Name: Baked Chicken Chimichangas: Easy and Delicious Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 8 oz package cream cheese; 8 oz Pepperjack cheese, shredded; 1 1/2 tbsp taco seasoning; 1 lb cooked chicken, shredded; 8 flour tortillas; Cooking spray; Shredded cheddar cheese (for garnish); Green onions, for garnish; Sour cream (for serving); Salsa (for serving)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy – These chimichangas come together quickly, making them a great option for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers.
Crispy Perfection – Baked, not fried, for a healthier alternative with all the satisfying crispiness of a traditional chimichanga.
Cheesy and Flavorful – The cream cheese and Pepperjack cheese add a creamy and tangy twist, while the taco seasoning enhances the flavor with just the right amount of spice.
Customizable – You can easily adjust the level of heat by adding chopped jalapeños, or use different types of cheese depending on your preference.
Great for Meal Prep – These chimichangas are perfect for making ahead and reheating, ensuring you have a delicious meal ready to go!

Ingredients

To make these Baked Chicken Chimichangas, you’ll need:

8 oz package cream cheese
8 oz Pepperjack cheese, shredded
1 1/2 tbsp taco seasoning
1 lb cooked chicken, shredded
8 flour tortillas
Cooking spray
Shredded cheddar cheese (for garnish)
Green onions, for garnish
Sour cream (for serving)
Salsa (for serving)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Follow these simple steps to create your Baked Chicken Chimichangas:

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Mix the Cheeses and Seasoning: In a large mixing bowl, stir together the cream cheese, shredded Pepperjack cheese, and taco seasoning until smooth and well combined.
Add Chicken: Fold in the shredded cooked chicken, ensuring it’s evenly mixed with the cheese and seasoning mixture.

Step 2: Assemble the Chimichangas

Fill and Roll: Lay out the 8 flour tortillas and divide the chicken and cheese mixture evenly among them. Tuck in the sides of each tortilla and roll it up tightly, ensuring the filling is fully enclosed.

Step 3: Bake the Chimichangas

Preheat and Arrange: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
Baking: Place the rolled chimichangas seam side down in the prepared baking dish. Lightly spray the tops of the tortillas with more cooking spray.
Bake: Bake the chimichangas for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, carefully flip them over and bake for another 15 minutes, or until the chimichangas are golden and crispy.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the chimichangas from the oven. Serve them hot, garnished with shredded cheddar cheese, sliced green onions, and a side of sour cream and salsa for dipping.

Servings and Timing

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes (15 minutes per side)
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 8 chimichangas (4 servings)

Variations

Add Heat: For a spicier kick, add some chopped jalapeños to the chicken and cheese filling.
Cheese Variations: Swap Pepperjack for cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a mix of cheeses for a different flavor.
Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with black beans or sautéed vegetables for a delicious vegetarian option.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover chimichangas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the chimichangas in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes or until crispy and heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I make these chimichangas in advance?

Yes! You can prepare and assemble the chimichangas ahead of time. Simply refrigerate them until ready to bake. Add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.

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

Yes, corn tortillas can be used, but they may not hold up as well during the baking process. If using corn tortillas, make sure to heat them up first to make them more pliable.

3. Can I fry these chimichangas instead of baking?

Yes, you can fry them in hot oil for a more traditional texture. Heat oil in a deep skillet or pan, and fry the chimichangas for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.

4. Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Store-bought rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving option for this recipe. Just shred it and mix it with the cheese and seasoning.

5. What’s the best way to serve these chimichangas?

Serve these chimichangas with a side of guacamole, rice, or beans, and top with sour cream and salsa for a complete meal.

Conclusion

These Baked Chicken Chimichangas are the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and crispy—ideal for dinner, lunch, or even as a party snack. With minimal prep time and a quick bake in the oven, you’ll have a delicious, satisfying dish everyone will love. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, these chimichangas are sure to be a hit!