Baked Chicken and Cheese Flautas: Crispy, Cheesy Perfection

Introduction

There’s something special about flautas—those tightly rolled tortillas filled with flavorful ingredients, fried or baked to crispy perfection. Growing up, flautas were always a hit at family gatherings, and they continue to be a crowd-pleaser today. But instead of frying them, I’ve found that baking flautas is a healthier, less messy alternative that still delivers the same great crunch and flavor.

This baked chicken and cheese flautas recipe combines tender shredded chicken with gooey melted cheese, all wrapped up in a warm tortilla and baked until golden and crisp. It's a dish that’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and loved by both kids and adults. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or an appetizer for a party, these flautas are sure to impress.

So, why do I love this recipe so much? Not only is it incredibly versatile—you can switch up the fillings to your liking—but it’s also baked, which means you can enjoy all the crispy goodness without the added grease from frying. Let’s dive into how to make this mouthwatering dish!

Recipe Overview

Name of the Recipe

Baked Chicken and Cheese Flautas

Brief Description

These baked chicken and cheese flautas are filled with seasoned shredded chicken and melty cheese, rolled up in tortillas, and baked until golden brown. Perfect for serving with your favorite dipping sauces like guacamole, salsa, or sour cream, they make a delicious snack, appetizer, or meal.

Ingredients List

For the Flautas:

• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend)
• 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup salsa (mild or spicy, depending on your preference)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 10-12 small flour tortillas
• Olive oil or cooking spray (for brushing the tortillas)
• Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, sliced avocado, sour cream, guacamole

Substitutions:

If you prefer a different protein, you can use ground beef, turkey, or even black beans for a vegetarian option. Additionally, whole wheat or corn tortillas work just as well for a healthier twist.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
2. Prepare the filling: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, shredded cheese, cream cheese, salsa, garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, and paprika. Stir until all the ingredients are evenly mixed and the chicken is well-coated.
3. Assemble the flautas: Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spoon 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto the lower third of the tortilla, spreading it out in a line. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling, securing the edges with a toothpick if needed. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
4. Brush with oil: Place the rolled flautas seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly brush the tops with olive oil or spray with cooking spray to help them crisp up during baking.
5. Bake: Bake the flautas in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
6. Serve: Remove from the oven and let the flautas cool slightly before serving. Serve with your favorite dips like guacamole, salsa, or sour cream. Garnish with chopped cilantro or avocado slices for added flavor.

Cooking Times

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Serving Suggestions

These baked chicken and cheese flautas are delicious on their own, but they’re even better when paired with flavorful sides. Serve them with Mexican rice, black beans, or a refreshing salad. For dipping, try guacamole, sour cream, salsa, or even queso. The possibilities are endless!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 300
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Protein: 15g
• Sodium: 450mg

Storage and Reheating

Storage: Leftover flautas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating: To reheat, place the flautas on a baking sheet and bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. You can also reheat them in an air fryer for extra crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the tortillas soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I freeze baked chicken and cheese flautas?

Yes! Flautas freeze well, making them a perfect make-ahead meal. After baking, allow the flautas to cool completely, then store them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake them directly from frozen in a 375°F (190°C) oven for about 20 minutes or until heated through and crispy.

Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?

Absolutely! Corn tortillas work just as well in this recipe, although they tend to be smaller and may crack more easily. To prevent cracking, warm the tortillas slightly before rolling them.

Can I make flautas ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the flautas in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, just follow the recipe’s instructions.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a quick and flavorful dinner or appetizer, these baked chicken and cheese flautas are a winner. They’re crispy, cheesy, and packed with savory chicken filling that everyone will love. Best of all, baking them means they’re healthier and less greasy than traditional fried flautas, without sacrificing that satisfying crunch.

Try these flautas for your next family meal, game day snack, or party appetizer, and watch them disappear! Don’t forget to let me know how your baked chicken and cheese flautas turned out in the comments below. I’d love to hear any fun twists or variations you added to make them your own.