongside your favorite dipping sauces.
Ingredients
Filling
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups Monterey Jack cheese, grated
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon chili powder or taco seasoning
- â…“ cup salsa of choice
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Tortillas
- 8 flour tortillas (soft taco size)
For Baking
- Neutral cooking oil, as needed (for brushing)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly brush the foil with a neutral cooking oil to prevent sticking and help crisp the flautas.
- Make Filling: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, grated Monterey Jack cheese, softened cream cheese, chili powder or taco seasoning, and salsa. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Fill Tortillas: Lay out each flour tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spoon an even amount of the chicken filling down the center of each tortilla. Roll each tortilla up tightly around the filling, ensuring to tuck in the edges as you roll. Place each rolled flauta seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet to keep them closed during baking.
- Bake: Using a brush, lightly coat the tops and sides of each flauta with neutral cooking oil. This helps achieve a crispy, golden texture. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the flautas are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Serve: Remove the flautas from the oven and serve hot. Accompany them with your favorite dipping sauces such as salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for an extra burst of flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken with turkey or a plant-based protein for variation.
- For extra crispiness, broil the flautas for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Store leftover flautas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
- If preferred, use corn tortillas, but these might be more fragile and require warming before rolling to prevent cracking.
