Mains

Chicken Rolled Tacos (Tacos Dorados / Flautas)

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servings
2-3
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Prep
8
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cook
10
Last updated on
February 21, 2026

This is the classic rainy‑day or sick‑day food in Mexico City. Why? Because whenever someone makes chicken soup, the leftover chicken almost always finds its way into tacos dorados.

In Mexico City, these are called tacos dorados, but you may have heard them called another name: flautas. In Mexico City, flautas generally refer to a longer style of taco. There’s no definitive answer; it really depends on the region and sometimes even the family. If you ask me, a rose by any other name would smell as sweet.

Regardless of the name, rolled tacos never miss the mark. They’re simple, satisfying, and exactly the kind of thing that makes a long day feel a little easier.

Notes & Tips
  • Doneness: Some people like them lightly golden; others want them deeply crunchy. Both are delicious!
  • Serving ideas: Great with shredded lettuce, onions, cheese, Spicy Guacamole, and a drizzle of salsa.
  • Cheese: In our family, we opt for queso fresco or panela, but there are plenty of other options. Cotija is another easy-to-find option. If you can't find any of those and still want cheese, a Mexican‑blend cheese will work...but I treat that as a true break‑glass‑in‑case‑of‑emergency option.

Mains
Chicken Rolled Tacos (Tacos Dorados / Flautas)
A black human icon signifying servings.
serves
2-3
A black hand icon signifying prep time.
prep in
8
minutes
A black clock icon signifying cook time.
cook for
10
minutes
Ingredients
  • 2 cups shredded chicken (rotisserie or homemade)
  • 8–10 corn tortillas
  • Oil for shallow frying
  • Sour cream, for topping
  • Queso fresco, panela, or cotija crumbled
  • Salsa of your choice
  • Avocado (optional)
  • Salt, to taste
Directions
  1. Season the shredded chicken lightly with salt if needed. This keeps the filling simple and flavorful.
  2. Wrap the tortillas in a damp tea towel and microwave for 30–45 seconds until soft and pliable. This prevents cracking and makes rolling much easier.
  3. Place a small line of chicken near one edge of each tortilla. Roll tightly and place seam‑side down on a plate. I like to place them against an edge so that they don't unroll.
  4. Add just enough oil to cover the bottom of a pan. Heat over medium until shimmering. You’re aiming for shallow frying, not deep frying.
  5. Place the rolled tacos seam‑side down in the pan. Fry until they reach your preferred doneness: crunchy or medium‑plus. Turn as needed so they brown evenly.
  6. Transfer to a paper towel–lined plate to remove excess oil.
  7. Top with sour cream, crumbled queso fresco or panela, avocado, and a generous spoonful of your favorite salsa. (Hopefully one of ours!)
  8. Enjoy immediately while they’re hot and crisp.

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