Seasonal Summer Canned Chicken Flautas For Outdoor Gatherings With Family
Summer is the perfect season for outdoor gatherings with family and friends, and there’s nothing quite like a delicious platter of homemade flautas to elevate your picnic or barbecue. These Seasonal Summer Canned Chicken Flautas are not only easy to prepare, but they also pack a flavor punch that everyone will love. Using canned chicken, you can whip up this dish in no time, making it a great option for those busy summer days.
Whether you are celebrating a family reunion, hosting a casual get-together, or simply enjoying the warm weather, these flautas are sure to impress. They can be served with a variety of dips and toppings, allowing everyone to customize their experience. Let’s dive into this easy and delicious recipe that will have your family coming back for seconds!
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 (12.5 oz) cans of shredded chicken
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 large flour tortillas
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Salsa and sour cream (for serving)
Instructions
- Begin by draining the canned chicken and placing it in a large mixing bowl. Use a fork to shred any larger pieces, ensuring a consistent texture.
- Add the shredded cheese, garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper to the chicken. Mix all the ingredients together until well combined.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of vegetable oil. You should have enough oil to coat the bottom of the pan.
- Take a tortilla and spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto the lower third of the tortilla. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling to form a flauta. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
- Once the tortillas are rolled, carefully place them seam-side down in the heated skillet. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the flautas from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve immediately with salsa and sour cream.
Why Choose Canned Chicken?
Canned chicken is a convenient ingredient that can save you time in the kitchen. It is already cooked, which means you can skip the lengthy prep work usually associated with traditional shredded chicken recipes. This makes it an excellent choice for summer gatherings, where you want to spend more time enjoying the outdoors and less time cooking.
Moreover, canned chicken is versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes beyond flautas. From casseroles to salads, this pantry staple can help you create quick and delicious meals all summer long.
Tips for Perfect Flautas
To ensure that your flautas come out perfectly crispy, there are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Do not overfill your tortillas. This can cause them to burst while frying.
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the flautas. If the oil is too cool, they will absorb more grease and become soggy.
- Fry in batches. This allows each flauta to cook evenly without overcrowding the skillet.
- For a healthier option, you can bake the flautas in the oven at 425°F for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through.
Serving Suggestions
These Seasonal Summer Canned Chicken Flautas are delicious on their own, but they can also be served with a variety of sides and toppings:
- Fresh guacamole adds a creamy texture and enhances the flavor.
- Serve with a side of Mexican street corn for a complete meal.
- Consider adding a fresh salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Offer a variety of salsas ranging from mild to spicy to cater to all taste preferences.
Storing and Reheating
If you have any leftover flautas, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat instead of canned chicken?
Yes, you can substitute canned chicken with shredded rotisserie chicken or even black beans for a vegetarian option.
Can I make these flautas ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and roll the flautas ahead of time. Just store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to fry them.
What type of cheese works best for flautas?
Shredded cheddar or a Mexican cheese blend works best, but you can experiment with other varieties like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for added flavor.
Can I freeze the flautas?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked flautas. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, fry them from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
Conclusion
These Seasonal Summer Canned Chicken Flautas are a fantastic addition to any outdoor gathering. They are easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that is sure to impress.
So, gather your family, fire up the grill, and enjoy these crispy delights in the sun. You will create lasting memories, all while savoring the deliciousness of homemade flautas. Happy summer cooking!
