Baked Chicken Chimichangas offer a lighter take on the classic deep-fried favorite, delivering the same crispy, golden shell without the extra oil. These flavorful bundles are stuffed with shredded chicken, beans, cheese, and a savory mix of spices, then baked to perfection. The result is a delicious, hearty meal that’s crisp on the outside and loaded with gooey, spicy goodness on the inside. Ideal for a family dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish at gatherings, these chimichangas are easy to customize with toppings like guacamole, sour cream, and salsa for that perfect Mexican-inspired meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1 cup refried beans (or black beans, drained)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 2 tablespoons melted butter or olive oil for brushing
- Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, salsa, chopped cilantro
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the filling: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, refried beans, shredded cheese, diced onion, cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder. Mix until the ingredients are well distributed.
- Assemble the chimichangas: Lay out the flour tortillas on a clean surface. Spoon a generous portion of the chicken filling into the center of each tortilla. Fold in the sides, then roll up the tortilla tightly like a burrito, tucking the ends under to seal in the filling.
- Bake the chimichangas: Place the rolled chimichangas seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with melted butter or olive oil to help them turn golden and crispy while baking. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chimichangas are crispy and lightly browned.
- Serve: Remove the chimichangas from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Top with sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or chopped cilantro, as desired.
Enjoy your baked chicken chimichangas with your favorite Mexican sides like rice, beans, or a fresh salad!
