Chicken Chimichangas are a delicious Mexican-inspired dish featuring shredded chicken, spices, and cheese, all wrapped in a crispy, golden tortilla. Perfect for dinner or a special treat, this dish is flavorful, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make at home.
Why Youโll Love This Recipe
- Crispy and Flavorful: The golden, fried tortilla shell adds a delightful crunch to every bite.
- Customizable: Easily adjust the fillings or spice level to suit your taste.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or even as leftovers.
- Restaurant-Style at Home: Impress your loved ones with this authentic yet simple recipe.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Chicken breast or thighs, cooked and shredded
- Flour tortillas
- Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
- Refried beans or black beans
- Salsa
- Seasonings (cumin, paprika, garlic powder, chili powder)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Directions
- In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken, beans, cheese, salsa, and seasonings until well combined.
- Place a tortilla on a flat surface and spoon the chicken mixture onto the center.
- Fold the sides of the tortilla inward, then roll it up tightly to form a burrito-like shape.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the chimichangas seam-side down into the oil.
- Fry until golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Remove the chimichangas and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Serve hot with toppings like sour cream, guacamole, and chopped cilantro.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes 4-6 chimichangas
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Healthier Option: Bake the chimichangas at 400ยฐF for 20 minutes, flipping halfway, or air-fry them for a lighter version.
- Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeรฑos or hot sauce to the chicken mixture.
- Vegetarian: Substitute the chicken with sautรฉed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and zucchini.
- Saucy Addition: Smother the chimichangas with enchilada sauce and bake for extra flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 375ยฐF for 8-10 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.
FAQs
1. Can I make chicken chimichangas ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them up to the frying step and store them in the refrigerator. Fry or bake them just before serving.
2. What kind of tortillas work best?
Flour tortillas are ideal for chimichangas because they crisp up nicely when fried or baked.
3. Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut and adds extra flavor.
4. How can I make these gluten-free?
Use gluten-free tortillas and ensure all other ingredients, such as beans and seasonings, are gluten-free.
5. What can I serve with chicken chimichangas?
Serve them with rice, beans, a side salad, or chips and salsa.
6. Are chimichangas spicy?
Not necessarily; the spice level depends on the seasonings and salsa you use. Adjust to your preference.
7. Can I freeze chimichangas?
Yes, freeze cooked chimichangas in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in an oven or air fryer.
8. Can I use corn tortillas?
Corn tortillas are not recommended as they are less flexible and may break during folding.
9. Is there a non-frying option?
Yes, baking or air-frying are excellent alternatives for a healthier version.
10. What toppings go well with chimichangas?
Popular toppings include sour cream, guacamole, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and salsa.
Conclusion
Chicken Chimichangas are a satisfying and versatile dish that brings the flavors of a Mexican restaurant right to your kitchen. Whether you prefer the classic fried version or a lighter baked alternative, these chimichangas are sure to become a family favorite. Try them today and enjoy the perfect blend of crunch and flavor!
Print
Chicken Chimichanga Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 chimichangas 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying or Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Crispy and golden on the outside, chicken chimichangas are a delicious Mexican-inspired dish filled with seasoned shredded chicken, beans, and cheese. These fried burrito-like treats are perfect for a family dinner or a festive occasion. They’re easy to make and can be baked or fried to suit your preference. Serve with sour cream, guacamole, and salsa for the ultimate experience.
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 cup refried beans
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheese blend)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Chimichangas:
- 6 large flour tortillas
- Vegetable oil (for frying or brushing if baking)
Optional Garnishes:
- Sour cream
- Guacamole
- Salsa
- Chopped cilantro
- Diced tomatoes
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and sautรฉ the onion and garlic until soft and fragrant (about 2-3 minutes).
- Add shredded chicken, refried beans, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well and cook for 3-4 minutes until everything is heated through. Remove from heat and stir in the cheese.
- Assemble the Chimichangas:
- Warm the tortillas slightly to make them pliable. Spoon 1/3 cup of the filling onto the center of each tortilla.
- Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll it tightly like a burrito, securing the filling inside.
- Cook the Chimichangas:
To Fry:- Heat 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC). Carefully place chimichangas seam-side down in the oil and fry until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove and drain on paper towels.
To Bake:
- Preheat oven to 400ยฐF (200ยฐC). Place chimichangas seam-side down on a baking sheet and brush lightly with oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
- Serve:
- Serve hot with your favorite toppings like sour cream, guacamole, and salsa.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken with shredded beef, pork, or a vegetarian alternative like sautรฉed vegetables or black beans.
- For a healthier option, baking is recommended instead of frying.
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