Name: Homemade Chimichangas
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 4 large flour tortillas (10-inch size); 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken, beef, or pork (or beans for a vegetarian option); 1 cup refried beans (optional, but adds richness); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese or Mexican blend cheese; 1/2 cup diced onion; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon cumin; 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for extra flavor); Salt and pepper to taste; Vegetable oil (for frying); Salsa, sour cream, and guacamole for serving

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Homemade Chimichangas are the ultimate comfort food: crispy on the outside, warm and flavorful on the inside. These delicious Mexican-style burritos are filled with savory meats, beans, cheese, and spices, then deep-fried to golden perfection. While chimichangas are traditionally deep-fried, they can also be baked for a healthier version, offering versatility for any taste preference. Whether you enjoy them with a side of guacamole, sour cream, or salsa, these chimichangas are sure to please everyone at the table.

Chimichangas are a fantastic option for a quick and satisfying meal. The combination of crispy tortilla and flavorful fillings makes them a perfect lunch, dinner, or even a fun party snack. This homemade version allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring a fresh and tasty result every time. You can even make them ahead of time and freeze them for a quick meal on busy days!

Whether you prefer beef, chicken, or a vegetarian option, chimichangas can be easily customized to suit your tastes. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, these crispy delights bring the flavor of your favorite Mexican restaurant right to your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Customizable Filling

Chimichangas are incredibly versatile. You can fill them with any protein you prefer, from seasoned ground beef to shredded chicken, or even beans and vegetables for a vegetarian version.

2. Crispy Perfection

The deep-frying process gives chimichangas their signature crispy, golden exterior while keeping the interior tender and flavorful. It’s a satisfying crunch with every bite!

3. Quick and Easy

With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of frying (or baking), you can have a delicious, hearty meal ready in under an hour.

4. Great for Meal Prep

Make a batch of chimichangas and freeze them for later. They’re perfect for those busy days when you need a quick and satisfying meal.

5. Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re feeding the family or hosting a party, chimichangas are a hit. They’re easy to share and pair well with a variety of dips like salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.

Ingredients

Flour tortillas
Ground beef, chicken, or shredded beef
Refried beans or black beans
Shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
Onion
Garlic
Ground cumin
Chili powder
Salt and pepper
Olive oil (for frying or brushing if baking)
Salsa or enchilada sauce (for serving)
Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, lettuce, tomatoes, cilantro

Variations

Vegetarian Chimichangas: Skip the meat and fill your chimichangas with beans, sautéed peppers, onions, and cheese for a delicious vegetarian version.
Spicy Chimichangas: Add jalapeños, chipotle, or hot sauce to the filling for an extra kick of heat.
Chicken Chimichangas: Use seasoned shredded chicken instead of ground beef for a lighter alternative.
Baked Chimichangas: For a healthier version, brush the chimichangas with olive oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 2-3 minutes. Add the ground beef (or chicken) and cook until browned. Season with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in the refried beans or black beans and cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through. Remove from heat and stir in half of the shredded cheese. Set the filling aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Tortillas

Warm the flour tortillas in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or in a dry skillet for a few seconds on each side to make them more pliable.

Step 3: Assemble the Chimichangas

Place about 1/4 cup of the filling in the center of each tortilla. Fold the sides of the tortilla inward, then roll it up tightly to form a burrito. Make sure the filling is sealed inside.

Step 4: Fry or Bake the Chimichangas

For Frying: Heat 2-3 inches of oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the chimichangas in batches, turning them occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes. Remove and drain on paper towels.
For Baking: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the chimichangas seam-side down on a baking sheet. Brush with olive oil and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.

Step 5: Serve

Serve the chimichangas with your favorite toppings such as salsa, sour cream, guacamole, lettuce, or fresh cilantro. Enjoy the crispy, delicious layers of flavor in each bite!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t Overfill: Be careful not to overfill the tortillas. You want them tightly rolled but not bursting at the seams.
Seal Well: Make sure the edges of the tortilla are tucked in tightly when you roll them up. This will help prevent any filling from leaking out during frying or baking.
Use Tongs for Frying: Use tongs to carefully turn the chimichangas while frying to avoid burning yourself and to get an even golden color on all sides.
Use the Right Size Tortillas: For best results, use large flour tortillas to ensure they can hold all of the filling and roll up easily.
Bake for a Healthier Option: If you prefer a lighter version, baking your chimichangas instead of frying them can still give you a crispy result with less oil.

How to Serve

Chimichangas are delicious on their own, but they’re even better when served with classic Mexican sides such as rice, beans, or a fresh salad. Top them with guacamole, salsa, or sour cream for an extra burst of flavor. You can also serve them with a drizzle of enchilada sauce for added richness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover chimichangas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. They make a great leftover lunch or dinner. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Freezing

Chimichangas freeze well! After frying or baking them, allow them to cool completely. Wrap each chimichanga tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, bake them from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until crispy and hot inside.

FAQs

1. Can I make chimichangas ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the chimichangas ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before frying or baking.

2. Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?

While corn tortillas work in some Mexican dishes, flour tortillas are preferred for chimichangas because they’re more flexible and hold the filling better.

3. Can I make chimichangas without frying them?

Yes, you can bake chimichangas for a healthier alternative. Brush them with olive oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until crispy.

4. How can I make chimichangas spicier?

Add diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or cayenne pepper to the filling for an extra spicy kick.

5. Can I make chimichangas with chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Shredded chicken, either cooked or rotisserie, is a great alternative to ground beef. You can also use a mix of chicken and beans for a delicious combination.

6. What can I serve with chimichangas?

Serve chimichangas with Mexican rice, refried beans, salsa, guacamole, or a fresh salad to make it a complete meal.

7. Can I freeze chimichangas before cooking them?

Yes, you can freeze assembled, uncooked chimichangas. Wrap them tightly and store them in the freezer. Fry or bake from frozen when you’re ready to enjoy them.

8. How do I prevent chimichangas from being too greasy?

Make sure the oil is at the proper temperature (around 350°F or 175°C) before frying. If the oil is too cold, the chimichangas will absorb too much oil and become greasy.

9. Can I use other fillings besides meat?

Yes! You can use beans, cheese, and vegetables for a vegetarian chimichanga. The possibilities are endless.

10. How long should I fry chimichangas?

Fry chimichangas for about 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until they’re golden brown and crispy on all sides.

Conclusion

Homemade Chimichangas are a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you prefer them crispy from the fryer or baked for a healthier alternative, these chimichangas are customizable to suit every taste. With a savory filling, a crispy golden exterior, and your favorite toppings, they make a great addition to any meal. Easy to prepare, fun to eat, and always a crowd-pleaser, these chimichangas will become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Enjoy!