Ah, Chi-Chi’s baked chicken chimichangas! They take me back to those cozy restaurant nights where the air was filled with the savory aroma of spices and melted cheese. I can still remember that first bite – crispy on the outside, bursting with flavor on the inside. Trust me, this recipe is a game changer! It’s an easy way to bring restaurant-quality deliciousness right into your kitchen. You’ll love how simple it is to whip up these baked chicken chimichangas, and they’re just as satisfying as the originals! So, gather your ingredients and let’s dive into this delightful dish that’s perfect for any night of the week.
Ingredients for Chi-Chi’s Baked Chicken Chimichangas
To get started on these mouthwatering Chi-Chi’s baked chicken chimichangas, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (leftover rotisserie chicken works great!)
- 1 cup refried beans (creamy and delicious)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (I love a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
- 1/2 cup salsa (mild or spicy, depending on your preference)
- 1 teaspoon cumin (for that extra depth of flavor)
- 8 flour tortillas (soft and pliable, so they roll easily)
- 1/4 cup olive oil (for brushing and that golden color)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (for serving, because yum!)
With these ingredients gathered, you’re all set to create something truly delicious!
How to Prepare Chi-Chi’s Baked Chicken Chimichangas
Alright, let’s get cooking these amazing Chi-Chi’s baked chicken chimichangas! First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is super important because you want those chimichangas to cook evenly and get that lovely golden brown color.
While the oven heats up, grab a mixing bowl and toss together the shredded chicken, refried beans, shredded cheese, salsa, and cumin. I love using my hands for this—it’s like a little flavor party! Mix until everything is well combined and the flavors meld together beautifully.
Now, take a flour tortilla and lay it flat on your counter. Spoon a generous portion of the filling onto the center of the tortilla. Fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling, then roll it up tightly from the bottom. It’s okay if it’s not perfect; it’ll still taste amazing!
Next, brush each chimichanga with olive oil and place them seam-side down on a baking sheet. This will help them get that nice crispy exterior. Pop them in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and irresistible. Trust me, your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Once they’re done, take them out and let them cool for a minute. Serve with a dollop of sour cream, and enjoy every bite of this deliciousness!
Why You’ll Love Chi-Chi’s Baked Chicken Chimichangas
- Quick to prepare – perfect for busy weeknights!
- Flavor-packed with a delightful mix of spices and cheese
- Healthier than traditional fried chimichangas since they’re baked
- Customizable – add your favorite veggies or spices for a personal touch
- Great for meal prep; they reheat beautifully!
- A crowd-pleaser that will impress family and friends
- Comfort food that brings back warm, nostalgic memories
Tips for Success with Chi-Chi’s Baked Chicken Chimichangas
To ensure your Chi-Chi’s baked chicken chimichangas turn out perfectly, here are some handy tips! First, make sure to not overfill the tortillas; a little filling goes a long way. This helps prevent any mess while rolling them up. If you find your tortillas cracking, try warming them slightly in the microwave for about 10 seconds to make them more pliable.
Also, don’t skip the olive oil brushing—it’s essential for that golden, crispy finish! Lastly, keep an eye on them while baking; ovens can vary, and you want them just right without burning. Enjoy every crispy, cheesy bite!
Variations of Chi-Chi’s Baked Chicken Chimichangas
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to switch up your Chi-Chi’s baked chicken chimichangas! For a spicy kick, try adding jalapeños or diced green chilies to the filling. If you’re a fan of southwest flavors, mix in some black beans and corn for extra texture. Want a cheesy twist? Go for a blend of pepper jack and mozzarella! You can even use different proteins, like shredded beef or seasoned tofu for a vegetarian option. The possibilities are endless, so let your creativity shine and make these chimichangas your own!
Nutritional Information for Chi-Chi’s Baked Chicken Chimichangas
Just a quick note: the nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you choose. While I can’t provide precise values for each ingredient, a typical serving of these delicious Chi-Chi’s baked chicken chimichangas is around 320 calories. Enjoy them in moderation while savoring every bite!
FAQ About Chi-Chi’s Baked Chicken Chimichangas
Can I make these chimichangas ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and assemble the chimichangas a day in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator before baking. When you’re ready to eat, just pop them in the oven!
Can I freeze Chi-Chi’s baked chicken chimichangas?
Yes, you can freeze them! Just make sure they’re tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
What can I serve with these chimichangas?
They pair perfectly with a fresh salad, some guacamole, or even a side of Spanish rice. And don’t forget that sour cream for dipping!
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?
You can! Just be aware that corn tortillas might be a bit more fragile, so handle them gently while rolling.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
For the best texture, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy again!
Storage & Reheating Instructions for Chi-Chi’s Baked Chicken Chimichangas
Storing your leftover Chi-Chi’s baked chicken chimichangas is super easy! Just place them in an airtight container and pop them in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay fresh for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them! Wrap each chimichanga tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store in the freezer for up to two months.
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, the best way to reheat them is in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This will help them regain their crispy texture. Enjoy!
Call to Action
I hope you’re as excited to try these Chi-Chi’s baked chicken chimichangas as I am! If you give this recipe a go, please leave a comment below and let me know how they turned out. Don’t forget to rate the recipe and share it with your friends on social media—let’s spread the love for delicious food!
For more delicious recipes, check out Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta or Quick Chicken Stir Fry. If you’re interested in the nutritional benefits of chicken, you can learn more here.
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Chi-Chi’s Baked Chicken Chimichangas: 7 Flavors to Crave
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious baked chicken chimichanga recipe inspired by Chi-Chi’s.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup refried beans
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 8 flour tortillas
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup sour cream (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix the chicken, refried beans, cheese, salsa, and cumin.
- Place a tortilla on a flat surface and add a portion of the filling.
- Fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling and roll it up tightly.
- Brush the chimichangas with olive oil and place them seam-side down on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve with sour cream.
Notes
- Use leftover chicken for quicker preparation.
- Add more spices for extra flavor.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chimichanga
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: chi chis baked chicken chimichangas, baked chimichangas, chicken chimichangas
