Crispy Baked Chicken Chimichangas
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Looking for a tasty Mexican dish that’s easy on your diet? Try these Crispy Baked Chicken Chimichangas. They’re a healthier version of the deep-fried kind, packed with flavor but fewer calories.
Picture biting into a crispy chimichanga filled with tender chicken, melted cheese, and fresh spices. It’s all the taste of a restaurant, but made at home in just 35 minutes.
These baked chimichangas need only 10 ingredients and are quick to make. They’re great for anyone who wants a fancy meal without the extra fat and calories. Say hello to a healthier dinner option that’s still super tasty.
What Makes These Baked Chimichangas Special
Get ready to change your dinner game with these oven-baked chicken chimichangas! Say goodbye to deep-fried versions. We’re bringing you a healthier, just as tasty option.
A Healthier Twist on a Classic Favorite
Our healthy chicken chimichangas are a tasty, nutritious meal option. Switching from frying to baking cuts down on calories. Here’s why these crispy chicken burritos stand out:
- Less oil than traditional deep-fried versions
- Crispy outside thanks to baking tricks
- Full of lean protein and great flavors
Nutritional Breakdown That Will Amaze You
Our oven-baked chicken chimichangas beat traditional recipes in many ways:
- Calories per serving: Just 263 kcal
- Protein: 17g for muscle building
- Fat: Only 17g, with little saturated fat
The Secret to Perfect Texture
To get that perfect crunch, use a few tricks. Brush tortillas with olive oil or melted butter. Then, bake at 400°F for about 25 minutes. You’ll get golden-brown, crispy chicken chimichangas that are irresistible!
Pro tip: Use 8-inch flour tortillas and fill each with about 1/3 cup of chicken mixture. Whole wheat tortillas are good too, but they might not crisp up as well as flour tortillas.
Crispy Baked Chicken Chimichangas Step-by-Step Recipe
Ready to make the tastiest easy chicken chimichanga? Let’s explore a recipe that will change your dinner game! These cheesy chicken chimichangas are full of flavor and crispy.
Get your ingredients ready for this dish that feeds 6 people. We’ll guide you through each step for golden, irresistible chimichangas.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 3 ½ cups shredded cooked chicken
- 2 cups cooked brown rice
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 chipotle chiles in adobo sauce
- 6 large flour tortillas
- Olive oil for brushing
Nutritional Breakdown
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 352 kcal |
| Protein | 23g |
| Carbohydrates | 27g |
| Fat | 16g |
Step-by-Step Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F
- Mix chicken, rice, cheese, and chipotle chiles in a large bowl
- Warm tortillas briefly to prevent tearing
- Place about ¾ cup of filling in the center of each tortilla
- Fold opposite sides over the filling, then roll up from the bottom
- Place seam-side down on a baking sheet
- Brush with olive oil for extra crispiness
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown
Pro tip: For maximum crispiness, brush the chimichangas with a bit of melted butter before baking. This will help them achieve that perfect golden-brown exterior!
Storage and Reheating
Want to save some for later? Wrap individual chimichangas in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to a month. When ready to enjoy, bake frozen chimichangas for 24-28 minutes at 400°F.
These easy chicken chimichangas will be a hit with your family. The crispy outside and cheesy chicken inside will have everyone wanting more!
Essential Toppings and Serving Suggestions
Creating the perfect air fryer chicken chimichangas is all about the finishing touches! I love turning these crispy golden parcels into a restaurant-worthy meal. This is done with vibrant toppings that bring flavor and texture to the plate.
Start with classic garnishes like cool sour cream. It adds a creamy contrast to the crispy exterior. Sprinkle fresh shredded cheese generously on top. I recommend a blend of cheddar and Mexican cheese for maximum flavor.
Chopped fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, and thinly sliced green onions add color and freshness. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, sliced jalapeños or a side of zesty salsa can elevate the dish. Pro tip: serve with lime wedges on the side to let guests squeeze fresh citrus over their chimichangas.
Want to make your air fryer chicken chimichangas even more exciting? Try adding creamy guacamole or a dollop of Greek yogurt as alternative toppings. The key is to mix textures and flavors that complement the crispy, savory chimichanga base.
