Flautas de pollo

flautas_de_pollo

Flautas de Pollo, also known as chicken flautas, are a delicious and popular Mexican dish that consists of rolled tortillas filled with shredded chicken and deep-fried until crispy. These tasty treats are a favorite snack or appetizer at parties and gatherings, but they can also be enjoyed as a meal when served with a side of rice, beans, and guacamole.

The origins of flautas can be traced back to the state of Sinaloa in northern Mexico, where they were traditionally made with wheat flour tortillas and filled with various meats, such as beef, pork, or chicken. Over time, the recipe spread across the country and evolved to use corn tortillas and different fillings and toppings, depending on the region and personal preferences.

The word “flauta” in Spanish means “flute,” which refers to the long and thin shape of the rolled tortillas. To make flautas de pollo, you will need a few basic ingredients, which include:

  • Cooked, shredded chicken: You can use leftover or rotisserie chicken, or cook chicken breasts in a slow cooker, oven, or on the stovetop until tender and shred with a fork.
  • Corn tortillas: Use small or medium-sized tortillas, as larger ones may be harder to roll and fry. Warm them up in the microwave or on a hot skillet for a few seconds to make them more pliable.
  • Oil for frying: Vegetable, canola, or peanut oil work well for deep-frying, as they have a high smoke point and do not add any flavor to the food.
  • Seasonings and spices: To add flavor to the chicken filling, you can use a combination of cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. You can also add chopped onion, garlic, and jalapeno for extra heat and flavor.
  • Toppings and garnishes: Flautas de pollo are typically served with sour cream, guacamole, salsa, and shredded cheese. You can also add chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, or sliced avocado for a fresh and colorful touch.

To make flautas de pollo, you will first prepare the chicken filling by heating up a skillet over medium heat and adding the shredded chicken, seasonings, and a splash of water or chicken broth. Cook for a few minutes until the chicken is coated in the spices and heated through, then set aside.

Next, warm up the tortillas and place a spoonful of the chicken filling in the center of each. Roll the tortillas tightly around the filling and secure with toothpicks or skewers to keep them from falling apart.

Heat up the oil in a large pot or deep-fryer and carefully lower the flautas into the hot oil. Fry for a few minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy, then use tongs or a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

Once the flautas are done, you can remove the toothpicks and serve them with your favorite toppings and garnishes. Flautas de pollo are best enjoyed hot and crispy, so be sure to serve them immediately.

With their crispy texture, flavorful filling, and customizable toppings, flautas de pollo are a delicious and versatile dish that is sure to be a hit with anyone who loves Mexican food. Whether you’re looking for a tasty snack, appetizer, or meal, give these flautas a try and discover the delicious flavors of authentic Mexican cuisine.

Ingredients:

-1 pound shredded chicken -8-10 corn tortillas -1/2 cup shredded Mexican cheese -1/2 cup chopped onion -1/2 cup diced tomato -1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro -2 cloves minced garlic -1/4 tsp chili powder -1/4 tsp cumin -1/4 tsp paprika -Salt and pepper -1 Tbsp olive oil -1/4 cup vegetable oil

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.

  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute.

  3. Add shredded chicken to the skillet with onion and garlic. Season with chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

  4. Add diced tomatoes and cilantro to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

  5. Warm tortillas in microwave or on a stove top, so they become pliable.

  6. Spoon 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture into each tortilla, and sprinkle with shredded cheese. Roll up each tortilla tightly and place seam side down on a baking sheet.

  7. Brush each flauta with vegetable oil, and bake in preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.

  8. Serve hot with guacamole, sour cream, and pico de gallo.