Chimichanga Dish
A hearty baked dish featuring flavorful beef or chicken chimichangas topped with beans, cheese, onions, black olives, and salsa, perfect for satisfying gatherings and casual dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the chimichangas in a baking dish.
- Heat the refried beans and chili together and pour over the chimichangas.
- Layer grated cheese, chopped onions, black olives, and salsa on top.
- Bake for 30 minutes at 450°F or until bubbly hot.
- Serve with sour cream and tortilla chips.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider using shredded rotisserie chicken instead of cooked beef or chicken. If you want a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños to the topping layer. You can also substitute black olives with sliced green olives or omit them entirely if preferred. If you're short on time, use store-bought salsa or even a jar of your favorite Mexican-style sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chimichangas hot, garnished with sour cream and fresh cilantro for added flavor. Pair with tortilla chips and a side of guacamole or a fresh salad for a complete meal. This dish pairs beautifully with Chicken And Green Chili Enchiladas for a fun Mexican feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them on a microwave-safe plate for 1-2 minutes, but the oven method will keep the chimichangas crispier.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chimichanga Dish contains roughly 330 calories, with 16g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (32% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1560mg per serving (68% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these chimichangas ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chimichangas and assemble them up to a day in advance. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. This helps the flavors meld together, making for a delicious meal when baked.
What can I use instead of refried beans?
If you don't have refried beans, you can use black beans or pinto beans. Simply mash them slightly before layering on the chimichangas. This will still provide a creamy texture without compromising the dish's flavor.
Can I freeze the chimichangas?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled chimichangas before baking. Wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, bake from frozen at 450°F for about 45-50 minutes or until heated through.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).