Easy 30-Minute Chicken Chimichanga Recipe
Delight in the flavors of my Easy 30-Minute Chicken Chimichanga Recipe. These baked burritos are stuffed with tender chicken, melty cheese, and mild chilies, making them perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Not only are they quick to prepare, but they also deliver a satisfying crunch and comforting warmth that will please any crowd.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Flavor Packed: The combination of chicken, cheese, and spices creates a delicious burst of flavor in every bite.
- Versatile Meal: Perfect for dinner, lunch, or even a party appetizer. You can customize the fillings to suit your taste.
- Baked Instead of Fried: Enjoy all the crispy goodness without the guilt of frying, thanks to the oven-baking method.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love these chimichangas, making them a hit at the dinner table.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making your chimichangas, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Large saucepan
- Mixing bowl
- Forks or hands (for shredding chicken)
- Brush (for butter)
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking your chimichangas to a perfect golden brown.
- Large saucepan: Essential for boiling chicken quickly and efficiently.
- Mixing bowl: Allows for easy combining of ingredients, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Filling
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (cooked & shredded)
- 1 cup Monterey Jack Cheese (shredded)
- 4 oz. mild chiles (diced)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup Mexican White Sauce
For Assembly
- 6 flour tortillas
- butter (for brushing)
- salsa (for serving)
How to Make Easy 30-Minute Chicken Chimichanga Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F. While it’s heating up, prepare your chicken.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Fill a large saucepan halfway with water and bring it to a boil.
- Add the chicken breasts and cook on medium heat until no longer pink inside.
- Drain the water and let the chicken cool before shredding it into small pieces using forks or your hands.
Step 3: Warm the Tortillas
Warm each tortilla on top of the stove for a few seconds. This makes them soft and flexible, allowing for easier rolling.
Step 4: Mix Filling Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, ground cumin, Monterey Jack cheese, diced chiles, Mexican White Sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
Step 5: Assemble Chimichangas
- Place about 1/2 cup of the filling mixture in the center of each tortilla.
- Fold in the sides first and then roll up from the bottom to create chimichangas.
Step 6: Bake Chimichangas
Brush each chimichanga with butter on top. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes or until they turn golden brown.
Step 7: Serve
Serve warm with leftover Mexican White Sauce or alongside salsa for dipping. Enjoy this easy meal with family or friends!
How to Serve Easy 30-Minute Chicken Chimichanga Recipe
Serving your Easy 30-Minute Chicken Chimichanga Recipe can elevate the dining experience. Here are some delicious ideas to complement your chimichangas and make your meal even more enjoyable.
Fresh Salsa
- A zesty and fresh salsa adds a burst of flavor. Choose from tomato-based or fruit salsa varieties for a refreshing contrast.
Guacamole
- Creamy guacamole is a classic pairing. Its rich texture balances the crispy chimichangas beautifully.
Sour Cream
- A dollop of sour cream provides a cooling effect, enhancing the overall taste and richness of each bite.
Cabbage Salad
- A crunchy cabbage salad offers a light and crisp contrast. Toss in some lime juice for added zest.
Mexican Rice
- Flavorful Mexican rice makes a hearty side that complements the flavors in the chimichangas perfectly.
Refried Beans
- Creamy refried beans are a satisfying addition, providing protein and fiber to round out your meal.
How to Perfect Easy 30-Minute Chicken Chimichanga Recipe
To achieve the best results with your Easy 30-Minute Chicken Chimichanga Recipe, follow these helpful tips.
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Use fresh ingredients: Fresh chicken, cheese, and vegetables enhance flavor and texture, making your chimichangas more delicious.
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Warm tortillas properly: Warming the tortillas makes them pliable and easier to roll without tearing, ensuring better presentation.
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Don’t overfill: Avoid overfilling the tortillas to prevent spills while baking. A half-cup of filling per tortilla works best.
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Brush with butter: Brushing the chimichangas with butter before baking adds a golden color and enhances crispiness.
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Bake until golden: Baking them until they turn golden ensures that they are crispy on the outside while remaining soft inside.
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Experiment with spices: Feel free to add more spices or herbs to customize the flavor profile according to your taste preferences.
Best Side Dishes for Easy 30-Minute Chicken Chimichanga Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Easy 30-Minute Chicken Chimichanga Recipe can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options.
- Spanish Rice – Flavored with tomatoes and spices, this dish adds an extra layer of taste that complements the chimichangas.
- Black Beans – Rich in protein, black beans are nutritious and pair wonderfully with chicken flavors.
- Corn Salad – A light corn salad mixed with avocado and lime brings freshness to your plate.
- Zucchini Fritters – Crispy zucchini fritters provide a fun crunch alongside your savory chimichangas.
- Pico de Gallo – This fresh salsa made from chopped tomatoes, onions, and cilantro gives a bright, zesty kick.
- Chips and Salsa – Crunchy tortilla chips served with salsa make for a fun appetizer before enjoying your main dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making chimichangas can be simple, but certain mistakes can lead to disappointing results. Here are common pitfalls and how to avoid them:
- Incorrect Tortilla Size: Using tortillas that are too small can make it difficult to wrap your chimichangas properly. Opt for larger flour tortillas for easier folding.
- Overfilling the Chimichangas: Adding too much filling will make it hard to seal the chimichangas. Stick to 1/2 cup of the chicken mixture per tortilla for best results.
- Skipping the Softening Step: Failing to warm the tortillas can lead to tearing and cracking. Warm them briefly on the stove before filling to ensure they are pliable.
- Not Preheating the Oven: Baking in a non-preheated oven can result in uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to 400F before baking your chimichangas.
- Ignoring Cooking Time: Baking for too long or not long enough can affect texture and flavor. Aim for 15-20 minutes until golden brown for optimal crispiness.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store any leftover chimichangas in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Easy 30-Minute Chicken Chimichanga Recipe
- Wrap each chimichanga tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Easy 30-Minute Chicken Chimichanga Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350F and bake for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat on high for about 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, flipping occasionally until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about this recipe that may help you further:
What is a Chicken Chimichanga?
A chicken chimichanga is a deep-fried or baked burrito filled with chicken, cheese, and sometimes beans or vegetables, wrapped in a flour tortilla.
How Do I Make Easy 30-Minute Chicken Chimichanga Recipe Healthier?
You can use whole wheat tortillas instead of regular ones and reduce cheese or substitute with low-fat options.
Can I Customize the Filling?
Absolutely! You can add ingredients like black beans, corn, or different cheeses based on your preferences.
How Long Does It Take To Prepare?
This easy recipe takes only about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a quick meal.
Final Thoughts
The Easy 30-Minute Chicken Chimichanga Recipe is not only quick but also versatile. You can customize it with various fillings and sauces, making it perfect for any occasion. Give this tasty dish a try; it’s sure to delight your family and friends!
Easy 30-Minute Chicken Chimichanga Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of this Easy 30-Minute Chicken Chimichanga Recipe! These baked burritos are filled with tender shredded chicken, gooey Monterey Jack cheese, and zesty mild chilies, making them an ideal choice for quick weeknight dinners or casual get-togethers. With just 30 minutes from prep to table, you can enjoy a satisfying crunch and comforting warmth that will impress family and friends alike. Plus, they’re baked instead of fried, offering a healthier twist on this classic Mexican dish. Customize the fillings to your taste for a truly personal touch!
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (cooked & shredded)
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese (shredded)
- 4 oz. mild chiles (diced)
- 6 flour tortillas
- Butter (for brushing)
- Salsa (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- Boil chicken in a large saucepan until cooked through, then shred.
- Warm tortillas briefly on the stove for flexibility.
- In a bowl, mix shredded chicken, cheese, chiles, and spices until combined.
- Fill each tortilla with the mixture, fold sides in, and roll up tightly.
- Brush with butter and place on a baking sheet; bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve warm with salsa.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chimichanga (approx. 180g)
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
