Baked Chicken Chimichanga

Baked Chicken Chimichanga is a delightful twist on a classic Mexican dish that offers all the flavors you love without the hassle. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, making it a versatile choice for any occasion. With its crispy exterior and savory filling of shredded chicken, refried beans, and melted cheese, every bite promises to be satisfying and delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: This baked version saves time and effort compared to frying, allowing you to enjoy your meal with less mess.
• Flavor-Packed Filling: The combination of spices, salsa, and tender chicken creates a rich flavor that will impress everyone at the table.
• Customizable Ingredients: Adjust the heat by adding more or fewer jalapeños or switch up the cheese for your preferred taste.
• Great for Meal Prep: Baked Chicken Chimichangas can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer for easy meals throughout the week.
• Family-Friendly Dish: Kids love these tasty chimichangas, making them an excellent choice for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Brush for butter
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Essential for evenly cooking your chimichangas to achieve that perfect golden brown finish.
• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to combine all your ingredients easily without spilling or making a mess.

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Ingredients

Here are all the ingredients you’ll need to create delicious Baked Chicken Chimichangas:

• 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 step ensures your chimichangas bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine the shredded chicken, refried beans, salsa, coriander, chili powder, cheese, green onions, and jalapeños.
2. Stir until well mixed.

Step 3: Fill the Tortillas

For each tortilla:
1. Spread a generous amount of filling in the center.
2. Fold the bottom edge up over the filling.
3. Fold in both sides.
4. Roll tightly to form a burrito shape. Be careful not to overfill!

Step 4: Bake the Chimichangas

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

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Let your chimichangas cool slightly for about 5–10 minutes before serving. They pair beautifully with toppings like sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or pico de gallo.

Enjoy these flavorful Baked Chicken Chimichangas as part of your next meal!

How to Serve Baked Chicken Chimichanga

Baked Chicken Chimichanga is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, these chimichangas are versatile and easy to serve.

With Toppings

• Sour Cream: A classic accompaniment that adds creaminess and balances the spices.
• Guacamole: Fresh and flavorful, guacamole enhances the dish with its rich texture.
• Salsa: Choose your favorite salsa for an extra kick of flavor and freshness.
• Pico de Gallo: This fresh mix of tomatoes, onions, and cilantro adds brightness to each bite.

On a Bed of Greens

• Lettuce Wraps: Serve your chimichangas on a bed of crisp lettuce for a lighter option.
• Mixed Greens Salad: A simple side salad can complement the richness of the chimichangas.

With Rice and Beans

• Spanish Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices pairs perfectly with the flavors of the chimichanga.
• Refried Beans: A side of refried beans enhances the meal and offers additional protein.

How to Perfect Baked Chicken Chimichanga

Creating the perfect Baked Chicken Chimichanga is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

• Bold Seasoning: Use fresh herbs and spices to enhance the flavor profile; don’t shy away from adding more chili powder or coriander.
• Even Filling Distribution: Spread the filling evenly across each tortilla to avoid overstuffing and ensure even cooking.
• Proper Rolling Technique: Roll tightly but not excessively; this helps keep the filling inside during baking.
• Crispy Finish: Brush both sides of your chimichangas with butter for an irresistible golden crust.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Chicken Chimichanga

Pairing your Baked Chicken Chimichanga with the right sides can turn your meal into a feast. Here are some great options:

1. Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Grilled corn on the cob topped with mayo, cheese, chili powder, and lime juice makes for a delicious side.
2. Black Bean Salad: A refreshing salad made of black beans, corn, diced bell peppers, and lime dressing complements the chimichangas perfectly.
3. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice with fresh cilantro and lime adds zest to your plate.
4. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with salsa offer a great starter or snack alongside your main dish.
5. Avocado Salad: Lightly dressed avocado slices add creaminess and balance out spicy flavors in the chimichangas.
6. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide color and nutrition to your meal while complementing the rich flavors of the chimichangas.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Baked Chicken Chimichangas, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to watch for.

• Overfilling the tortillas: If you add too much filling, the tortillas may tear or not roll properly. Aim for a moderate amount of filling in the center.
• Skipping the melting butter: Brushing the tops with melted butter is key for achieving a crispy texture. Don’t skip this step!
• Not preheating the oven: Baking in a preheated oven ensures even cooking and browning. Always preheat before placing your chimichangas inside.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold ingredients can affect cooking time and texture. Allow your chicken and beans to reach room temperature before mixing.
• Ignoring spice adjustments: Everyone has different spice tolerances. Adjust jalapeño amounts according to your preference for heat.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

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 tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
• They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Baked Chicken Chimichanga

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Baked Chicken Chimichangas.

What can I customize in my Baked Chicken Chimichanga?

You can customize your chimichangas by adding different vegetables, such as bell peppers or corn, and using various types of cheese.

Can I make these chimichangas ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the filling and fill the tortillas ahead of time, then bake them just before serving.

How do I make a vegetarian version of Baked Chicken Chimichanga?

Substitute shredded chicken with cooked lentils or sautéed mushrooms and add more vegetables into the filling for flavor.

Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?

Yes, you can use corn tortillas; however, they might be more fragile and harder to roll without breaking.

Final Thoughts

Baked Chicken Chimichangas are not only delicious but also versatile. You can adjust ingredients based on personal preferences or dietary needs, making them perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try and enjoy customizing it to suit your tastes!