Baked Chicken Chimichanga

Baked Chicken Chimichanga is a delightful twist on your favorite Mexican restaurant dish. This recipe combines tender shredded chicken with creamy refried beans, zesty salsa, and a blend of spices, all wrapped in a crispy tortilla. Perfect for family dinners, game nights, or casual gatherings, these chimichangas are easy to make and full of flavor, making them a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these delicious chimichangas without any fuss.
• Flavorful Ingredients: A mix of savory chicken, spicy jalapeños, and gooey cheese creates an explosion of taste in every bite.
• Versatile Meal: Customize with your favorite toppings or fillings to suit your family’s tastes—perfect for picky eaters!
• Healthier Option: Baking instead of frying reduces the fat content while still giving you that satisfying crunch.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time and freeze them for quick weeknight dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare these Baked Chicken Chimichangas efficiently, having the right tools makes all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Pastry brush
• Kitchen knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Essential for combining all the delicious filling ingredients without making a mess.
• Baking sheet: Provides ample space for all your chimichangas to bake evenly, ensuring they get perfectly crispy.
• Pastry brush: Makes it easy to apply melted butter on top of each chimichanga for that golden finish.

Ingredients

For this Baked Chicken Chimichanga recipe, gather the following ingredients:

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

How to Make Baked Chicken Chimichanga

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your chimichangas will bake evenly and get crispy.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl, mix together the following:
1. Shredded chicken
2. Refried beans
3. Salsa
4. Coriander (if using)
5. Chili powder
6. Shredded cheese
7. Chopped green onions
8. Diced jalapeños

Make sure everything is well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Chimichangas

Spread filling in the center of each tortilla:
1. Fold the bottom edge up over the filling.
2. Fold in the sides tightly.
3. Roll up from the bottom to form a burrito shape without overfilling.

Step 4: Bake

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

Step 5: Serve

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

How to Serve Baked Chicken Chimichanga

Baked Chicken Chimichangas are a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Serving them with the right accompaniments can elevate your meal and enhance the flavors.

Toppings

• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds a creamy texture that balances the spices.
• Guacamole: Fresh guacamole provides a rich, buttery flavor that pairs well with the chimichanga.
• Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa made from tomatoes, onions, and cilantro adds brightness and crunch.
• Shredded Lettuce: Add a refreshing crunch with some shredded lettuce on top or on the side.
• Sliced Jalapeños: For those who love heat, sliced jalapeños can add an extra kick.

Salsas

• Mild Salsa: Opt for a mild salsa for a subtle flavor enhancement without overwhelming spice.
• Spicy Salsa Verde: If you prefer something zesty, a spicy salsa verde made with tomatillos is perfect.
• Corn Salsa: A sweet corn salsa offers a unique twist that complements the savory chimichangas.

Salads

• Mexican Street Corn Salad: A creamy corn salad brings sweetness and texture that pairs wonderfully.
• Cabbage Slaw: A tangy cabbage slaw adds crunch and freshness to your plate.

How to Perfect Baked Chicken Chimichanga

To achieve the best Baked Chicken Chimichangas, follow these tips that will ensure they come out perfectly every time.

• Choose Quality Tortillas: Use large taco-sized flour tortillas for easy rolling and a sturdy structure.
• Don’t Overfill: Be mindful of how much filling you add to each tortilla. Overfilling can lead to breakage during baking.
• Brush Generously with Butter: A good layer of melted butter on top before baking helps achieve a golden-brown crispness.
• Bake at the Right Temperature: Preheat your oven to 400°F for even cooking and to avoid soggy tortillas.
• Flip Carefully: When flipping halfway through baking, use a spatula to prevent tearing or spilling of fillings.
• Let Rest Before Serving: Allow chimichangas to cool for 5-10 minutes after baking. This helps set the filling.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Chicken Chimichanga

Pair your Baked Chicken Chimichangas with these delicious side dishes for a complete meal that everyone will love.

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices is a classic complement to chimichangas.
2. Refried Beans: Rich refried beans add creaminess and are an excellent source of protein alongside your main dish.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Add some color and nutrition with grilled veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and onions.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob is perfect for summer meals; try it grilled or boiled with butter.
5. Black Bean Salad: A refreshing black bean salad with lime dressing adds zest and completes your plate beautifully.
6. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with salsa make for an easy starter or side to nibble on before the main course.
7. Guacamole Dip: Pairing your chimichangas with guacamole dip makes for an extra creamy touch to enjoy!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Baked Chicken Chimichangas, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Overfilling the tortillas: Stuffing too much filling can lead to messy chimichangas that won’t hold their shape. Be sure to leave enough space at the edges for folding.
• Skipping the baking time: Rushing the baking process might result in soggy chimichangas. Allow them to bake until they are golden brown and crispy for the best texture.
• Using cold ingredients: Starting with cold filling can affect how well your chimichangas cook. Make sure your chicken, beans, and other ingredients are at room temperature before assembling.
• Not brushing with butter: Failing to brush melted butter on top can lead to a less crispy exterior. Don’t skip this step; it adds flavor and a beautiful golden color.
• Ignoring spice adjustments: Everyone has different spice preferences. Always taste your filling mix before assembling and adjust the jalapeños or chili powder as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Baked Chicken Chimichanga

• To freeze, wrap each chimichanga tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Baked Chicken Chimichanga

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and reheat for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and cook for about 5 minutes per side until warm and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Baked Chicken Chimichanga.

What is a Baked Chicken Chimichanga?

A Baked Chicken Chimichanga is a delicious Mexican dish made by filling tortillas with shredded chicken, beans, cheese, and spices, then baking them until crispy.

Can I make Baked Chicken Chimichangas ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the filling ahead of time. Assemble the chimichangas just before baking them for optimal freshness.

What can I use instead of chicken?

If you’re looking for alternatives, shredded beef or turkey works great! You can also try plant-based proteins for a vegetarian option.

How do I customize my Baked Chicken Chimichanga?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or corn, or adjust spice levels by adding more or fewer jalapeños according to your preference.

How do I serve Baked Chicken Chimichangas?

Serve them hot with toppings like guacamole, salsa, sour cream, or pico de gallo for added flavor!

Final Thoughts

Baked Chicken Chimichangas offer a delightful combination of flavors wrapped in crispy tortillas. This recipe is versatile; feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or toppings. Give it a try for an easy yet satisfying meal!