Chicken or Beef Chimichangas (Tex-Mex)

Jun 08, 2023June 8, 20230 15
Delicious Chicken or Beef Chimichangas (Tex-Mex) recipe for lunch or dinner
in Main

Prep

20 min

Cook

20 min

Ready In

40 min

Level

Easy

Rating

1 Star2 Stars3 Stars4 Stars5 Stars
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Ingredients

1/2 lb bacon , pieces
lard ( or oil for sauteing and as needed )
1 small onion , diced
1 lb ground chicken ( or beef )
2 tomatoes , chopped
1 can green chilies , chopped and drained
1 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 teaspoons Mexican oregano
1 -2 teaspoon chili powder
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro , minced
12 flour tortillas , warmed
vegetable oil , for frying
shredded cheddar cheese ( or queso Panela )
sour cream , as needed
salsa , as needed
shredded lettuce , as needed
sliced black olives , as needed

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe
Makes 12 chimichangas
Calories
485
Sugar
3g
Fat
32g
Chicken or beef chimichangas are a popular Tex-Mex dish that originated in Arizona in the 1920s. They are a variation of the burrito, but with a crispy fried exterior. Chimichangas are typically filled with meat, beans, and spices, and are often served with toppings like cheese, sour cream, and guacamole. The term 'chimichanga' is said to come from the Mexican-Spanish word 'chimichangas,' which means 'thingamajigs' or 'whatchamacallits.' Despite their somewhat mysterious name, chimichangas are a delicious and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed with family and friends.

Instructions

1.In a large skillet, cook bacon until crispy. Remove from pan and drain, reserving 2 tablespoons of bacon grease.
2.In the same pan, sauté onion in bacon grease until translucent. Add ground chicken/beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula.
3.Add chopped tomatoes and green chilies to the pan. Add salt, Mexican oregano, chili powder, and fresh cilantro. Cook until the liquid has evaporated, stirring occasionally.
4.Preheat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large saucepan. Spoon 2-3 tablespoons of the filling in the center of each tortilla and fold in the edges. Roll the tortilla around the filling and secure it with toothpicks. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
5.Fry the chimichangas in hot oil until golden brown. Drain on paper towels and remove toothpicks. Serve with shredded cheese or queso Panela, sour cream, salsa, shredded lettuce, and black olives.

PROS

Chicken or beef chimichangas are a delicious Tex-Mex dish that can be enjoyed for lunch or dinner.

They are easy to make and can be customized to your liking with different toppings and spices.
The crispy and golden-brown exterior provides a satisfying crunch.

These chimichangas are also a great way to use up leftover cooked chicken or beef.

CONS

Chimichangas are deep-fried, making them high in calories and fat.

They should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

They can also be messy to eat, so it is best to serve them on a plate with plenty of napkins.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Despite being high in calories and fat, chicken or beef chimichangas can provide a good source of protein.
The tomatoes and green chilies in the filling also provide vitamins and antioxidants.
Opt for healthy toppings like shredded lettuce and salsa to add fiber and nutrients to your meal.

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