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Crispy Baked Chicken Chimichangas for Quick Weeknight Dinners

Close-up of two crispy, golden-brown chimichangas, one cut open showing shredded chicken and melted cheese filling.
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Make these simple, crispy baked chicken chimichangas. Filled with seasoned chicken and cheese, they are a satisfying Tex-Mex favorite ready fast for your busy weeknights.

Ingredients

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  • 8 medium flour tortillas
  • 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1/2 cup salsa (mild or medium)
  • 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Cooking spray or 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, fresh cilantro

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray a baking sheet with cooking spray.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken, Monterey Jack cheese, salsa, softened cream cheese, chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder. Mix until the filling is evenly combined.
  3. Warm the tortillas briefly in the microwave (about 15-20 seconds) to make them pliable. This prevents tearing when rolling.
  4. Place about 1/4 cup of the filling mixture near the edge of one tortilla.
  5. Fold the sides of the tortilla inward over the filling. Then, tightly roll the tortilla up like a burrito. Secure the seam with a toothpick if necessary.
  6. Place the rolled chimichanga seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
  7. Lightly spray the tops of the chimichangas with cooking spray or brush with olive oil for crisping.
  8. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tortillas are golden brown and crispy.
  9. Remove toothpicks before serving. Serve immediately with your choice of sour cream, guacamole, or fresh cilantro.

Notes

  • For an air fryer method, cook at 375°F (190°C) for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
  • You can substitute ground beef for chicken. Brown 1 pound of ground beef with taco seasoning before mixing it into the filling.
  • If you prefer a deeper flavor, brush the tortillas lightly with melted butter before baking instead of using cooking spray.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://pureplatepath.com/easy-crispy-chimichangas-recipe/