Baked Chicken Chimichangas are the ultimate comfort food that combines crispy, golden tortillas with tender, flavorful chicken and a medley of spices. Picture the aroma wafting through your kitchen as you prepare this delightful dish, making your taste buds dance with anticipation.
Whenever I think about Baked Chicken Chimichangas, I’m instantly transported to family gatherings where laughter filled the air, and everyone gathered around the table to dig into these delicious pockets of joy. There’s something magical about biting into that crunchy exterior to reveal a warm, savory filling that brings everyone together.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Baked Chicken Chimichangas recipe is not only simple to prepare but also packed with flavor that will impress your guests
- The vibrant colors and enticing aromas make it visually appealing on any dinner table
- With endless filling options, it’s easily customizable based on your taste preferences
- Perfect for weeknight dinners or festive celebrations alike!
Ingredients for Baked Chicken Chimichangas
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts work well; adjust based on how many hungry mouths you’re feeding.
Olive Oil: A couple of tablespoons for sautéing; extra virgin adds a lovely flavor.
Onion: One medium onion, chopped; it adds sweetness as it cooks down.
Garlic: Use three cloves of minced garlic to unleash aromatic goodness.
Taco Seasoning: Store-bought or homemade; either packs a punch of flavor.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds brightness; feel free to skip if you’re not a fan.
Tortillas: Flour tortillas are best for rolling; choose larger ones to hold all that goodness.
Shredded Cheese: Cheddar or Monterey Jack melts beautifully inside these chimichangas.
For the Sauce:
Sour Cream: A dollop on top provides creaminess; Greek yogurt is a solid substitute.
Salsa: Choose your favorite store-bought salsa or whip up a fresh batch for dipping!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Baked Chicken Chimichangas
Start with Cooking the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and let it shimmer. Toss in the chopped onion and sauté until they become translucent and fragrant. Add minced garlic and cook until it turns golden, releasing its irresistible aroma.
Next up is Seasoning: Add the boneless chicken breasts to the skillet, sprinkle generously with taco seasoning, and stir everything together. Pour in enough water to cover the chicken halfway and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook until chicken is tender—around twenty minutes should do it!
Now Shred That Chicken: Once cooked through, remove the chicken from the skillet and allow it to cool slightly. Using two forks (or sheer brute strength), shred that chicken into bite-sized pieces—don’t forget about those glorious juices left behind!
Mix in Flavor: Return shredded chicken back into the skillet along with chopped cilantro for freshness. Stir everything together until well-combined and heated through—your kitchen will smell divine by this point.
Prepare Your Tortillas: Preheat your oven to a cozy temperature of three hundred seventy-five degrees Fahrenheit. Take each tortilla and fill it generously with your scrumptious chicken mixture and sprinkle some shredded cheese on top.
Roll It Up: Carefully fold in the sides of each tortilla before rolling tightly from one end to another like wrapping a precious gift. Place seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake Until Golden: Pop those chimichangas in the preheated oven for about twenty minutes or until they turn golden brown. Keep an eye on them—they’ll start looking irresistible!
Serve Hot: Once baked, remove them carefully from the oven and let cool for a minute before serving. Pair these beauties with sour cream and salsa for dipping; trust me—it’s worth every calorie!
Enjoy every bite of your Baked Chicken Chimichangas as you bask in their crispy goodness!
You Must Know
- This baked chicken chimichangas offer more than just flavor; they are a fun twist on traditional Mexican fare
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on your taste preferences
- The crispy exterior and savory filling make them a hit at any gathering
- Perfect for weeknight dinners or festive occasions
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken to enhance its flavor, then bake it until golden brown. While that’s happening, prep your tortillas and fillings. Assemble the chimichangas, bake again for that perfect crispiness, and enjoy!
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out chicken for beef or veggies if you want to keep things interesting. Add cheese, beans, or even jalapeños for an extra kick! Experiment with spices like cumin or paprika to elevate the flavor profile.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover baked chicken chimichangas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them back in the oven at 350°F until heated through and crispy again.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is cooked perfectly—no one wants dry meat!
- Ensure your tortillas are warm before rolling to avoid cracking
- Don’t skip the baking step; it gives that delicious crunch we all love
Sometimes I whip up these baked chicken chimichangas for a cozy movie night, and my friends rave about them every time! It’s always heartwarming to see everyone enjoying something I made with love.
FAQs :
What are Baked Chicken Chimichangas?
Baked Chicken Chimichangas are a healthier twist on the traditional fried chimichanga. These delicious wraps consist of seasoned chicken, beans, and cheese, all enveloped in a tortilla and baked until golden and crispy. Unlike their fried counterparts, baking reduces the amount of oil used, making them a lighter option for those looking to enjoy this classic dish without the added fat. They are perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun gathering with friends.
How can I customize my Baked Chicken Chimichangas?
You can easily customize your Baked Chicken Chimichangas to suit your taste preferences. Consider adding different vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or corn for extra flavor and nutrition. You can also experiment with various cheeses such as pepper jack or cheddar to enhance the taste. Additionally, try using different proteins like shredded beef or turkey if you prefer to switch things up from chicken.
Can I freeze Baked Chicken Chimichangas?
Yes, you can freeze Baked Chicken Chimichangas for later enjoyment. To do this, prepare the chimichangas as directed but do not bake them immediately. Instead, wrap each chimichanga tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to eat them, simply bake from frozen until heated through and crispy.
What should I serve with Baked Chicken Chimichangas?
Baked Chicken Chimichangas pair well with various sides that complement their flavors. Consider serving them with a fresh salad topped with avocado and lime dressing for a refreshing crunch. You could also offer some guacamole or salsa on the side for dipping. Rice and beans make great accompaniments too, providing a hearty meal that balances perfectly with these flavorful wraps.
Conclusion for Baked Chicken Chimichangas :
Baked Chicken Chimichangas offer a deliciously healthy alternative to traditional fried versions while still delivering bold flavors. With endless customization options, you can easily tailor the recipe to fit your family’s tastes. Whether you choose to add vibrant veggies or different proteins, these baked wonders will satisfy cravings without compromising health. Serve them alongside your favorite dips and sides for a complete meal that everyone will love!
Baked Chicken Chimichangas
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 4 servings 1x
Description
Baked Chicken Chimichangas are a healthier, mouthwatering take on a classic favorite. These crispy tortillas are filled with tender, seasoned chicken, melty cheese, and aromatic spices, creating the perfect dish for family dinners or festive gatherings. Easy to customize with various fillings, these chimichangas are sure to become a staple in your home. Serve them hot with sour cream and salsa for an unforgettable meal that brings everyone together.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp taco seasoning
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack)
- ½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
- 1 cup salsa
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté chopped onion until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook until golden.
- Add chicken breasts to the skillet, sprinkle with taco seasoning, and cover halfway with water. Simmer for about 20 minutes until tender.
- Shred the cooked chicken using two forks and mix it back into the skillet with cilantro.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Fill each tortilla with the chicken mixture and cheese, then roll tightly and place seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for approximately 20 minutes or until golden brown. Serve hot with sour cream and salsa.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chimichanga (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
