Baked Chicken Chimichangas: A Healthier Twist on a Classic

Who doesn’t love the crispy, cheesy goodness of a chimichanga? But if you’ve ever felt a twinge of guilt about indulging in this deep-fried favorite, it’s time to put those worries aside. These Baked Chicken Chimichangas offer all the flavor and crunch you love—without the extra grease. By baking instead of frying, you’ll enjoy a healthier version of this Tex-Mex classic that doesn’t sacrifice taste. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, these baked chimichangas are the perfect choice.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s something magical about biting into a golden, crispy tortilla filled with juicy, flavorful chicken. Here’s why this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your kitchen:

• Healthier Alternative: Baked, not fried, for a lighter dish that’s still crispy and delicious.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Customizable: You can easily switch up the fillings to suit your preferences.
• Family-Friendly: A hit with kids and adults alike, especially when served with their favorite toppings.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make them ahead of time and reheat for a quick and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make Baked Chicken Chimichangas. Each ingredient plays an essential role in creating the perfect flavor and texture.

Ingredients for the Chimichangas

Ingredient	Quantity
Cooked, shredded chicken	2 cups
Salsa	1 cup
Ground cumin	1 teaspoon
Chili powder	1 teaspoon
Grated cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)	1 cup
Large flour tortillas	6
Melted butter	2 tablespoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked, shredded chicken, salsa, ground cumin, chili powder, and shredded cheese.
2. Stir until all the ingredients are well combined and the chicken is evenly coated in the flavorful mixture.

3. Assemble the Chimichangas

1. Warm the flour tortillas slightly in the microwave (about 10-15 seconds) to make them more pliable.
2. Place a generous scoop of the chicken mixture in the center of each tortilla.
3. Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll it tightly from the bottom to create a burrito-like shape.
4. Place the rolled chimichangas seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.

4. Brush with Butter

1. Using a pastry brush, lightly coat the tops of the chimichangas with melted butter.
2. This step ensures a crispy, golden-brown exterior without frying.

5. Bake the Chimichangas

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chimichangas are crispy and golden brown.
2. Check occasionally to make sure they don’t overbrown.

6. Serve and Enjoy

1. Remove the chimichangas from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
2. Serve hot with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, guacamole, extra salsa, or shredded lettuce.

Tips for Perfect Baked Chicken Chimichangas

1. Use Fresh Tortillas: Fresh, pliable tortillas roll up more easily and hold their shape better during baking.
2. Shred the Chicken Finely: Smaller chicken pieces mix better with the salsa and seasonings, creating a more even filling.
3. Don’t Overfill: Resist the temptation to overstuff your tortillas, as this can make them harder to roll and prone to bursting.
4. Customize the Spice Level: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
5. Bake on a Rack: If you have a baking rack, place it on the sheet pan for even crisping on all sides.

Nutritional Benefits

These Baked Chicken Chimichangas are not just tasty—they’re also packed with nutrients:

• Chicken: A lean source of protein, perfect for building muscle and keeping you full.
• Cheese: Adds calcium and creaminess to the filling.
• Salsa: A low-calorie way to add flavor, plus it’s rich in vitamins A and C.
• Flour Tortillas: Provide the carbs you need for energy, but you can opt for whole-wheat tortillas for added fiber.

Serving Suggestions

These chimichangas are delicious on their own, but adding toppings or sides can make them even better:

1. Toppings:
   • Sour cream
   • Guacamole
   • Diced tomatoes
   • Fresh cilantro
   • Hot sauce
2. Sides:
   • Mexican rice
   • Refried beans
   • Corn salad
   • Tortilla chips with queso
3. Drinks:
   • A refreshing glass of iced tea
   • Limeade or margaritas for adults

Storage and Reheating

1. Refrigeration: Store leftover chimichangas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
2. Freezing: Wrap each chimichanga individually in foil or plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months.
3. Reheating:
   • Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes for a crispy exterior.
   • Microwave: Heat for 1-2 minutes for convenience, but note that the tortilla may lose some crispiness.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes! Rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time since it’s already cooked and flavorful.

2. Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?

Flour tortillas are ideal for chimichangas because they’re sturdier and crisp up nicely in the oven. Corn tortillas may not hold their shape as well.

3. What other fillings can I use?

You can substitute or add ingredients like black beans, sautéed bell peppers, cooked rice, or ground beef to mix things up.

4. Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the chimichangas, wrap them tightly, and refrigerate or freeze them. Bake when ready to serve.

5. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Replace the chicken with cooked black beans, sautéed veggies, or even mashed sweet potatoes for a vegetarian twist.

6. How do I keep the chimichangas crispy?

Make sure to bake them on a parchment-lined baking sheet or a wire rack. Brushing with butter is also key for achieving that golden, crispy texture.

Conclusion

Baked Chicken Chimichangas are proof that you don’t need to sacrifice flavor to make a healthier version of your favorite dishes. Crispy on the outside, juicy and cheesy on the inside, these chimichangas are sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this recipe has you covered.

So what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and enjoy the delicious taste of homemade chimichangas—without the guilt!

Pro Tip: Double the batch and freeze extras for quick, satisfying meals later. Trust us, you’ll be glad you did!

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