If you’re looking for a flavorful, satisfying meal that’s a total crowd-pleaser, these Baked Chicken Chimichangas: Easy and Delicious Recipe are going to win your heart. Crispy on the outside with a cheesy, seasoned chicken filling on the inside, this dish is a perfect weeknight dinner or a fun dish to share with friends. Plus, baking these chimichangas instead of frying makes them a bit lighter without sacrificing any of that irresistible crunch and gooey goodness. Get ready to impress your family with minimal effort and maximum taste!

Baked Chicken Chimichangas: Easy and Delicious Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things straightforward with ingredients that are simple yet essential for creating that perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and crispy textures. Each component adds a unique flair — from the velvety cream cheese that ties the filling together to the pepperjack cheese that gives just the right amount of zing and melty goodness.

Cream cheese (8 oz package): Provides a smooth, creamy base that binds the filling beautifully.
Pepperjack cheese, shredded (8 oz): Adds a mild spicy kick and melts perfectly inside the chimichangas.
Taco seasoning (1 1/2 tbsp): Brings in that signature southwestern flavor with a blend of spices.
Cooked chicken, shredded (1 lb): The star protein of the dish, tender and easy to mix into the filling.
Flour tortillas (8): Soft yet sturdy enough to hold all the ingredients and crisp up nicely in the oven.
Cooking spray: Essential for achieving that golden, crispy exterior without frying.
Shredded cheddar cheese: Perfect for garnish, adding an extra burst of cheesy flavor.
Green onions: For a fresh, sharp contrast in both color and taste.
Sour cream and salsa: Classic accompaniments that bring creaminess and tangy freshness to each bite.

How to Make Baked Chicken Chimichangas: Easy and Delicious Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

Start by stirring together the cream cheese, shredded pepperjack cheese, and taco seasoning until it forms one smooth, creamy mixture. This blend is the flavor-packed base that will coat and season every bit of chicken you add.

Step 2: Add the Chicken

Next, fold the shredded cooked chicken right into your cheese mixture. This step is crucial because it ensures the flavorful coating hugs each chicken shred evenly, so every bite bursts with taste and texture.

Step 3: Assemble the Chimichangas

Lay out your flour tortillas flat on the counter and evenly divide the cheesy chicken filling among them. Fold the sides inward, then roll the tortillas tightly, creating neat little packages ready to bake into golden perfection.

Step 4: Bake to Crispy Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to keep those chimichangas from sticking. Place the rolled chimichangas seam side down in the dish, then spritz the tops with more cooking spray. Bake for 15 minutes, flip each chimichanga carefully, and bake for another 15 minutes until they’re crisp and golden all over.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

When your chimichangas come out of the oven, top them with shredded cheddar cheese and fresh green onions for a burst of color and flavor. Serve with dollops of sour cream and your favorite salsa to complete this wonderfully easy and delicious meal.

How to Serve Baked Chicken Chimichangas: Easy and Delicious Recipe

Garnishes

Don’t skip the garnishes—they add that final pop of freshness and richness that makes these baked chicken chimichangas shine. Shredded cheddar melts on warm chimichangas for extra cheesiness, while green onions bring a crisp bite and vibrant color. A dollop of sour cream cools off the gentle heat and adds a creamy texture that complements every mouthful.

Side Dishes

Pair these chimichangas with simple, bright sides like a fresh corn salad, Mexican rice, or black beans to round out the meal. The goal is to balance the warmth and richness of the chimichangas with something fresh or slightly acidic, like a crisp cabbage slaw or lime-infused avocado slices.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, try slicing the baked chicken chimichangas diagonally and fanning them out on a large platter. You can drizzle a bit of chipotle mayo or a spicy crema on top to elevate the presentation. Serving them alongside colorful bowls of salsa, guacamole, and sour cream lets everyone customize their own plates and heightens the fun.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, wrap each chimichanga tightly in foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate. They keep well for up to 3 days without losing much of their crispness, making for an easy next-day meal that feels freshly made.

Freezing

You can freeze uncooked, assembled chimichangas by wrapping each in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, simply bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes of cooking time to get that perfect crispy finish.

Reheating

To reheat leftovers, pop your chimichangas in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes so they crisp back up beautifully. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that delightful crunch.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a perfect shortcut to save time and still get tender, flavorful meat in your chimichangas. Just shred it and mix it right in with the cheese and seasoning.

Is it possible to make these chimichangas vegan or vegetarian?

Yes, you can swap the chicken for sautéed vegetables or beans, and use dairy-free cream cheese and shredded cheese alternatives. Just be sure to season well to keep that classic chimichanga flavor.

Can I make these chimichangas spicy?

Definitely! Adding extra taco seasoning, some chopped jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce inside the filling will bring in heat. Garnishing with spicy salsa or chipotle crema also amps up the flavor.

Why bake instead of frying?

Baking the chimichangas makes for a lighter dish with less mess while still achieving a satisfyingly crispy exterior. It’s a healthier option that doesn’t compromise on taste or texture.

How do I prevent tortillas from getting soggy?

Spraying the chimichangas with cooking spray before baking helps them crisp up nicely. Also, baking them seam side down seals the filling inside and keeps the tortillas nice and crunchy as they cook.

Final Thoughts

Now that you’ve got this foolproof Baked Chicken Chimichangas: Easy and Delicious Recipe in your culinary arsenal, I encourage you to give it a try and enjoy the perfect blend of cheesy, spicy, and crispy textures that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Whether for a cozy dinner or a casual get-together, these chimichangas deliver both comfort and excitement on a plate. Happy baking!