Baked Chicken Chimichangas

Craving crispy, golden chimichangas but want a healthier option? These Baked Chicken Chimichangas are the perfect answer! Packed with tender shredded chicken, flavorful spices, and melty cheese, these chimichangas are oven-baked until crispy—no deep frying needed. They make a delicious weeknight meal that’s easy, satisfying, and better for you!

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Why You’ll Love These Baked Chicken Chimichangas

• Crispy Without Frying – Get that classic crunch without the extra oil.
• Packed with Flavor – A mix of spices and melty cheese makes every bite irresistible.
• Easy and Quick – Simple ingredients and an easy baking method make this a go-to meal.
• Great for Meal Prep – Make a batch and freeze some for later!

Ingredients for Baked Chicken Chimichangas

To make these crispy, cheesy chimichangas, you’ll need:

• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great!)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend)
• 1/2 cup salsa
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 6 large flour tortillas
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (or cooking spray for crispiness)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Pastry brush (for brushing butter)
• Aluminum foil (for easy cleanup)

How to Make Baked Chicken Chimichangas

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, cheese, salsa, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.

Step 3: Assemble the Chimichangas

Lay out a tortilla and spoon about 1/3 cup of the chicken mixture into the center. Fold in the sides, then roll the tortilla tightly like a burrito, securing the filling inside. Place seam-side down on the baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.

Step 4: Bake Until Crispy

Brush the tops of the chimichangas with melted butter or spray lightly with cooking spray. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Serve warm with your favorite toppings like sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or fresh cilantro!

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with Mexican rice and black beans for a complete meal.
• Serve with a side of fresh salad and a drizzle of lime dressing.
• Top with extra shredded cheese and a dollop of Greek yogurt for a healthier touch.

Notes

• Make it spicier: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for extra heat.
• Switch up the protein: Try using shredded beef or turkey instead of chicken.
• Make it vegetarian: Swap the chicken for black beans, sautéed peppers, and corn.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to keep them crispy.
Freeze: Wrap each baked chimichanga individually in foil and store in a freezer bag. Reheat directly from frozen in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 20-25 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
A: Flour tortillas work best for baking because they crisp up better, but you can use corn tortillas if you prefer. Just warm them before rolling to prevent cracking.

Q2: Can I air fry these instead of baking?
A: Yes! Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Q3: What can I serve with chimichangas?
A: These go great with refried beans, Spanish rice, or a fresh avocado salad.

Conclusion: A Crispy, Flavorful Favorite!

These Baked Chicken Chimichangas are the perfect way to enjoy a crispy, delicious meal without all the extra oil. They’re easy to make, full of bold flavors, and great for both family dinners and meal prepping. Try them out, and they’ll quickly become a new favorite in your home!

Did you make this recipe? Don’t forget to leave a review and share your photos with us on Pinterest! We love seeing your homemade creations.

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 350 | Protein: 28g | Carbohydrates: 32g | Fat: 12g | Fiber: 3g | Sodium: 600mg

Enjoy every bite of these crispy, cheesy, and flavorful chimichangas!

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