Baked Chicken Chimichangas: A Delicious and Healthy Twist on a Classic Recipe

Baked Chicken Chimichangas are a delightful twist on a classic Mexican favorite that I absolutely adore. Imagine biting into a crispy, golden tortilla filled with tender, seasoned chicken, beans, and a medley of spices that dance on your palate. This dish not only satisfies your cravings but also brings a touch of warmth and comfort to any meal. Historically, chimichangas originated in the southwestern United States, where they became a beloved staple in Mexican-American cuisine. What I love most about Baked Chicken Chimichangas is their versatility; they can be easily customized to suit any taste preference, making them a hit at family gatherings or casual weeknight dinners. Plus, baking instead of frying means you can enjoy this indulgent dish with a little less guilt, while still savoring that satisfying crunch. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your home!

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Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• 1/2 cup salsa
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 8 large flour tortillas
• 1/4 cup olive oil or cooking spray
• 1/2 cup sour cream (for serving)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
• Optional: sliced jalapeños (for serving)

Preparing the Filling

First things first, let’s get our filling ready. This is where all the delicious flavors come together!

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, and shredded cheese. I love using a mix of cheeses for extra flavor, so feel free to get creative!
2. Add the salsa to the mixture. This will not only add flavor but also moisture to the filling. If you like it spicy, choose a salsa with a kick!
3. Now, sprinkle in the cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder. These spices will give our chimichangas that authentic taste. Mix everything together until well combined.

Preparing the Tortillas

Next, we need to prepare our tortillas. This step is crucial to ensure that our chimichangas hold together nicely.

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This will ensure that our chimichangas get nice and crispy.
2. To make the tortillas more pliable, I like to warm them up slightly. You can do this by placing them in a microwave for about 20-30 seconds or heating them in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few seconds on each side.
3. Once warmed, lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spoon about 1/3 cup of the chicken filling onto the center of the tortilla.
4. Fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling, then roll it up from the bottom to the top, making sure to tuck in the sides as you go. This will help keep all that delicious filling inside!
5. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and filling. You should have about 8 chimichangas when you’re done.

Preparing for Baking

Now that our chimichangas are rolled up, it’s time to prepare them for the oven.

1. Lightly grease a baking sheet with olive oil or cooking spray. This will help the chimichangas crisp up nicely.
2. Place the rolled chimichangas seam-side down on the baking sheet. Make sure to leave some space between each one so they can cook evenly.
3. Once all the chimichangas are on the baking sheet, brush the tops lightly with olive oil. This will help them achieve that golden-brown color and crispy texture.

Baking the Chimichangas

It’s time to bake our chimichangas to perfection!

1. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chimichangas are golden brown and crispy. I like to flip them halfway through to ensure even browning.
2. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking to prevent over-browning. You want them to be perfectly crispy, not burnt!

Serving the Chimichangas

Once they’re out of the oven, it’s time to serve these delicious baked chicken chimichangas!

1. Carefully remove the chimichangas from the baking sheet and place them on a serving platter.
2. Top with a dollop of sour cream and sprinkle with fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor and color. If you’re feeling adventurous, add some sliced jalapeños for an extra kick!
3. Serve immediately while

   Conclusion:

   In summary, this Baked Chicken Chimichangas recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners or impress guests at a gathering. The combination of tender, seasoned chicken wrapped in a crispy tortilla, all baked to perfection, creates a delightful dish that is both satisfying and full of flavor. Plus, it’s a healthier alternative to the traditional fried version, allowing you to indulge without the guilt! For serving suggestions, consider pairing these chimichangas with a side of fresh guacamole, zesty salsa, or a refreshing cilantro-lime rice. You can also customize the filling by adding your favorite ingredients, such as black beans, corn, or even some spicy jalapeños for an extra kick. The versatility of this recipe means you can easily adapt it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. I encourage you to give this Baked Chicken Chimichangas recipe a try and experience the deliciousness for yourself. Once you do, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s spread the love for this fantastic dish together! Happy cooking! Print
   

   Baked Chicken Chimichangas: A Delicious and Healthy Twist on a Classic Recipe

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   • Author: Maria
   • Total Time: 40 minutes
   • Yield: 8 chimichangas

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   Description

   These baked chicken chimichangas offer a healthier twist on a classic favorite, filled with shredded chicken, black beans, corn, and cheese, and baked until crispy. Perfectly seasoned and served with sour cream and fresh cilantro, they make for a delightful meal!

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   Ingredients

   • shredded chicken
   • black beans
   • corn
   • cheese
   • sour cream
   • fresh cilantro

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   Instructions

   1. Enjoy your delicious baked chicken chimichangas!

   Notes

   • Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite ingredients, such as bell peppers, onions, or different types of beans.
   • For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with additional beans or sautéed vegetables.
   • These chimichangas can be frozen before baking. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

   • Prep Time: 15 minutes
   • Cook Time: 25 minutes