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

Units Scale

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

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Instructions

Prepare the Filling:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and sauté 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 350°F (175°C). 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 400°F (200°C). 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 sautéed vegetables or black beans.
For a healthier option, baking is recommended instead of frying.