Crispy Homemade Chicken Chimichangas Recipe
Golden, crunchy, and filled with savoury goodness, chicken chimichangas are a Tex-Mex classic that can easily be recreated in your own kitchen. These deep fried or air fried delights feature a flavorful chicken filling wrapped in a tortilla, crisped to perfection, and served with your favourite toppings. Making them at home means you get all the restaurant quality flavour without the extra cost or wait.
Homemade chimichangas are not only satisfying but also versatile. You can customize the filling with cheese, beans, vegetables, or even spice it up with jalapenos. Served with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream, they turn into a meal that feels indulgent yet comforting. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or when you want to impress guests with something that tastes as good as it looks.
Why You Need This Recipe
Chicken chimichangas are the ultimate comfort food with a crispy shell and a warm, flavorful filling. They are hearty enough to serve as a main course while still being easy to make with simple ingredients you likely already have at home.
What makes this recipe stand out is how customizable it is. Whether you prefer oven baked for a lighter version or classic fried for that perfect crunch, these chimichangas always deliver bold flavors and a satisfying bite. It is a recipe that guarantees empty plates and happy smiles every time.
Ingredients
Here is everything you will need to make crispy homemade chicken chimichangas at home.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (approx) |
|---|---|---|
| Flour tortillas | 6 large | 900 |
| Cooked shredded chicken | 2 cups | 330 |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 medium | 45 |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves | 10 |
| Refried beans | 1 cup | 215 |
| Shredded cheese | 1 cup | 400 |
| Salsa | 1/2 cup | 35 |
| Olive oil (for brushing/frying) | 3 tbsp | 360 |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | 0 |
Total per serving (6 servings): approx 380 calories
How to Prepare
Begin by sauteing onion and garlic in a skillet with a little olive oil until they become soft and fragrant. Stir in the shredded chicken, refried beans, salsa, and seasoning, mixing until the filling is warm and well blended. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before assembling.
Place a generous spoonful of the filling in the center of each tortilla, sprinkle with cheese, and fold the sides tightly to form a secure roll. Heat oil in a skillet and fry each chimichanga until golden and crispy, turning occasionally for even cooking. For a lighter option, brush the chimichangas with olive oil and bake them in the oven until crisp. Serve hot with your choice of toppings.
Pro Tips
Warm the tortillas slightly before filling to prevent cracking when rolling. This makes the folding process smoother and keeps the filling secure during frying.
For even crispiness, avoid overcrowding the pan and fry the chimichangas in batches. If baking, place them on a wire rack inside the oven to help the heat circulate and crisp up all sides.
Perfect Pairings and Toppings
Chicken chimichangas taste incredible with classic Tex-Mex sides like Mexican rice, refried beans, or corn salad. Fresh guacamole, sour cream, or pico de gallo also make great additions to balance the rich flavors.
For toppings, consider shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, or pickled jalapenos to add freshness and a little heat. A drizzle of queso or spicy salsa can also take them to the next level.
Conclusion
Crispy homemade chicken chimichangas are a meal that brings flavour, texture, and satisfaction to the table. They are simple to prepare yet feel like a special treat, making them a perfect option for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
With a crunchy tortilla shell, savory chicken filling, and endless topping options, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Whether fried or baked, every bite delivers that irresistible Tex-Mex taste you will want to make again and again.
