Name: Chicken and Black Bean Flautas
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken; 2 cups shredded Pepper Jack cheese ((or cheddar or Monterey Jack)); 1 can black beans ((15-ounce, rinsed and drained)); 1/2 cup salsa; 10 pieces Old El Paso soft flour tortillas ((6-inch)); Oil for brushing or frying ((see note)); 1/2 cup sour cream; 1 tablespoon adobo sauce ((from a can of chipotle peppers)); 1 piece lime ((juice))

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

If you’re looking for a delicious, easy-to-make dish that will wow your family and friends, look no further than Chicken and Black Bean Flautas. These crispy, flavorful rolls are filled with tender chicken, melty cheese, and seasoned black beans, all wrapped up in soft flour tortillas. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a fun party appetizer, these flautas are sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

Chicken and Black Bean Flautas are not only delightful in taste but also versatile enough to cater to various palates. The combination of shredded rotisserie chicken and black beans provides protein and fiber, while the Pepper Jack cheese adds a bit of spice and creaminess. Plus, they are easy to prepare and can be served with a variety of dips and toppings. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, these flautas will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Gather These Ingredients

To make these scrumptious flautas, you will need the following:

2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
2 cups shredded Pepper Jack cheese (or cheddar or Monterey Jack)
1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
1/2 cup salsa
10 Old El Paso soft flour tortillas (6-inch)
Oil for brushing or frying (see note)
1/2 cup sour cream
1 tablespoon adobo sauce from a can of chipotle peppers (see note)
Juice of 1 lime

Appliances & Accessories

To ensure a smooth cooking process, gather the following appliances and accessories:

Large mixing bowl – for combining the filling ingredients.
Non-stick skillet or frying pan – for frying the flautas until crispy.
Spatula – for flipping the flautas while cooking.
Baking sheet – if you prefer to bake the flautas instead of frying.
Serving platter – to present your delicious creation.

Cooking Chicken and Black Bean Flautas: The Process

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded rotisserie chicken, shredded Pepper Jack cheese, black beans, and salsa. Mix everything together until well incorporated. The cheese should be evenly distributed throughout the mixture, creating a flavorful filling.

Step 2: Assemble the Flautas

Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken and black bean filling onto the lower third of the tortilla. Tightly roll the tortilla around the filling, tucking in the sides as you go to secure the contents. Place the rolled flauta seam-side down on a plate or baking sheet. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and filling.

Step 3: Cook the Flautas

If frying: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the flautas seam-side down in the skillet. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the skillet and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.

If baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the flautas seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with a little oil and bake for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown.

Step 4: Prepare the Dipping Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together the sour cream, adobo sauce, and lime juice. Adjust seasoning to taste. This creamy dip will elevate your flautas to the next level!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Arrange the crispy Chicken and Black Bean Flautas on a serving platter and accompany them with the creamy dipping sauce. Garnish with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, or extra salsa if you like. Enjoy these delightful bites with family and friends!

Better-for-You Options

If you’re looking to make your Chicken and Black Bean Flautas a bit healthier, consider these options:

Use whole wheat tortillas instead of regular flour tortillas for added fiber.
Substitute low-fat cheese for a lighter version.
Opt for baking instead of frying to reduce oil consumption.
Add more vegetables to the filling, such as diced bell peppers or spinach, for extra nutrients.

Learn from These Mistakes

To ensure your Chicken and Black Bean Flautas turn out perfectly, avoid these common pitfalls:

Overfilling the tortillas: This can cause them to burst while cooking. Stick to 2-3 tablespoons of filling per tortilla.
Not heating the oil properly: If the oil isn’t hot enough, the flautas may become greasy instead of crispy. Wait until the oil shimmers before adding them.
Using cold tortillas: Cold tortillas can crack when rolling. Warm them slightly in the microwave to make them more pliable.
Skipping the sauce: The creamy dip adds a fantastic flavor contrast to the crispy flautas, so don’t skip it!

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

To keep your Chicken and Black Bean Flautas fresh, consider the following tips:

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven or air fryer for the best texture instead of the microwave.
You can freeze unbaked flautas for up to 2 months. Just thaw them in the fridge before cooking.
Prep the filling ahead of time and store it separately for quick assembly when you’re ready to cook.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I make these flautas vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with more black beans, cooked quinoa, or sautéed vegetables for a delicious vegetarian option.

What can I serve with these flautas?

These flautas pair wonderfully with guacamole, pico de gallo, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them with rice and beans for a complete meal.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to substitute Pepper Jack with cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a dairy-free cheese alternative if you prefer.

How spicy are these flautas?

The spiciness can be adjusted based on your preference. If you’re sensitive to heat, reduce the amount of adobo sauce in the dip or use a milder cheese.

Try These Next

If you loved these Chicken and Black Bean Flautas, you might also enjoy:

In Closing

Chicken and Black Bean Flautas are a fantastic dish to add to your recipe repertoire. With their crispy exterior and flavorful filling, they make for a delightful meal that is sure to impress. Whether you choose to fry or bake them, serve with a zesty dipping sauce, and enjoy with friends and family, these flautas are perfect for any occasion. Happy cooking!