The Best Chicken Chimichangas

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I enjoy this recipe because it comes together quickly while still tasting like restaurant-quality comfort food. The combination of Monterey Jack and Oaxaca cheese creates a perfectly gooey filling, while the pan-fried tortilla becomes wonderfully crisp. I also like how customizable these chimichangas are since I can adjust the spice level or toppings depending on what I am craving.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Filling

• 2 cups shredded chicken, rotisserie or homemade
• 1 small sweet onion, diced
• 1 tbsp avocado oil, plus more for frying
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup salsa verde
• 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup Oaxaca cheese, shredded
• 1 tbsp fresh lime juice

For Assembly

• 4 large flour tortillas, burrito size
• 1 cup refried beans

For Garnish

• Guacamole
• Sour cream
• Salsa
• Fresh cilantro, chopped

Directions

1. I heat 1 tablespoon of avocado oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté the diced onion until softened and fragrant.
2. I add the shredded chicken, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper, stirring until everything is evenly coated and heated through.
3. I transfer the chicken mixture to a bowl and stir in the salsa verde, Monterey Jack cheese, Oaxaca cheese, and lime juice until the cheese begins melting slightly.
4. To assemble the chimichangas, I lay a tortilla flat and spread about 1/4 cup of refried beans in the center.
5. I add a portion of the chicken and cheese filling on top of the beans.
6. I fold in the sides of the tortilla and roll it tightly into a burrito shape.
7. In a skillet, I heat a thin layer of avocado oil over medium heat.
8. I place each chimichanga seam-side down in the skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, turning carefully until every side becomes golden brown and crispy.
9. I add more oil between batches if needed to keep the tortillas crisp and evenly browned.
10. I serve the chimichangas hot with guacamole, sour cream, salsa, and fresh cilantro.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4 people
• Calories: 531 calories per serving

Variations

I sometimes use shredded beef or seasoned ground turkey instead of chicken for a different flavor. If I want extra heat, I add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the filling. I also enjoy baking the chimichangas instead of frying them when I want a lighter version. For extra texture, I occasionally mix corn or black beans into the chicken filling.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover chimichangas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat them, I place them in the oven or air fryer at 350°F until heated through and crispy again. I avoid microwaving them when possible because the tortillas can become soft instead of crunchy. I can also freeze assembled chimichangas before frying for an easy future meal.

FAQs

Can I bake the chimichangas instead of frying?

Yes, I sometimes bake them at 400°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden.

What is Oaxaca cheese?

I love using Oaxaca cheese because it melts beautifully and gives the filling a rich, stretchy texture similar to mozzarella.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, I often prepare the filling in advance and assemble the chimichangas just before cooking.

How do I keep chimichangas sealed while frying?

I place them seam-side down first in the skillet, which helps keep the tortillas tightly closed while they crisp up.

What sides go well with chimichangas?

I enjoy serving them with Mexican rice, refried beans, corn salad, or chips and salsa for a complete meal.

Conclusion

I love how crispy, cheesy, and flavorful these chicken chimichangas turn out every time. The combination of seasoned chicken, gooey melted cheese, and crunchy tortillas makes them an irresistible meal for lunch or dinner. Whether I serve them for a family dinner or a casual gathering, they always bring comforting Tex-Mex flavor to the table.

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