Introduction
Chimichangas are a delightful and satisfying dish that combines the flavors of Mexican cuisine in a crispy, golden package. This recipe for chicken chimichangas is easy to follow and packed with flavor, making it a perfect choice for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. With shredded chicken, creamy sour cream, and zesty salsa all wrapped in flour tortillas and baked to perfection, these chimichangas will surely impress your taste buds!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
3 cups shredded cooked chicken
1 cup salsa
1 packet taco seasoning
1 cup sour cream
6 large flour tortillas
1 can refried beans
2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
1 cup enchilada sauce
2 tablespoons melted butter
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions
1. **Preheat Oven:** Set the oven to 400°F.
2. **Prepare Filling:** In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, salsa, taco seasoning, and sour cream. Mix until well blended.
3. **Assemble Chimichangas:**
– Spread a layer of refried beans down the center of each tortilla.
– Add a portion of the chicken mixture on top of the beans.
– Sprinkle shredded cheese over the chicken mixture.
– Fold in the sides of the tortilla and roll it up tightly to enclose the filling.
4. **Bake:**
– Place the assembled chimichangas seam-side down on a baking sheet.
– Brush the tops with melted butter.
– Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the tortillas are golden brown and crispy.
5. **Add Sauce and Cheese:**
– Remove the chimichangas from the oven.
– Pour enchilada sauce over the top of each chimichanga.
– Sprinkle additional shredded cheese over the sauce.
6. **Final Bake:**
– Return the chimichangas to the oven.
– Bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. **Serve:** Remove from the oven and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious homemade chicken chimichangas!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preheat Oven
Set the oven to 400°F.
Prepare Filling
In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, salsa, taco seasoning, and sour cream. Mix until well blended.
Assemble Chimichangas
– Spread a layer of refried beans down the center of each tortilla.
– Add a portion of the chicken mixture on top of the beans.
– Sprinkle shredded cheese over the chicken mixture.
– Fold in the sides of the tortilla and roll it up tightly to enclose the filling.
Bake
– Place the assembled chimichangas seam-side down on a baking sheet.
– Brush the tops with melted butter.
– Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the tortillas are golden brown and crispy.
Add Sauce and Cheese
– Remove the chimichangas from the oven.
– Pour enchilada sauce over the top of each chimichanga.
– Sprinkle additional shredded cheese over the sauce.
Final Bake
– Return the chimichangas to the oven.
– Bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve
Remove from the oven and serve hot.
Notes
Storage
Leftover chimichangas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
Chimichangas can be frozen before baking. Wrap each chimichanga tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Bake from frozen, adding additional time as needed.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with guacamole, sour cream, or a side salad for a complete meal.
Cook Techniques
Preheating the Oven
Preheating the oven to 400°F ensures that your chimichangas cook evenly and develop a crispy texture.
Preparing the Filling
Mix the shredded chicken, salsa, taco seasoning, and sour cream in a bowl until well combined to create a flavorful filling.
Assembling the Chimichangas
Spread refried beans down the center of each tortilla, layer the chicken mixture, and sprinkle cheese before rolling tightly to keep the filling secure.
Baking the Chimichangas
Baking the chimichangas seam-side down allows them to hold their shape while getting golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Brushing with Butter
Brushing melted butter on top of the chimichangas not only enhances flavor but also contributes to a golden-brown appearance during baking.
Adding Sauce and Cheese
Pouring enchilada sauce and sprinkling more cheese on top before the final bake allows for a rich, melted layer that adds moisture and flavor.
Final Baking
Returning the chimichangas to the oven for a final bake ensures the cheese is melted and bubbly, completing the dish.
FAQ
Can I use other types of tortillas?
Yes, you can use corn tortillas or whole wheat tortillas if you prefer, but the cooking time may vary slightly.
Can I make chimichangas ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble them in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Bake them just before serving.
What can I serve with chimichangas?
Chimichangas pair well with guacamole, sour cream, salsa, and a fresh salad.
Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover turkey works great as a substitute for shredded chicken.
How do I know when the chimichangas are done baking?
They are ready when the tortillas are golden brown and crispy, usually after 20-25 minutes of baking.
Conclusion
This hearty chimichanga recipe is a fantastic way to use leftover chicken, combining savory flavors with a crispy texture. Baked to perfection and topped with enchilada sauce and melty cheese, these chimichangas are sure to become a family favorite. They are not only delicious but also customizable to suit individual tastes, making them a versatile addition to your meal repertoire.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chicken Enchiladas
Use the same filling of chicken, salsa, and sour cream, but wrap in corn tortillas and top with enchilada sauce and cheese before baking.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Mix chicken, salsa, and taco seasoning, then stuff into halved bell peppers. Top with cheese and bake until the peppers are tender.
Taco Salad
Layer romaine lettuce, refried beans, diced tomatoes, the chicken mixture, and cheese. Serve with tortilla chips and salsa for crunch.
Quesadillas
Spread the chicken and cheese mixture between two tortillas, cook on a skillet until golden, and serve with salsa and sour cream.
Chicken Nachos
Spread tortilla chips on a baking sheet, top with the chicken mixture, cheese, and jalapeños, then bake until the cheese is melted. Drizzle with sour cream.
