Description
Crispy and golden on the outside, tender and flavorful on the inside, these homemade chimichangas are packed with seasoned chicken (or beef/pork), refried beans, and melted cheese. Perfectly fried to a crispy perfection and ready for your favorite toppings like sour cream, guacamole, or salsa.
Ingredients
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2 cups shredded chicken, beef, or pork (your choice)
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1/2 cup diced white or yellow onion
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1 (4 ounce) can diced green chiles
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1 teaspoon ground cumin
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1/2 teaspoon chili powder
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
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8 (10-inch) flour tortillas (burrito size)
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1 (16 ounce) can refried beans
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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4 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
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In a medium skillet, sauté the diced onion over medium heat until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
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Add the shredded chicken (or beef/pork), green chiles, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for another 3-4 minutes until heated through.
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In a separate bowl, combine the refried beans with a little water or broth to loosen them up for easier spreading.
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Lay the tortillas flat and spread a spoonful of the refried beans on each tortilla.
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Top the beans with the seasoned meat mixture and then sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
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Roll up the tortillas tightly, folding in the sides as you go to form a burrito shape.
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Heat vegetable oil in a large frying pan or deep fryer over medium-high heat.
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Fry the chimichangas, two or three at a time, until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
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Remove the chimichangas from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
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Serve immediately with your favorite toppings such as sour cream, salsa, or guacamole.
Notes
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You can bake the chimichangas instead of frying them for a healthier version. Simply brush with a little oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through.
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If you prefer spicier chimichangas, add some hot sauce or jalapeños to the filling.
- You can also use a combination of meats for more flavor or swap out the refried beans for black beans if you prefer.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican