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Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Filling
- Cook the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper (if using) and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
- Season the Chicken: Add the shredded chicken to the skillet along with the taco seasoning. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly in the spices. Pour in the chicken broth and cook for 5-6 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the liquid to reduce slightly.
- Add Creaminess: If you want a creamier filling, stir in the sour cream once the chicken mixture has cooked down. Mix until well combined, then remove from heat.
- Add Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheese until it’s melted into the chicken mixture. Taste the filling and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or taco seasoning.
Step 2: Assemble the Chimichangas
- Prepare the Tortillas: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lay the flour tortillas flat on a clean surface. If they are too stiff, heat them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to soften them and make them easier to roll.
- Fill the Tortillas: Spoon about 1/4 cup of the chicken filling into the center of each tortilla. Be careful not to overfill to ensure easy rolling.
- Roll the Chimichangas: Fold in the sides of each tortilla, then roll it tightly from the bottom to the top, securing the filling inside. Ensure that the seam is on the bottom to keep the chimichanga closed while baking.
Step 3: Bake the Chimichangas
- Coat with Cooking Spray: Place the assembled chimichangas seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray the tops of the chimichangas with cooking spray to help them crisp up in the oven.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake the chimichangas in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until the tortillas are golden and crispy.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve: Remove the chimichangas from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with your favorite toppings like sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or shredded lettuce.
Why Baked Chicken Chimichangas Are So Great
Baked Chicken Chimichangas offer the perfect balance of texture and flavor. The crispy exterior created by baking ensures that each bite delivers a satisfying crunch, while the tender chicken filling is seasoned to perfection with the spices that make Mexican food so irresistible. The addition of cheese and sour cream makes the filling creamy, while the fresh cilantro adds a pop of flavor that ties the whole dish together.
By baking instead of frying, you get all the crispy goodness without the extra calories and oil. These chimichangas are a great option for anyone looking to enjoy a healthier version of this Mexican favorite without sacrificing flavor.
Tips for Perfect Baked Chicken Chimichangas
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: For convenience and extra flavor, use shredded rotisserie chicken. It’s already cooked and packed with flavor, making the filling come together quickly.
- Customize the Filling: Add your favorite ingredients to the filling, like black beans, corn, or diced tomatoes, to make it your own. You can also swap the chicken for ground turkey or beef for variety.
- Make Them Spicy: If you like heat, add chopped jalapeños or green chilies to the filling, or sprinkle chili powder or cayenne pepper into the seasoning mix.
- Get the Tortillas Soft: If your tortillas are a little stiff, microwave them for a few seconds to make them more pliable and easier to roll without breaking.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the chimichangas ahead of time, place them on a baking sheet, and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. You can bake them straight from the fridge, though you may need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
Serving Suggestions
- Toppings: Serve with traditional toppings like sour cream, guacamole, salsa, and shredded lettuce for a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken filling.
- Side Dishes: Pair with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a simple Mexican street corn salad to round out the meal.
- For a Family Dinner: Serve with a side of homemade tortilla chips and queso dip for a fun, shareable meal the whole family will enjoy.
Conclusion
Baked Chicken Chimichangas are the perfect balance of convenience, flavor, and crunch. With simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you can make a healthier version of this popular Mexican dish that’s just as delicious as its deep-fried counterpart. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying family dinner or a dish to share with friends, baked chimichangas are sure to be a hit. Try this recipe today, and enjoy the irresistible combination of crispy tortillas and flavorful chicken filling in every bite!
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