Baked Chicken Chimichanga

Baked Chicken Chimichanga is a delightful twist on the classic Mexican favorite. This easy recipe features tender shredded chicken, creamy refried beans, zesty salsa, and melted cheese—all wrapped in a crispy tortilla. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, these chimichangas are not just delicious; they are also simple to make. Whether you’re serving them for a family meal or at a party, their flavors and textures will impress everyone!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Flavor-Packed: Each bite bursts with flavor from spices, cheese, and your favorite salsa.
• Customizable: Adjust the heat level by adding more or fewer jalapeños to suit your taste.
• Healthy Twist: Baked instead of fried, these chimichangas offer a lighter alternative without sacrificing taste.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time and freeze for easy meals later.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Baked Chicken Chimichanga efficiently, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Brush for butter
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Ensures even baking and crispiness while holding multiple chimichangas at once.
• Mixing bowl: Provides ample space for combining ingredients without mess.
• Brush for butter: Helps achieve that golden-brown finish on your chimichangas.
• Sharp knife: Makes it easier to dice jalapeños and chop onions precisely.

Ingredients

For the Filling

• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 1 1/3 cup refried beans
• 1 1/3 cup salsa (your favorite kind)
• 2 teaspoon coriander (optional)
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• 6 green onions (chopped or regular onion)
• 2-3 jalapeños (diced with seeds—adjust to your spice preference)

For Assembly

• 3 tablespoons butter (melted)
• 6-8 large taco-sized flour tortillas (8-inches)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Baked Chicken Chimichanga

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F. This ensures that your chimichangas bake evenly and get crispy.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine the shredded chicken, refried beans, salsa, coriander (if using), chili powder, cheese, green onions, and diced jalapeños.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Chimichangas

For each tortilla:
1. Spread about ½ cup of the filling in the center.
2. Fold the bottom edge of the tortilla over the filling.
3. Fold in the sides snugly.
4. Roll up tightly like a burrito. Avoid overfilling to prevent spills.

Step 4: Bake the Chimichangas

1. Place the rolled chimichangas seam-side down on a large baking sheet.
2. Brush the tops generously with melted butter.
3. Bake for 15 minutes; carefully flip them over and bake for an additional 10 minutes until golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Let the chimichangas cool slightly for about 5-10 minutes before serving. Enjoy them with toppings like sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or pico de gallo!

How to Serve Baked Chicken Chimichanga

Baked Chicken Chimichanga is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you want to keep it simple or add a gourmet touch, here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your meal.

With Toppings

• Sour Cream: A classic choice that adds creaminess and balances the spices.
• Guacamole: Fresh and creamy, guacamole complements the chimichangas beautifully.
• Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa adds brightness and crunch to every bite.
• Shredded Lettuce: Add a refreshing crunch with some shredded lettuce on top.

With Sides

• Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with lime and cilantro pairs perfectly with chimichangas.
• Refried Beans: For a hearty side, serve additional refried beans seasoned with cumin and garlic.
• Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn can bring sweetness to your plate.

As Part of a Platter

• Chips and Salsa: Serve with tortilla chips and your favorite salsa for extra munching.
• Stuffed Jalapeños: These can add a spicy kick to your meal, perfect for spice lovers.

How to Perfect Baked Chicken Chimichanga

To ensure your Baked Chicken Chimichanga turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ingredients enhance the flavor and quality of your dish.
• Don’t Overfill Tortillas: Filling them too much makes them hard to roll and could cause them to burst while baking.
• Brush Generously with Butter: This helps achieve that golden brown, crispy texture you desire.
• Preheat Your Oven Properly: Ensuring your oven is at the right temperature will help cook them evenly.
• Let Them Cool Before Serving: Allowing them to cool slightly helps the filling set, making them easier to eat.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Chicken Chimichanga

When pairing side dishes with your Baked Chicken Chimichanga, consider these delicious options. Each side complements the flavors of the chimichanga beautifully.

1. Mexican Street Corn: Grilled corn coated in mayo, cheese, and chili powder offers a tasty contrast.
2. Black Bean Salad: A refreshing salad made with black beans, corn, tomatoes, and cilantro adds a nutritious touch.
3. Spanish Rice: Flavored rice cooked with tomatoes and spices creates an excellent base for your meal.
4. Zucchini Fritters: Crispy fritters made from shredded zucchini are a unique side that adds texture.
5. Chili Lime Fruit Salad: A mix of tropical fruits tossed in lime juice and chili powder provides a sweet-spicy balance.
6. Guacamole & Chips: No meal is complete without this classic appetizer; it’s perfect for dipping!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Baked Chicken Chimichangas, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Overfilling the tortillas: This can cause the chimichangas to burst while baking. Use just enough filling to allow you to roll them up tightly without spilling.
• Not preheating the oven: If you skip this step, your chimichangas won’t cook evenly. Always preheat your oven to 400°F before baking.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold filling can make it hard to roll the tortillas. Let your shredded chicken and other ingredients come to room temperature for easier assembly.
• Skipping the butter brush: Not brushing melted butter on top may result in less crispy chimichangas. Always brush a generous amount on top before baking for that golden-brown finish.
• Ignoring spice preferences: Jalapeños can add significant heat. Adjust the amount according to your taste or substitute with milder peppers if you prefer a less spicy dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Baked Chicken Chimichangas in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Baked Chicken Chimichanga

• Wrap each chimichanga tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They will last for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Baked Chicken Chimichanga

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking every 30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Baked Chicken Chimichangas:

Can I use different proteins for Baked Chicken Chimichanga?

Yes! You can easily substitute shredded beef, pork, or even ground turkey in place of chicken for a delicious variation.

How do I make Baked Chicken Chimichanga healthier?

To make it healthier, consider using whole wheat tortillas and reducing the amount of cheese or using low-fat cheese options.

What toppings go well with Baked Chicken Chimichanga?

Popular toppings include sour cream, guacamole, salsa, and pico de gallo. Feel free to get creative with your favorites!

Can I prepare Baked Chicken Chimichanga ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble them ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to bake.

What side dishes pair well with Baked Chicken Chimichanga?

Delicious sides include Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad. These complement the flavors perfectly!

Final Thoughts

Baked Chicken Chimichangas are not only a flavorful and satisfying meal but also very versatile. You can customize the filling with various proteins and spices to suit your tastes. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress. Give it a try and enjoy all the delicious possibilities!

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Baked Chicken Chimichangas

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Baked Chicken Chimichangas offer a delicious and health-conscious twist on a classic Mexican favorite. This easy-to-make dish features tender shredded chicken, creamy refried beans, zesty salsa, and melted cheese, all wrapped in a crispy tortilla for a satisfying crunch. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, these chimichangas are not only bursting with flavor but also customizable to suit your spice preferences. Baked instead of fried, they provide a lighter option without sacrificing taste. Whether you serve them with sour cream, guacamole, or fresh pico de gallo, these chimichangas are sure to impress family and friends alike.

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 1 1/3 cup refried beans
• 1 1/3 cup salsa
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 cup shredded cheese
• 6 large taco-sized flour tortillas
• 3 tablespoons melted butter

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine chicken, refried beans, salsa, chili powder, cheese, and any desired spices.
3. Place about ½ cup of filling in the center of each tortilla; fold and roll tightly.
4. Arrange chimichangas seam-side down on a baking sheet; brush tops with melted butter.
5. Bake for 15 minutes; flip and bake an additional 10 minutes until golden brown.

• Author: Natalia
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chimichanga (150g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: Adjust spice levels by varying jalapeño amounts. For added crunch, serve with toppings like shredded lettuce or fresh herbs. Consider using whole wheat tortillas for a healthier twist.