What is in a traditional chimichanga?

A traditional Mexican food chimichanga typically includes shredded beef or chicken, refried beans, cheese, and mild salsa, all wrapped in a flour tortilla and deep-fried until golden. It's often topped with sour cream, guacamole, and melted cheese.

What do Mexicans call chimichangas?

In Mexico, chimichangas are not commonly consumed, so there is no traditional Mexican term for them. The word "chimichanga" itself is a playful, invented term likely originating from a minced expletive in Arizona kitchens.

What is the difference between a burrito and a chimichanga?

A burrito is soft and wrapped, while a Mexican food chimichanga is deep-fried for a crispy shell. Burritos are typically portable; chimichangas are plated and often topped with sauces and cheese.

What is the translation of chimichanga?

There’s no literal Spanish translation. "Chimichanga" is a made-up word believed to be a euphemism or a nonsense exclamation created when a burrito was accidentally dropped into hot oil.

Do Mexicans eat chimichangas?

Chimichangas are more of a Tex-Mex invention and not part of traditional Mexican cuisine. While some northern Mexican-American communities enjoy them, they are not a common dish in Mexico itself.

What toppings go on chimichangas?

Common toppings include shredded lettuce, pico de gallo, sour cream, guacamole, queso sauce, jalapeños, and chopped cilantro. These toppings enhance flavor and provide contrast to the crispy texture.

Mexican Food Chimichanga – The Best 5 Ways to Enjoy This Crispy Delight

Name: Crispy Mexican Food Chimichanga
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican-American / Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 2 large flour tortillas (10–12 inch); 2 cups shredded chicken or beef (pre-cooked); 1/2 cup refried beans; 1/2 cup shredded cheese (Mexican blend or cheddar); 1/4 cup salsa or enchilada sauce; Oil for frying (vegetable or canola); Optional toppings: guacamole, sour cream, pico de gallo, queso sauce, lettuce, jalapeños

Description

This Mexican food chimichanga recipe is a crispy, golden Tex-Mex favorite filled with seasoned meat, beans, and cheese, then deep-fried to perfection and topped with flavorful toppings.

Ingredients

Scale

2 large flour tortillas (10–12 inch)
2 cups shredded chicken or beef (pre-cooked)
1/2 cup refried beans
1/2 cup shredded cheese (Mexican blend or cheddar)
1/4 cup salsa or enchilada sauce
Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
Optional toppings: guacamole, sour cream, pico de gallo, queso sauce, lettuce, jalapeños

Instructions

Warm the tortillas for 10–15 seconds to make them pliable.
In the center of each tortilla, spread a layer of refried beans.
Add the shredded meat, cheese, and a spoonful of salsa.
Fold the tortillas: tuck in the sides, roll tightly, and secure the seam.
Heat oil in a skillet to 350°F (175°C).
Carefully place chimichangas seam-side down into the oil.
Fry for 3–4 minutes per side or until golden and crispy.
Remove and drain on paper towels.
Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Notes

Can be made vegetarian by swapping meat with sautéed peppers and onions.
To air-fry instead of deep-frying, brush with oil and cook at 375°F for 10–12 minutes.
Freeze unfried chimichangas for up to 2 months and fry from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to cook time.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Frying (or Air Frying)
Cuisine: Mexican-American / Tex-Mex

Keywords: Mexican food chimichanga, crispy chimichanga, Tex-Mex chimichanga, homemade chimichanga, deep-fried burrito, chimichanga recipe