How To Make The Best Chicken Chimichangas

Can I just say how thrilled I am to finally share this one with you? These Chicken Chimichangas have been a family favorite for years—crispy, golden tortilla wraps stuffed with seasoned chicken, melty cheese, and all the good things. If you’ve never tried a homemade chimichanga, you’re in for a game-changing meal that’s easy enough for weeknights and fun enough for casual get-togethers.

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How To Make The Best Chicken Chimichangas

So what is a chimichanga? Think of it like a deep-fried burrito—filled with everything delicious and wrapped in a crispy, golden shell. Ours starts with shredded chicken tossed in a bold, flavorful sauce, then wrapped in a flour tortilla with cheese, rice, beans, or whatever you’re craving. Fry it until crisp (or bake it if you’re lightening things up), and boom—best dinner ever.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy outside, melty inside – Perfect texture contrast in every bite.
• Endlessly customizable – Use your favorite fillings!
• Make-ahead friendly – Great for prepping and freezing.
• Family-friendly – A total crowd-pleaser with minimal effort.
• Works for oven or air fryer, too!

What Do Chicken Chimichangas Taste Like?

They’re rich, flavorful, and oh-so satisfying. The tortillas crisp up beautifully in the pan or oven, creating the perfect golden shell that gives way to tender chicken, savory spices, and gooey cheese. It’s like a burrito, but better—more texture, more flavor, and more fun.

Benefits of This Recipe

• Budget-friendly – Use leftover chicken or pantry staples.
• Fast weeknight dinner – On the table in under 45 minutes.
• Great for entertaining – Serve with sides and let everyone top their own!
• Freezer friendly – Make a double batch and freeze for later.

Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works great!)
• 1/2 cup salsa (your choice of heat)
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup refried beans or black beans (optional)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese

For the Chimichangas:

• 4–6 large flour tortillas (10-inch)
• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola) OR spray for baking
• Toothpicks (if frying, to secure)

Toppings (optional but highly recommended!):

• Sour cream
• Guacamole
• Pico de gallo
• Chopped lettuce
• Jalapeños
• Hot sauce

Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet or Dutch oven
• Mixing bowl
• Tongs or slotted spoon
• Paper towels
• Baking sheet (if oven baking)
• Air fryer (optional)

Ingredient Swaps & Additions

• Want it spicy? Add diced green chiles or hot salsa to the filling.
• Need dairy-free? Use a vegan cheese alternative and skip sour cream.
• No chicken? Use cooked beef, ground turkey, or a plant-based substitute.
• Gluten-free? Use large gluten-free wraps or corn tortillas and bake them.

How To Make Chicken Chimichangas

Step 1: Make the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, salsa, spices, beans (if using), and cheese. Mix well until evenly combined.

Step 2: Assemble the Chimichangas

Spoon about 1/2 cup of filling into the center of each tortilla. Fold in the sides, then roll tightly like a burrito. Use toothpicks to secure the ends if you’re frying.

Step 3: Fry or Bake

To Fry:
Heat 1–2 inches of oil in a skillet over medium heat until it reaches 350°F. Carefully place chimichangas seam-side down and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.

To Bake:
Preheat oven to 400°F. Place chimichangas seam-side down on a greased baking sheet. Lightly spray with oil. Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until crisp and golden.

To Air Fry:
Preheat air fryer to 380°F. Spray chimichangas lightly with oil. Air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Step 4: Serve

Serve hot, topped with all your favorites—guac, sour cream, salsa, lettuce, hot sauce. You name it.

What to Serve with Chicken Chimichangas

• Mexican rice or cilantro lime rice
• Corn salad or street corn
• Chips & queso or salsa
• A light green salad
• Creamy Italian Meatball Soup – bold and creamy, pairs surprisingly well with Tex-Mex flavors
• Creamy Mushroom Soup – earthy and rich, makes a cozy starter or side
• Mediterranean-Inspired Lemon Dill Chicken Bowls – zesty and light for balance if you’re serving a heavier main

Tips for the Best Chicken Chimichangas

• Use warm tortillas to make rolling easier and prevent cracking.
• Don’t overfill—too much filling = messy fry or bake.
• Secure the edges tightly with toothpicks if frying.
• Let them rest a minute after frying to firm up and cool slightly.
• Make a big batch and freeze unbaked chimichangas for later!

Storage Instructions

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Wrap unbaked chimichangas in foil and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Oven or air fryer works best to maintain crispiness.

General Info About Chimichangas

A chimichanga is essentially a deep-fried burrito, believed to have originated in the Southwest U.S. It’s Tex-Mex comfort food at its finest—crispy on the outside, soft and flavorful inside. Whether baked, fried, or air-fried, these are endlessly adaptable and fun to serve for both weeknights and weekend gatherings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make chimichangas ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking or frying.

Can I freeze them?

Absolutely. Freeze before baking/frying. When ready to cook, bake from frozen at 375°F for 30–35 minutes or air fry for 15–18 minutes.

What cheese is best?

Sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend melt beautifully.

Can I make these vegetarian?

Yes! Use beans, rice, sautéed peppers and onions, and plant-based cheese.

Conclusion

When it comes to comfort food with serious crunch and flavor, Chicken Chimichangas are it. Whether you’re looking for a fun weekend dinner, a crowd-pleasing party food, or a freezer-friendly weeknight win, these deliver every single time. Crispy, melty, flavorful—just pure joy on a plate.

Looking for more crave-worthy recipes to round out the table? Try these:

• Creamy Italian Meatball Soup – hearty, creamy, and perfect for chilly nights
• Creamy Mushroom Soup – silky, savory, and so simple
• Mediterranean-Inspired Lemon Dill Chicken Bowls – a bright and refreshing counterbalance to rich mains

📌 Tried it? Loved it? Show us your crispy creations! Tag your chimichanga magic on Pinterest at TheKitchenJoyy. We love seeing how you make these your own! 🌯✨

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