Name: Baked Chicken Flautas Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 2 cups Monterey Jack cheese, grated; 8 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1 tablespoon chili powder or taco seasoning; ⅓ cup salsa of choice; 8 flour tortillas (soft taco size); Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Neutral cooking oil, as needed

These Baked Chicken Flautas are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer or main course. Flour tortillas are filled with a savory mixture of shredded chicken, cheese, and spices, then baked to a crispy golden brown. They’re perfect for a party, a casual weeknight dinner, or a fun lunch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Flavorful and Versatile: These flautas are packed with flavor, thanks to the combination of chicken, cheese, and spices. You can customize them with your favorite fillings and dipping sauces.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, these flautas are a breeze to prepare.
Baked, Not Fried: Baking the flautas instead of frying them makes them a healthier option.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious Baked Chicken Flautas:

Cooked chicken: Shredded, you can use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Monterey Jack cheese: Grated, adds a creamy and melty texture.
Cream cheese: Softened, adds richness and helps bind the filling.
Chili powder or taco seasoning: Adds a blend of spices for a warm and slightly spicy flavor.
Salsa: Use your favorite type of salsa for an extra kick of flavor.
Flour tortillas: Soft taco size, these are used to wrap the filling.
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste.
Neutral cooking oil: Such as vegetable oil or canola oil, for brushing the baking sheet and the flautas.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

How to Make Baked Chicken Flautas

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) and line a baking sheet with foil. Brush the foil evenly with cooking oil to prevent sticking.

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 salsa. Stir until well combined, then season to taste with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Fill and Roll

Spoon a generous amount of the chicken filling down the center of each tortilla. Roll the tortillas up tightly and place them seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 4: Bake and Serve

Brush the tops and sides of the rolled tortillas with cooking oil. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the tortillas are golden brown and crispy. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces, such as sour cream, guacamole, or salsa.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Use high-quality tortillas: For the best results, use fresh and soft tortillas.
Don’t overfill the tortillas: Overfilling the tortillas will make them difficult to roll and may cause them to burst during baking.
Customize the filling: Feel free to add other ingredients to the filling, such as chopped onions, bell peppers, or black beans.

How to Serve Baked Chicken Flautas

Appetizer: These Baked Chicken Flautas are perfect as an appetizer for parties or game day gatherings.
Main Course: Serve them with a side of rice, beans, and salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Lunchbox Friendly: Pack them in lunchboxes for a fun and delicious lunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the oven or air fryer until heated through and crispy.

FAQs

Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
Yes, you can use corn tortillas, but they may be more prone to cracking during rolling and baking.

Can I make these flautas vegetarian?
Yes, you can omit the chicken and use a vegetarian filling, such as black beans, sweet potatoes, or a mixture of vegetables.

Can I freeze these flautas?
Yes, you can freeze them before or after baking. If freezing after baking, let them cool completely before freezing.

How can I make these flautas spicier?
Use a spicier salsa or add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the filling.

There you have it! A delicious and easy-to-make recipe for Baked Chicken Flautas that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!