If you’re looking for a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion, then chicken chimichangas are the answer. This recipe brings together tender shredded chicken wrapped in a crispy tortilla shell and fried to perfection. Not only are these chimichangas deliciously crunchy on the outside, but they are also packed with savory flavors on the inside. Whether you’re serving them for a family dinner or at a gathering with friends, these chicken chimichangas will impress everyone at the table. In just under an hour, you can create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen. Plus, you can customize the fillings to suit your taste—add some beans or cheese if you like! Pair them with your favorite salsa or guacamole for an extra kick. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making chicken chimichangas and how simple it is to whip up this delightful dish.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Chimichangas
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
- Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners
Ingredients for Chicken Chimichangas
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding
- Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor
- Tortillas: Flour tortillas work best as they are flexible enough to wrap around the filling without tearing
- Shredded Cheese: Use a blend of Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese for a rich taste that melts beautifully
- Cooking Oil: Canola or vegetable oil is ideal for frying to achieve that crispy texture
For the Sauce:
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess that complements the crunchy chimichanga perfectly
- Salsa: Fresh salsa adds acidity and freshness; choose mild or spicy based on your preference
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Chicken Chimichangas
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by boiling approximately four boneless skinless chicken breasts in salted water until fully cooked, about 15-20 minutes. Once cooked through, shred the chicken using two forks.
Step 2: Prepare Flavoring
In a skillet over medium heat, add a tablespoon of oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Mix in shredded chicken along with spices such as cumin and chili powder.
Step 3: Assemble Chimichangas
Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface. Place a portion of the chicken mixture in the center along with shredded cheese. Fold in the sides of the tortilla and roll it tightly from bottom to top.
Step 4: Fry Chimichangas
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot enough (about 350°F), carefully place each wrapped chimichanga seam-side down into the skillet. Fry until golden brown on all sides.
Step 5: Drain Excess Oil
Remove cooked chimichangas from oil and place them on paper towels to absorb excess oil before serving.
Step 6: Serve Immediately
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
- Temperature Control: Let ingredients reach room temperature before starting for better results
- Crispy Finish: Ensure oil is hot enough before frying to achieve that perfect crunchiness
- Make Ahead Option: Prepare your chimichangas ahead of time; freeze un-fried ones and cook when ready
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with toppings like guacamole or jalapeños for added zest
How to Serve Chicken Chimichangas
This Chicken Chimichangas is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
- Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken filling in advance. Cook and shred the chicken, then mix it with spices and cheese. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days before assembling the chimichangas.
- Storing: Leftover Chicken Chimichangas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, you can freeze them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to three months.
- Reheating: To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chimichangas on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes if refrigerated, or 30-35 minutes if frozen, until heated through and crispy.
Suggestions for Chicken Chimichangas
Common Mistake: Not Choosing the Right Tortillas
Selecting the wrong type of tortilla can ruin your chicken chimichangas. Flour tortillas are the best choice as they are pliable and can hold all the delicious fillings without breaking. Corn tortillas tend to crack easily, especially when fried. Ensure you choose fresh tortillas to enhance the overall texture and flavor of your chimichangas. Also, consider warming the tortillas slightly before filling them; this helps make them more flexible and easier to roll. By using the right tortillas, you ensure that your chicken chimichangas turn out crispy on the outside while remaining soft and flavorful on the inside.
Common Mistake: Overfilling Your Chimichangas
One common mistake people make is overfilling their chicken chimichangas. While it may seem tempting to load them up with extra ingredients, doing so can lead to a mess and soggy chimichangas. Aim for a balanced filling that allows for easy rolling and sealing. A good rule of thumb is to use about two to three tablespoons of filling per tortilla. This way, you maintain a perfect ratio between the tortilla and the filling, ensuring each bite is delicious without spilling out during frying or baking.
Common Mistake: Skipping Seasoning in Filling
Failing to season your chicken filling properly can lead to bland chimichangas. Always remember that seasoning is key! Use spices like cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and salt to elevate the flavor of your chicken mixture. Additionally, incorporating ingredients like onions, cilantro, or jalapeños can bring freshness and depth to your dish. Taste your filling before assembling; it should be flavorful enough to shine through even after frying or baking. Proper seasoning ensures each bite bursts with flavor.
Common Mistake: Frying at Incorrect Temperatures
Frying your chicken chimichangas at incorrect temperatures can lead to uneven cooking. If the oil is too hot, they might burn before cooking through; if it’s too cold, they will absorb too much oil and become greasy. Aim for a temperature between 350°F and 375°F (175°C – 190°C). Use a thermometer for precision or test with a small piece of tortilla—if it sizzles right away, your oil is ready! Proper frying temperatures result in crispier exteriors while keeping the chicken perfectly cooked inside.
FAQs
What are chicken chimichangas made of?
Chicken chimichangas consist mainly of flour tortillas filled with seasoned shredded chicken and other ingredients such as cheese, beans, or vegetables. After rolling them up tightly, they are typically either fried or baked until golden brown and crispy. The filling often includes spices like cumin and chili powder for added flavor. You can also customize your chimichanga by adding toppings such as salsa, guacamole, or sour cream once cooked.
How do I store leftover chicken chimichangas?
To store leftover chicken chimichangas properly, allow them to cool completely first. Then wrap each chimichanga individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place them in an airtight container or sealable plastic bag before refrigerating. Leftover chimichangas can last for about 3-4 days in the fridge. For longer storage, freeze them in an airtight container; they will keep well for up to three months in the freezer.
Can I make chicken chimichangas ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare chicken chimichangas ahead of time by assembling them but not cooking yet. After filling and rolling each chimichanga tightly, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until firm. Once frozen solid, transfer them into an airtight container or freezer bag for later use. When you’re ready to cook them, simply fry or bake directly from frozen; just be mindful that cooking times may increase slightly.
What dipping sauces go well with chicken chimichangas?
Chicken chimichangas pair excellently with various dipping sauces that complement their flavors well. Fresh salsa adds a zesty touch while creamy guacamole provides richness and texture contrast. You could also serve them with sour cream or a spicy ranch dressing for an extra kick! Additionally, consider trying enchilada sauce poured over your chimichangas for added moisture and flavor enhancement.
Conclusion
Chicken chimichangas offer a delightful combination of textures and flavors that everyone enjoys. To achieve perfect results every time, remember essential tips like choosing the right tortillas and avoiding overfilling each one. Seasoning your filling adequately ensures each bite is packed with deliciousness while proper frying temperatures guarantee crispy exteriors without greasy outcomes. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different fillings and sauces according to your taste preferences! Enjoy crafting this tasty dish at home—your family will undoubtedly love it!
Easy Chicken Chimichangas Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
Chicken chimichangas are a deliciously satisfying Mexican dish that perfectly blends crispy tortillas with tender, seasoned chicken filling. This easy recipe allows you to create restaurant-quality chimichangas at home in under an hour, making it ideal for family dinners or gatherings. Each bite offers a delightful crunch paired with savory flavors, and you can easily customize the fillings to suit your taste preferences by adding beans, cheese, or spices. Serve these golden-brown beauties with fresh salsa or creamy guacamole for an added kick that will impress your guests. Ready to dive into this mouthwatering meal? Let’s get started!
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cloves fresh garlic
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Cooking oil (canola or vegetable) for frying
- Sour cream and salsa for serving
Instructions
- Boil the chicken breasts in salted water for 15-20 minutes until fully cooked. Shred the chicken.
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté minced garlic in oil until fragrant, then mix in shredded chicken and spices (cumin, chili powder).
- Lay a tortilla flat, fill it with the chicken mixture and cheese, fold sides over, and roll tightly from bottom to top.
- Heat oil in a large skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry chimichangas seam-side down until golden brown on all sides.
- Drain on paper towels before serving with sour cream and salsa.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 21g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
