Best Chicken Chimichangas

 

---

Chicken chimichangas are a delightful dish that brings comfort and joy to any meal. Imagine crispy, golden wraps filled with juicy, flavor-packed chicken. This recipe for the Best Chicken Chimichangas is sure to become a family favorite. As you dive into this dish, you will discover how easy it is to make and how delicious it tastes. Let’s get started on this culinary adventure!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are many reasons why you will love making these chicken chimichangas. First, they are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The blend of spices and flavors from the chicken filling creates a wonderful taste experience.

Second, this recipe is very flexible. You can use shredded chicken, leftover rotisserie chicken, or even make it vegetarian by replacing the chicken with your favorite veggies. Third, they are great for meal prep! You can make a large batch and freeze them for later use. Finally, serving chimichangas is always a hit at family gatherings or parties. These delicious bites will impress your friends and family!

How to Prepare Best Chicken Chimichangas

Preparing chicken chimichangas is simple. By following a few basic steps, you’ll have a plate of delicious chimichangas ready in no time. Gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded chicken
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1/2 cup corn (canned or frozen, thawed)
• 1/2 cup diced onions
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 large flour tortillas
• Oil, for frying (vegetable or canola oil works well)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Filling:

   • In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, shredded cheese, black beans, corn, diced onions, minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.

2. Assemble the Chimichangas:

   • Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface. Place a generous amount of the chicken filling in the center of the tortilla, about 1/3 of the way up from the bottom. Make sure to leave enough space on the sides.
   • Fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling, then roll it up from the bottom to the top, making sure to tuck in the edges as you roll. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and filling.

3. Fry the Chimichangas:

   • In a large frying pan, heat about 1 inch of oil over medium heat.
   • When the oil is hot, carefully place one or two chimichangas in the pan, seam side down. Fry until they are golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes on each side.
   • Remove the chimichangas from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

4. Serve:

   • Serve the chicken chimichangas hot, with your favorite salsa, guacamole, or queso on the side.

How to Serve Best Chicken Chimichangas

Chicken chimichangas are perfect to serve with a variety of sides. You can pair them with a fresh salad, Mexican rice, or refried beans. Adding toppings like salsa, sour cream, and guacamole can elevate the flavors of the chimichangas even more.

For a festive touch, consider garnishing with chopped cilantro or diced tomatoes. These additions will not only make your dish look appealing but also offer a medley of flavors that complement the crispy chimichangas. You can also serve them with a side of tortilla chips for a crunchy texture.

How to Store Best Chicken Chimichangas

If you have leftovers or want to make them ahead of time, storing chicken chimichangas is easy.

1. 
   

   Refrigeration: Let the chimichangas cool to room temperature. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in an airtight container. You can store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

   
   
2. 
   

   Freezing: To freeze chimichangas, make sure they are completely cooled first. Wrap each chimichanga in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag or airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat them, you can thaw them in the refrigerator and reheat them in the oven or air fryer for added crispiness.

   
   

Preparation Tips for Best Chicken Chimichangas

• When assembling the chimichangas, be sure not to overfill them. This will make it difficult to roll them up and can lead to spilling during frying.
• If you want to make them healthier, you can bake the chimichangas instead of frying. Brush them lightly with oil and bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through.
• Experiment with spices! You can add jalapeños for heat, or use smoked paprika for a different flavor.
• Make sure your oil is hot enough before frying to get that crispy texture. If it’s not hot enough, the chimichangas may become soggy.

Variation

If you want to shake things up, here are some variations you could try:

• Vegetarian Chimichangas: Replace the chicken with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. You can also use beans or lentils as a protein source.
• Spicy Chimichangas: Add diced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce to the chicken filling for an extra kick.
• Cheesy Chimichangas: Feel free to add more cheese, such as pepper jack or crumbled queso fresco for rich flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

   • Yes! Leftover rotisserie chicken works great for this recipe. Just shred the chicken and mix it with the other filling ingredients.

2. Can I make these chimichangas ahead of time?

   • Absolutely! You can assemble the chimichangas and store them in the refrigerator or freezer. Just fry them when you’re ready to serve.

3. What kind of oil should I use for frying?

   • Vegetable oil and canola oil are great choices for frying. They have a high smoke point and neutral flavor, allowing the chimichangas to shine.

4. Can I bake these instead of frying?

   • Yes! To bake them, brush the chimichangas with oil and place them on a baking sheet. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through to ensure they are crispy on all sides.

5. What are some good sides to serve with chimichangas?

   • Some popular sides include Mexican rice, refried beans, guacamole, salsa, and a fresh garden salad.

---

With this recipe for Best Chicken Chimichangas, you are sure to provide a delicious meal that everyone will enjoy. The crispy exterior, combined with the savory filling inside, makes these chimichangas a great choice for any table. Get ready for a delightful cooking experience that ends with delicious bites!