Slow Cooker Jalapeno Chicken Flautas

If you’re on the hunt for a deliciously easy dinner option, look no further than these mouthwatering Slow Cooker Jalapeno Chicken Flautas. Perfectly spiced and incredibly satisfying, these flautas are filled with tender, flavorful chicken combined with cream cheese and zesty jalapeños, all wrapped in whole-grain tortillas. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or just looking for a quick meal, these flautas are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Slow Cooker Jalapeno Chicken Flautas are not only bursting with flavor but also incredibly simple to prepare. Just toss the ingredients into the slow cooker, let them do their magic, and then assemble your flautas. They are perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, and the combination of textures—from the creamy filling to the crispy tortillas—makes every bite a delight. Plus, who doesn’t love a recipe that can be customized to suit your taste?

What You’ll Need

• 13 ounces boneless and skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup salsa (mild), divided
• 1/4 cup low-fat cream cheese
• 1 jalapeno, sliced
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon pepper
• 4 whole-grain tortillas
• 1/2 cup low-fat cheese, grated

Hardware & Gadgets

• Slow Cooker: Essential for cooking the chicken to juicy perfection.
• Mixing Bowl: For combining the filling ingredients.
• Spatula: To help mix and transfer the filling.
• Baking Sheet: For crisping the flautas in the oven.
• Knife & Cutting Board: To slice the jalapenos and chicken.

Slow Cooker Jalapeno Chicken Flautas: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Place the 13 ounces of boneless and skinless chicken breasts in your slow cooker.

Step 2: Add Salsa

Pour in 3/4 cup of the mild salsa over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

Sprinkle the 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/8 teaspoon pepper over the chicken for added flavor.

Step 4: Add Cream Cheese and Jalapenos

Dollop the 1/4 cup of low-fat cream cheese on top of the chicken, and add the sliced jalapenos.

Step 5: Cook the Chicken

Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.

Step 6: Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and mix with the remaining 1/4 cup salsa.

Step 7: Assemble the Flautas

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lay out the whole-grain tortillas and spoon a generous amount of the chicken mixture onto one side. Sprinkle with 1/2 cup low-fat cheese, then roll up tightly.

Step 8: Bake the Flautas

Place the rolled flautas seam-side down on a baking sheet. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy!

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your Slow Cooker Jalapeno Chicken Flautas with your favorite toppings like guacamole, sour cream, or additional salsa!

Dietary Swaps & Alternatives

• For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with black beans or shredded jackfruit.
• Use gluten-free tortillas if you have a gluten sensitivity.
• Swap the low-fat cream cheese for a dairy-free cream cheese alternative to make it vegan.
• Adjust the spice level by using a milder or hotter salsa according to your preference.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your flautas are not crispy enough, try baking them a little longer or broiling them for the last few minutes to achieve the desired crunch.

• If the filling seems too dry, consider adding a bit more salsa before rolling the flautas.
• Ensure the tortillas are warmed slightly before rolling to make them more pliable and prevent tearing.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

Leftover flautas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.

• You can also freeze uncooked flautas by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to cook, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Helpful Q&A

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Just be sure to increase the cooking time by about 1 hour if cooking on low.

What can I serve with my flautas?

These flautas pair perfectly with a side of Mexican rice, fresh salad, or a hearty bean dip for a complete meal.

Can I make these flautas ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling a day in advance and assemble the flautas just before baking for a quick dinner option.

How can I adjust the spice level?

If you prefer a milder flavor, you can deseed the jalapeno before adding it to the filling or use a milder salsa. Conversely, for extra heat, consider adding more jalapenos or a dash of hot sauce.

Cook This Next

• Baked Chicken Tacos
• Cheesy Quesadillas
• Spicy Bean Burritos
• Chicken Enchiladas

Next Steps

Now that you have the recipe for Slow Cooker Jalapeno Chicken Flautas down, it’s time to get cooking! Gather your ingredients, set up your slow cooker, and get ready for a culinary adventure. Your taste buds will thank you for this delicious and easy meal that’s bound to become a family favorite. Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to share your flautas on social media—everyone will want to know how you made such a fantastic dish!