Homemade Chimichangas – thestayathomechef.com

Bring the taste of Tex-Mex cuisine into your kitchen with these versatile and scrumptious chimichangas. Perfect for a family dinner or a fun gathering, these chimichangas 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 features a crispy, golden exterior encasing a savory blend of flavors and textures inside. The fusion of tender meat, creamy beans, melted cheese, and zesty seasonings is sure to captivate your taste buds and transport you to the vibrant borderlands where this dish originated. As a testament to its rich heritage, the chimichanga brings people together to celebrate a shared love for delicious, satisfying food.

History & Culture Behind Chimichangas

Chimichangas are a popular dish in Tex-Mex cuisine, a fusion of American and Mexican culinary traditions that emerged near the border of Texas and Mexico. Although chimichangas resemble traditional Mexican burritos, they are deep-fried, which is a characteristic feature of Tex-Mex cuisine. This style of cooking has its roots in the culinary practices of the Tejano people, Mexican-Americans who have lived in Texas for generations. Tex-Mex food, including chimichangas, combines the flavors and ingredients of both cultures, resulting in dishes that are both unique and delicious. The popularity of chimichangas and other Tex-Mex dishes has grown over time, and they can now be found in restaurants and kitchens around the world.

Meat Options

Chimichangas offer a fantastic opportunity to showcase a variety of flavorful meats, allowing you to customize your dish to your preferences. Some delicious options include:

Each of these meat options can elevate your chimichangas to new heights, providing a unique and unforgettable culinary experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different types of meat or make it vegetarian?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute the meat with your favorite protein or use a meat alternative such as tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version.

How can I make chimichangas spicier?

To add some heat, try using a spicier chili powder or adding a dash of hot sauce to the filling.

Can I make the chimichangas in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the chimichangas ahead of time. Keep them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook them.

Tips for Chimichanga Success

Don’t overfill the tortillas, as this can make them difficult to roll and may cause them to burst during cooking.
Ensure the tortillas are warm and pliable before assembling your chimichangas to prevent tearing.
If you’re deep-frying, make sure the oil is at the correct temperature (375°F) before frying the chimichangas for optimal results.

Serving Suggestions

Chimichangas are best served hot and can be accompanied by a variety of side dishes such as Mexican rice, black beans, or a fresh salad. Top your chimichangas with guacamole, sour cream, or salsa for added flavor and texture.

Overhead view of chimichangas on a serving platter with fresh cilantro and lime juice.

Storage & 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 a microwave, oven, or air fryer until heated through. Use of an oven or air fryer will help retain its crispiness.

Be cautious when reheating deep-fried chimichangas, as they can become soggy.

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

Watch the video below where Caytlin will walk you through every step of this recipe. Sometimes it helps to have a visual, and we’ve always got you covered with our cooking show. You can find the complete collection of recipes on YouTube, Facebook Watch, or our Facebook Page, or right here on our website with their corresponding recipes.

Prep Time 20 minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes

Total Time 35 minutes

Ingredients

2 cups shredded chicken beef, or pork
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
1 5-ounce can finely chopped diced green chiles
1 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 16-ounce can refried beans
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
8 flour tortillas
Oil for frying

Instructions

Oven Method

Preheat oven to 425°F.
In a large bowl, combine cooked meat, green chiles, diced onion, cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a towel and microwaving for 30-45 seconds.
Spoon about 1/2 cup of the meat mixture, 2 tablespoons of refried beans, and a sprinkle of cheese onto each tortilla. Tightly roll up and place fold side down on a baking sheet, or use a toothpick to ensure it won’t unroll.
Lightly spritz or baste with cooking oil and bake for 15-20 minutes. Allow to cool for 1-2 minutes before serving.

Deep Fry Method

Pour about 3 inches of oil into a skillet and heat over medium heat.
In a large bowl, combine cooked meat, green chiles, diced onion, cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a towel and microwaving for 30-45 seconds.
Spoon about 1/2 cup of the meat mixture, 2 tablespoons of refried beans, and a sprinkle of cheese onto each tortilla. Tightly roll up and place fold side down on a baking sheet, or use a toothpick to ensure it won’t unroll.
Deep 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. Allow to cool for 1-2 minutes before serving.