I have to tell you, these chicken chimichangas are a family favorite in my house. The crispy, golden tortilla shell filled with seasoned chicken, beans, and gooey cheese is absolute perfection! I made these recently, and it’s safe to say they didn’t last long.

Topped with salsa, sour cream, and guacamole, they are fun to make and even better to eat. If you’ve been looking for a comforting, flavorful Mexican-inspired dish, this is it!

Credit: tasteandtellblog

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you need to make the most delicious chicken chimichangas, along with a few tips to elevate the flavors:

2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or chopped): Use rotisserie chicken for convenience or roast your own for added flavor.
1 can refried beans (about 15 oz): These add creaminess. Homemade refried beans work wonders if you have the time.
1/2 cup salsa (your favorite kind): A chunky salsa adds texture, while a smooth one blends effortlessly.
1 teaspoon cumin: A classic spice for warmth and earthy flavor.
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (crushed): Enhances savory depth in the filling.
1 teaspoon chili powder: Adjust to taste for a mild heat kick.
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend): Always grate your cheese fresh. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that limit melting.
2 green onions (chopped): Add a pop of brightness and crunch.
3 tablespoons vegetable or canola oil (for frying or brushing): Keeps the tortillas golden and crispy.
6 large flour tortillas: Ensure they’re soft and pliable for easy folding.

For toppings (optional): Salsa, sour cream, and guacamole for serving.

Note: This recipe makes 6 servings. Feel free to double the ingredients for a bigger crowd.

Variations

The best part about chimichangas? You can customize them endlessly! Here are some ideas:

Meat Alternatives: Swap chicken for cooked ground beef, turkey, or even steak.
Vegetarian: Omit the chicken and mix in rice, sautéed bell peppers, corn, or black beans.
Cheese-Free: Simply skip the cheese, or use a dairy-free alternative.
Spice It Up: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the filling for extra heat.

For more Mexican-inspired dishes, you can also check out this chicken riggies recipe for a unique twist.

Cooking Time

Making chicken chimichangas doesn’t take long. Here’s the breakdown:

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Equipment You Need

You won’t need anything fancy, but having these handy will make the process smoother:

Mixing Bowl: To combine the filling ingredients.
Skillet: For cooking the chicken (if not already cooked) or pan-frying the chimichangas.
Baking Sheet: For baked chimichangas.
Tongs: Makes flipping the chimichangas while frying much easier.
Brush: To lightly oil tortillas before baking.

How to Make Chicken Chimichangas?

Making these chimichangas is simple, and each step adds flavor to the process. Here’s how to create this mouthwatering dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Start by shredding or chopping your cooked chicken. Add it to a large mixing bowl along with the refried beans, salsa, shredded cheese, green onions, and spices (cumin, oregano, chili powder). Stir well until everything is combined and the mixture feels spreadable. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Step 2: Fill the Tortillas

Lay a tortilla on a flat surface. Spoon about 1/2 cup of the chicken mixture into the center. Fold the sides toward the filling, then roll the tortilla tightly like a burrito, ensuring the seam is at the bottom. Repeat this for all tortillas.

Step 3: Cook the Chimichangas

For a healthier alternative, preheat your oven to 400°F. Place the rolled chimichangas on a baking sheet and brush them lightly with oil. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden and crispy. If pan-frying, heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Place the chimichangas seam-side down, cooking and turning them every 30 seconds until they are golden on all sides.

Step 4: Serve

Transfer the crispy chimichangas onto a plate and top them with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole. Serve warm and enjoy the crunch in every bite!

Credit: favfamilyrecipes

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

These tips have worked wonders for me and can take your chimichangas to the next level:

Use freshly warmed tortillas to prevent cracking during rolling.
Mix in some chopped fresh cilantro with the filling for a vibrant flavor boost.
If you’re baking them, finish with a few minutes under the broiler for an extra crispy coating.
For a restaurant-style look, drizzle queso fresco or melted cheese on top before serving.
If pan-frying, avoid overcrowding the skillet to ensure even crisping.

How to Serve Chicken Chimichangas?

Presentation matters! Here’s how to serve your chimichangas like a pro:

Plate them with a side of Spanish or Mexican rice for a complete meal.
Add colorful toppings like diced tomatoes, chopped lettuce, or sliced jalapeños for visual appeal.
Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro and a lime wedge for that final zing.

For a twist, you might also enjoy this chicken pakora recipe, which is another flavorful dish to try.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional breakdown per serving:

Calories: 263
Protein: 17g
Carbohydrates: 7g
Fat: 17g

Make Ahead and Storage

Not only are these chimichangas delicious, but they also store beautifully. Here’s what you need to know:

Storing: Wrap leftovers in foil or an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Chimichangas can be frozen before or after cooking. Individually wrap them in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Use an oven or air fryer to reheat, which helps restore the crispy texture. Avoid microwaving, as it makes them soggy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

These reasons might just convince you to make these chicken chimichangas on repeat:

Quick to Make: From start to finish, you’ll have a satisfying meal in just 30 minutes.
Versatile: The filling and cooking methods can be easily adapted to your preferences.
Crispy Perfection: Whether baked or pan-fried, the crunchy tortilla shell is to die for.
Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleaser that both adults and kids will love.
Budget-Friendly: Made with simple, affordable ingredients you probably already have.

Chicken chimichangas are the kind of meal that feels like a celebration. Easy to make yet incredibly satisfying, they’re a dish you’ll want to share with friends and family. Whether you make them for a quick dinner or a comforting weekend meal, one thing’s for sure—they’ll be devoured in no time. You can also enjoy similar chicken recipes for more inspiration.

Ash Tyrrell