There’s something about Baked Chicken Chimichangas that makes your taste buds do a happy dance. Picture golden, crispy tortillas hugging tender, seasoned chicken, oozing with melted cheese and spices that sing in perfect harmony. Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders The aroma? It’s like a warm hug from your grandmother on a chilly day, enticing everyone to gather around the dinner table.
This dish is not just for Taco Tuesday; it’s perfect for any occasion! From family gatherings to cozy Friday nights in front of the TV, these chimichangas promise an explosion of flavor that will leave you craving more. Veggie White Lasagna Trust me; your palate will thank you as you bite into this crispy delight.
[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] These Baked Chicken Chimichangas are easy to prepare and packed with flavor. The golden, crispy exterior makes them visually appealing. Perfect for meal prep or serving at parties, they offer endless customization possibilities. They’re also baked instead of fried, making them a healthier choice without sacrificing taste. [/info_box]
I once made Baked Chicken Chimichangas for my friend’s birthday party, and let’s just say they disappeared faster than I could say “delicious.” The joy on everyone’s faces was priceless! Salsa Verde Chicken Soup. For more inspiration, check out this Cheesy Chicken Parm Soup recipe.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
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Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor.
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Tortillas: Soft flour tortillas work wonders here; they’re flexible and perfect for wrapping.
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Shredded Cheese: A mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack melts beautifully and adds creaminess. For more inspiration, check out this Shredded Beef Tacos Recipe recipe.
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Black Beans: Canned black beans save time; just rinse them before using.
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Spices: Cumin and chili powder bring out the true Mexican flavors in this dish.
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Olive Oil Spray: A light spray helps achieve that perfect golden-brown crispiness without too much fat.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Cook the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Season the chicken with salt and pepper before placing it in the dish.
Add Flavor: In a pan over medium heat, sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add cooked chicken and black beans along with cumin and chili powder until everything is heated through.
Assemble the Chimichangas: Lay out tortillas on a flat surface. Spoon a generous amount of chicken mixture onto each tortilla. Top with shredded cheese before folding tightly.
Bake to Perfection: Place chimichangas seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. Lightly spray with olive oil for an irresistible crunch. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
Savor the Moment: Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with sour cream or avocado if desired. Enjoy each bite of these delicious chimichangas!
Now that you know how to make these scrumptious Baked Chicken Chimichangas, it’s time to put on your apron and unleash your inner chef! Get ready for smiles at the dinner table as everyone digs into this delightful feast! Cajun Chicken Pasta.
[info_box title=”You Must Know”] Baked Chicken Chimichangas are a delightful twist on traditional chimichangas. They offer a crispy, golden exterior with a savory filling, making them perfect for any occasion. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone eagerly waiting at the dinner table. [/info_box]
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by prepping your chicken filling first, then assemble the chimichangas before baking for optimal crispiness.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap chicken for black beans or add jalapeños for extra heat; customization is key!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover chimichangas in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] To ensure perfectly baked chimichangas, try not to overfill them. This prevents tearing and ensures even cooking. Also, brush with oil before baking for extra crispiness and flavor. Lastly, use pre-cooked chicken to save time without compromising taste. [/info_box]
Creating these delicious baked chicken chimichangas always brings back memories of family gatherings where everyone loved diving into this dish.
FAQ
What is the best chicken to use in baked chicken chimichangas?
Cooked, shredded rotisserie chicken works great for easy preparation and incredible flavor.
Can I freeze baked chicken chimichangas?
Yes, you can freeze them before or after baking; just ensure they’re well-wrapped.
How do I make chimichangas spicier?
Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling for an extra kick!
Baked Chicken Chimichangas
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Baked Chicken Chimichangas are a delightful twist on a classic dish, featuring golden, crispy tortillas filled with tender, seasoned chicken and melted cheese. These flavorful chimichangas are perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to parties. Easy to prepare and healthier than traditional fried versions, they promise an explosion of taste that will leave everyone craving more. Gather your loved ones around the table and enjoy these scrumptious bites that combine comfort and joy in every mouthful.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 tsp cumin
- 2 tsp chili powder
- Olive oil spray
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a pan over medium heat, sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add shredded chicken and black beans; season with cumin and chili powder until heated through.
- Lay out tortillas on a flat surface. Spoon the chicken mixture onto each tortilla, top with cheese, and fold tightly.
- Place seam-side down in the prepared baking dish, lightly spray with olive oil, and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, garnish if desired, and serve.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chimichanga (150g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
