Make Ahead Chimichangas

Simplify your weeknight dinners with these irresistible Make Ahead Chimichangas—a perfect blend of convenience and flavor! Packed with tender shredded chicken, creamy refried beans, zesty salsa, and gooey melted cheese, these crispy, oven-baked delights are seasoned with a fragrant mix of cumin, chili powder, and garlic for a bold, Tex-Mex-inspired taste. Prepared in just 20 minutes and baked to golden perfection, these chimichangas can be frozen and reheated in minutes, making them an ideal option for meal prep or busy nights. Serve them with your favorite toppings, like sour cream, guacamole, or fresh salsa, for a customizable dish the whole family will love. Baked, not fried, they’re a lighter take on a classic indulgence—perfectly crispy without the guilt!

Nutriscore Rating: 63/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 3 cups shredded cooked chicken
• 1 cup refried beans
• 1 cup salsa
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
• 8 large flour tortillas
• 0.25 cup butter (melted)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for reheating)

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, refried beans, salsa, shredded cheese, cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder. Mix until fully incorporated.

Step 3

Lay out a flour tortilla on a flat surface. Spoon about 1/3 cup of the filling mixture into the center of the tortilla.

Step 4

Fold the sides of the tortilla inward, then roll it up tightly from the bottom to form a burrito shape.

Step 5

Place the rolled chimichanga seam-side down onto the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.

Step 6

Brush the melted butter evenly over the tops and sides of the chimichangas to help them crisp up in the oven.

Step 7

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chimichangas are golden brown and crispy.

Step 8

Allow the chimichangas to cool completely if making ahead. Wrap each one individually in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag.

Step 9

To reheat, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If desired, lightly brush the chimichangas with olive oil for extra crispiness. Bake for 15-20 minutes if thawed, or 25-30 minutes if frozen, until heated through.

Step 10

Serve warm with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, guacamole, or extra salsa.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1927.7 grams (1927.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	4148

Total Fat 197.40g	253%
Saturated Fat 97.40g	487%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.60g
Cholesterol 977mg	326%
Sodium 6457mg	281%
Total Carbohydrate 264.80g	96%
Dietary Fiber 23.60g	84%
Total Sugars 19.30g
Protein 328.30g	657%

Vitamin D 48IU	240%
Calcium 2372mg	182%
Iron 30mg	169%
Potassium 3933mg	84%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 42.8%

Protein: 31.7%

Carbs: 25.5%