What is traditionally in a chimichanga?

A traditional chimichanga is made with a flour tortilla stuffed with shredded meat (usually beef or chicken), cheese , and Mexican seasonings like cumin, chili powder, and garlic. Optional ingredients include refried beans , rice , and even chorizo . Once filled, the tortilla is rolled tightly and deep-fried until crispy and golden brown.

What do Mexicans call chimichangas?

In most cases, they don’t. Chimichangas aren’t considered traditional Mexican food, so there’s no widely used Spanish name for them. Some might call them “burritos fritos” (fried burritos) or “burros dorados” in Northern Mexico, but the term “chimichanga” is a Tex-Mex invention—primarily used in the U.S.

Is a chimichanga just a fried burrito?

Technically, yes—but there’s more to the story. While a chimichanga is essentially a deep-fried burrito , the flavor and texture it offers are completely different. The crispy shell, gooey cheese, and piping-hot filling make it a distinct culinary experience from a traditional burrito.

Are chimichangas junk food?

Traditional chimichangas can be considered junk food due to their high fat and calorie content—especially when deep-fried and loaded with cheese. However, there are healthier versions made by baking or air frying, using lean meats, and loading up on veggies.

Do Mexicans eat chimichangas?

Not commonly. While chimichangas have their roots near the Mexican-American border, they are not part of traditional Mexican cuisine . Most Mexicans aren’t familiar with the dish unless they live near the border or have visited the U.S.

What is the swear word for chimichangas?

“Chimichanga” is sometimes used as a playful substitute for a swear word , but it’s not actually vulgar. According to lore, the term was shouted to avoid swearing in front of kids, making it a fun, made-up expression that sounds spicy without offending anyone.

Chimichangas: The Best Crispy Tex-Mex Recipe You’ll Ever Try (2025)

Name: Classic Crispy Chimichangas (Air Fryer, Baked, or Fried)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 4 large flour tortillas (10–12 inch); 2 cups shredded meat (chicken, beef, or pork); 1 cup cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese; ½ cup refried beans (optional); 1 tsp ground cumin; ½ tsp chili powder; ¼ tsp garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Cooking oil or spray; Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, salsa, queso, pico de gallo

Description

These classic Tex-Mex chimichangas are stuffed with flavorful shredded meat and cheese, then fried, baked, or air-fried to golden perfection. A satisfying meal that’s crispy on the outside and irresistibly melty inside!

Ingredients

Scale

4 large flour tortillas (10–12 inch)
2 cups shredded meat (chicken, beef, or pork)
1 cup cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
½ cup refried beans (optional)
1 tsp ground cumin
½ tsp chili powder
¼ tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking oil or spray
Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, salsa, queso, pico de gallo

Instructions

Warm tortillas slightly to make them pliable.

In a bowl, mix the shredded meat, spices, and refried beans (if using).

Spoon about ½ cup of filling into the center of each tortilla.

Top with cheese and optional veggies or toppings.

Fold in the sides and roll tightly to seal the chimichanga.

Cook using your preferred method:

Deep Fry: Heat oil to 350°F. Fry seam-side down for 3–4 minutes per side until golden.
Bake: Brush with oil. Bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
Air Fry: Spray with oil. Cook at 380°F for 10–12 minutes until crispy.

Let cool slightly, then top with desired sauces or garnishes.

Notes

You can freeze assembled, uncooked chimichangas for up to 1 month.
Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best texture.
Vegetarian? Substitute the meat with black beans, corn, and quinoa.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner, Main Course
Method: Frying, Air Frying, Baking
Cuisine: Tex-Mex

Keywords: chimichangas, crispy burrito, Tex-Mex, air fryer chimichanga, baked chimichangas, homemade Mexican food