Chi-Chi’s Baked Chicken Chimichangas

Chi-Chi’s Baked Chicken Chimichangas
Ingredients
For the Filling
2 cups cooked shredded chicken
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup salsa
¼ cup diced green chilies
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Assembly
6 large flour tortillas
Cooking spray
For Serving
Sour cream
Guacamole
Additional salsa
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly coat it with cooking spray to help prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, Monterey Jack cheese, cheddar cheese, salsa, diced green chilies, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (optional).
Season with salt and pepper, then mix until everything is fully blended and the chicken is evenly coated.
3. Warm the Tortillas
Warm the flour tortillas so they become soft and flexible.
Microwave them for 20–30 seconds, or wrap in a damp paper towel and heat for about 45 seconds to prevent cracking when rolling.
4. Assemble the Chimichangas
Spoon roughly ⅓ cup of filling into the center of each tortilla.
Fold the bottom edge over the filling, then fold in the two sides.
Roll tightly from bottom to top, creating a neat burrito shape.
Place each chimichanga seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Add the Crisping Layer
Generously spray the tops and sides of each chimichanga with cooking spray.
This will help them turn golden brown and crisp in the oven without deep frying.
6. Bake Until Golden
Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the chimichangas are crispy and deep golden brown.
Flip halfway through the baking time for even browning.
The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
7. Serve and Enjoy
Let the chimichangas cool for 2–3 minutes, then serve warm.
Pair with sour cream, guacamole, extra salsa, or your favorite Tex-Mex toppings for the perfect finishing touch.
