Easy Baked Chicken Chimichangas

Easy Baked Chicken Chimichangas: A Cozy Recipe for Any Night

As the sun sets on a cool evening, I often find myself reminiscing about warm, comforting meals that not only nourish the body but also the soul. One such dish that brings me all the cozy vibes is my Easy Baked Chicken Chimichangas. Imagine crisp golden tortillas hugged tightly around a creamy filling of savory chicken, zesty salsa, and melted cheese. The aroma that wafts through your kitchen as they bake is nothing short of magical.

These baked chimichangas are perfect for a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. They come together quickly, making them an ideal choice for an easy weeknight dinner that will please everyone at the table. Trust me, this is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Ideal for family dinners or gatherings; everyone loves a good chimichanga!
• Customizable: Tailor the filling to your taste—add your favorite beans or peppers for a zesty twist.
• Baked, Not Fried: Enjoy the crispiness of fried chimichangas without the added calories from frying.
• Freezable: Make a batch ahead of time and freeze them for a convenient meal on a busy night.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Easy Baked Chicken Chimichangas

To create this delightful dish, gather the following simple ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (see notes)
• 1 1/3 cup refried beans
• 1 1/3 cup salsa (your favorite kind)
• 2 teaspoons coriander (optional)
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese
• 6 sliced green onions
• 2-3 jalapeños (diced with seeds, remove seeds for no spice)
• 3 tablespoons butter (melted)
• 6-8 taco-sized flour tortillas (8-inches)

How to Make Easy Baked Chicken Chimichangas

Let’s make it together! Follow these comforting steps to whip up your chimichangas:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F. The anticipation of a warm, cheesy comfort food begins!

2. In a large bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, refried beans, salsa, coriander (if using), chili powder, shredded cheese, green onions, and diced jalapeños. This mixture is like a hug in a bowl!

3. Take a tortilla and spoon some filling into the center—don’t overdo it! You should easily roll it without bursting the seams.

4. Fold the bottom edge of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll tightly into a burrito shape.

5. Place the chimichangas seam-side down on a large baking sheet. Give them a generous brush of melted butter on the tops for that perfect golden finish.

6. Bake for 15 minutes, then carefully flip them and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and crispy.

7. Let the chimichangas cool slightly for 5-10 minutes before serving. They’re simply delightful with your favorite toppings such as sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or pico de gallo.

Variations & Creative Twists

Feel free to get creative with your Easy Baked Chicken Chimichangas! Here are some delicious ideas to customize:

• Fiesta Style: Add black beans and corn to the filling for a colorful, zesty flavor burst.
• Creamy Avocado: Mix mashed avocado into the filling for an indulgent, creamy texture and flavor.
• Breakfast Chimichangas: Swap in scrambled eggs, cheese, and diced bell peppers for a delightful breakfast twist.
• Cheesy Spinach: Stir in some fresh or frozen spinach with an extra layer of cheese for a vegetable-packed version.

Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips

Here are some of my tried-and-true tips to ensure your chimichangas turn out perfectly:

• Make-Ahead: Assemble the chimichangas in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. They can be made up to 24 hours in advance.
• Freezing: After baking, let them cool completely and freeze in a zip-top bag. They can be reheated in the oven for a quick meal on a busy night.
• Ingredient Swaps: Don’t have refried beans? Black beans or pinto beans work well too! The same goes for cheese; feel free to swap in your favorites.
• Slicing Jalapeños: If you prefer less heat, be sure to remove the seeds and membranes when dicing the jalapeños.

Nutrition Information per Serving

Here’s what you’ll find inside each delicious chimichanga:

• Serving Size: 1 chimichanga
• Calories: 300
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Sugar: 2g
• Fat: 15g
• Protein: 15g
• Sodium: 600mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Easy Baked Chicken Chimichangas:

• Can I make this ahead? Yes! Assemble and keep them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
• Can I use different ingredients? Absolutely! Feel free to swap out your protein or use different beans and veggies.
• How do I store leftovers? Store leftover chimichangas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• How long does it last? Frozen chimichangas can last up to 3 months; just reheat in the oven until heated through.

Wrapping It Up

In a world that often feels fast-paced and chaotic, taking the time to sit down and enjoy a homemade meal can be so grounding. These Easy Baked Chicken Chimichangas are not just a meal—they’re a moment of warmth and comfort for both the cook and those gathered around the table. So whether you’re enjoying them with family or hosting a casual gathering, they’ll surely bring smiles and happy bellies.

Save this Easy Baked Chicken Chimichangas to your comfort food board so it’s ready when you need a cozy treat!