Flautas de Pollo, also known as Chicken Flautas, are a popular Mexican dish that tantalizes the taste buds with their crispy texture and savory filling. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a delightful dinner option, flautas de pollo are sure to be a hit. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about making and enjoying these tasty treats.
What Are Flautas de Pollo?
Flautas de pollo are corn tortillas rolled around a filling of shredded chicken and then fried until crispy. The word “flauta” means “flute” in Spanish, a nod to their cylindrical shape. These delicious snacks are often served with a variety of toppings and dipping sauces, making them a versatile addition to any meal.
Ingredients for Flautas de Pollo
To make flautas de pollo, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Corn tortillas
- Shredded cooked chicken
- Onion
- Garlic
- Salt and pepper
- Cooking oil (for frying)
- Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, salsa, cheese, lettuce, and diced tomatoes
How to Make Flautas de Pollo
Follow these simple steps to prepare delicious flautas de pollo at home:
- Prepare the Chicken Filling
- Shred the cooked chicken using two forks.
- In a skillet, sauté diced onion and minced garlic until they are soft and fragrant.
- Add the shredded chicken to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and mix well. Cook for a few minutes to combine the flavors.
- Assemble the Flautas
- Warm the corn tortillas to make them pliable. You can do this in a microwave, oven, or on a skillet.
- Place a generous amount of the chicken filling along the center of each tortilla.
- Roll the tortillas tightly around the filling and secure them with toothpicks to keep them from unrolling.
- Fry the Flautas
- Heat cooking oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Carefully place the rolled tortillas in the hot oil, seam side down, and fry until they are golden brown and crispy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Remove the flautas from the oil and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the toothpicks and serve the flautas hot.
- Top with your favorite toppings such as sour cream, guacamole, salsa, cheese, lettuce, and diced tomatoes.
Tips for Perfect Flautas de Pollo
- Warm Tortillas: Always warm the tortillas before rolling to prevent them from cracking.
- Secure the Rolls: Use toothpicks to keep the tortillas rolled up while frying.
- Drain Well: Place fried flautas on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
FAQs About Flautas de Pollo
Q: Can I bake flautas de pollo instead of frying them?
A: Yes, you can bake them. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the rolled tortillas on a baking sheet. Brush them lightly with oil and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until they are crispy.
Q: What can I use as a filling alternative to chicken?
A: You can use beef, pork, beans, or even a vegetarian filling like sautéed vegetables or cheese.
Q: How do I store leftover flautas?
A: Store leftover flautas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven to retain their crispiness.
Q: Can I make flautas de pollo ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the filling and roll the flautas in advance. Keep them refrigerated and fry just before serving to ensure they remain crispy.
Q: What are some good dipping sauces for flautas de pollo?
A: Popular dipping sauces include salsa, guacamole, sour cream, and queso dip.
Flautas de pollo are a delightful and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as an appetizer, snack, or main course. With their crispy exterior and flavorful filling, they’re sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy making and eating these delicious Mexican flautas! Also read more...