Chi-Chi’s Baked Chicken Chimichangas

Chi-Chi’s Baked Chicken Chimichangas are a delicious twist on the traditional deep-fried chimichanga. By baking them, you get the same crispy exterior and flavorful filling without the extra oil and calories.

This recipe combines shredded chicken, cheese, salsa, and spices wrapped in a flour tortilla and baked to perfection. Perfect for a family dinner, a casual get-together, or a quick weeknight meal, these chimichangas are sure to become a favorite. Each serving contains approximately 350 kcal, making it a satisfying yet lighter option.

Ingredients to Prepare

This recipe yields 8 servings. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 cup salsa
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 8 large flour tortillas
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, additional salsa, chopped cilantro

How to Make

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

2. Prepare the Filling:

• In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, salsa, shredded cheddar cheese, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, diced green chilies, ground cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.
• Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.

3. Assemble the Chimichangas:

• Place a flour tortilla on a flat surface.
• Spoon about 1/4 cup of the chicken mixture into the center of the tortilla.
• Fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling, then roll up from the bottom to form a burrito shape.
• Place the rolled chimichangas seam side down on the prepared baking sheet.
• Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.

4. Bake the Chimichangas:

• Brush the tops of the chimichangas with the melted butter.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chimichangas are golden brown and crispy.

5. Serve:

• Remove the chimichangas from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
• Serve with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, guacamole, additional salsa, and chopped cilantro.

Helpful Tips

• Chicken: Use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken for convenience. Shred it finely for the best texture.
• Folding the Tortillas: Make sure to fold the tortillas tightly to prevent the filling from spilling out during baking.
• Baking: Brushing the chimichangas with melted butter helps them get golden and crispy in the oven.

Cooking Tips

• Spice Level: Adjust the spice level to your taste by adding more or less chili powder or using a spicier salsa.
• Cheese Variations: Feel free to mix in other types of cheese like pepper jack or Colby for a different flavor.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with black beans or a mix of beans and corn for a vegetarian version.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Dishes: Serve these chimichangas with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad.
• Dipping Sauces: Offer a variety of dipping sauces like queso dip, pico de gallo, or salsa verde.
• Beverage Pairing: Pair with a refreshing drink like a margarita, iced tea, or a cold beer to complement the flavors.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Protein: 20g
• Sugar: 2g
• Fiber: 3g

Storage and Leftovers

• Storage: Store any leftover chimichangas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave for a quick option. For best results, reheat in the oven to maintain the crispy texture.
• Freezing: Chimichangas can be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow them to cool completely before wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Similar Recipes to Try

If you love Chi-Chi’s Baked Chicken Chimichangas, you might enjoy these other delicious Mexican-inspired dishes:

• Beef Enchiladas: Savory ground beef wrapped in tortillas and baked with enchilada sauce and cheese.
• Chicken Quesadillas: Grilled tortillas filled with cheese and chicken, perfect for a quick and easy meal.
• Fish Tacos: Crispy fish fillets served in tortillas with a tangy slaw and fresh toppings.
• Vegetarian Burritos: Flour tortillas filled with beans, rice, and vegetables, rolled up and baked to perfection.
• Loaded Nachos: Tortilla chips topped with melted cheese, beans, jalapeños, and your favorite toppings.

Related Recipes:

• Fried Cinnamon Apple Rings
• Savory Spaghetti Meat Sauce recipe
• Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
• Bacon Cheeseburger Bombs

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

• Flour tortillas work best for this recipe as they hold up better when rolled and baked. Corn tortillas may break or crack.

2. How can I make this recipe spicier?

• Add more chili powder, use a spicier salsa, or include some diced jalapeños in the filling for extra heat.

3. Can I prepare these chimichangas ahead of time?

• Yes, you can assemble the chimichangas ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to bake. Brush with melted butter just before baking.

4. What can I use instead of shredded chicken?

• Ground beef, shredded pork, or even a mix of beans and vegetables can be used as a filling alternative.

5. How do I keep the chimichangas crispy when reheating?

• Reheat in the oven to maintain the crispy texture. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.

6. Can I add other ingredients to the filling?

• Absolutely! Feel free to add ingredients like black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, or jalapeños to the filling.

Conclusion

Chi-Chi’s Baked Chicken Chimichangas are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With their crispy exterior and flavorful filling, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Serve them with your favorite toppings and sides for a complete meal that’s both satisfying and enjoyable. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family, and happy cooking!

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