When you’re craving something crunchy, cheesy, and satisfying, chicken chimichangas are the perfect go-to meal. These crispy, golden pockets of goodness are filled with tender shredded chicken and melty cheese—making them irresistible. The best part? They’re quick and easy to whip up, ideal for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers.
These chimichangas not only offer a delicious bite but are also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner or as a fun dish to share on game day, they’re always a crowd-pleaser. Ready in under 30 minutes, you can have these tasty treats on the table in no time!
For a lighter option, you can even air fry these chimichangas without compromising on that crispy, golden exterior. So whether you fry them traditionally or opt for the air fryer, you’ll have a perfect, cheesy-filled snack everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re looking for a quick yet delicious meal, chicken chimichangas are a great option. They combine the flavors of seasoned chicken, melty cheese, and a crispy tortilla shell into one mouthwatering bite. They’re customizable, too, allowing you to tweak the filling to suit your tastes or dietary needs.
What makes this recipe stand out is its simplicity. Using rotisserie chicken makes it an incredibly fast dish to prepare, and with the added bonus of tangy salsa verde and creamy cheese, the flavors are next-level. Plus, the option to air fry them makes this recipe a healthier twist without sacrificing flavor.
For those busy evenings or casual get-togethers, these chicken chimichangas are always a win. They can be made in advance and stored for later, making them perfect for meal prepping. Everyone at the table will love the crispy texture and flavorful filling!
Ingredients Overview
The key to a great chicken chimichanga lies in the filling. You can choose between a store-bought rotisserie chicken or homemade poached chicken—it’s up to you! Both options yield tender, flavorful shredded chicken that pairs perfectly with the creamy cheese blend of Monterey Jack and Oaxaca.
For extra flavor, add refried beans and salsa verde to the mix—these ingredients keep the filling moist and full of flavor. The combination of spices like cumin, chili powder, and paprika adds warmth and depth, while the fresh lime juice brightens it all up. Don’t forget to brush your tortillas with avocado oil for that crispy, golden finish!
How to Make the Best Chicken Chimichangas
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of avocado oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in shredded chicken, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the spices to infuse the chicken with flavor.
Step 2: Combine the Filling Ingredients
Transfer the seasoned chicken mixture to a large bowl. Add salsa verde and stir until the chicken is well coated. Mix in the shredded Monterey Jack and Oaxaca cheese, allowing them to melt slightly into the warm chicken. Finally, squeeze fresh lime juice into the mixture for an extra burst of flavor.
Step 3: Assemble the Chimichangas
Place a large flour tortilla on a flat surface. Spread a layer of refried beans in the center of the tortilla. Spoon about 1/4 of the chicken and cheese mixture onto the beans, adding a little extra cheese if desired. Squeeze a bit of fresh lime juice over the filling, then fold in the sides of the tortilla and roll it up tightly.
Step 4: Fry the Chimichangas
Heat a small amount of avocado oil in a skillet over medium heat. Place the chimichangas seam-side down in the skillet, cooking for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Turn occasionally, ensuring all sides are evenly fried. Add more oil between batches if necessary.
Step 5: Serve
Serve the chimichangas hot, topped with your favorite garnishes like guacamole, sour cream, salsa, and fresh cilantro for an added flavor boost.
Tips for the Best Chicken Chimichangas
- Fresh Finish: Right before serving, drizzle fresh lime juice on top and add extra garnishes like sour cream or guacamole for a burst of flavor.
- Rotisserie Chicken: For a quicker filling, use store-bought rotisserie chicken. It’s tender, flavorful, and cuts down on prep time.
- Two-Cheese Combo: Use Monterey Jack and Oaxaca cheese for that perfect melty, creamy filling. The Monterey Jack melts beautifully, while Oaxaca gives that classic stretchy texture.
- Season It Right: Be sure to season the chicken filling with chili powder, cumin, and paprika for authentic, bold flavors.
- Crispy Tortilla: For the crispiest chimichangas, brush the tortillas with avocado oil before frying to get that perfect golden finish.
Variations to Try
- Beef or Pork Chimichangas: Swap out the chicken for shredded beef or pork for a different protein option. Both options work well with the seasonings and cheese.
- Vegetarian Chimichangas: Skip the meat and fill your chimichangas with a hearty combination of beans, cheese, and sautéed vegetables for a tasty vegetarian version.
- Spicy Chimichangas: For an extra kick, add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the chicken filling.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make chicken chimichangas ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the chimichangas in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to eat, simply fry or air fry them to crisp them up.
2. Can I freeze chicken chimichangas?
Absolutely! Once assembled, freeze the uncooked chimichangas on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. To cook, fry or air fry directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.
3. Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?
While flour tortillas are best for chimichangas due to their flexibility and size, corn tortillas can be used as well, though they may crack when rolling.
4. How do I make the chimichangas extra crispy?
To get extra crispiness, make sure the oil is hot before adding the chimichangas. Fry seam-side down first to seal them tightly.
5. Can I air fry chicken chimichangas?
Yes! Air frying is a great alternative to frying in oil. Lightly spray each chimichanga with oil and air fry at 375°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
How to Store and Reheat
Chicken chimichangas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes, or air fry them for 5-7 minutes until crispy. Alternatively, you can microwave them for 1-2 minutes, though they may lose some of their crispiness.
Conclusion
These chicken chimichangas are a deliciously easy dish that will become a staple in your meal rotation. With their crispy exterior and flavorful, cheesy filling, they’re perfect for busy weeknights or a fun dish for a gathering. Whether you fry them or air fry them, you’re in for a treat!
Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to tag me on Instagram when you make them. I’d love to see how your chimichangas turn out! And be sure to follow Ava Foodie on Pinterest for more tasty recipes and inspiration.
