Budget Friendly Canned Chicken Flautas For Affordable Weeknight Meals
When it comes to weeknight meals, we all want something that’s not only delicious but also easy on the wallet. Enter budget friendly canned chicken flautas! These crispy rolled tortillas filled with savory chicken are perfect for a quick dinner or a fun family gathering. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, they are a lifesaver for busy weeknights.
Canned chicken is a fantastic pantry staple that can save you time and money. It’s already cooked, making it quick to use in various recipes. Flautas, which are similar to taquitos, are traditionally deep-fried but can be baked for a healthier twist. In this recipe, we will guide you through making flautas that are crispy and flavorful without breaking the bank.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 1 can (12.5 oz) of canned chicken, drained and shredded
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- Oil for frying or cooking spray for baking
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the drained and shredded canned chicken, shredded cheese, salsa, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Warm the tortillas slightly in the microwave for about 15 seconds to make them pliable.
- Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto one end of the tortilla.
- Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling, starting from the filled end. Secure with a toothpick if necessary. Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling.
- If baking, preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the flautas seam-side down. Spray lightly with cooking spray.
- If frying, heat about an inch of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the flautas, seam-side down, and fry until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Remove the flautas from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve hot with your choice of toppings like avocado, sour cream, or salsa.
Why Canned Chicken?
Canned chicken provides a quick and convenient option for meals. It’s pre-cooked, which means you can whip up a dish in no time. Not only does it save on prep time, but it also really helps keep costs down. Canned chicken is often less expensive than fresh chicken, especially when you consider the time and energy saved in cooking.
Moreover, canned chicken is versatile. You can use it in salads, soups, casseroles, and of course, flautas! It’s a great way to ensure you always have a protein option on hand without the hassle of thawing and cooking fresh meat.
Tips for Making Perfect Flautas
To achieve the perfect flautas, consider these tips:
- Don’t overfill: It can be tempting to add more filling, but overstuffing can lead to breakage during cooking.
- Heat the tortillas: Warming the tortillas makes them more flexible and less likely to crack while rolling.
- Use a high smoke point oil if frying, such as vegetable or canola oil, to prevent burning.
- Consider baking: For a healthier version, baking the flautas will still yield crispy results without the extra oil.
Serving Suggestions
These canned chicken flautas can be served in a variety of ways. Pair them with a fresh salad for a light meal or serve them with rice and beans for a heartier option. You can also set up a flautas bar with various toppings like guacamole, jalapenos, and different salsas to make it more interactive and fun.
For a complete meal, consider serving alongside Mexican street corn or a simple side of refried beans. These sides complement the flavors of the flautas and make for a filling dinner.
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover flautas, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for about 3-4 days. To reheat, you can bake them in the oven or use an air fryer to regain their crispiness.
For longer storage, consider freezing the flautas before cooking. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to eat, cook directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh chicken instead of canned?
Yes, you can use cooked and shredded fresh chicken. Just make sure to season it well to match the flavor of the canned chicken.
Can I make flautas ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the flautas in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just cook them when you’re ready to serve.
What can I use instead of tortillas?
If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can use corn tortillas or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb version.
How can I make these spicier?
To add some heat, mix minced jalapenos or hot sauce into the chicken filling, or serve with a spicy salsa on the side.
Conclusion
These budget friendly canned chicken flautas are not only easy to make but also a fun meal for the whole family. They are adaptable and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. With minimal ingredients and preparation, you can enjoy a delicious meal that won’t hurt your wallet. So next time you’re in need of a quick weeknight dinner, give these flautas a try!
Enjoy the crunch and flavor of these delightful flautas, and don’t forget to share your creations on social media. Happy cooking!
