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When busy weeknights catch up to you, it’s easy to feel pigeonholed into fast food runs and the same old takeout. But what if I told you that whipping up a crowd-pleasing meal can be as simple as creating these crispy chicken chimichangas? Inspired by a sudden craving after a long day, I turned to my pantry and discovered a delightful assortment of ingredients just waiting to be transformed into golden, crunchy pockets filled with succulent shredded chicken and gooey cheese.

Imagine the satisfying sizzle as they fry to perfection, creating an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen and beckons family and friends to the table. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner idea or a dish that’ll wow your guests for game day, this easy recipe marries convenience with pure deliciousness. Let’s dive into making these scrumptious chimichangas that promise to elevate your dinner game without the unnecessary stress!

Why are Chicken Chimichangas a must-try?

Quick: You’ll be amazed at how these chicken chimichangas come together in no time, perfect for those busy weeknights.
Crispy Delight: The golden-brown exterior offers a satisfying crunch with every bite.
Cheesy Goodness: The melty blend of Monterey Jack and Oaxaca cheeses ensures a gooey, flavorful filling that everyone will love.
Versatile: Customize with your favorite add-ins like jalapeños or veggies to suit any palate.
Crowd-Pleaser: Serve them at gatherings or game day, and watch as they disappear in seconds! Enjoy these tasty treats with a side of salsa and guacamole for a complete experience.

Chicken Chimichangas Ingredients

For the Filling
• Shredded Chicken – The base filling providing protein; rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving option.
• Sweet Onion – Adds depth of flavor; feel free to substitute with yellow onion if you have it on hand.
• Chili Powder – Infuses heat and warmth for a flavorful profile.
• Ground Cumin – Brings earthy tones to balance the spices.
• Paprika – Enhances color and adds a hint of sweetness to the mixture.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance all flavors.

For the Cheese
• Monterey Jack Cheese – The melty goodness that offers a creamy texture; can substitute with mozzarella if desired.
• Oaxaca Cheese – Contributes that characteristic gooey stretch; if unavailable, use more Monterey Jack or mozzarella.

For the Tortillas
• Flour Tortillas – The wrapping that holds your chimichangas; choose burrito-sized tortillas to accommodate the filling.

For the Garnishes
• Guacamole – Adds creamy richness to each bite.
• Sour Cream – A cool contrast that balances the flavors.
• Salsa – Choose your favorite for some extra zing!
• Fresh Lime Juice – Squeezed in for a burst of brightness.
• Refried Beans – Layer them in the tortillas for added flavor and delightful texture.

With these ingredients, you’ll be on your way to creating unforgettable chicken chimichangas that are perfectly crispy, cheesy, and downright delicious!

How to Make Chicken Chimichangas

Cook the Filling: Heat avocado oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the diced sweet onion until softened, which takes about 3-4 minutes. Add in the shredded chicken, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper, and cook for another 5 minutes until well combined and fragrant.
Mix in Salsa and Cheese: Stir in the salsa verde along with Monterey Jack and Oaxaca cheese. Continue to cook until the cheese is fully melted, then squeeze in fresh lime juice for an extra pop of flavor.
Assemble the Chimichangas: Take a flour tortilla and spread a generous layer of refried beans in the center. Add a portion of the chicken filling onto the beans, fold in the sides, and roll tightly to secure the filling inside.
Fry the Chimichangas: In the same skillet, heat a thin layer of avocado oil over medium heat. Place the chimichangas seam-side down in the hot oil. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
Serve: Remove the chimichangas from the skillet and let them rest briefly on a paper towel. Serve hot with garnishes like guacamole, sour cream, salsa, and fresh cilantro for a delightful meal!

Optional: Serve with a side of Mexican rice or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Chicken Chimichangas?

Pair these delightful chimichangas with the perfect sides that elevate your meal experience.

Mexican Rice: A flavorful side of fluffy rice spiced with garlic and cumin complements the richness of the chimichangas beautifully.
Fresh Guacamole: Smooth and creamy, guacamole adds a refreshing touch that balances the crispy exterior of the chimichangas.
Zesty Salsa: Choose a fresh pico de gallo or a chunky salsa verde to enhance the overall flavor profile, providing a vibrant contrast.
Crisp Salad: A light and crunchy salad can provide a refreshing counterpart to the heavy delight of the chimichangas. Consider a lime vinaigrette for zest!
Refried Beans: Serve alongside extra refried beans for a delicious protein boost and added creaminess to each bite.
Sour Cream: Offer a dollop of cool sour cream on the side to offset the heat and enrich the flavors of the chimichangas.
Chilled Margaritas: For a toast-worthy addition, pair with chilled margaritas made with fresh lime juice to enhance the meal’s festive feel.
Chocolate Flan: End the meal on a sweet note with this luscious dessert that incorporates creamy chocolate and caramel flavors. Perfect for a delightful finish!

Make Ahead Options

These chicken chimichangas are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling (shredded chicken, cheese, and spices) up to 3 days in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Once you’re ready to assemble, just warm the filling in a skillet until heated through. Additionally, you can assemble the chimichangas and wrap them in plastic wrap, refrigerating for up to 24 hours before frying. To maintain their crispiness, avoid frying until just before serving. When it’s time to indulge, simply fry them up for that golden-brown crunch, delivering restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for Chicken Chimichangas

Hot Oil Matters: Ensure the oil is hot before adding chimichangas to achieve that perfect crispy texture without greasiness.
Pan-Frying Option: For a healthier version, pan-fry your chimichangas instead of deep-frying. It gives you a crispy exterior with less oil.
Ensure Proper Sealing: Make sure to roll the chimichangas tightly and seal the edges well to prevent any filling from leaking during frying.
Air Fryer Alternative: If you prefer an air-fried option, lightly spray the chimichangas with oil and cook at 375°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway for even crispiness.
Don’t Rush the Filling: Allow enough time for the filling to meld together before assembling, enhancing the flavors of your chicken chimichangas.

How to Store and Freeze Chicken Chimichangas

Fridge: Store leftover chicken chimichangas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven to retain their crispy texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual chimichangas tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To reheat frozen chimichangas, bake at 350°F directly from the freezer for about 25-30 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.

Thawing Tips: If you prefer, you can thaw chimichangas overnight in the fridge before reheating for a quicker meal option.

Chicken Chimichangas Variations

Feel free to get creative and add your personal touch to these delightful chicken chimichangas!

Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños to the filling for an extra layer of heat and flavor that’ll impress spice lovers.
Vegetarian Swap: Substitute shredded chicken with black beans and sautéed bell peppers for a vibrant vegetarian option that’s equally satisfying.
Beefy Delight: Use shredded beef instead of chicken for a hearty twist that beef lovers will adore. Pair with cheese for a comforting filling.
Cheese Medley: Experiment with a blend of different cheeses like pepper jack or cheddar for unique flavor combinations.
Veggie Boost: Include diced tomatoes, corn, or spinach in the filling to add freshness and nutrition, creating a colorful explosion of flavors!
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh cilantro or green onions with the chicken for an aromatic, herbaceous touch that elevates the overall taste profile.
Crispy Coating: For an extra crunch, coat the chimichangas in breadcrumbs before frying for a delightful texture contrast.
Southwestern Twist: Add a dash of chipotle in adobo sauce to the filling for a smoky flavor that will take you on a culinary adventure.

Chicken Chimichangas Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best chicken for my chimichangas?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and convenience, I recommend using rotisserie chicken. It’s already cooked and super flavorful. If you’re using raw chicken, make sure it’s fresh and of high quality. Look for chicken breasts that are plump and have a mild smell. Avoid any that have dark spots or feel slimy.

How should I store leftover chicken chimichangas?
Very! Store leftover chimichangas in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They are best consumed within 3 days. To reheat, placing them in the oven crisp them up nicely, making sure they are heated through without losing that delightful crunch.

Can I freeze chicken chimichangas?
Definitely! To freeze your chicken chimichangas, first let them cool completely. Then wrap each chimichanga tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake straight from the freezer at 350°F for 25-30 minutes until heated through and crispy.

What if my chimichangas come out soggy?
Oh no! Sogginess can happen if the filling is too wet or the oil isn’t hot enough. To prevent this, make sure to squeeze out excess moisture from ingredients like salsa before mixing with the chicken. Additionally, it’s crucial to heat the oil until it’s shimmering before frying. This creates a beautiful crispy exterior.

Are chicken chimichangas safe for my pets?
Caution is key! While the cooked chicken itself is generally safe, the spices and ingredients such as onions should be avoided as they can be harmful to pets. If you want to share a treat with your furry friends, consider giving them plain, shredded chicken without any seasoning.

Can I substitute ingredients for dietary needs?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider using whole wheat tortillas or swapping the cheeses for dairy-free alternatives. For a vegetarian twist, substitute the chicken with black beans or roasted veggies, and be sure to add extra spices to enhance the flavor. It’s all about making these chicken chimichangas your own!