Baked Chicken Chimichangas

If you’re craving something crispy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor, then you must try these delightful Baked Chicken Chimichangas. This recipe combines tender shredded chicken with gooey cheese and warm, toasted tortillas, all baked to golden perfection. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat, these chimichangas offer a healthier twist by baking instead of frying, making them irresistibly delicious without the extra oil. Whether you’re hosting friends or just feeding your family, these baked delights are sure to become a new favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to Prepare: Using basic ingredients and minimal steps, you can have a batch ready fast.
• Healthier Comfort Food: Baking instead of frying reduces fat while keeping that golden crunch.
• Customizable Flavors: Easy to adapt with your favorite spices, veggies, or cheese.
• Kid-Friendly Fun: Kids love the cheesy, crispy texture and finger-food style.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make ahead and reheat for a quick satisfying meal anytime.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather these essentials for the perfect balance of flavor and texture in your Baked Chicken Chimichangas. Each ingredient plays a role in creating that go-to, crowd-pleasing dish.

• Shredded Chicken: Use cooked chicken breast or rotisserie chicken for convenience and tenderness.
• Flour Tortillas: Medium or large size, sturdy enough to hold filling without breaking.
• Shredded Cheese: Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend adds creamy, melty goodness.
• Black Beans: Adds protein and fiber, plus a nice texture contrast.
• Green Chilies or Jalapeños: Provides a mild spicy kick to brighten the flavors.
• Onion and Garlic: Essential aromatics for that classic savory base.
• Spices: Cumin, chili powder, paprika, and salt to season the filling perfectly.
• Cooking Spray or Olive Oil: Helps crisp the outside of the tortillas when baked.
• Sour Cream and Salsa: Optional toppings to serve alongside for extra flavor.

Variations for Baked Chicken Chimichangas

Feel free to personalize your chimney delights! This recipe is super flexible, letting you swap or add ingredients based on what you have or your diet preferences.

• Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or even roasted sweet potatoes.
• Spicy Kick: Add hot sauce or extra jalapeños to the filling for those who love heat.
• Cheese Choices: Try queso fresco, pepper jack, or even a smoky smoked gouda for different profiles.
• Low-Carb Option: Use low-carb tortillas or large lettuce wraps for a lighter twist.
• Protein Boost: Add cooked quinoa or corn to the mix for added texture and nutrients.

How to Make Baked Chicken Chimichangas

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Start by sautéing finely chopped onions and garlic in a little olive oil until softened and fragrant. Stir in shredded chicken, black beans, chopped green chilies, and all the spices. Cook for a few minutes until everything is well combined and heated through. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Assemble the Chimichangas

Lay out your flour tortillas flat on a clean surface. Spoon a generous amount of the chicken mixture onto each, sprinkle with shredded cheese, then fold the sides in and roll tightly to enclose all the filling. Make sure they’re snug so they don’t unravel during baking.

Step 3: Prepare for Baking

Place the rolled chimichangas seam side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray or brush the outside with cooking spray or olive oil – this step helps get that desired golden crispy exterior.

Step 4: Bake Until Crisp

Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through. The chimichangas should look golden brown and crisp when done. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

Pro Tips for Making Baked Chicken Chimichangas

• Don’t Overfill: Keep filling amounts moderate to prevent tearing or leaking during baking.
• Even Cooking: Rotate the baking sheet halfway for uniform crispiness.
• Use Firm Tortillas: Fresh, soft tortillas tend to fold better and crisp nicely.
• Cool Filling First: Avoid soggy tortillas by letting the filling cool before wrapping.
• Double Cheese Layer: For extra melty magic, sprinkle cheese both inside and on top before baking.

How to Serve Baked Chicken Chimichangas

Garnishes

Top your baked chicken chimichangas with fresh chopped cilantro, a dollop of creamy sour cream, or a drizzle of tangy salsa verde for bright, fresh accents that take each bite up a notch.

Side Dishes

Complement them with Mexican rice, zesty guacamole, or a light cabbage slaw to balance the richness and add variety on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice chimichangas in half diagonally and fan them out on a plate for an inviting presentation, or serve mini versions as appetizers at parties with colorful dipping sauces.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover baked chicken chimichangas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They retain their flavor and texture well when properly stored.

Freezing

Wrap each chimichanga tightly in foil or plastic wrap before placing in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. This makes a perfect ready-to-bake snack anytime.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in an oven or toaster oven at 350°F until heated through and crisp again, usually about 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep the crispness intact.

FAQs

Can I use shredded turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Shredded turkey works wonderfully in this recipe and offers a nice alternative for leftover poultry.

Do I have to bake them or can I fry the chimichangas?

You can fry chimichangas for a traditional crispy texture, but baking is healthier and easier to manage with less mess and oil.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, swap regular flour tortillas for gluten-free tortillas to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.

How spicy are these chimichangas?

The base recipe is moderately seasoned; adjust chilies and spices up or down according to your heat preference.

What other fillings can I try besides chicken?

Ground beef, pork carnitas, beans and veggies, or even seafood like shrimp can be great filling swaps to keep things exciting.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for an easy-to-make, flavorful dish to brighten up your dinner plans, these Baked Chicken Chimichangas are a game changer. Crispy on the outside, cheesy and hearty inside, and full of comforting spices, they’re an absolute joy to eat and simple to prepare. So go ahead, roll up your sleeves and whip up a batch tonight—your taste buds will thank you!

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