Craving a crispy, savory, and flavor-packed Mexican dish? Look no further than Chicken Chimichangas! These deep-fried burritos are filled to the brim with seasoned chicken, cheese, and your favorite toppings. A golden exterior and hearty filling make this recipe perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or simply satisfying your Tex-Mex cravings at home. Follow this easy, step-by-step guide to creating restaurant-quality Chicken Chimichangas right in your kitchen!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we jump into the recipe, gather the following ingredients for this classic dish:
For the Filling:
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great!)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup refried beans (optional for extra creaminess)
- 1/3 cup diced onions
- 1/3 cup salsa or diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Chimichangas:
- 6 large flour tortillas
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Toothpicks (to secure the chimichangas)
Optional Toppings:
- Sour cream
- Guacamole
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Pico de gallo
- Shredded lettuce
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make The Best Chicken Chimichangas
Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to whip up mouthwatering Chicken Chimichangas:
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
- Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a drizzle of oil and sauté the diced onions until softened.
- Mix in the shredded chicken, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the chicken evenly with the spices.
- Add salsa (or diced tomatoes) and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until warmed through.
- Stir in the refried beans (if using) and shredded cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and the filling is creamy. Remove the skillet from heat and set it aside.
Step 2: Assemble the Chimichangas
- Lay out a tortilla on a flat surface. Scoop about 1/2 cup of the chicken filling into the center.
- Fold the sides of the tortilla inward, then roll it from the bottom up to form a secure burrito shape. Use a toothpick to hold it in place if needed.
- Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and filling.
Step 3: Fry the Chimichangas
- Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Test the oil’s readiness by dropping a small piece of tortilla into it—if it sizzles, it’s ready.
- Gently place each filled tortilla seam-side down into the hot oil using tongs. Fry 2-3 at a time, turning occasionally until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides (about 3-4 minutes total).
- Remove the fried chimichangas from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
- Carefully remove the toothpicks from your fried chimichangas (if used) and place them on serving plates.
- Top with sour cream, guacamole, fresh cilantro, pico de gallo, or your favorite garnishes.
- Serve with a side of Mexican rice, beans, or a fresh salad for a complete Tex-Mex feast.
Tips for Serving the Perfect Chicken Chimichangas
- Make it lighter: For a healthier version, skip the deep frying and bake the chimichangas in the oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes until crispy. Spray the tortillas with cooking spray before baking to get that golden finish.
- Experiment with toppings: Add jalapeños, queso fresco, or hot sauce if you like extra heat or cheesy goodness.
- Meal prep: You can assemble the chimichangas ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before frying or baking.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Chicken Chimichangas offer the perfect combination of creamy, crunchy, and savory flavors. Whether you're hosting a dinner party, spicing up Taco Tuesday, or simply trying something new, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Plus, with its customizable fillings and toppings, you can make it your own.
Give this incredible Chicken Chimichangas recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed. Happy cooking!
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