Canned Chicken Flautas Make Ahead For Family Dinners On The Go

Are you always on the go but still want to serve your family delicious, homemade meals? Canned chicken flautas are the perfect solution for busy weeknights or family dinners. These tasty rolled tortillas filled with savory canned chicken are not only easy to prepare, but they can also be made ahead of time, making dinner stress-free. In this article, we’ll explore how to whip up these delightful flautas, along with tips for storage and serving.

Ingredients

• 2 (12.5 oz) cans of chicken, drained and shredded
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
• 1/2 cup chopped green onions
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 10-12 small flour or corn tortillas
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
• Salsa and guacamole for serving

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained and shredded canned chicken, shredded cheese, chopped green onions, sour cream, garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few seconds on each side. This will make them more pliable and easier to roll.
3. Take one tortilla and add about 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture to the center. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling, tucking in the sides as you go. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
4. In a large skillet, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the rolled flautas in batches. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy.
5. Remove the flautas from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, and accompanied by salsa and guacamole.

Make Ahead Tips

Preparing meals in advance can save you time and effort during busy weeknights. These canned chicken flautas can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer.

Refrigerator Storage

If you plan to serve the flautas within a day or two, simply prepare them up to the frying stage. Place the rolled flautas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and cover them with plastic wrap. They can be refrigerated for up to 48 hours before frying.

Freezer Storage

For longer storage, freeze the flautas before frying. Arrange the rolled flautas on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag. They can be kept in the freezer for up to three months.

Cooking From Frozen

To cook frozen flautas, there’s no need to thaw them. Simply heat the oil in your skillet and fry the frozen flautas directly from the freezer. They may take a couple of extra minutes to cook through, but the results will be just as delicious.

Serving Suggestions

Canned chicken flautas are versatile and can be served in various ways to suit your family’s preferences. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

Topping Ideas

• Shredded lettuce
• Diced tomatoes
• Black olives
• Jalapeños for a spicy kick
• Additional cheese or queso fresco

Side Dishes

Pair your flautas with these delightful sides for a complete family dinner:

• Mexican rice or cilantro lime rice
• Refried beans or black beans
• Fresh corn salad
• Guacamole and chips
• Fresh fruit salad for a refreshing touch

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of protein in flautas?

Absolutely! You can substitute canned chicken with shredded beef, pork, or even a vegetarian filling such as black beans and cheese.

How can I make my flautas healthier?

To make your flautas healthier, consider baking them instead of frying. Brush them lightly with olive oil and bake at 400°F for about 20 minutes until crispy.

Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just roll the flautas when you are ready to cook.

What are some good dipping sauces for flautas?

In addition to salsa and guacamole, consider serving your flautas with sour cream, avocado crema, or a zesty ranch dressing.

Conclusion

Canned chicken flautas are a fantastic option for busy family dinners. They are not only quick to prepare, but they also offer endless variations that can appeal to everyone at the table. By making them ahead of time, you can ensure that your family enjoys a delicious meal without the stress of last-minute cooking. So next time you find yourself in a rush, remember these flautas to keep family dinners enjoyable and satisfying.

Try out this recipe and discover how easy it is to bring homemade flavors to your table, even on the busiest of nights!