Delicious Chicken Chimichangas – Crispy, Flavor-Packed Tex-Mex Favorite
Chicken chimichangas are a Tex-Mex classic—crispy, golden-brown tortilla parcels stuffed with juicy chicken, flavorful seasonings, and melty cheese. They bring together the comfort of a burrito with the indulgence of deep-fried goodness, creating a meal that’s hearty, satisfying, and full of flavor. Perfect for weeknight dinners, parties, or when you’re craving a restaurant-style treat at home, these chimichangas are easier to make than you might think.
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Nutritional Information (per chimichanga)
Knowing what goes into your meal helps you enjoy it mindfully, and these delicious chicken chimichangas are no exception. Packed with protein-rich chicken, satisfying carbs from the tortilla, and a touch of indulgence from melted cheese and crisp frying, they offer a balanced mix of flavor and fuel. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the nutrition per serving so you can savor every bite with confidence.
- Calories: ~430 kcal
- Protein: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: ~780mg
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you get started, gather all your ingredients to make prep smooth and easy. You can keep the filling simple or add extra spices for a bolder kick.
For the Filling:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- 1 cup refried beans (optional, for creaminess)
- ½ cup salsa or pico de gallo
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Chimichangas:
- 6 large flour tortillas
- Oil, for frying (vegetable or canola works best)
For Serving (Optional):
- Sour cream
- Guacamole
- Salsa
- Fresh cilantro
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making chicken chimichangas is simple when you break it down into a few easy steps. Here’s how to get that perfect crispy exterior and flavorful filling every time.
Step 1 – Prepare the Filling
In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, cheese, refried beans (if using), salsa, cumin, chili powder, and seasoning. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
Step 2 – Assemble the Chimichangas
Lay a tortilla flat and spoon about ½ cup of the filling into the center. Fold in the sides, then roll tightly from the bottom up to form a secure wrap. Repeat with remaining tortillas.
Step 3 – Fry to Golden Perfection
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the chimichangas seam side down and cook until golden brown, about 2–3 minutes per side. Remove and drain on paper towels.
Step 4 – Serve and Enjoy
Serve warm with sour cream, guacamole, salsa, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a restaurant-worthy finish.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken chimichangas pair perfectly with fresh sides to balance their richness. Serve them with Mexican rice, black beans, or a crisp salad. For a lighter option, add a fresh fruit salad to the table for a refreshing contrast.
Storing & Reheating Tips
Chimichangas are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to bring back the crispiness—microwaving will make them soft, so avoid it if you want that crunch.
Kid-Friendly Adaptations
For younger eaters, make mini chimichangas using small tortillas and reduce the spices slightly for a milder flavor. You can also swap salsa for a mild tomato sauce and serve them with a side of melted cheese for dipping.
Chef’s Special Tips
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quick, flavorful filling.
- Add a splash of hot sauce or diced jalapeños for extra heat.
- Brush the tortillas lightly with oil before air frying for a healthier, crispy alternative to deep frying.
Final Thoughts
Chicken chimichangas are a crowd-pleasing comfort food that combine bold flavors with a satisfying crunch. Whether you fry or air fry them, these crispy parcels make any meal feel special. Give this recipe a try, and you might just find yourself making them on repeat.