Chimichangas(Oven-Baked)
Oven-baked chimichangas with tender chicken or beef, melted cheese, and flavorful spices, perfect for a crispy, satisfying Mexican-inspired meal suitable for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cooked chicken or ground beef, salsa, green onions, cumin, oregano, and salt in a saucepan.
- Simmer until the meat liquid is gone, about 5 minutes.
- Butter one side of each flour tortilla.
- Spoon about 1/3 cup of the mixture onto the unbuttered side of a tortilla.
- Top with 2 tablespoons of cheese.
- Fold two sides over the filling and then fold the ends down to close the chimichanga.
- Place seam-side down in a 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking dish.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 475°F for about 15 minutes, until crisp and golden brown.
- Serve topped with guacamole, sour cream, salsa, or your preferred toppings.
Tips & Substitutions
For a healthier version, consider using ground turkey or black beans instead of beef. You can also swap out the flour tortillas for whole wheat or corn tortillas. If you're short on time, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is an excellent shortcut. Ensure the filling is not too wet to prevent soggy chimichangas. For added flavor, try mixing in some chopped jalapeños or bell peppers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your chimichangas with a side of guacamole, sour cream, or salsa for dipping. They pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or a side of Black Bean And Lime Dip for an extra zing. For a complete meal, consider serving them alongside rice or beans. Enjoy with a refreshing drink like iced tea or a margarita.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover chimichangas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy. For quick reheating, you can also use a microwave, but the texture may not be as crisp.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chimichangas(Oven-Baked) contains roughly 2539 calories, with 33g protein, 106g carbohydrates, and 237g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), calcium (154% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (121% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2125mg per serving (92% 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 filling and assemble the chimichangas a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator, covered tightly, and bake them just before serving. This makes for a convenient, quick dinner option. Make sure to adjust the baking time if they are cold from the fridge.
Can I freeze chimichangas?
Absolutely! You can freeze assembled but unbaked chimichangas. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, bake from frozen, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time, until they are golden and crispy.
What can I use instead of chicken or beef?
For a vegetarian option, consider using sautéed vegetables, black beans, or quinoa as the filling. You can also experiment with shredded cheese or a combination of your favorite beans and grains. This allows you to create a delicious dish while catering to different dietary preferences.
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).