Name: The BEST Homemade Chimichangas EVER!!
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded chicken or beef; 1/2 cup diced white or yellow onion; 1 (4 ounce) can diced green chiles; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/2 teaspoon chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste); 8 (10-inch) flour tortillas (burrito size); 1 (16 ounce) can refried beans; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 4 cups vegetable oil for frying

Crispy on the outside, savory and tender on the inside – these homemade chimichangas bring authentic Mexican-inspired flavors right to your kitchen table with perfectly seasoned meat, beans, and cheese wrapped in a golden-fried tortilla shell.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These homemade chimichangas are a game-changer for your dinner rotation. Unlike restaurant versions, you control exactly what goes inside, allowing you to adjust the spice level and fillings to your preference. The preparation is straightforward with simple ingredients, making this an accessible recipe even for beginners. The satisfying crunch of the fried exterior gives way to a warm, flavorful filling that combines tender meat, savory beans, and melted cheese in every bite. Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, these chimichangas will quickly become a family favorite that everyone will request again and again.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Shredded chicken or beef provides the protein foundation for these chimichangas. You can use leftover roasted chicken, rotisserie chicken from the store, or slow-cooked shredded beef for different flavor profiles. Either option works beautifully in this recipe.

Diced onion adds essential aromatic flavor and a slight crunch to the filling. White or yellow onions work best here as they become sweet and mellow when cooked, complementing the other flavors without overpowering them.

Diced green chiles bring a mild heat and authentic Southwestern flavor to the filling. The canned variety offers convenience and consistent flavor without making the mixture too spicy.

Ground cumin contributes an earthy, warm depth that’s essential to Mexican-inspired dishes. This spice helps create that distinctive Tex-Mex flavor profile you’re looking for.

Chili powder adds color and a complex spice blend that includes dried chilies, oregano, and other spices. It’s not particularly hot but provides dimension to the filling.

Garlic powder offers concentrated savory notes without the prep work of fresh garlic. It distributes evenly throughout the filling, ensuring consistent flavor in every bite.

Flour tortillas serve as the wrapper for your chimichangas. Choose the burrito-size (10-inch) variety to ensure you have enough surface area to properly fold and contain all the delicious filling.

Refried beans add a creamy texture and hearty substance to the chimichangas. They also help bind the other ingredients together and provide traditional Mexican flavor.

Shredded cheddar cheese melts beautifully, adding richness and a gooey texture to each chimichanga. As it melts, it helps hold the filling together and creates that irresistible cheese pull when you take your first bite.

Vegetable oil is essential for the deep-frying process that gives chimichangas their signature crispy exterior. Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point like canola or vegetable oil for best results.

Directions

In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, diced onion, green chiles, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until evenly combined.
Pour about 3 inches of oil into a deep skillet and heat to 350°F (175°C). Monitor and adjust the heat to maintain the temperature at 350°F.
Wrap the tortillas in a clean towel and microwave for 30-45 seconds to soften them, making them more pliable for rolling.
Spoon about 1/4 cup of the meat mixture onto the center of each tortilla. Spread 2 tablespoons of refried beans next to the meat mixture and sprinkle with a little shredded cheddar cheese. Fold the sides of the tortilla in and tightly roll it up, placing it seam-side down (or secure with a toothpick if necessary).
Gently place the rolled chimichangas into the hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Turn them as needed to ensure even browning.
Remove the chimichangas from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Let them cool for 1-2 minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 8 delicious chimichangas, which is perfect for a family dinner or a small gathering. Each serving contains approximately 370 calories. The preparation takes about 20 minutes, with cooking time adding another 15 minutes, bringing the total time to approximately 35 minutes from start to finish. This makes it an excellent option for a weeknight dinner that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen.

Variations

Vegetarian Chimichangas: Skip the meat entirely and double up on beans. Mix in some roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and corn for added flavor and texture.

Breakfast Chimichangas: Fill your tortillas with scrambled eggs, breakfast sausage, potatoes, and cheese for a morning twist on this classic.

Seafood Option: Substitute the chicken or beef with seasoned shrimp or flaked white fish for a seafood version that’s lighter but equally delicious.

Baked Instead of Fried: For a healthier alternative, brush the rolled chimichangas with a little oil and bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes until golden and crispy.

Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños to the filling and mix some hot sauce with the refried beans for an extra kick that spice lovers will appreciate.

Sweet Dessert Chimichangas: For a complete departure, fill tortillas with sweetened cream cheese and fruit (like strawberries or bananas), fry, and then dust with cinnamon sugar for a dessert version.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftover chimichangas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be aware that the crispy texture will soften somewhat during storage.

Freezing: These chimichangas freeze exceptionally well. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap each individually in aluminum foil and place in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating from Refrigerated: For the best texture when reheating refrigerated chimichangas, place them in a preheated 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes. This will help restore some of the crispy exterior. Avoid microwaving if possible, as this will make the tortilla soggy.

Reheating from Frozen: For frozen chimichangas, you can either thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat as above, or reheat directly from frozen in a 375°F oven for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.

Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the filling and assemble the chimichangas ahead of time, then store them uncooked in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before frying. This makes them perfect for entertaining or busy weeknights.

FAQs

Can I make chimichangas without deep frying?

Yes, you can bake chimichangas for a healthier alternative. Preheat your oven to 400°F, lightly brush the assembled chimichangas with oil, place them seam-side down on a baking sheet, and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and crispy.

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

The main difference is that a chimichanga is deep-fried, while a burrito is not. They both contain similar fillings wrapped in a flour tortilla, but the frying process gives chimichangas their characteristic crispy exterior.

How can I tell if the oil is at the right temperature?

The ideal temperature is 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, drop a small piece of tortilla into the oil – it should sizzle immediately and float to the top, turning golden in about 30 seconds if the temperature is correct.

What can I serve with chimichangas?

Chimichangas pair beautifully with Mexican rice, refried beans, guacamole, pico de gallo, sour cream, and a fresh green salad. You can also top them with extra cheese, lettuce, and salsa for a complete meal.

My tortillas keep breaking when I roll them. What am I doing wrong?

Tortillas break when they’re too cold or dry. Make sure to warm them properly before filling. You can microwave them covered with a damp paper towel for 30 seconds, or briefly heat each one in a dry skillet until pliable.

Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?

While authentic chimichangas use flour tortillas, you can experiment with corn tortillas. However, they’re more prone to cracking and may not seal as well. If using corn tortillas, make sure they’re very fresh and warm them thoroughly before rolling.

Is there a way to make the chimichangas less greasy?

Ensure your oil is at the right temperature (350°F) – if it’s too low, the chimichangas will absorb more oil. Also, use paper towels to thoroughly drain the fried chimichangas, and you can even stand them vertically for a minute to allow excess oil to drain off.

Can I prepare the filling a day ahead?

Absolutely! The filling actually benefits from being made ahead, as the flavors have more time to meld. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before assembling and frying your chimichangas.

Why did my chimichangas unfold while frying?

This typically happens when they’re not rolled tightly enough or secured properly. Make sure to tuck the sides in firmly before rolling, place them seam-side down in the oil, or secure with toothpicks (just remember to remove them before serving).

Can I freeze the chimichangas before frying them?

Yes, you can assemble the chimichangas and freeze them uncooked. Place them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before frying for best results.

Conclusion

These homemade chimichangas bring restaurant-quality Mexican-inspired cuisine right to your dining table with minimal effort. The crispy fried exterior perfectly complements the savory filling, creating a satisfying meal that’s sure to impress family and friends alike.

What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility – whether you choose chicken or beef, spicy or mild, fried or baked, you can easily adapt it to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. The straightforward preparation process makes it accessible even to novice cooks, while the impressive results will make everyone think you spent hours in the kitchen.

Don’t be intimidated by the frying process – with proper temperature control and a few simple techniques, you’ll achieve perfectly golden, crispy chimichangas every time. Pair them with your favorite sides and toppings for a complete meal that celebrates the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine. Once you master this recipe, it’s sure to become a regular part of your cooking repertoire that your family will request again and again.

The BEST Homemade Chimichangas EVER!!