After a long day filled with endless to-do lists, I often find myself craving something comforting yet light, and that’s where the Irresistible Baked Chicken Chimichangas come in! Imagine the delightful aroma of spices wafting through your kitchen as tender shredded chicken mingles with creamy refried beans and zesty salsa, all lovingly wrapped in a golden, crispy tortilla. This oven-baked twist on a classic Mexican favorite not only satisfies my cravings but also keeps things healthier, ditching the deep-fryer for a radiant, oven-golden finish.
What I love most about these chimichangas is their versatility—you can easily customize the fillings to suit your family’s taste. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or simply looking for an easy weeknight dinner, these baked delights are bound to impress. So let’s roll up our sleeves and get cooking!
Irresistible Baked Chicken Chimichanga — Why You’ll Love Them!
Comfort, Flavor, and Convenience: These Irresistible Baked Chicken Chimichangas strike the perfect balance between comfort food and health. The baking method allows you to enjoy a crispy exterior without the guilt of deep-frying. Customization is key: whether you prefer spicy jalapeños or mild salsa, the filling can easily be tailored to suit any palate. Family-Friendly: Perfect for everyone, from kids to adults, making mealtime enjoyable for all. Plus, they can be prepared ahead of time, saving you valuable dinner prep time on busy nights. Crowd-Pleaser: Serve these delightful chimichangas at gatherings, and watch everyone’s faces light up with joy!
Irresistible Baked Chicken Chimichanga Ingredients
Get ready to roll! Here’s what you’ll need to create these delicious Irresistible Baked Chicken Chimichangas.
For the Filling
Cooked Shredded Chicken – A flavorful base; swap with beef, turkey, or lamb for a twist.
Refried Beans – Adds creaminess; opt for canned varieties or make your own for a homemade taste.
Salsa – Brings zest; choose mild or spicy to match your preference.
Coriander (optional) – Fresh flavor enhancer; feel free to skip if you’re not a fan.
Chili Powder – Adds warmth and depth; substitute with taco seasoning for variety.
Shredded Cheese – Melty goodness that binds filling; any melting cheese works, like cheddar or Monterey Jack.
Chopped Green Onions – Fresh crunch; replace with diced red onion for a sharper taste.
Diced Jalapeños – For a kick! Adjust the quantity for desired heat.
For the Tortillas
Flour Tortillas – Holds everything together; whole wheat or gluten-free options are great for dietary needs.
For the Topping
Melted Butter – For a golden and crispy finish; swap with olive oil for a healthier option.
These ingredients will help create the most irresistible baked chicken chimichangas that your family will love!
How to Make Irresistible Baked Chicken Chimichangas
Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures even cooking and that your chimichangas turn out perfectly crispy.
Mix the filling: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, refried beans, salsa, coriander (if using), chili powder, cheese, green onions, and jalapeños. Stir well until everything is evenly mixed.
Prepare the tortillas: Take a tortilla and place about 1/3 cup of the filling mixture in the center. Make sure not to overfill; less is more!
Roll the chimichanga: Fold the bottom edge of the tortilla over the filling, then fold in the sides. Roll tightly to form a burrito shape, ensuring the filling is secured inside.
Prepare for baking: Place the rolled chimichangas seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with melted butter for that irresistible golden finish.
Bake to perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes until golden brown. Flip them carefully and bake for an additional 10 minutes for that extra crunch.
Cool and serve: Let them cool for about 5–10 minutes before serving. Enjoy with toppings like sour cream, guacamole, or pico de gallo for added flavor!
Optional: Sprinkle with fresh cilantro for a burst of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Irresistible Baked Chicken Chimichanga?
To elevate your meal experience, consider these delightful pairings that complement the flavors of the chimichangas.
Creamy Guacamole:
Its rich, buttery texture adds a delicious contrast to the crispy chimichanga, enhancing every bite.Zesty Pico de Gallo:
Fresh tomatoes, onions, and cilantro provide a refreshing burst, balancing the warmth of the chimichangas beautifully.Crisp Side Salad:
A light salad with crunch and tanginess brings freshness to your plate, making each bite of the chimichanga more enjoyable.Sour Cream Drizzle:
The cool creaminess of sour cream pairs wonderfully, cutting through the seasoned flavors of the chimichangas perfectly.Mexican Street Corn:
Sweet, grilled corn topped with cheese and spices offers a delightful flavor combination that pairs harmoniously.Spicy Salsa Verde:
A zesty and vibrant sauce brings a kick to your plate, accentuating the flavorful profile of the chimichangas.Chilled Horchata:
This creamy, cinnamon-infused drink refreshes the palate, making it a delightful beverage companion for your chimichanga meal.Fried Plantains:
Sweet, caramelized plantains provide a tasty contrast with a soft texture that harmonizes well with the baked chimichangas.
These options not only enhance the dining experience but also create a delightful full meal that leaves everyone satisfied!
Irresistible Baked Chicken Chimichanga Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you personalize this delightful recipe to suit your taste buds!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute cheese with nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese for a creamy, guilt-free option.
- Spicy Kick: Use chipotle salsa instead of regular salsa for a smokier, spicier flavor that excites the palate.
- Vegetarian Delight: Replace shredded chicken with sautéed mushrooms and added bell peppers for a hearty, veggie-packed filling.
- Whole Grain: Opt for whole wheat or spinach tortillas to enhance fiber content and add a vibrant color to your chimichangas.
- Extra Crunch: Consider adding crushed tortilla chips inside the filling for an unexpected crunchy texture in every bite.
- Herbed Cheese: Mix in some cream cheese with herbs for an extra layer of richness and a flavor explosion.
- Salsa Verde: Switch to salsa verde for a tangy twist that complements the filling beautifully without being overly spicy.
- Citrusy Freshness: Add a splash of lime juice to the filling for a bright, zesty burst that elevates every bite.
Expert Tips for Irresistible Baked Chicken Chimichanga
• Avoid Overfilling: Ensure not to overstuff the tortillas; excessive filling may cause them to burst during baking.
• Crispier Finish: For extra crispiness, place the chimichangas on a wire rack set over the baking sheet. This allows for better airflow.
• Vegetable Boost: Add bell peppers, zucchini, or corn for a delightful veggie twist in your filling.
• Heat Level Control: Adjust the heat by playing with the quantity of jalapeños or the type of salsa you use in your Irresistible Baked Chicken Chimichanga.
• Make-Ahead: Assemble the chimichangas in advance and store them in the fridge. Just pop them in the oven right before serving for a quick meal!
Storage Tips for Irresistible Baked Chicken Chimichanga
• Room Temperature: Let the chimichangas cool completely before storing. They can sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours.
• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Ensure they are fully cooled to maintain freshness.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chimichangas in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to airtight freezer bags for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through and crispy again, making your Irresistible Baked Chicken Chimichanga just as delightful as when freshly made.
Make Ahead Options
These Irresistible Baked Chicken Chimichangas are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during meal prep! You can assemble the chimichangas and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply prepare the filling, roll them up in the tortillas, and place them on a baking sheet covered with plastic wrap. To maintain their crispiness, brush them with melted butter or olive oil just before baking. When you’re ready to serve, preheat the oven and bake for about 25 minutes, flipping them halfway through. This way, you’ll enjoy delicious, freshly baked chimichangas with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
Irresistible Baked Chicken Chimichanga Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for the filling?
Absolutely! The best choice is cooked shredded chicken, as it provides a tender and flavorful base. You can easily swap it out for ground beef, turkey, or even lamb based on your preferences. Just make sure whatever protein you choose is fully cooked before mixing it with the other filling ingredients.
How should I store leftovers?
For sure! Let the chimichangas cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to reheat them in the oven for the best results; it keeps them crisp and delicious.
Can I freeze chimichangas for later?
Yes, indeed! To freeze, place the assembled chimichangas in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to airtight freezer bags, where they can last for up to 2 months. To reheat, you can bake them from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until heated through, making them perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
What should I do if my chimichangas burst in the oven?
No worries! This can happen if the tortillas are overfilled. Be sure to use about 1/3 cup of filling per tortilla to avoid bursting. If they do burst, simply serve them as a plate of “deconstructed chimichangas”—they’ll still be just as tasty!
Are these chimichangas suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Very much so! You can customize the ingredients based on dietary needs. For gluten-free options, use gluten-free tortillas and be cautious with canned ingredients—check for hidden gluten. Additionally, for those avoiding dairy, simply omit the cheese or substitute with a dairy-free alternative.
How can I make these chimichangas spicier?
Indeed! To amp up the heat, you can increase the amount of diced jalapeños or choose a hot salsa for a fiery kick. Mixing in some chili flakes or using spicier cheese can also do the trick! Enjoy customizing your Irresistible Baked Chicken Chimichanga to suit your spice level.
Irresistible Baked Chicken Chimichangas: Easy, Flavorful Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Mix the filling: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, refried beans, salsa, coriander, chili powder, cheese, green onions, and jalapeños. Stir well until evenly mixed.
- Prepare the tortillas: Place about 1/3 cup of the filling mixture in the center of a tortilla.
- Roll the chimichanga: Fold the bottom edge of the tortilla over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll tightly to secure the filling inside.
- Prepare for baking: Place the rolled chimichangas seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush tops with melted butter.
- Bake to perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes until golden brown. Flip carefully and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
- Cool and serve: Let cool for 5–10 minutes before serving. Enjoy with toppings like sour cream, guacamole, or pico de gallo.
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