Green Chile Cheese Chimichangas

Ingredients:

2 boneless skinless chicken breasts

½ tablespoon Kent’s Original seasoning or all-purpose blend

1 bullion con de pollo chicken

½ tablespoon smoked paprika

1 tablespoon Kent’s Mesquite seasoning see substitution

2 teaspoons ground cumin

2 teaspoons dried oregano

2, 4 ounce cans diced green chiles

6 10-inch flour tortillas

12 slices thick cut slices Monterey Jack cheese

12 slices thick cut slices Colby Jack cheese

Oil for frying

Instructions:

Step 1:

Add the chicken to a stockpot and cover with water.

Stir in the Original seasoning and chicken bouillon cube.

Bring to a boil.

Cover and cook about 10 minutes or until cooked through and fork tender.

Remove the chicken and set aside to cool.

Reserve about ⅓ cup of the broth.

Step 2:

With your hands or forks, shred the chicken into small strips or bite-sized pieces.

Step 3:

Add the chicken into a medium saucepan.

Stir in the paprika, Mesquite, cumin, oregano and green chiles.

Cook over medium-low heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, to incorporate the flavors.

Step 4:

Place 2 Monterey Jack cheese slices down the middle of a tortilla.

Spoon about 1 cup of the chicken down on top of the cheese.

Top with 2 slices of the Colby Jack cheese.

Step 5:

Fold the short ends in and then fold the long end to meet around the middle.

Be sure the ends are sealed well.

Repeat with the remaining ingredients.

Step 6:

Heat about ½- inch of the oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat to 350 degrees F.

Place the chimichangas, seam side down, in the skillet.

Cook about 3 minutes per side or until golden brown.

Remove and let cool slightly on a wire rack.

Serve warm.

Notes:

Ingredients Variety: The recipe calls for a mix of spices and seasonings like smoked paprika, Kent’s Mesquite seasoning, cumin, and oregano, adding depth and complexity to the flavor profile.

Texture and Flavor Balance: The combination of Monterey Jack and Colby Jack cheeses offers a balance of creamy texture and rich flavor to complement the tender, seasoned chicken filling.

Ease of Preparation: The recipe involves straightforward steps, from boiling and shredding the chicken to assembling and frying the chimichangas. This makes it accessible for home cooks with varying levels of experience.

Customization Options: While the recipe provides specific ingredients and measurements, there’s room for customization. For instance, individuals can adjust the level of spice by varying the amount of diced green chiles or experimenting with different cheese combinations.

Cooking Method: Frying the chimichangas in oil yields a crispy exterior, enhancing the overall texture and providing a satisfying crunch. However, individuals can also opt for baking or air frying methods for a lighter alternative.

Serving Suggestions: The chimichangas are best served warm, allowing the melted cheese and flavorful chicken filling to be enjoyed to the fullest. They can be served alongside accompaniments like salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for added freshness and tanginess.

Portion Control: Given the richness of the ingredients, it’s worth noting the portion sizes to avoid overindulgence. Depending on appetite and dietary preferences, individuals may choose to adjust the serving size accordingly.

Nutrition Information:

Calories: 600 | Fat: 30 grams | Carbohydrates: 40 grams | Protein: 30-40 grams

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of meat instead of chicken, like beef or pork?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with beef, pork, or any other meat of your choice.

Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure the meat is fully cooked.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian by substituting the chicken with beans or tofu?

Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with beans, tofu, or any other plant-based protein you prefer.

Consider marinating or seasoning the alternative protein for added flavor.

How spicy are these chimichangas with the diced green chiles? Can I adjust the heat level?

The spiciness of the chimichangas depends on the diced green chiles.

You can adjust the heat level by reducing or increasing the amount of green chiles used in the filling.

Can I bake the chimichangas instead of frying them to make them healthier?

Yes, you can bake the chimichangas in the oven for a healthier option.

Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at around 375°F (190°C) until golden brown and crispy.

Are there any alternatives to using flour tortillas for those with gluten sensitivities?

For gluten-sensitive individuals, you can use corn tortillas or gluten-free flour tortillas as alternatives.

Ensure they are large enough to hold the filling and fold into chimichangas.

Can I prepare the chicken filling in advance and assemble the chimichangas later?

Yes, you can make the chicken filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to assemble the chimichangas.

Just make sure to reheat the filling before assembling.

How long will the chimichangas stay crispy after frying if I want to make them ahead for a party?

Chimichangas are best served fresh for optimal crispiness.

If making ahead, you can reheat them in the oven just before serving to help retain some crispiness.

Is there a recommended dipping sauce to serve with these chimichangas?

Chimichangas pair well with a variety of dipping sauces such as salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or a spicy chipotle mayo.

Can I freeze the chimichangas before frying them for later use?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled chimichangas before frying.

Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag or container.

Fry them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

How can I store leftover chimichangas and reheat them to maintain their flavor and texture?

Store leftover chimichangas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

This helps maintain their flavor and texture better than microwaving.