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Crispy Baked Chicken Chimichangas: A Weeknight Favorite

Two golden-brown Baked Chicken Chimichangas stacked on a white plate, showing the shredded chicken filling.

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Make satisfying, golden-brown chicken chimichangas in your oven. This easy recipe delivers the crispy texture you want without frying, perfect for a quick family dinner.

Ingredients

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  • 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1/2 cup refried beans (optional)
  • 8 medium flour tortillas (burrito size)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease a baking sheet.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until the chicken is evenly seasoned.
  3. Warm the tortillas briefly in the microwave or a dry skillet to make them pliable. This prevents tearing when rolling.
  4. Place about 1/4 cup of the seasoned chicken mixture down the center of each tortilla. If using, spread a thin line of refried beans over the chicken. Sprinkle with cheese.
  5. Fold the sides of the tortilla inward over the filling. Then, tightly roll the tortilla from the bottom up, creating a sealed cylinder shape. Place seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.
  6. Brush the tops and sides of the rolled chimichangas generously with olive oil or melted butter. This step is key for crispiness.
  7. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tortillas are golden brown and crispy.
  8. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings like salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.

Notes

  • For extra crispiness, you can lightly spray the chimichangas with cooking spray after brushing them with oil before the first bake.
  • Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to make this an even faster weeknight chicken meal.
  • You can assemble these oven baked burritos ahead of time, cover them, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

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