Chicken flautas are crispy, rolled tortillas filled with flavorful shredded chicken and fried to golden perfection. Their name means “flutes” in Spanish, thanks to their long, rolled shape. Served with toppings like sour cream, guacamole, salsa, and shredded lettuce, these crunchy delights make a perfect appetizer, snack, or main dish for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken flautas are quick to make, incredibly satisfying, and loved by both kids and adults. They’re crisp on the outside, juicy on the inside, and pair beautifully with a variety of toppings and dips. You can make them ahead, freeze them, or serve them fresh for a crowd-pleasing meal that’s always a hit.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
Corn tortillas
Onion, finely chopped (optional)
Garlic powder or minced garlic
Ground cumin
Chili powder or smoked paprika
Salt and pepper
Shredded cheese (optional, like Monterey Jack or cheddar)
Oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or corn oil)
Toppings: sour cream, guacamole, salsa, shredded lettuce, crumbled queso fresco

directions

In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken with onion, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, pepper, and cheese if using. Mix well.
Warm the tortillas on a skillet or in the microwave (wrapped in a damp towel) until pliable.
Place 2–3 tablespoons of the chicken filling on one end of each tortilla and roll it up tightly like a cigar. Secure with a toothpick if needed.
Heat ½ inch of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot (about 350°F/175°C), fry the flautas seam-side down, a few at a time, turning as needed until golden and crispy, about 2–3 minutes per side.
Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
Serve warm, topped with lettuce, sour cream, guacamole, salsa, and queso fresco.

Servings and timing

Makes 12 flautas
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Baked flautas: Brush with oil and bake at 425°F for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Air fryer version: Cook at 400°F for 8–10 minutes until crispy, turning once.
Add beans: Mix in refried beans or black beans with the chicken for extra protein.
Use flour tortillas: For larger flautas (technically more like taquitos) and a softer bite.
Make them spicy: Add chopped jalapeños or chipotle peppers to the filling.

storage/reheating

Store leftover flautas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 375°F until warm and crispy, about 8–10 minutes. You can also freeze them (before or after frying) for up to 2 months — reheat from frozen in the oven or air fryer.

FAQs

What’s the difference between flautas and taquitos?

Flautas are typically made with flour tortillas and are slightly larger, while taquitos use corn tortillas. The terms are often used interchangeably depending on the region.

Can I make flautas ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble and refrigerate them a few hours before cooking. You can also freeze them uncooked and fry or bake straight from frozen.

Do I need to use toothpicks to hold them?

If your tortillas are soft and rolled tightly, you may not need toothpicks. Use them for extra security while frying.

What’s the best oil for frying?

Use a neutral, high-heat oil like vegetable, canola, or corn oil.

Can I bake instead of fry?

Yes, baking is a great lighter option. Brush with oil and bake at a high temperature for crispiness.

What toppings go best with flautas?

Sour cream, guacamole, pico de gallo, shredded lettuce, queso fresco, and hot sauce are all great choices.

Can I use leftover chicken?

Absolutely — rotisserie chicken or leftover roast chicken works perfectly.

Are flautas gluten-free?

Yes, if you use corn tortillas and gluten-free seasonings.

How do I keep flautas warm for a party?

Place them in a warm oven (200°F) on a baking sheet until ready to serve.

Can I use ground chicken instead of shredded?

Yes, just cook it first with your seasonings and use as filling.

Conclusion

Chicken flautas are a crispy, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to make and fun to eat. Whether you fry, bake, or air fry them, they’re endlessly customizable and perfect for dipping and topping. Great for weeknight dinners, party appetizers, or anytime you’re craving something crunchy and satisfying — flautas always hit the spot.

Chicken Flautas