Easy Baked Chicken Chimichangas

Easy Baked Chicken Chimichangas

Nothing quite says comfort like a warm, crispy chimichanga stuffed with tender, seasoned chicken and vibrant flavors. As the aroma fills your kitchen and golden-brown bundles come out of the oven, you’re immediately transported back to family gatherings where laughter and good food flowed freely. This Easy Baked Chicken Chimichangas recipe embodies those cozy memories, making it the perfect option for an easy weeknight dinner or a delightful weekend treat.

The best part? This dish is as customizable as it is comforting. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just making a simple meal for yourself, these chimichangas will warm your heart and fill your belly. Trust me, this is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Whip these up in under an hour for a satisfying meal without the fuss.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of shredded chicken, refried beans, and zesty salsa makes every bite a flavor explosion.
• Versatile and Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or switch up the fillings to suit your taste!
• Perfectly Crispy: Baking instead of frying gives you that delightful crunch without the extra calories.
• Family-Friendly: A sure hit with both kids and adults, making mealtime a joy for everyone at the table.

What You’ll Need

Gather these simple ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (see notes)
• 1 1/3 cup refried beans
• 1 1/3 cup salsa (your favorite kind)
• 2 teaspoons coriander (optional)
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese
• 6 sliced green onions
• 2-3 jalapeños (diced with seeds; remove seeds for no spice)
• 3 tablespoons butter (melted)
• 6-8 taco-sized flour tortillas (8-inches)

Let’s Make It Together

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, refried beans, salsa, coriander (if using), chili powder, shredded Mexican cheese, sliced green onions, and diced jalapeños. The vibrant colors and tempting aroma will make your mouth water!
3. Take a tortilla and place a generous scoop of the filling mixture in the center. Fold the bottom edge of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll tightly into a burrito shape. Remember, it’s better to avoid overfilling as tortilla sizes can vary; you might end up with 6 to 8 chimichangas.
4. Place the chimichangas seam-side down on a large baking sheet. Brush the tops liberally with melted butter for that golden color.
5. Bake for 15 minutes, then carefully flip each chimichanga and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until they are beautiful golden brown and crispy.
6. Let the chimichangas cool slightly for about 5-10 minutes before diving in. Serve them up with your favorite toppings like sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or pico de gallo for that extra touch of deliciousness!

Delicious Variations to Try

• Spicy Kick: Add diced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to the filling for a smoky heat that elevates the flavor.
• Veggie Delight: Swap out chicken for sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms for a delightful vegetarian option.
• Creamy Filling: Mix cream cheese into your filling for an indulgently creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the beans and chicken.
• Different Cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack for a little extra spice or a sharp cheddar for a richer flavor.

Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips

• Make Ahead: Prep the filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days before assembly. When you’re ready to feast, just fill the tortillas and bake!
• Ingredient Swaps: If you don’t have shredded chicken on hand, rotisserie chicken works beautifully, or try beef for a heartier twist.
• Slicing Tips: For easy rolling, warm the tortillas in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds. This makes them more pliable and easier to work with.
• Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover chimichangas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for that fresh-out-of-the-oven crunch!

Nutrition Information per Serving

• Serving Size: 1 chimichanga
• Calories: 350
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Sugars: 3g
• Fat: 15g
• Protein: 20g
• Sodium: 600mg

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I make this ahead? Absolutely! You can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the fridge. When ready, just assemble and bake.
• Can I use different ingredients? Yes! Feel free to customize the filling to your liking with proteins or vegetables you prefer.
• How do I store leftovers? Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They can be reheated in the oven for best results.
• How long does it last? These chimichangas are great for up to 3 days in the fridge, so enjoy at your leisure!

Wrapping It Up

This Easy Baked Chicken Chimichangas recipe is much more than just a meal; it’s a cozy celebration of flavors and memories that brings warmth to every gathering. Each bite encapsulates the love and joy of cooking, making it a comforting staple you’ll find yourself reaching for time and again.

Save this Easy Baked Chicken Chimichangas to your dinner ideas board so it’s ready when you need a cozy treat!