Name: Slow Cooker Jalapeno Chicken Flautas
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 375 min
Total time: 380 min
Ingredients: 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

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There’s something magical about comfort food that warms the soul, and the Slow Cooker Jalapeno Chicken Flautas do just that. Imagine coming home after a long day, the enticing aroma of tender chicken mingling with hints of spices filling the air. These flautas are not just a meal; they’re an experience, perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. The beauty of this dish lies not only in its flavors but also in its ease of preparation. Simply toss everything into your slow cooker, and let it work its magic. As the chicken becomes succulent and infused with zesty salsa, you’ll find yourself counting down the minutes until you can enjoy these crispy delights.

With each bite, you get a satisfying crunch from the golden-brown tortillas enveloping the juicy chicken, complemented by a creamy filling. Whether it’s a family dinner or a game day snack, these flautas are sure to impress. They bring together simple ingredients in a way that feels indulgent, yet they’re incredibly easy to make. Trust me, once you try these Slow Cooker Jalapeno Chicken Flautas, they’ll quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen repertoire.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
6 hr 20 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
375 mins

Difficulty:
Hard

Calories:
310 kcal

Protein:
25 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
10 g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Grater, Slow Cooker, Mixing Bowl, Frying Pan

Why This Slow Cooker Jalapeno Chicken Flautas Is So Good

Convenience at Its Best

One of the best things about the Slow Cooker Jalapeno Chicken Flautas is the convenience they offer. Imagine coming home to a meal that’s already cooked and ready to enjoy! The slow cooker allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in juicy chicken wrapped in crispy tortillas, all with minimal effort on your part.

Flavor Explosion

This recipe is a fiesta of flavors—tender chicken, spicy jalapenos, and creamy cheese all come together. Each bite is a perfect blend of spice and richness, making it an instant crowd-pleaser. The heat from the jalapenos can be adjusted, so you can customize the spice level to suit your taste or your guests’ preferences.

Versatile and Customizable

Another reason to love these flautas is their versatility. You can play around with the fillings—think beans, different cheeses, or even veggies. This adaptability makes them perfect for using up leftovers or catering to various dietary preferences.

Great for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a casual family dinner, a game-day delight, or a festive gathering, Slow Cooker Jalapeno Chicken Flautas fit right in. They’re easy to serve and fun to eat, making them ideal for any occasion. Plus, they can be a fantastic appetizer or a main dish!

Easy Cleanup

Let’s not forget about cleanup. With just a slow cooker and a few utensils, you’ll spend less time scrubbing dishes and more time enjoying your meal. The simplicity of this dish extends beyond cooking to the cleanup process, which is always a win in my book!

Freezer-Friendly

If you have leftovers or want to prep ahead, these flautas freeze beautifully. Just prepare, roll them up, and store them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, heat them up in the oven for that freshly made taste.

What to Buy for Slow Cooker Jalapeno Chicken Flautas

When it comes to the ingredients for the Slow Cooker Jalapeno Chicken Flautas, simplicity and quality are key. The combination of fresh flavors and hearty components creates a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Let’s take a closer look at these essential ingredients.

13 ounces boneless and skinless chicken breasts: Tender and juicy, this is the main protein that soaks up all the flavors.
1 cup salsa, mild, divided: This adds a zesty kick and moisture to the chicken, making it flavorful and juicy.
1/4 cup low-fat cream cheese: Provides creaminess and helps bind the filling together, enhancing the richness of the dish.
1 jalapeno, sliced: For those who love a little heat, this adds that spicy flair to each bite.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing the flavors of the dish.
1/8 teaspoon pepper: A subtle addition that rounds out the flavor profile.
4 whole-grain tortillas: These are the perfect vehicle for the delicious filling, providing a hearty wrap.
1/2 cup low-fat cheese, grated: To top off the flautas, this cheese melts beautifully, adding a savory finish.

The Method for Slow Cooker Jalapeno Chicken Flautas

Cooking these Slow Cooker Jalapeno Chicken Flautas is a breeze! You’ll find that the method is straightforward, and the results are undeniably delicious. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process, ensuring every detail is covered.

Start by placing the chicken breasts into your slow cooker. I like to use tender, boneless chicken for the best texture. Add 3/4 cup of the salsa, cream cheese, salt, pepper, and the sliced jalapeno. This mixture is what will give your chicken a delightful flavor as it cooks.
Give everything a good mix to ensure the chicken is well coated with all the ingredients. It should look vibrant and inviting at this point.
Cover the slow cooker and set it on high for six hours. The key here is patience—allowing the chicken to simmer slowly makes it incredibly tender.
As the cooking time comes to an end, check the chicken for doneness. It should be easy to shred, which is the next step. Using two forks, shred the chicken right in the slow cooker, mixing it with the remaining juices.
Take your whole-grain tortillas and fill each one with a generous portion of the shredded chicken mixture. Make sure to include some of that remaining salsa and top with grated cheese for a lovely cheesy filling.
After filling each tortilla, roll them up tightly, tucking in the ends to keep the filling secure.
Next, heat a large, dry non-stick saucepan over low-medium heat. This is where the magic happens! Place the rolled flautas in the pan, cooking them on all sides until they’re golden brown and crispy. This step adds that delicious crunch.
Once you achieve that perfect crispy texture, remove them from the pan and let them cool slightly. This will enhance the flavor even more!
Serve your Slow Cooker Jalapeno Chicken Flautas with the remaining salsa on the side, and perhaps a dollop of sour cream to balance the spice. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Things Worth Knowing

When using a slow cooker, the longer you cook the chicken, the more tender it will become. This is because low and slow cooking breaks down the proteins effectively.
Using low-fat ingredients like cream cheese and cheese helps reduce the calorie count without sacrificing flavor.
For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the salsa overnight before cooking.
If you find the filling too spicy, you can substitute the jalapeno with a milder pepper or omit it entirely.

Recipe Notes about Slow Cooker Jalapeno Chicken Flautas

There are a few handy tips to keep in mind when making these delicious flautas. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, these pointers will help you achieve the best results.

Storage: Leftover flautas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for that crispy texture.
Freezing: These flautas freeze well! Freeze them before cooking for up to three months. When ready to eat, simply bake them from frozen.
Pairing: Serve with a side of guacamole or a fresh salad to balance out the meal. They also pair wonderfully with black beans.
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of jalapeno according to your spice preference, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick!
Serving Size: One flauta is perfect for a snack, but I recommend two or three for a meal, especially if served with sides like rice or beans.

What Goes Well With This Slow Cooker Jalapeno Chicken Flautas

When it comes to serving the Slow Cooker Jalapeno Chicken Flautas, the possibilities are endless! Here are some great options:

Guacamole: This creamy avocado dip adds a cool contrast to the spicy flautas.
Mexican Rice: Fluffy and flavorful, rice complements the flautas beautifully, making for a hearty meal.
Black Beans: A nutritious side that pairs excellently, adding protein and fiber.
Fresh Salsa: Keep some fresh salsa on hand to drizzle or dip your flautas in for added zest.
Salad: A light salad with lime vinaigrette can balance the meal, refreshing your palate between bites of flautas.
Perfect for Parties: These flautas are a crowd pleaser at gatherings! Set them out as an appetizer or part of a buffet.
Game Day Snack: They also make for a fantastic game day snack, easy to grab and eat while cheering for your team!

FAQ

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, just fill your tortillas and cook them. They also freeze well, so you can make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them later!

These flautas pair wonderfully with guacamole, black beans, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them with salsa or sour cream for dipping, enhancing their flavor even more!

The spice level can be adjusted according to your preference. If you’re sensitive to heat, you can reduce the amount of jalapeno or use a milder salsa. They are flavorful but not overwhelmingly spicy!

Leftover flautas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For best results, reheat them in the oven to maintain that crispy texture.

Conclusion

The Slow Cooker Jalapeno Chicken Flautas stand out not just for their ease of preparation but for their delightful flavor that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. They make an excellent choice for weeknight dinners or gatherings with friends and family. I encourage you to try making them—they’re bound to become a favorite in your household!