Chicken Chimichangas Recipe

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Easy, Crispy, and Savory Chicken Chimichangas – You’ll enjoy having these chicken chimichangas at your next family gathering, game day or party!

This chicken chimichangas recipe is a delicious and satisfying deep fried tortilla filled with well-seasoned shredded chicken and savory fillings. The outside is crispy and golden while the inside is warm and gooey.

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Why you’ll love these Chicken Chimichangas?

They’re packed with flavor: Seasoned chicken, cheese and veggies wrapped in a crispy tortilla and dipped in different satisfying sauces. All these elements make this dish incredibly delicious and indulgent.
They’re versatile: It’s a very flexible recipe; you can change the main protein, the veggies, cheese or even the cooking method.
They’re comforting: The crispy exterior, the rich and goeey filling make this recipe warm, hearty, and comforting. You can either enjoy these chicken chimichangas on your own or share them with friends or family as the ultimate comforting and fun Mexican food.

What ingredients do I need for this Chicken Chimichangas recipe?

1 to 2 cups vegetable oil (divided)
½ cup white onion (diced)
2 teaspoons minced garlic
½ tablespoon chili powder
¼ teaspoon oregano
½ teaspoon ground cumin
4 cups cooked shredded chicken
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon pepper
1 can diced green chilies
8 warmed flour tortillas (burrito size)
2 cups Monterey Jack cheese (shredded)
Lettuce, salsa, guacamole or sour cream (optional toppings)

How to make this Recipe?

This Chicken Chimichangas recipe presents two cooking techniques; frying or baking (choose to taste). If you prefer the frying version, then prep a large cast iron by filling it up with 2 inches of oil. Let the oil heat over low heat to reach 375 degrees Fahrenheit. If you prefer the oven version, then preheat it to 375 degrees F and prep a baking sheet by using nonstick spray.
Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium high heat to cook the diced onion until slightly softened. Blend in the minced garlic, cumin, oregano, chili powder. Combine and cook for about a minute until fragrant.

Add the shredded chicken with salt and pepper, then add in the green chilies while continuing to stir and cook for about 5 minutes. Place aside.

Heat the tortillas for a few second in the microwave. Divide half of the mixture in the center of each tortilla, then top with 3 tablespoons of shredded cheese.

Fold the sides over the filling, then fold the bottom up and roll into a wrap. Do the same with the other tortillas, then place the chimichangas a large plate.

For the frying method: Carefully lower one folded tortilla at a time into the hot oil and fry on both sides for about 1 to 2 minutes until golden brown. Gently transfer to a plate lined with paper towel to absorb the oil.
For the baking method: Line the Chicken chimichangas in a slightly oiled baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops with non stick spray, then bake for about 20 to 30 minutes.
Transfer to a serving plate and garnish with one or more of the suggested toppings. Enjoy!

Helpful Tips and Variations:

Which tortilla should I use? It’s best to use large tortillas; you want to have enough space for the filling and I prefer to use flour tortillas as they tend to be crispy when fried. If you want something a bit healthier, use whole wheat tortillas.
Can I use a different filling? You don’t have to stick to basic shredded chicken, you can use spicy chicken or BBQ chicken. Add black beans, corn, rice, jalapenos, avocado sliced, red onion or mushrooms.
How can I replace the chicken based filling? You can use beef either ground or shredded. You can also use turkey, pork or shrimp. You can also use different vegetables for a vegetarian chimichangas.
What sauces work with this Chicken Chimichangas recipe? The classic option would be sour cream but you can use different other sauces or creams as a topping or mixed with the filling. You can use salsa, guacamole, chipotle sauce, bomb avocado sauce or a spicy sauce.
How can I store any leftovers? You can wrap each one with foil or foil to keep them crispy or simply place them in an airtight container and put in the fridge (up to 4 days).

How can I serve this Chicken Chimichangas recipe?

There are many sauces that can be paired with this delightful and savory recipe. Pair the chicken chimichangas with guacamole, salsa, cheese sauce, spicy sauce or sour cream. You can serve as a main dish or appetizer; pair with iced tea, soda or margaritas at a family gathering or friends’ get-together. You can serve a variety of Mexican dishes as a side dish to complement this hearty and flavorful recipe; Mexican rice, fried beans, corn or a simple salad.

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