Name: Easy Chicken Chimichangas Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 cups chicken; 1½ cups Mexican Cheese; ⅔ cup salsa; 6 Tortillas; 1 tbsp butter; optional toppings:; sour cream; salsa; tomatoes; Guacamole; fresh cilantro

Craving something crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor? This easy chicken chimichangas recipe delivers a mouth-watering meal with minimal effort. Whether you're preparing a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend meal, these chimichangas will hit the spot.

Photos of Easy Chicken Chimichangas Recipe

If you don't usually keep Mexican cheese or salsa at home, make sure to grab these at the supermarket. Mexican cheese often comes in blends and is perfect for melting, while salsa adds the perfect kick to this dish.

Ingredients For Easy Chicken Chimichangas Recipe

chicken: Cooked and shredded, this is the main protein in the chimichangas. mexican cheese: A blend of cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, and queso blanco that melts beautifully. salsa: Adds a zesty flavor with tomatoes, onions, and peppers. tortillas: Soft flour tortillas to wrap up all the delicious fillings. butter: Melted butter to brush on the tortillas for a golden, crispy finish. sour cream: Optional topping for added creaminess. tomatoes: Freshly diced for a burst of freshness. guacamole: Optional topping made from ripe avocados for a creamy, rich flavor. cilantro: Fresh herb to garnish and add a hint of citrusy flavor.

One reader, Gery Knoll says:

This easy chicken chimichangas recipe is a game-changer! The tortillas turn out perfectly crispy, and the filling is deliciously cheesy and flavorful. It's a simple, quick meal that the whole family loves. Highly recommend!

Gery Knoll

Techniques Required for Making Chicken Chimichangas

How to preheat the oven: Set the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and allow it to reach the desired temperature before placing the chimichangas inside. How to mist with cooking spray: Lightly spray the aluminum foil-covered baking sheet with cooking spray to prevent the chimichangas from sticking. How to stir together ingredients: Mix the chicken, cheese, and salsa in a bowl until they are evenly combined. How to fold tortillas: Place the filling in the center of the tortilla, fold in the sides, then roll from bottom to top to form a chimichanga shape. How to brush with melted butter: Use a pastry brush to apply melted butter to the outside of the rolled tortillas before baking.

How To Make Easy Chicken Chimichangas

For a quick and easy Mexican dish, try out these savory chicken chimichangas wrapped in lightly-roasted tortillas! Cook up a serving in just under an hour.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 25 minutes

Total: 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2cupschicken,shredded or chopped, cooked
1½cupsMexican cheese,shredded
⅔cupsalsa
6tortillas,8-inch
1tbspbutter,melted

Optional Toppings:

sour cream
salsa
tomatoes,diced
guacamole
fresh cilantro

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Cover a baking sheet with aluminum foil, then mist with cooking spray.
In a bowl, stir together the chicken, cheese, and salsa until well-mixed.

To Assemble:

Spoon approximately ½ cup of the mixture into the center of a tortilla.
Fold in the sides, then roll the tortilla from bottom to top to make a chimichanga shape. Place the chimichanga seam side down on the baking sheet.
Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling mixture, then brush the outside of the tortillas with melted butter.
Bake for 25 minutes until the tortillas are golden brown.
Remove and serve with sour cream, salsa, or other desired toppings, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 468.44kcal
Fat: 31.27g
Saturated Fat: 14.60g
Trans Fat: 0.77g
Monounsaturated Fat: 9.55g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.64g
Carbohydrates: 19.72g
Fiber: 3.10g
Sugar: 2.18g
Protein: 27.71g
Cholesterol: 110.62mg
Sodium: 690.80mg
Calcium: 386.19mg
Potassium: 371.78mg
Iron: 1.36mg
Vitamin A: 200.39µg
Vitamin C: 2.49mg

Technique Tip for Perfect Chicken Chimichangas

For an extra crispy texture, you can brush the tortillas with a mixture of melted butter and a little bit of olive oil before baking. This will give the chimichangas a beautiful golden-brown finish and a delightful crunch.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Easy Chicken Chimichangas

Prepare the filling in advance: Cook and shred the chicken ahead of time, then mix with cheese and salsa to save time on assembly day.

Use pre-cooked chicken: Opt for rotisserie or pre-cooked chicken to cut down on cooking time.

Assemble in batches: Lay out all tortillas and fill them assembly-line style to speed up the process.

Preheat the oven early: Start preheating the oven while you prepare the chimichangas to ensure it's ready when you are.

Use a food processor: Quickly shred cheese or chop ingredients using a food processor to save prep time.

Substitute Ingredients For Easy Chicken Chimichangas Recipe

chicken - Substitute with turkey: Turkey has a similar texture and flavor profile, making it a great alternative to chicken.
mexican cheese - Substitute with cheddar cheese: Cheddar cheese melts well and has a sharp flavor that complements the other ingredients.
salsa - Substitute with pico de gallo: Pico de gallo is a fresh, chunky alternative that provides a similar flavor with a bit more texture.
tortillas - Substitute with whole wheat tortillas: Whole wheat tortillas offer a healthier option with added fiber and nutrients.
butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil is a healthier fat that can be used to achieve a similar crispiness when cooking the chimichangas.
sour cream - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt provides a similar creamy texture with added protein and less fat.
salsa - Substitute with hot sauce: Hot sauce can add a similar spicy kick if you prefer a smoother texture over chunky salsa.
tomatoes - Substitute with roasted red peppers: Roasted red peppers offer a sweet and smoky flavor that can enhance the overall taste of the dish.
guacamole - Substitute with avocado slices: Avocado slices provide a similar creamy texture and rich flavor without the need for additional ingredients.
fresh cilantro - Substitute with parsley: Parsley offers a fresh, slightly peppery flavor that can be a good alternative for those who don't enjoy cilantro.

Best Way to Present Easy Chicken Chimichangas

Use high-quality ingredients: Ensure the chicken is tender and juicy, and opt for a blend of Mexican cheese that melts beautifully. Fresh salsa will elevate the flavors.
Create a vibrant plating: Place the golden-brown chimichangas on a large, white plate to make the colors pop. Arrange them in a neat row or a fan shape for visual appeal.
Add colorful garnishes: Top each chimichanga with a dollop of sour cream, a spoonful of salsa, and a sprinkle of diced tomatoes. Add a small quenelle of guacamole on the side.
Incorporate fresh herbs: Garnish with finely chopped fresh cilantro to add a burst of color and a fresh, aromatic touch.
Use contrasting textures: Serve with a side of crispy tortilla chips or a small salad with crunchy elements to contrast the soft, warm chimichangas.
Drizzle with sauce: Lightly drizzle a zigzag of salsa or a creamy avocado sauce over the chimichangas for an elegant finish.
Serve with a lime wedge: Add a wedge of lime on the side for a touch of acidity that diners can squeeze over their chimichangas to enhance the flavors.
Use elegant serving ware: Present the dish on a high-quality, modern plate with a polished finish to give it a sophisticated look.

How to Store and Freeze Chicken Chimichangas

Allow the chimichangas to cool completely before storing or freezing.
To store in the refrigerator, place the cooled chimichangas in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. They will keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the chimichangas:
- Wrap each chimichanga individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, making sure there are no air pockets.
- Place the wrapped chimichangas in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, removing as much air as possible if using a bag.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy reference.
- Frozen chimichangas will keep for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat refrigerated chimichangas, place them on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
For frozen chimichangas, you can either:
- Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat as directed above, or
- Bake them directly from frozen in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
Alternatively, you can reheat chimichangas in the microwave, but they may lose some of their crispiness. Wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.

How to Reheat Leftover Chicken Chimichangas

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover chimichangas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Brush the tops of the chimichangas with a little bit of olive oil or melted butter to help them crisp up. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy on the outside.
If you prefer a quicker method, you can reheat the chimichangas in the microwave. Place them on a microwave-safe plate and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. To help maintain some of the crispiness, you can place a damp paper towel over the chimichangas while microwaving.
For a crispy texture, you can also reheat the chimichangas in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the chimichangas in the basket, making sure they aren't touching each other. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through and crispy on the outside.
If you have a toaster oven, you can use it to reheat the chimichangas as well. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the chimichangas on the wire rack. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and crispy on the outside.
Lastly, you can reheat the chimichangas in a skillet on the stovetop. Heat a small amount of oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Place the chimichangas in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until heated through and crispy on the outside.

Random Fact About Chicken Chimichangas

A fun fact about this chicken chimichangas recipe is that it offers a healthier twist on the traditional deep-fried version by baking the chimichangas instead. This method reduces the amount of oil used, making it a lighter yet still delicious option.

Is Making Chicken Chimichangas at Home Cost-Effective?

This easy chicken chimichangas recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Utilizing basic ingredients like chicken, mexican cheese, and tortillas, it keeps expenses low. The optional toppings such as sour cream, salsa, tomatoes, guacamole, and fresh cilantro add flavor without significantly increasing the cost. Overall, I would rate this recipe an 8 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20 USD.

Are Chicken Chimichangas Healthy or Unhealthy?

The easy chicken chimichangas recipe, while delicious, may not be the healthiest option due to a few factors:

The recipe uses a significant amount of cheese, which is high in saturated fat and calories
Frying the chimichangas in butter adds extra fat and calories to the dish
The recipe doesn't include any vegetables, which are essential for a balanced meal
Tortillas are typically made from refined flour, which lacks fiber and nutrients compared to whole grain options

However, there are some positive aspects to the recipe:

Chicken is a lean protein source, which is important for maintaining muscle mass and keeping you feeling full
Salsa provides some vitamins and minerals, depending on the ingredients used

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of cheese used or opt for a lower-fat variety like part-skim mozzarella or a Mexican cheese blend
Instead of frying the chimichangas in butter, brush them with a small amount of olive oil and bake them in the oven until crispy
Add some diced vegetables to the chicken mixture, such as bell peppers, onions, or zucchini, to increase the fiber and nutrient content
Use whole grain tortillas or even lettuce wraps as a low-carb alternative to regular tortillas
Serve the chimichangas with a side salad or roasted vegetables to make it a more balanced meal
Opt for Greek yogurt instead of sour cream as a topping to reduce fat and increase protein content
Use homemade salsa or pico de gallo to control the amount of sodium and added sugars in the dish

Editor's Thoughts on This Chicken Chimichanga Recipe

This easy chicken chimichangas recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The combination of tender chicken, melted Mexican cheese, and zesty salsa wrapped in a crispy tortilla creates a satisfying bite. Baking instead of frying makes it a healthier option without sacrificing taste. The optional toppings like sour cream, guacamole, and fresh cilantro add a refreshing contrast and elevate the dish. It's a straightforward recipe that's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering. Overall, it's a crowd-pleaser that balances convenience and deliciousness.

Enhance Your Easy Chicken Chimichangas Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mexican Street Corn Salad: Imagine a vibrant medley of corn, cilantro, and lime zest, all tossed together to create a refreshing and tangy sidekick to your chicken chimichangas. This salad brings a burst of color and flavor that will make your taste buds dance.

Black Bean and Mango Salsa: Pair your chimichangas with a zesty salsa that combines the earthiness of black beans with the sweet juiciness of mango. This delightful concoction adds a tropical twist and a satisfying crunch to your meal.

Avocado and Tomato Salad: A simple yet elegant salad featuring creamy avocado slices and juicy tomatoes, drizzled with a light vinaigrette. This side dish offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chimichangas.

Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice infused with the aromatic essence of cilantro and the zing of lime. This side dish provides a fragrant and flavorful base that complements the savory goodness of your chimichangas.

Spicy Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Add a touch of heat with sweet potatoes roasted to perfection and seasoned with a blend of spices. These crispy, caramelized bites offer a delightful contrast to the cheesy, savory chimichangas.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Chicken Chimichangas

Beef Enchiladas: Dive into these hearty beef enchiladas, packed with seasoned ground beef, black beans, and smothered in a rich enchilada sauce. Top with melted cheese and fresh cilantro for a fiesta on your plate.

Shrimp Tacos: Experience the zesty flavors of shrimp tacos, featuring succulent shrimp marinated in lime juice and spices, served on warm corn tortillas with a refreshing cabbage slaw and creamy avocado sauce.

Vegetarian Quesadillas: Savor the goodness of vegetarian quesadillas, filled with a medley of sautéed bell peppers, onions, and black beans. Melted cheese binds it all together inside crispy flour tortillas.

Chicken Fajitas: Relish the sizzling sensation of chicken fajitas, where juicy strips of chicken breast are cooked with colorful bell peppers and onions. Serve with warm tortillas and your favorite toppings.

Pork Carnitas: Indulge in the tender and flavorful pork carnitas, slow-cooked to perfection with spices and citrus juices. Serve on corn tortillas with a sprinkle of onions and cilantro for a traditional touch.

Suggested Appetizers and Desserts to Serve with Easy Chicken Chimichangas

Appetizers:

Stuffed Jalapeños: Stuffed Jalapeños are a delightful way to kick off any meal. These spicy peppers are filled with a creamy mixture of cream cheese and cheddar, then baked until golden and bubbly. The heat of the jalapeños is perfectly balanced by the rich, melty cheese, making each bite a burst of flavor. For an added twist, consider wrapping them in bacon before baking. Serve with a side of ranch dressing or sour cream for dipping, and watch them disappear from the plate in no time.

Mini Quesadillas: Mini Quesadillas are a crowd-pleaser that can be customized to suit any taste. Use small tortillas and fill them with a blend of shredded cheese, black beans, and corn. Add a sprinkle of taco seasoning for an extra kick. Cook them on a griddle until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are crispy. Cut into wedges and serve with salsa, guacamole, and sour cream. These bite-sized treats are perfect for dipping and sharing, making them an ideal appetizer for any gathering.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in the rich, molten center of this decadent dessert. The warm chocolate oozes out as you cut into the soft cake, creating a delightful contrast of textures. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant finish. This dessert is perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Experience the zesty tang of lemon curd topped with a fluffy meringue. The crisp crust provides a satisfying crunch, while the light meringue adds a sweet contrast. Serve it chilled for a refreshing end to your meal. This dessert is ideal for a summer gathering or a family dinner.

Why trust this Easy Chicken Chimichangas Recipe:

This recipe is a must-try because it combines the rich flavors of chicken, Mexican cheese, and salsa into a delicious and easy-to-make dish. The chimichangas are baked, not fried, making them a healthier option without sacrificing taste. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, even novice cooks can achieve a restaurant-quality meal at home. Plus, the versatility of optional toppings like sour cream, guacamole, and fresh cilantro allows you to customize each serving to your liking. Trust this recipe for a satisfying and flavorful dinner that the whole family will love.

Share your thoughts and experiences with this Easy Chicken Chimichangas Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section.

FAQ:

How can I make the chimichangas spicier?

If you want to add some heat, try mixing in some chopped jalapeños or a spicier salsa. You can also sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the chicken mixture.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any cheese you like. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack would work great in this recipe.

Can I make these chimichangas ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the chimichangas ahead of time and store them in the fridge for a few hours before baking. Just make sure to brush them with butter right before you put them in the oven.

What can I serve with these chimichangas?

These chimichangas go great with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a simple salad. You can also add some extra toppings like sour cream, guacamole, and fresh cilantro to make them even more delicious.

Can I freeze the chimichangas?

Yes, you can freeze them! Assemble the chimichangas and place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. When you're ready to eat, bake them straight from the freezer at 400 degrees F for about 30-35 minutes, or until they're golden brown and heated through.