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Crispy Chicken Chimichangas

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These Crispy Chicken Chimichangas are filled with a flavorful mixture of tender chicken, creamy cheese, and spices, all wrapped in a warm flour tortilla and pan-fried to golden perfection. They’re crispy on the outside, soft and melty inside—perfect for a weeknight dinner or party snack. This easy, affordable recipe is also customizable and freezer-friendly.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup salsa (mild or spicy, based on preference)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 6 large flour tortillas
  • Vegetable oil (for frying)
  • Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cilantro, creamy sauce

Instructions

  1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, salsa, garlic powder, cumin, and paprika. Mix until the filling is evenly combined. Taste, then season with salt and pepper as needed.
  2. Warm the flour tortillas in the microwave for 20–30 seconds or on a dry skillet just until soft and pliable.
  3. Place one tortilla on a flat surface. Spoon about 1/3 cup of the chicken mixture into the center.
  4. Fold in the sides, then roll up from the bottom to form a tight chimichanga. Secure with a toothpick if necessary. Repeat with remaining tortillas.
  5. In a large skillet, pour enough oil to cover the bottom generously. Heat over medium until shimmering, about 350°F.
  6. Add 2–3 chimichangas at a time, seam side down. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, rotating to brown evenly, until golden and crisp.
  7. Transfer to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
  8. Serve warm with your favorite toppings or dipping sauces.

Notes

For a lighter option, bake the chimichangas at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

You can freeze uncooked, rolled chimichangas in plastic wrap. Thaw before frying or bake directly from frozen.

Adjust spice levels by changing the type of salsa or adding chopped jalapeños.

To keep tortillas from cracking, always warm them before filling.