Easy Baked Chicken Chimichangas to Try Tonight

Discover crispy, flavorful Baked Chicken Chimichangas made easy—perfect for a quick, delicious dinner that the whole family will love! These golden, oven-baked treats combine tender shredded chicken with a savory blend of spices, wrapped in a crispy tortilla that bakes up beautifully without the mess or guilt of frying. If you’re craving Mexican-inspired comfort food that’s simple to whip up and bursting with flavor, Baked Chicken Chimichangas are your new go-to meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Less Mess, More Flavor: Baking instead of frying keeps your kitchen clean while delivering that signature crunch.
• Quick Prep: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, dinner comes together fast on busy nights.
• Family Favorite: Mild spices and cheesy goodness make it a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Versatile Filling: Easily customizable with your favorite veggies or extra proteins to suit any craving.
• Perfectly Crispy: The oven transforms tortillas to golden perfection without excess oil.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient here is a star on its own but comes together to create a perfect harmony of textures and flavors. They keep things simple yet satisfying, making sure your Baked Chicken Chimichangas come out delicious every time.

• Cooked shredded chicken: The heart of the dish, providing tender protein with great texture.
• Flour tortillas: Soft yet sturdy, these act as the perfect vessel for the filling.
• Shredded cheese: Sharp cheddar or a Mexican blend adds creamy, melty richness inside.
• Sautéed onions and bell peppers: Add sweetness and crunch for balanced flavor.
• Spices like cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder: Bring warm, smoky depth to the chicken filling.
• Refried beans or black beans: Add extra heartiness and moisture, helping the filling stick together.
• Salsa or enchilada sauce: Injects tang and a subtle kick without overpowering.
• Olive oil or cooking spray: For brushing the chimichangas before baking to achieve crispiness.

Variations for Baked Chicken Chimichangas

One of the best parts about Baked Chicken Chimichangas is how wonderfully adaptable they are. Feel free to swap or add ingredients to suit dietary needs or explore new flavor dimensions.

• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for heat lovers.
• Vegetarian Twist: Use roasted vegetables and beans instead of chicken for a meat-free option.
• Cheesy Overload: Mix in cream cheese or add extra shredded cheese inside for a richer filling.
• Low-Carb Version: Replace tortillas with large lettuce leaves or low-carb wraps.
• Different Proteins: Swap chicken with shredded beef, pork, or even tofu for variety.

How to Make Baked Chicken Chimichangas

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Filling

Start by mixing your shredded chicken with sautéed onions, bell peppers, beans, cheese, and the spices. Stir in salsa or enchilada sauce to keep the filling moist and flavorful.

Step 2: Assemble the Chimichangas

Lay out your tortillas, evenly spoon the chicken mixture onto the center of each, then fold in the sides and roll tightly to enclose the filling completely.

Step 3: Brush with Oil

Use olive oil or cooking spray to lightly coat each rolled chimichanga. This step ensures they crisp up beautifully in the oven.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden

Place the chimichangas seam-side down on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 20 to 25 minutes, turning once halfway, until they’re golden and crunchy all over.

Step 5: Serve Warm

Let the chimichangas rest a few minutes before serving to keep the filling intact and enjoy their perfect crispiness.

Pro Tips for Making Baked Chicken Chimichangas

• Don’t overfill: Too much filling can cause the tortillas to tear during baking.
• Use room-temperature tortillas: This makes them more pliable and easier to roll.
• Seal the edges well: Use a little water to moisten the tortilla edges before rolling to help them stick.
• Flip halfway through: Turning chimichangas ensures even browning on all sides.
• Cool slightly before cutting: This prevents the filling from spilling out and keeps servings neat.

How to Serve Baked Chicken Chimichangas

Garnishes

Top your Baked Chicken Chimichangas with fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, diced avocado, or a sprinkle of shredded lettuce to add color, creaminess, and bright freshness.

Side Dishes

Pair them with Mexican rice, a light corn salad, or black beans for a well-rounded and hearty meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve chimichangas cut in half with a side of guacamole, and drizzle warm salsa or queso on top for a restaurant-style presentation that’s sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let leftover Baked Chicken Chimichangas cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Wrap individual chimichangas tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then freeze for up to 2 months for an easy future meal.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to restore the crunch, or pop them in the air fryer for a quick crisp-up without drying out.

FAQs

Can I use corn tortillas for Baked Chicken Chimichangas?

Corn tortillas are more fragile, so flour tortillas are recommended to keep the chimichangas sturdy and prevent tearing during baking.

Is it possible to make these gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free flour tortillas and ensure your spice mixes and sauces are gluten-free for a safe and delicious meal.

Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?

Absolutely, prepping the chicken filling a day in advance saves time and helps the flavors meld beautifully.

How do I prevent the chimichangas from getting soggy?

Brushing lightly with oil before baking and turning them halfway helps keep the tortillas crispy and off excess moisture.

What dipping sauces pair best with Baked Chicken Chimichangas?

Try classic salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or a spicy chipotle mayo to complement the flavors perfectly.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so satisfying about biting into a golden, crispy Baked Chicken Chimichanga packed with flavorful chicken and melty cheese. This recipe is a simple, crowd-pleasing way to bring Mexican-inspired comfort food to your dinner table without the fuss of frying. Don’t wait to give it a try tonight—your family will thank you with every delicious bite!

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