Baked Chicken Chimichanga

Baked Chicken Chimichanga is an easier version of your favorite Mexican restaurant dish. These delicious chimichangas are packed with shredded chicken, refried beans, cheese, salsa, and spices. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe makes it simple to enjoy a flavorful meal at home. With a crispy exterior and a savory filling, Baked Chicken Chimichanga will become a go-to dish for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe simplifies the traditional chimichanga process, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• Flavorful Filling: The combination of shredded chicken, beans, and spices creates a mouthwatering taste that delights the senses.
• Versatile Dish: You can customize the filling based on your preferences, adding more veggies or adjusting spice levels to suit your family.
• Perfect for Leftovers: These chimichangas can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer for quick meals later.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for parties or gatherings, everyone will enjoy this comforting dish—perfect with a variety of toppings.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Baked Chicken Chimichanga, gather the necessary tools and equipment to streamline your cooking process. Having the right tools will ensure you can prepare this delicious meal efficiently.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet ensures even cooking and crisping of the chimichangas without sticking.
• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all the filling ingredients easily without spilling.
• Brush for butter: Using a brush helps evenly coat the chimichangas with melted butter for that perfect golden-brown finish.
• Knife and cutting board: Essential for chopping vegetables like green onions and jalapeños quickly and safely.

Ingredients

Baked Chicken Chimichanga is an easier version of your favorite Mexican restaurant dish. These are made with shredded chicken, refried beans, cheese, salsa, and spices.

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. This step is crucial as it ensures that the chimichangas bake evenly from start to finish.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

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

Step 3: Fill the Tortillas

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

Step 4: Bake Them Up

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 them over and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Let them cool slightly for about 5–10 minutes before serving:
Enjoy these delicious baked chicken chimichangas with toppings such as sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or pico de gallo.

How to Serve Baked Chicken Chimichanga

Baked Chicken Chimichangas are a delightful main course that can be enhanced with various toppings and sides. Here are some creative ways to serve them for an unforgettable meal.

Toppings

• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds a creamy tang that complements the spices.
• Guacamole: Fresh guacamole provides a rich, buttery flavor that pairs perfectly with the chimichangas.
• Salsa: Use your favorite salsa for an extra kick and vibrant color on your plate.
• Pico de Gallo: This fresh tomato salsa adds crunch and brightness, enhancing the overall flavor.

Side Dishes

• Mexican Rice: Fluffy Mexican rice seasoned with spices is a classic pairing that balances the richness of the chimichangas.
• Refried Beans: Serve extra refried beans alongside for those who want a hearty addition to their meal.
• Corn Salad: A refreshing corn salad adds sweetness and texture, making it a great side option.

Drinks

• Iced Tea: A glass of iced tea offers a refreshing counterpoint to the rich flavors of the dish.
• Lemonade: The citrusy zing of lemonade can cleanse the palate between bites.

How to Perfect Baked Chicken Chimichanga

To achieve the best results with your Baked Chicken Chimichanga, consider these useful tips.

• Boldly Season Your Filling: Don’t hesitate to adjust spices according to your taste. This enhances flavor depth and personalizes your dish.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh veggies and herbs boost flavor significantly, making your chimichangas more vibrant and delicious.
• Don’t Overfill Tortillas: Keep your filling moderate to prevent tearing. This ensures that they hold together well during baking.
• Brush Generously with Butter: A good coating of melted butter before baking creates a crispy, golden exterior that is irresistible.
• Bake Until Golden Brown: Keep an eye on them as they bake; slight adjustments in time ensure that they reach perfect crispness without burning.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Chicken Chimichanga

Pairing side dishes with Baked Chicken Chimichangas elevates the meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Spanish Rice: This flavorful rice dish is seasoned with tomatoes and spices, making it a perfect companion.
2. Black Beans: Simple yet nutritious, black beans add protein and fiber while complementing the main dish’s flavors.
3. Grilled Vegetables: A mix of grilled bell peppers, zucchini, and onions brings in color and nutrition.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements spicy dishes beautifully; grill or boil for easy preparation.
5. Chili Lime Slaw: Crunchy slaw tossed in a zesty chili lime dressing adds freshness and crunch.
6. Avocado Salad: Creamy avocado slices dressed lightly enhance flavors while providing healthy fats.
7. Cheesy Queso Dip: This indulgent dip is great for dipping or drizzling over chimichangas for added decadence.
8. Fried Plantains: Sweet fried plantains offer a delightful contrast to savory dishes like chimichangas.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Baked Chicken Chimichanga can be fun, but avoiding common mistakes will ensure they turn out perfectly.

• Boldly Overfilling – Avoid overstuffing your tortillas. It can cause them to burst while baking. Keep the filling in the center and leave enough space to roll securely.
• Skipping the Butter – Neglecting to brush melted butter on top leads to a less crispy texture. Always brush the tops generously before baking for that golden finish.
• Ignoring Cooking Time – Do not skip or rush cooking times. Each chimichanga needs adequate time to bake until golden brown; otherwise, they may end up soggy.
• Not Preheating the Oven – Ensure your oven is preheated before baking. If you place chimichangas in a cold oven, they won’t cook evenly.
• Choosing the Wrong Tortillas – Using small tortillas can make rolling difficult. Opt for large taco-sized tortillas for easy handling and better results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Baked Chicken Chimichanga

• Wrap each chimichanga tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap.
• 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 bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop – Heat on a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Baked Chicken Chimichanga that might help you with your recipe.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! Ground turkey or beef also works well in this recipe. Just ensure it’s cooked before mixing it with other ingredients.

How do I make my chimichangas spicier?

To add more spice, consider using hotter jalapeños or adding cayenne pepper to the filling mix.

Can I make these Baked Chicken Chimichangas ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them and store them in the fridge before baking. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve.

How do I customize my Baked Chicken Chimichanga?

Feel free to add veggies like bell peppers or zucchini into your filling mixture for added nutrition and flavor!

What toppings go well with Baked Chicken Chimichanga?

Popular toppings include sour cream, guacamole, diced tomatoes, or fresh cilantro. Customize based on your taste preference!

Final Thoughts

Baked Chicken Chimichangas are an easy and delightful dish that brings a taste of Mexico right into your kitchen. They are versatile and perfect for customization with various toppings and fillings. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe and make it your own!