What’s the difference between a burrito and a chimichanga?

A burrito is soft and usually not fried, while a chimichanga is deep-fried or baked, resulting in a crispy exterior.

Can I make chimichangas in advance?

Absolutely! Assemble the chimichangas and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Are baked chimichangas as crispy as fried ones?

While baked chimichangas are less crispy than fried ones, brushing them with oil before baking helps achieve a similar texture.

Can chimichangas be frozen?

Yes, they can. Freeze uncooked chimichangas in an airtight container. When ready to cook, fry or bake them directly from frozen.

How to Make Chimichangas

Description

Discover how to make chimichangas at home with this step-by-step recipe. Crispy, golden tortillas filled with seasoned meat, melted cheese, and spices make for the ultimate Tex-Mex comfort food. Whether you fry, bake, or customize your filling, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers bold flavors every time!

Ingredients

Scale

Protein of choice: 2 cups shredded chicken, beef, or pork
Seasonings:
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
Vegetables (optional):
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
Cheese: 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack
Beans (optional): 1/2 cup black beans
Tortillas: 6 large flour tortillas
Cooking oil: For frying or brushing

Instructions

Prepare the Filling:
- Cook your chosen protein in a skillet with olive oil and seasonings (cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, chili powder).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked protein, cheese, optional beans, and diced vegetables.
Assemble the Chimichangas:
- Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface.
- Place 3-4 tablespoons of the filling in the center.
- Fold the sides inward, then roll the tortilla tightly from the bottom up. Use a toothpick to secure if needed.
Cook the Chimichangas:
- For frying: Heat oil in a deep skillet to 350°F. Fry the chimichangas for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
- For baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Brush each chimichanga with oil and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
Garnish and Serve:
- Remove toothpicks, garnish with guacamole, sour cream, and salsa, and serve hot!

Notes

For healthier options, use air frying or baking instead of deep frying.
Avoid overfilling tortillas to ensure they seal properly.
Make ahead: Assemble chimichangas and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Frying, Baking, or Air Frying
Cuisine: Tex-Mex

Keywords: how to make chimichangas, crispy chimichangas, Tex-Mex chimichangas recipe, fried burritos recipe, easy chimichangas