Chicken Chimichangas

Introduction

Chicken Chimichangas are a Tex-Mex classic—crispy, golden tortillas filled with a flavorful, spiced chicken and cheese mixture. These deep-fried burrito-like treats are loaded with bold flavors and textures, making them a satisfying and indulgent meal. Whether you serve them smothered in a rich sauce, topped with fresh guacamole, or alongside rice and beans, they’re sure to impress at any dinner table or party.

I first made these when I was craving something hearty and flavorful for dinner, and they quickly became a family favorite. The crispy, golden exterior contrasts perfectly with the tender chicken and melted cheese inside, creating a delicious bite every time. You can customize the filling to your taste, adding things like sautéed onions, peppers, or black beans for extra flavor.

What’s great about Chicken Chimichangas is that they’re surprisingly easy to make, even though they seem like a special treat. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that feels indulgent and festive. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just enjoying a comforting meal at home, Chicken Chimichangas are sure to be a hit!

Perfect for:

• Family dinners
• Tex-Mex nights
• Game-day snacks
• Meal prep
• Crowd-pleasing appetizers

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Chimichangas

Here’s why Chicken Chimichangas will quickly become a favorite in your home:

• Crispy and Golden: The tortillas fry up to a perfectly golden, crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the tender, flavorful filling.
• Bold and Flavorful Filling: The shredded chicken is seasoned with bold spices, combined with cheese, and wrapped for an irresistible bite.
• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings and sauces to make them your own.
• Easy to Make: With just a few steps, you can enjoy restaurant-quality chimichangas at home.
• Great for Leftovers: Chimichangas reheat beautifully, making them perfect for meal prep.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 6 chimichangas
• Calories per serving: Approximately 400-450 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 25g, Carbs: 30g, Fat: 22g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make delicious Chicken Chimichangas:

• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Tex-Mex blend)
• 1/4 cup sour cream (optional, for creaminess)
• 6 large flour tortillas
• 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
• Optional toppings: guacamole, salsa, sour cream, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, or queso sauce

Ingredient Highlights

• Shredded Chicken: Rotisserie chicken saves time and adds great flavor. You can also use leftover grilled or roasted chicken.
• Spices: Chili powder, cumin, and paprika bring the classic Tex-Mex flavors to life in this dish.
• Cheese: Use a melty cheese like cheddar or Monterey Jack for the best gooey texture.
• Tortillas: Large flour tortillas are ideal for wrapping and frying without tearing.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to make crispy and flavorful Chicken Chimichangas:

Prepare the Chicken Filling:

1. Season the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken with chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.
2. Add Cheese and Sour Cream: Stir in the shredded cheese and sour cream, if desired, to make the filling creamy and cheesy.

Assemble the Chimichangas:

3. Warm the Tortillas: To prevent tearing, warm the flour tortillas in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a dry skillet for a few seconds on each side.
4. Fill and Fold: Place about 1/3 cup of the chicken mixture in the center of each tortilla. Fold the sides in, then roll the tortilla tightly like a burrito, securing the filling inside. Use a toothpick if necessary to keep the chimichangas closed.

Fry the Chimichangas:

5. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or deep pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
6. Fry the Chimichangas: Carefully place 2-3 chimichangas seam-side down in the hot oil. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Repeat with the remaining chimichangas.

Serve:

7. Add Toppings: Serve the chimichangas warm, topped with guacamole, salsa, sour cream, or queso sauce, and garnish with shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes if desired.

How to Serve Chicken Chimichangas

Chicken Chimichangas are versatile and can be served in various ways:

• With Rice and Beans: Pair the chimichangas with Mexican rice and refried beans for a complete meal.
• Smothered Style: Pour enchilada sauce or queso sauce over the top for a decadent twist.
• As Appetizers: Cut the chimichangas into smaller portions and serve as a party appetizer.
• With a Side Salad: Add a fresh side salad to balance the richness of the chimichangas.
• For a Tex-Mex Feast: Serve alongside other Tex-Mex favorites like tacos, nachos, and quesadillas.

Additional Tips for Chicken Chimichangas

Here are some tips to ensure your Chicken Chimichangas turn out perfectly:

• Use Large Tortillas: Large flour tortillas make it easier to wrap and hold the filling securely.
• Don’t Overfill: Overfilling the tortillas can make them harder to fold and seal.
• Secure the Wraps: Use a toothpick to keep the chimichangas closed while frying, and remove it before serving.
• Monitor Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to maintain the oil temperature at 350°F (175°C) for even frying.
• Baking Option: For a lighter version, brush the chimichangas with oil or butter and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Reheating: Reheat chimichangas in an oven or air fryer to maintain their crispy texture.

Recipe Variations for Chicken Chimichangas

Here are 10 variations you can try for Chicken Chimichangas:

1. Beef Chimichangas: Swap the chicken for ground beef seasoned with taco spices.
2. Vegetarian Chimichangas: Use sautéed vegetables and black beans as the filling.
3. Seafood Chimichangas: Replace chicken with cooked shrimp or crab meat.
4. Buffalo Chicken Chimichangas: Toss the chicken with buffalo sauce and blue cheese crumbles before filling.
5. Breakfast Chimichangas: Fill with scrambled eggs, bacon, and cheese for a breakfast twist.
6. Barbecue Chicken Chimichangas: Mix the chicken with barbecue sauce and shredded cheddar for a smoky flavor.
7. Spicy Chimichangas: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the filling for extra heat.
8. Creamy Avocado Chimichangas: Add mashed avocado to the filling for creaminess and extra flavor.
9. Mini Chimichangas: Use small tortillas to create appetizer-sized chimichangas.
10. Sweet Chimichangas: Fill with sweetened cream cheese and fruit for a dessert version.

Freezing and Storage for Chicken Chimichangas

• Freezing: Assemble the chimichangas and freeze them before frying. Place them on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. Fry them straight from frozen, adding a couple of minutes to the cooking time.
• Storage: Store leftover chimichangas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.

Special Equipment for Chicken Chimichangas

Here are some tools that will make preparing Chicken Chimichangas easier:

• Large Skillet or Deep Pan: For frying the chimichangas.
• Slotted Spoon: To remove the chimichangas from the oil.
• Thermometer: To monitor the oil temperature for perfect frying.
• Tongs: For flipping the chimichangas in the hot oil.
• Toothpicks: To secure the tortillas during frying.
• Microwave or Skillet: To warm the tortillas before filling.
• Air Fryer (Optional): For a healthier, air-fried version of chimichangas.

Frequently Asked Questions for Chicken Chimichangas

1. Can I bake instead of fry the chimichangas?
   Yes, for a lighter option, bake the chimichangas at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
2. Can I use corn tortillas?
   Corn tortillas are not recommended as they may crack and don’t hold up as well for frying. Stick to flour tortillas.
3. What can I serve with chimichangas?
   Serve them with rice, beans, guacamole, salsa, or a fresh side salad.
4. How do I prevent the filling from leaking?
   Make sure to fold and roll the tortillas tightly, and secure them with toothpicks if needed.
5. Can I make these ahead of time?
   Yes, assemble the chimichangas in advance and refrigerate them until ready to fry or bake.

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Conclusion

Chicken Chimichangas are a delicious and satisfying Tex-Mex dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With their crispy exterior and flavorful, tender chicken filling, these chimichangas are a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re serving them for a casual family dinner or at a festive gathering, their combination of savory spices, melted cheese, and crunchy texture will have everyone coming back for more.

This recipe is easy to make, making it a great option for busy weeknights or when you want to treat yourself to something hearty and delicious. Pair them with your favorite sides like guacamole, sour cream, or salsa for a complete meal everyone will love.

I’d love to see how your Chicken Chimichangas turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!