Baked Chicken Chimichanga

Baked Chicken Chimichanga is a delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. This easy-to-make version combines tender shredded chicken with zesty salsa, creamy refried beans, and gooey cheese, all wrapped in a crispy tortilla. With its bold flavors and satisfying texture, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its delicious combination of chicken and spices, everyone at your table will love it.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level and toppings to suit your taste preferences for a personalized meal.
• Healthy Option: Baked instead of fried, these chimichangas offer a lighter alternative without sacrificing flavor.
• Versatile Meal: Serve them as a main course or cut into smaller pieces for an appetizer at parties.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right kitchen tools can make cooking much easier. Here are some essentials you’ll need for this recipe.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Brush for butter
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Why These Tools Matter

• Baking sheet: Ensures even cooking and crispiness while baking the chimichangas.
• Mixing bowl: Provides enough space to combine all ingredients thoroughly without mess.
• Brush for butter: Helps to evenly coat the chimichangas, promoting golden-brown color and flavor.

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 Wrapping

• 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 step ensures that your chimichangas bake evenly and become wonderfully crispy.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

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

Step 3: Fill the Tortillas

To assemble:
1. Lay out each tortilla flat on a clean surface.
2. Spread a portion of the filling in the center of each tortilla.
3. Fold the bottom edge of the tortilla up over the filling.
4. Fold in both sides tightly and roll up to form a burrito shape. Avoid overfilling for easier wrapping.

Step 4: Bake the Chimichangas

1. Place the seam-side down on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Brush the tops generously with melted butter.
3. Bake in preheated oven for 15 minutes.
4. Carefully flip each chimichanga over and bake for an additional 10 minutes until golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once baked:
1. Let them cool slightly for about 5–10 minutes before serving.
2. Serve warm with toppings like sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or pico de gallo for extra flavor!

How to Serve Baked Chicken Chimichanga

Serving Baked Chicken Chimichangas can elevate your dining experience. These delicious treats can be complemented with various toppings and sides that enhance their flavor and presentation.

Toppings

• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds a creamy, tangy flavor that balances the spices in the chimichangas.
• Guacamole: Fresh guacamole provides a rich, buttery taste that pairs perfectly with the crunchy exterior.
• Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa adds a burst of freshness and color, enhancing the overall dish’s appeal.
• Shredded Lettuce: Crisp lettuce adds texture and a refreshing crunch to each bite.

Sides

• Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices is a classic side that complements the chimichangas nicely.
• Refried Beans: Serve extra refried beans on the side for additional protein and traditional flavor.
• Corn Salad: A zesty corn salad brings sweetness and crunch, offering a delightful contrast to the baked chimichangas.

How to Perfect Baked Chicken Chimichanga

To ensure your Baked Chicken Chimichangas turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Boldly Season Your Filling: Don’t shy away from spices! Proper seasoning enhances the flavors of chicken and beans.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables like green onions and jalapeños will provide better flavor than canned or pre-packaged options.
• Don’t Overfill Tortillas: Ensure you leave enough space when filling tortillas to avoid messy spills during baking.
• Brush Generously with Butter: A good coat of melted butter helps achieve that golden-brown, crispy finish on your chimichangas.
• Let Them Cool Slightly: Allowing them to cool for a few minutes before serving enhances their texture and makes them easier to handle.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Chicken Chimichanga

Pairing side dishes with your Baked Chicken Chimichangas can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Mexican Rice: A flavorful base made with tomatoes, onions, and spices; perfect for soaking up extra salsa.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy beans make a hearty addition, providing protein while complementing the chimichanga’s flavors.
3. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn with lime and chili powder offers a sweet crunch that contrasts nicely.
4. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served alongside fresh salsa make for an excellent appetizer or snack option.
5. Avocado Salad: A simple salad with avocado, tomatoes, and lime juice adds brightness and healthy fats to your plate.
6. Black Bean Salad: This protein-packed salad is filled with black beans, corn, red onion, and cilantro for a zesty side dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Baked Chicken Chimichangas, it’s easy to overlook some key details that can affect the final dish. Here are common mistakes to watch out for.

• Overfilling the tortillas: Filling them too much can lead to messy chimichangas that won’t roll properly. Use just enough filling to comfortably fold the tortillas.
• Skipping the butter: Brushing the tops with melted butter is crucial for achieving that golden, crispy texture. Don’t skip this step for best results.
• Not preheating the oven: Baking in a cold oven can result in uneven cooking and texture. Always preheat your oven to ensure even baking.
• Ignoring spice levels: If you’re unsure about how spicy you want your chimichangas, start with fewer jalapeños and add more to taste. Adjustment is key!
• Using cold fillings: Cold ingredients can lead to a less enjoyable texture. Make sure your chicken and beans are at room temperature before assembling.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Baked Chicken Chimichangas in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Baked Chicken Chimichanga

• Wrap each chimichanga individually in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Baked Chicken Chimichanga

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 1-2 minutes or until warm. Be aware this may make them less crispy.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, turning frequently until warmed throughout and slightly crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Baked Chicken Chimichanga?

A Baked Chicken Chimichanga is a delicious Mexican-inspired dish featuring tortillas filled with shredded chicken, beans, cheese, and spices, then baked until crispy.

Can I customize my Baked Chicken Chimichanga?

Absolutely! You can add different vegetables like bell peppers or corn, swap out the type of cheese, or adjust the spice level according to your preference.

How do I make my chimichangas extra crispy?

Brushing melted butter on top before baking helps achieve a golden-brown crunch. You can also bake them at a higher temperature briefly at the end for added crispiness.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! Feel free to use shredded beef, turkey, or even lamb if you prefer different flavors in your chimichangas.

Conclusion

Baked Chicken Chimichangas are not only delicious but also versatile enough to cater to various tastes. Customize them with your favorite ingredients or toppings for a perfect meal. Give this recipe a try; you’re sure to love it!

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