Why You’ll Love This Chicken Chimichanga Recipe
If you’re looking for a dish that’s both satisfying and bursting with flavor, you’ll love this Chicken Chimichanga recipe.
The crispy exterior gives way to a mouthwatering filling that combines seasoned chicken and savory spices. Each bite is a delightful blend of textures and tastes, and I can’t get enough of the cheesy goodness!
Plus, it’s incredibly versatile; you can customize the filling to suit your preferences. Whether you’re serving it for a casual dinner or a special occasion, it’s sure to impress.
Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked on these delicious chimichangas!
Ingredients of Chicken Chimichanga
When it comes to making a fantastic Chicken Chimichanga, the right ingredients are absolutely crucial. You want to gather everything before you start cooking, so you can dive right into the fun part without scrambling around the kitchen.
Plus, there’s something satisfying about laying out all your ingredients, like you’re preparing for a mini cooking adventure. So, let’s get into what you’ll need to whip up this delicious dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 Spanish onion or 1 red onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 600 g ground chicken
- 1 can crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons chopped coriander
- 6 flour tortillas
- 1 cup grated tasty cheese
- 2 teaspoons extra oil for cooking
- 1 avocado, chopped
- 1 jar bought salsa
- Sour cream for serving
Now, let’s chat about the ingredients a bit. You might be wondering, can I switch things up? Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of ground chicken, you could use turkey or even beef.
And don’t fret if you’re missing some spices; a taco seasoning packet could save the day. It’s like a magic potion for flavor. Fresh coriander gives a bright touch, but if you only have dried, that works too.
And let’s not forget about the cheese; it’s fundamentally the glue that holds all the goodness together. Just make sure it’s a cheese that melts well—because who doesn’t love that gooey, cheesy goodness?
How to Make Chicken Chimichanga
Making Chicken Chimichangas is an exciting journey, and trust me, it’s way easier than it sounds. First things first, grab 1 tablespoon of olive oil and heat it in a frying pan over medium heat. Once that oil is shimmering like a Hollywood star, toss in your chopped Spanish or red onion—your choice! Let those onions sauté until they soften and become fragrant, which should take about 5 minutes.
Then add in 2 cloves of chopped garlic, along with 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1/2 teaspoon of ground allspice, and 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder. This mixture is going to smell divine—like a little fiesta in your kitchen—so don’t forget to give it a good stir for about 30 seconds.
Now, it’s time to bring in the star of the show: 600 grams of ground chicken. Turn up the heat to high and cook that chicken until it’s browned all over. This is where the magic happens. Once the chicken is looking all golden and delicious, pour in a can of crushed tomatoes and let everything simmer together for about 5 minutes. The flavors will meld beautifully, and your kitchen will be filled with mouth-watering aromas.
Stir in 2 tablespoons of chopped coriander before you set this mixture aside. Now, lay out 6 flour tortillas and spoon the chicken filling down the center of each one. Sprinkle with 1 cup of grated tasty cheese—because, let’s be honest, cheese makes everything better. Tuck in the sides of the tortillas and roll them up snugly like a warm burrito blanket.
Next, take 2 teaspoons of extra oil and heat it up in the pan again. Place each chimichanga seam side down in the pan, and cook on low heat until they’re nice and crisp. Flip them around so all sides get that golden-brown crunch. It’s like giving each one a little spa treatment.
Once they’re perfectly crispy, serve them up with chopped avocado, a jar of salsa, and a dollop of sour cream on the side. You’ll be feeling like a culinary superstar, and your taste buds are in for a treat. Just try not to eat them all at once; I know it’s tempting. Enjoy the process, and remember, it’s all about having fun in the kitchen!
Chicken Chimichanga Substitutions & Variations
While I love the classic Chicken Chimichanga, there are plenty of ways to switch things up and make this dish your own.
For a healthier twist, try using ground turkey or even shredded veggies for a vegetarian option. You can swap out the spices for a packet of taco seasoning if you’re short on time.
Instead of flour tortillas, corn tortillas add a delightful crunch. Feel free to experiment with fillings too—think black beans, cheese, or even pulled pork.
Don’t forget to top your chimichangas with fresh ingredients like pico de gallo or jalapeños for a zesty kick!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your Chicken Chimichangas turn out perfectly every time, I recommend prepping all your ingredients before you start cooking. It saves time and guarantees a smooth cooking process.
Don’t skip the browning step for the chicken; it adds flavor and texture. If you want extra crunch, try deep-frying instead of pan-frying. For a healthier option, bake them in the oven at 400°F for about 20 minutes.
Feel free to experiment with fillings like beans or peppers. Finally, serve with fresh salsa, creamy avocado, and sour cream for that perfect finishing touch. Enjoy your delicious creation!