Homemade Chimichangas

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Bring the flavors of Tex-Mex food into your kitchen with these versatile and delicious burritos. Perfect for family meals or fun gatherings, these burritos will be the talk of the table.

Chimichangas are an irresistible Tex-Mex creation that combines the best of American and Mexican culinary traditions. This delightful dish has a crispy, golden-brown exterior and a savory blend of flavors and textures. The fusion of tender meat, butter beans, melted cheese, and zesty seasonings is sure to tantalize your taste buds and transport you to the vibrant frontier where the dish originated. A testament to its rich heritage, chimichanga brings people together to celebrate a shared love of delicious, satisfying food.

The History and Culture Behind Chimichangas

Chimichangas are a popular dish in Tex-Mex cuisine, a fusion of American and Mexican culinary traditions found near the Texas-Mexico border. While chimichangas are similar to traditional burritos, they are deep-fried, a specialty of Tex-Mex cuisine. This style of cooking stems from the cooking habits of the Mexican-American Tejano people who have lived in Texas for generations. Tex-Mex food, including burritos, combines flavors and ingredients from both cultures to create dishes that are as unique as they are delicious. Over time, chimichangas and other Tex-Mex dishes have grown in popularity and can now be found in restaurants and kitchens around the world.

meat selection

Chimichangas offer the perfect opportunity to showcase a variety of delicious meats, allowing you to customize the dish to your liking. Some tasty options include:

Each of these meat options can take your burrito to new heights, providing a unique and memorable culinary experience.

frequently asked questions

Can I use a different type of meat or is it vegetarian?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute your favorite protein for the meat, or use a meat substitute like tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version.

How can I make chimichangas spicier?

For extra heat, try using a spicier paprika or adding a dash of hot sauce to the filling.

Can I make chimichangas ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the burrito ahead of time. Store them covered in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook them.

Chimichanga’s Secret to Success

  • Don’t overfill the tortillas, as this will make them difficult to roll and may cause them to burst during cooking.
  • Make sure the tortillas are warm and pliable Before assembling your chimichangas to prevent tearing.
  • If you’re frying, make sure the oil is the right temperature (375°F) for best results just before frying the chimichangas.

service suggestion

Best served hot, chimichangas can be served with a variety of side dishes such as Mexican rice, black beans, or fresh salads. Top burritos with guacamole, sour cream, or salsa for added flavor and texture.

Overhead view of tacos served on a plate with fresh cilantro and lime juice.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Chimichangas are best eaten fresh. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use microwave, oven, or air fryer until heated through. Using an oven or air fryer will help preserve its crispness.

Be careful when reheating fried burritos as they will get soggy.

If you liked this recipe, you might be interested in these other delicious Tex-Mex inspired recipes:

watch the video below Caytlin will walk you through each step of this recipe. Sometimes the visuals help, and we always let you watch our cooking shows.You can find the complete collection of recipes youtube, facebook watch, or our facebook pageor provide a corresponding recipe on our website.

Chimichangas served on a plate.

Bring the flavors of Tex-Mex food into your kitchen with these versatile and delicious burritos. Perfect for family meals or fun gatherings, these burritos will be the talk of the table.

Preparation time 20 minute

cooking time 15 minute

total time 35 minute

raw material

  • 2 cup chicken wire beef or pork
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 1 5 oz can diced green chilies
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • salt and pepper to try
  • 1 16 oz can refried beans
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 8 Flour Tortillas
  • fried

instruct

oven method

  • Preheat oven to 425°F.

  • In a large bowl, combine deli meats, green peppers, diced onion, cumin, paprika, and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper.

  • Wrap the tortilla in a towel and microwave for 30-45 seconds to warm the tortilla.

  • Spoon about 1/2 cup of meat mixture, 2 tablespoons refried beans, and a dash of cheese over each tortilla. Roll up tightly and place folded side down on a baking sheet, or use a toothpick to make sure it doesn’t unroll.

  • Lightly spray or coat with cooking oil and bake for 15-20 minutes. Let cool for 1-2 minutes before serving.

frying method

  • Pour about 3 inches of oil into a skillet and heat over medium heat.

  • In a large bowl, combine deli meats, green peppers, diced onion, cumin, paprika, and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper.

  • Wrap the tortilla in a towel and microwave for 30-45 seconds to warm the tortilla.

  • Spoon about 1/2 cup of meat mixture, 2 tablespoons refried beans, and a dash of cheese over each tortilla. Roll up tightly and place folded side down on a baking sheet, or use a toothpick to make sure it doesn’t unroll.

  • Fry in oil at 375°F for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown.

  • Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Let cool for 1-2 minutes before serving.

notes

Air fryer method:

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 375-380°F.
  2. Follow steps 2-4 of the oven method to prepare the burritos.
  3. Spray or coat taquitos lightly with oil and air fry at 380°F for 6-8 minutes.
  4. Let cool for 1-2 minutes before serving.

Calories: 252kcal | carbohydrate: twenty threeG | protein: 17G | fat: 10G | Saturated fat: 4G | Polyunsaturated fats: 1G | Monounsaturated fats: 2G | cholesterol: 40mg | sodium: 668mg | Potassium: 153mg | fiber: 4G | sugar: 3G | Vitamin A: 244unit | Vitamin C: 1mg | calcium: 172mg | iron: 2mg

Homemade Burritos