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Indulge in these delightful chimichangas, whether you choose to bake or pan-fry them! Each chimichanga is filled with tender chicken and a flavorful Mexican filling, all encased in a soft yet crispy exterior. These will quickly become a beloved dish for your family!
Mexican cuisine is one of my absolute favorites! Pair these chimichangas with some Mexican rice and a refreshing horchata drink for an authentic dining experience tonight.
These homemade chimichangas are the best I’ve ever tasted! I was so impressed that I decided to double the recipe to ensure we had plenty to go around. They’re festive, easy to prepare, and ready in under 30 minutes. With some extra hands helping me fold them up, it turned into a fun family activity as we worked together through each step. Homemade chimichangas are perfect for creating an unforgettable Mexican night at home!
With the meat filling prepared and baking in the oven just 30 minutes before dinner time, being a parent has never felt easier! I adore our Mexican dinner nights filled with rice, beans, chips, and salsa—these combinations are always hits at our table. To streamline preparation, cook your chicken ahead of time; using leftovers makes this recipe quick and simple. Once your chicken is ready, fill each tortilla with stuffing before wrapping them up and placing them in the oven!
What Exactly Is A Chimichanga?
Originating from the southern United States, a chimichanga is essentially a deep-fried burrito that’s simply irresistible! This popular Mexican-American dish features flour tortillas stuffed with various ingredients like vegetables, tomatoes, avocados—all wrapped tightly before baking until golden brown. Top it off with guacamole or salsa for an incredibly satisfying meal!
Ingredients Needed For Chimichangas:
- Large Flour Tortillas: The bigger they are—the better!
- Cooked Shredded Chicken: Prepare this ahead of time or on the day of cooking.
- Chili Powder: Adds just the right amount of spice.
- Cumin: Provides earthy flavor notes.
- Paprika: Adds warmth and color.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances flavor!
- Salsa: Use homemade or store-bought options.
- Colby Jack Cheese: Melts beautifully while adding great taste.
- Cream Cheese: Soften it slightly beforehand for easy mixing.
- Green Onions: Add crunchiness along with vibrant color.
- Refried Beans: Offer subtle creaminess when you take that first bite!
- Olive Oil: Brush on top for that beautiful golden finish.
How To Make Chicken Chimichangas:
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a medium bowl combine shredded chicken along with chili powder, cumin, paprika salt salsa cheese cream cheese green onions.
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To assemble each chimichanga:
- Spoon about 2 tablespoons of refried beans onto each tortilla approximately 2 inches from one edge.
- Place roughly half cup of meat mixture into center then fold sides over filling followed by rolling up from bottom; place seam side down on baking sheet.
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Bake:
- Brush tops lightly using olive oil then bake for about 20 minutes until they turn golden brown throughout.
How To Pan-Fry A Chimichanga:
Heat one tablespoon oil in medium skillet over medium heat; add chimichanga skin-side down frying both sides until they achieve crispiness—about two-three minutes per side should do it!
More Must-Try Mexican Recipes:
1) Easy Homemade Navajo Tacos 2) Sizzling Steak Fajita Roll-Ups 3) Mexican Shrimp Skillet 4) Slow Cooker Barbacoa Beef 5) Creamy Mexican Chicken Corn Chowder
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Nutritional Information (Approximate):
Calories per serving – 730 kcal
Carbohydrates – 49 g
Protein – 44 g
Fat – 39 g
Saturated Fat – 19 g
Cholesterol –131 mg
Sodium –2114 mg
Potassium–487 mg
Fiber–8 g
Sugar–8g
Vitamin A–1810 IU
Vitamin C–1mg
Calcium–592mg
Iron–5mg
Note: Nutrition facts may vary based on specific ingredients used; always consider these values as approximations.
About Alyssa Rivers
Alyssa Rivers is not only an accomplished food photographer but also authoring ‘The Tried-and-Tested Cookbook’ while developing recipes professionally driven by her passion for cooking—her creations have been featured across platforms like Good Morning America & Buzzfeed among others!
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