Oven Baked Chicken Chimichangas

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Oven Baked Chicken Chimichangas are a delicious dish that's perfect for a weeknight dinner. These mouth watering chimichangas are baked in the oven until golden brown and crispy.

Jump to:

• Why You'll Love This Recipe
• Ingredients You'll Need
• Step-By-Step Instructions
• Expert Tips
• Variations
• Storing & Freezing
• Recipe FAQ's
• Other Chicken Recipes You'll Love
• Oven Baked Chicken Chimichangas

Check out my Buffalo Chicken Bites and my Instant Pot Chicken Burrito Bowls for more delicious chicken recipes!

Oven baked chicken chimichangas are a popular Tex-Mex dish that's loved for its crispy exterior and delicious, savory filling. Traditionally, chimichangas are deep-fried, but this recipe takes a healthier approach by baking the chimichangas in the oven.

This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a family dinner or a casual party.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Healthier option. This recipe for oven baked chicken chimichangas is a healthier alternative to the traditional deep fried version. By baking the chimichangas in the oven, you can reduce the amount of oil and calories in the dish.
• Easy to make. This recipe is easy to follow and requires only a few simple ingredients. You can have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
• Delicious and flavorful. The combination of ingredients gives the chicken filling a delicious and flavorful taste. The crispy exterior of the chimichangas perfectly complements the savory filling.
• Perfect for any occasion. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual get together with friends and family. It's a crowd-pleaser that's sure to impress.

Ingredients You'll Need

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast: This lean protein is a staple in many healthy diets.
• Picante Sauce: This sauce is a blend of tomatoes, peppers, onions, and spices that give the dish a slightly spicy and tangy flavor.
• Dried Oregano: Has a strong, slightly bitter flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients in this recipe.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Adds a creamy, savory flavor to the chimichangas.
• Green Onions: Have a milder flavor than regular onions and add a fresh, crisp texture to the dish.
• Flour Tortillas: They're soft, pliable, and easy to work with, making them the perfect vessel for the chicken filling.
• Butter: Used to brush the tops of the chimichangas before baking. It adds a rich, buttery flavor and helps the chimichangas turn golden brown and crispy in the oven.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.

Step 2:

In a large bowl, mix together the chicken, picante sauce, and dried oregano.

Step 3:

Divide the chicken mixture evenly among the tortillas, placing it in the center of each tortilla.

Step 4:

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and chopped green onions over the chicken mixture.

Step 5:

Fold the sides of each tortilla inward, then roll the tortilla up tightly from the bottom to create a chimichanga. Place the chimichangas seam side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 6:

Brush the melted butter over the tops of the chimichangas.

Step 7:

Bake the chimichangas in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.

NOTE: You can print the FULL recipe with all ingredients & detailed instructions below!

Expert Tips

• Don't overfill the tortillas. When filling the tortillas, be careful not to overfill them. If you add too much filling, the chimichangas may burst open during baking.
• Seal the edges. To prevent the filling from spilling out, make sure to seal the edges of the tortilla tightly. You can use toothpicks to secure the edges if necessary.
• Brush with melted butter. Brushing the tops of the chimichangas with melted butter before baking will help them turn golden brown and crispy.

Variations

• Vegetarian chimichangas: You can substitute the chicken with a vegetarian protein such as black beans, tofu, or seitan. Add some extra vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for a filling and healthy vegetarian option.
• Beef chimichangas: Instead of using chicken, you can use ground beef or shredded beef for a heartier and meatier flavor. Season the beef with chili powder, cumin, and paprika for a Tex-Mex twist.
• Spicy chimichangas: If you like your food extra spicy, add some diced jalapeños or green chilies to the filling. You can also use a spicier picante sauce or hot sauce to add more heat.
• Breakfast chimichangas: Use scrambled eggs, sausage, and cheese for a breakfast-inspired chimichanga. Serve with salsa and sour cream for a delicious and filling breakfast dish.
• Sweet chimichangas: For a dessert chimichanga, fill the tortillas with cream cheese, cinnamon, and sugar. Bake until crispy and golden brown, then serve with your favorite fruit topping such as strawberries or blueberries.

Storing & Freezing

Storing: Leftover chimichangas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chimichangas on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350 degrees F for 10-12 minutes or until heated through.

Freezing: You can freeze unbaked chimichangas for up to 3 months. To freeze, wrap each chimichanga tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. To cook, place the frozen chimichangas on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350 degrees F for 30-35 minutes or until heated through and golden brown.

Recipe FAQ's

Other Chicken Recipes You'll Love

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