Crispy Golden Chicken Chimichangas Recipe for Taco Tuesday

Crispy, golden chicken chimichangas dance with flavor on the plate, offering a mouthwatering twist to traditional Mexican cuisine.

Packed with succulent shredded chicken and a blend of zesty spices, these deep-fried delights will transport you straight to culinary bliss.

Every bite promises a perfect harmony of crisp tortilla and tender filling that melts in your mouth.

The aroma of sizzling chicken and melted cheese wafts through the kitchen, promising an irresistible meal.

Preparing these chimichangas is easier than you might expect, with simple ingredients and straightforward steps.

Serve them alongside fresh salsa, cool sour cream, or creamy guacamole for a complete flavor experience.

These chimichangas are sure to become a new favorite that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Calories: 550 kcal

Servings: 3

Everything You Need For Chicken Chimichangas

• Chicken: Lean protein packed with flavor, choose boneless skinless for easy shredding.
• Onion: Aromatic base that adds depth and sweetness to the filling.
• Green Bell Pepper: Crisp vegetable providing texture and mild freshness.
• Garlic: Intense flavor booster that elevates the entire dish.
• Green Chilies: Adds subtle heat and authentic southwestern character.
• Taco Seasoning: Zesty blend that infuses the chicken with vibrant Mexican-inspired taste.
• Chicken Broth: Keeps the filling moist and intensifies overall savory profile.
• Shredded Cheese: Creamy element that melts beautifully and binds ingredients.

• Tortillas: Soft, flexible wrapper that holds the delicious filling, choose flour for classic texture.
• Refried Beans: Optional creamy layer that adds richness and authentic southwestern touch.

• Vegetable Oil: Essential for achieving golden crispy exterior when frying.
• Sour Cream: Cool, tangy topping that balances the dish's warmth.
• Salsa: Bright, fresh condiment that adds zesty moisture.
• Guacamole: Creamy avocado-based topping bringing rich, smooth elements.
• Cilantro: Fresh herb that provides vibrant, clean finish to the dish.

Kitchen Gear For Chicken Chimichangas

• Large Skillet: Perfect for sautéing veggies and cooking chicken filling.
• Sharp Knife: Essential for dicing onions, peppers, and chopping ingredients.
• Cutting Board: Provides a clean surface for chopping and preparing ingredients.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Great for stirring and mixing the chicken filling.
• Tongs: Helps carefully turn and transfer chimichangas while frying.
• Paper Towels: Used to drain excess oil from fried chimichangas.
• Baking Sheet: Needed if using the oven-baked method for crispy chimichangas.
• Toothpicks (optional): Helpful for securing tortilla folds if needed.

Steps To Cook Chicken Chimichangas Easily

• Flavor Foundation

Sizzle onions and peppers in a skillet until they’re soft and fragrant. Add garlic for an extra punch of taste. Toss in shredded chicken and green chilies, sprinkle with zesty seasonings, and let everything mingle together with a splash of broth. Fold in melted cheese for a creamy twist.

• Wrap and Roll

Place a tortilla on your workspace. Layer a scoop of the spicy chicken mixture in the center. Carefully fold the sides over the filling, then roll from the bottom into a neat bundle. Keep the edges tucked tight to prevent any delicious filling from escaping.

• Crispy Transformation

Heat oil in a deep skillet until it’s shimmering hot. Gently slide the wrapped bundles into the oil, turning them until each side becomes a beautiful golden brown. If you prefer a lighter touch, brush the chimichangas with oil and bake in a hot oven until they’re wonderfully crisp.

• Finishing Touches

Pile on cool, creamy toppings like sour cream and fresh salsa. Sprinkle with bright green cilantro for a burst of freshness. Serve immediately while the chimichangas are still crackling hot and irresistibly crunchy.

Tips To Make Chicken Chimichangas Crispy

• Perfect Frying Technique: Ensure oil is at the right temperature (around 350°F) to achieve a crispy golden exterior without burning. Use a food thermometer for precise heating and consistent results.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare chicken filling and assemble chimichangas in advance, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before frying or baking. This method saves time and allows flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Healthier Baking Option: For a lighter version, use an air fryer at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through. Spray chimichangas lightly with cooking spray to help achieve that coveted crispy texture without deep-frying.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Swap regular flour tortillas for gluten-free alternatives made from corn or special gluten-free wheat blends. Ensure all seasonings and additional ingredients are certified gluten-free for those with sensitivity.
• Protein Swap Possibilities: Experiment with different proteins like shredded beef, pulled pork, or even black beans and rice for vegetarian guests. Each alternative brings a unique flavor profile while maintaining the classic chimichanga style.

Ways To Serve Chicken Chimichangas Fresh

• Fiesta of Sides: Pair your crispy chimichangas with mexican-style rice, black beans, or a zesty corn salad for a complete meal that bursts with flavor.
• Dipping Delights: Create a flavor explosion with homemade salsa verde, creamy avocado sauce, or a tangy chipotle ranch dressing that complements the crispy exterior perfectly.
• Garnish Galore: Sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro, crumbled queso fresco, or sliced green onions on top to add a pop of color and extra layer of freshness that elevates the entire dish.
• Beverage Companions: Serve alongside an ice-cold margarita, refreshing horchata, or a crisp Mexican beer to balance the rich, crispy chimichangas and complete your culinary experience.

How To Store Chicken Chimichangas Neatly

• Smart Refrigeration Strategy: Store chicken chimichangas in an airtight container within the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Keep them separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking and maintain crispy texture.
• Freezing Flash Technique: Wrap individual chimichangas tightly in aluminum foil, then place inside freezer-safe bags. Freeze for maximum 2 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating Rescue Plan: Restore crispiness by using oven method at 375°F for 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwave to prevent soggy texture. Lightly brush with oil before reheating to reinvigorate exterior crunch.
• Ingredient Freshness Hack: Separate wet and dry toppings when storing. Keep sour cream, salsa, and guacamole in sealed containers in refrigerator. Add fresh cilantro right before serving to maintain maximum flavor and color vibrancy.

Crispy Chicken Chimichangas Recipe

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4.6 from 27 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 3 1x

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Description

Mexican chicken chimichangas deliver a crispy, golden-brown delight packed with seasoned meat and melted cheese. Served with zesty salsa and sour cream, these authentic treats will transport you to the heart of Mexico’s culinary landscape.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups (450 g / 1 lb) cooked, shredded chicken
• 8 large flour tortillas
• 1 cup (120 g / 4 oz) shredded cheddar or monterey jack cheese
• 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) refried beans (optional)
• ½ cup (120 ml / 4 fl oz) chicken broth
• 1 tbsp taco seasoning
• 1 can (4 oz / 113 g) diced green chilies
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• Sour cream
• Salsa
• Guacamole
• Chopped fresh cilantro

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Instructions

1. Vegetable Foundation: In a skillet, sauté onions and bell peppers with olive oil until they become translucent and release their aromatic essence. Introduce minced garlic, allowing it to infuse the mixture with its robust flavor.
2. Flavor Infusion: Add shredded chicken, green chilies, and taco seasoning to the vegetable base. Pour chicken broth and simmer until the ingredients create a cohesive, moisture-rich filling. Incorporate shredded cheese, stirring until it melts and binds the mixture with creamy texture.
3. Assembly Technique: Spread a thin layer of refried beans on each tortilla as a flavor foundation. Spoon the chicken mixture into the center, carefully folding and rolling to create a secure, compact packet that prevents filling from escaping.
4. Cooking Method: Choose between two preparation techniques – deep frying or oven roasting. For frying, heat vegetable oil in a heavy skillet until it reaches optimal temperature. Carefully lower chimichangas seam-side down, rotating to achieve an even, golden-brown exterior. Alternatively, for a healthier option, arrange on a baking sheet, brush with oil, and roast in a preheated oven until crisp and golden.
5. Serving Presentation: Transfer chimichangas to a serving platter. Embellish with generous dollops of sour cream, vibrant salsa, creamy guacamole, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Serve immediately to preserve the perfect crispy texture and warmth.

Notes

• Prevent Soggy Bottoms: Pat chicken dry before sautéing to remove excess moisture, ensuring a crisp texture when frying or baking chimichangas.
• Oil Temperature Control: Maintain oil at 350-375°F for perfect golden-brown crispiness without burning the tortilla exterior.
• Sealing Technique: Use a small amount of water or beaten egg along tortilla edges to create a tight seal and prevent filling from leaking during cooking.
• Healthier Cooking Option: Swap deep-frying with air fryer or oven-baking method to reduce oil content while maintaining a crispy exterior, ideal for health-conscious diners.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 3
• Calories: 550
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 80mg