- Prepare the Chicken Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, salsa, shredded cheese, green onions, ground cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
Chapter 3: Assembling the Chimichangas
- Fill the Tortillas:
- Lay a flour tortilla on a flat surface.
- Spoon about 1/4 cup of the chicken filling onto the center of the tortilla.
- Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll it up from the bottom to the top, securing the filling inside.
- Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
- Prepare for Baking:
- Place the rolled chimichangas seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush the tops of the chimichangas with melted butter to help them brown and become crispy.
- Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray for extra crispiness.
Chapter 4: Baking
- Bake the Chimichangas:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chimichangas are golden brown and crispy.
- Keep an eye on them to prevent burning, especially if your oven runs hot.
- Cool Slightly:
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the chimichangas cool for a few minutes before serving.
Chapter 5: Serving
- Serve Hot:
- Serve the baked chicken chimichangas immediately.
- Top with your favorite garnishes such as sour cream, guacamole, salsa, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and chopped cilantro.
- Optional Side Dishes:
- Pair your chimichangas with classic Mexican sides like refried beans, Spanish rice, or a simple salad.
Chapter 6: Tips for Success
- Chicken Preparation: Use cooked, shredded chicken breast for a leaner option. Rotisserie chicken works well for convenience.
- Tortilla Tips: Warm the tortillas slightly in the microwave or on a skillet to make them more pliable and easier to roll.
- Crispiness: Brushing with melted butter and spraying with cooking spray helps achieve a crispy exterior without frying.
- Variations: Customize the filling by adding ingredients like black beans, corn, or jalapeños for extra flavor and texture.
Conclusion
Chi-Chi’s Baked Chicken Chimichangas are a delicious and healthier alternative to the traditional fried version. This recipe delivers a crispy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for family dinners, parties, or whenever you’re craving a taste of Mexican cuisine. Enjoy creating and savoring these tasty chimichangas, and feel free to experiment with different fillings and toppings to suit your taste preferences!