Oh boy, do I have a treat for you today! Let me tell you about my all-time favorite way to enjoy chicken – delicious Chicken Chimichangas! Growing up, my family had our fair share of Mexican feasts, and this dish always stole the spotlight. I can still remember the aroma wafting through the kitchen and the excitement building as we crowded around the table, diving into these crispy, golden beauties. Trust me, you’ll want to invite your friends and family over when you whip these up – they’ll think you’re a culinary genius!
What I love about chimichangas is how versatile they are. You can load them up with your favorite fillings – add some peppers, beans, or even take a walk on the wild side and throw in some jalapeños for a spicy kick! They make for a perfect weeknight dinner or a fantastic party dish. So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into this crispy, cheesy goodness!
What’s in Delicious Chicken Chimichangas?
Cooked Chicken: Shredded chicken is the star of this dish! It brings a hearty texture and protein punch. I usually just use leftover rotisserie chicken to save some time, but any cooked chicken works great!
Refried Beans: These creamy beans provide a delicious base that holds everything together while adding richness. I like to use the low-fat variety to keep things a bit lighter.
Shredded Cheese: My favorite part! You can’t go wrong with cheddar or Monterey Jack for that melty goodness. Just be sure to use a good quality cheese for maximum flavor.
Salsa: Think of salsa as the zesty royalty of this dish! It adds moisture and flavor. I prefer mild salsa for the kiddos but feel free to crank it up with a spicier variety if you like some heat.
Spices (Chili Powder & Cumin): These spices will kick your chimichangas up a notch. They bring warmth and depth to the filling, making each bite incredibly satisfying.
Flour Tortillas: Large tortillas make wrapping your chimichangas easy-peasy! Make sure you get the right size so you don’t end up with a messy situation.
Oil for Frying: This is what turns these chimichangas into crispy delights! I usually use vegetable oil, but you can experiment with others like canola or peanut oil.
Garnishes: We can’t forget the fun stuff! Fresh chopped cilantro adds a bright note, and sour cream or additional salsa serves as the perfect dipping accompaniments.
Is Chicken Chimichangas Good for You?
Now, let’s talk about health for a minute because I know you’re all wondering. Chicken chimichangas can definitely fit into a balanced diet, but they do pack a calorie punch due to the frying.
Cooked Chicken: Loaded with protein, it supports muscle health and satiety.
Refried Beans: A great source of fiber, refried beans can aid digestion and keep you full longer. They contribute to heart health too!
Cheese: While it adds flavor, cheese is also high in calcium. Just watch the portion sizes to keep saturated fats in check.
The combination of these ingredients makes the chimichangas filling, but if you’re worried about the fried aspect, you can always bake them instead! It’ll still be delicious but with a lighter touch.
Ingredients
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 1 cup refried beans
– 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
– 1/2 cup salsa
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 large flour tortillas
– Oil for frying
– Chopped cilantro for garnish
– Sour cream for serving
– Additional salsa for serving
Servings: 4-6
How to Make Delicious Chicken Chimichangas?
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, refried beans, shredded cheese, salsa, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well until combined. It should be a deliciously gooey mixture!
2. Warm the tortillas slightly in the microwave or on a skillet to make them easier to roll without tearing.
3. Place about 1/3 cup of the chicken mixture in the center of each tortilla. Fold in the sides and roll tightly to enclose the filling. Don’t be shy – make sure they’re snug!
4. Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat for frying. You want it hot enough that a little drop of water sizzles when it hits the oil.
5. Carefully place the chimichangas in the hot oil, seam side down. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes on each side. Work in batches if necessary to avoid crowding.
6. Once cooked, transfer the chimichangas to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. The paper towel is your best friend here!
7. Serve warm, garnished with chopped cilantro, alongside sour cream and additional salsa on the side for dipping. Dive in and enjoy the crispiness!
Extra Crispy Tips and Serving Suggestions!
– If you like extra crisp, consider brushing the chimichangas with a little oil before frying.
– You can also bake these for a healthier alternative! Just brush them with oil and bake at 375°F for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown, flipping halfway.
– Try adding other goodies into your filling, like black olives, corn, or chopped jalapeños for a twist.
– For a fun twist, serve with guacamole or a creamy chipotle sauce on the side.
I hope you find as much joy in making and eating Chicken Chimichangas as I do! They’re perfect for gatherings or just a cozy night in. Let me know how they turn out for you, or share your own twists on this delightful dish! Happy cooking!
