Baked Chicken Chimichangas: 7 Irresistible Flavor Hacks

Name: Baked Chicken Chimichangas: 7 Irresistible Flavor Hacks
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked shredded chicken; 1 cup shredded cheese; 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained; 1/2 cup corn; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 4 large flour tortillas; 1/4 cup salsa; Cooking spray

octobre 15, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Oh boy, let me tell you about my love for baked chicken chimichangas! These tasty little bundles are not only a fun twist on the classic fried version, but they’re also a healthier option that doesn’t skimp on flavor. I remember the first time I made them; I was trying to impress some friends for a game night, and I thought, « Why not create something delicious that I won’t regret later? » And wow, did I hit the jackpot! The aroma filling my kitchen as they baked was pure magic.

With a filling of tender chicken, gooey cheese, and a hint of spices, these baked chicken chimichangas are a crowd-pleaser that everyone can enjoy. Plus, they’re super customizable, so you can really make them your own! Trust me, there’s something so satisfying about biting into that crisp tortilla and finding all those delicious flavors waiting inside. So, let’s dive into how to make your own batch of these delightful chimichangas!

Ingredients for Baked Chicken Chimichangas

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making these baked chicken chimichangas absolutely delicious! Here’s what you’ll need:

2 cups cooked shredded chicken: You can use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken for convenience—whatever works best for you!
1 cup shredded cheese: I love using a blend of Mexican cheeses for a melty, flavorful filling.
1/2 cup black beans: Make sure to rinse and drain them well; they add a nice texture and protein boost!
1/2 cup corn: Fresh, frozen, or canned—whatever you have on hand will do just fine.
1 teaspoon cumin: This spice brings a warm, earthy flavor that really ties everything together.
1 teaspoon chili powder: Adds a little kick, so adjust based on your spice preference!
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: A must for that savory punch.
1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the overall depth of flavor.
4 large flour tortillas: Choose the size that suits your appetite; they’re the perfect wrap for all that goodness!
1/4 cup salsa: This adds moisture and a burst of flavor—don’t skip it!
Cooking spray: A light coating helps achieve that golden, crispy exterior.

How to Prepare Baked Chicken Chimichangas

Preheat the Oven

First things first, let’s get that oven preheating! Set it to 375°F (190°C). Preheating is super important because it ensures your chimichangas bake evenly and get that beautiful golden color we all love. Trust me, the smell of them baking will have everyone in your house wandering into the kitchen!

Prepare the Filling

Now, onto the fun part—making the filling! In a large mixing bowl, combine your cooked shredded chicken, shredded cheese, black beans, corn, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and salsa. Use a fork or a spatula to mix everything together until it’s well combined. You want that cheesy goodness and spices evenly distributed throughout. Take a moment to taste the mixture; it should be bursting with flavor! If you want a little extra kick, feel free to adjust the spices to your liking.

Assemble the Chimichangas

Time to wrap those delicious fillings in tortillas! Take a large flour tortilla and spoon about a generous 1/4 cup of the filling onto the center. The key here is to fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling, then roll it up tightly from the bottom to the top. Don’t worry if it looks a bit messy; the real magic happens in the oven! Just make sure to place the chimichangas seam side down on your baking sheet, so they hold their shape while baking.

Baking Process

With all your chimichangas assembled, it’s time to bake! Place them on a lightly greased baking sheet, making sure they’re spaced apart to allow for even cooking. Give the tops a light spray of cooking spray—this will help them get that crispy, golden-brown finish. Pop them in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you’ll know they’re ready when they’re beautifully golden and crisp. Ooh, can you smell that? Delicious!

Nutritional Information

Before diving into these mouthwatering baked chicken chimichangas, it’s good to know what you’re getting! Each chimichanga is packed with protein and flavor, making it a satisfying meal. Here’s a breakdown of the nutrition per serving:

Serving Size: 1 chimichanga
Calories: 350
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 5g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 75mg

Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the ingredients and brands you use, so they’re not set in stone. Feel free to customize your chimichangas with different fillings or toppings, but just remember that the nutritional info will change accordingly! Enjoy every bite without a worry!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Healthier Alternative: These baked chicken chimichangas give you all the flavor of the fried version but with a lot less guilt. Plus, you can feel good about the ingredients!
Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to go. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something quick!
Customizable Filling: The filling is totally up to you! Swap in your favorite beans, toss in some veggies, or switch up the spices to match your taste.
Great for Meal Prep: These chimichangas can be made ahead of time and are perfect for freezing. Just bake them when you’re ready for a tasty meal!
Family-Friendly: They’re a hit with kids and adults alike! Serve them with a side of salsa or guacamole, and watch everyone come back for seconds.

Tips for Success

Alright, my friends, let’s make sure your baked chicken chimichangas turn out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my favorite tips to help you nail this recipe:

Don’t Overfill: It’s tempting to pack in all that delicious filling, but trust me, a little goes a long way! If you overfill the tortillas, they may burst open while baking. Stick to about 1/4 cup of filling per chimichanga for best results.
Seal Them Well: Make sure to tuck in the sides and roll them up tightly. If they’re not sealed well, the filling can leak out during baking. We want all that goodness inside, right?
Adjust the Spices: Everyone has different spice tolerances, so taste your filling mixture before rolling it up. If you love heat, add more chili powder or some diced jalapeños for a kick!
Use Parchment Paper: If you want an even easier cleanup, line your baking sheet with parchment paper before placing the chimichangas on it. This way, they won’t stick, and clean-up will be a breeze!
Let Them Rest: Once they come out of the oven, let the chimichangas cool for a few minutes before digging in. This helps the filling set a little and will prevent that delicious cheese from burning your mouth!
Experiment with Toppings: When it’s time to serve, don’t hold back on the toppings! Fresh guacamole, sour cream, or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro can elevate your baked chicken chimichangas to a whole new level.

With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to making perfect baked chicken chimichangas every time. Happy cooking, and enjoy every crispy, cheesy bite!

Variations of Baked Chicken Chimichangas

One of the best things about baked chicken chimichangas is how versatile they are! You can switch up the fillings and flavors to suit your taste or whatever you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

Spicy Chicken Chimichangas: Add some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the filling for an extra kick. You’ll be amazed at how much heat can elevate the flavor!
Vegetarian Option: Swap out the chicken for a mix of sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms. Toss in some black beans and corn for a filling that’s just as satisfying without the meat.
Tex-Mex Twist: Incorporate some cooked quinoa or brown rice into the filling for added texture and health benefits. You can also mix in some taco seasoning for a flavor boost!
Cheesy Fiesta: Experiment with different cheeses! Try pepper jack for a spicy kick or some crumbled queso for a unique twist. You can never have too much cheese, right?
BBQ Chicken Chimichangas: Mix shredded chicken with your favorite barbecue sauce instead of salsa for a smoky, sweet flavor. Serve with ranch dressing for dipping—yum!
Breakfast Chimichangas: Use scrambled eggs, breakfast sausage, and cheese for a hearty breakfast version. These are perfect for brunch or meal prep for busy mornings!

Feel free to mix and match these ideas, or even come up with your own creative combinations! The possibilities are endless, and that’s what makes these baked chicken chimichangas so much fun to make. Enjoy experimenting in the kitchen!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve whipped up a batch of delicious baked chicken chimichangas, it’s time to think about how to make your meal even more delightful! Here are some of my favorite serving suggestions that will take your dinner to the next level:

Fresh Salsa: A classic and refreshing choice! Serve your chimichangas with a side of homemade or store-bought salsa. The bright, zesty flavors really complement the savory filling.
Guacamole: You can’t go wrong with creamy guacamole! It adds a rich, buttery texture that pairs perfectly with the crispy chimichangas. Plus, who doesn’t love a good scoop of guac?
Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream on top drizzles perfectly over the chimichangas, cooling down any spices and adding a nice creaminess. It’s a must-have for me!
Mexican Street Corn: This sweet and savory corn dish is a fantastic side. With flavors of lime, cheese, and spices, it’s a vibrant addition that will have everyone raving.
Rice and Beans: Serve your chimichangas with a side of seasoned rice and black beans for a complete meal. It’s hearty, filling, and oh-so-satisfying!
Side Salad: A simple green salad with a zesty lime vinaigrette can add a refreshing crunch to your plate. Add some cherry tomatoes, avocado, and cilantro for an extra pop of flavor.
Pico de Gallo: Fresh pico de gallo is another fantastic topping! It’s bright, fresh, and adds a nice crunch that contrasts beautifully with the warm, cheesy chimichangas.

Feel free to mix and match these suggestions to create the perfect meal. With all these tasty options, your baked chicken chimichangas are bound to be a hit at the dinner table! Enjoy every bite and happy feasting!

FAQ About Baked Chicken Chimichangas

Can I make baked chicken chimichangas ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble them ahead of time, cover them tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they’re coming straight from the fridge!

What can I substitute for the chicken?
If you’re looking for a different protein option, shredded beef or pork works great too! For a vegetarian twist, try using a mix of beans, lentils, or sautéed veggies instead of chicken. The flavors will still shine through!

How do I reheat leftover chimichangas?
To reheat, I recommend using the oven for the best results. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C), place the chimichangas on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until they’re warmed through. This keeps them nice and crispy!

Can I freeze baked chicken chimichangas?
Yes, you can! After baking, let them cool completely, then wrap each chimichanga tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just pop them in the oven from frozen and bake until heated through!

What are some good toppings for chimichangas?
The options are endless! I love topping mine with fresh guacamole, sour cream, or a drizzle of zesty salsa. You can also add shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, or even a sprinkle of cheese on top for extra flavor. Get creative!

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Sur moi

Bonjour, je m'appelle Julia, je suis le cœur de Vihaad Recettes et une passionnée de bonne cuisine. Mon amour pour la cuisine a commencé dans mon enfance, inspirée par les délicieux repas de ma grand-mère. Aujourd'hui, je partage des recettes savoureuses qui rassemblent les gens à travers le plaisir de manger ensemble.