A chimichanga is a deep-fried burrito that is popular in Tex-Mex and Southwestern U.S. cuisine. It typically consists of a flour tortilla that is filled with meat, beans, cheese, and other ingredients, then deep-fried until crispy. While there are many variations of chimichangas with different fillings, there are some traditional ingredients that are commonly found in an authentic chimichanga.
Meat
One of the key components of a chimichanga is the meat filling. Traditional options include:
- Shredded beef
- Shredded chicken
- Ground beef
- Carnitas (braised pork)
- Chorizo (Mexican sausage)
Beef and chicken are the most popular choices. The meat is usually seasoned with spices like cumin, garlic, onion, oregano, and chili powder before being incorporated into the chimichanga filling.
Beans
Beans are another traditional chimichanga ingredient. Options include:
- Pinto beans
- Black beans
- Refried beans
Beans add protein and fiber to help make the chimichanga filling hearty and substantial. They also provide a contrasting flavor and texture to the meat.
Rice
Some chimichanga recipes will include rice in the filling, usually:
- White rice
- Spanish rice
- Cilantro lime rice
The rice soaks up flavors from the other fillings and helps make the chimichanga more filling and substantial when fried.
Cheese
Melted cheese is key component of a chimichanga. Common options are:
- Monterey Jack
- Cheddar
- Queso Fresco
- Asadero
The cheese becomes melted and gooey when the chimichanga is fried. It adds creamy texture and binds the other fillings together.
Onion and Cilantro
Sautéed onions and fresh cilantro are also almost always included in chimichanga fillings. The onions provide aromatic flavor while the cilantro offers freshness and bright herbal notes.
Other Potential Fillings
While the ingredients above are the most common, chimichangas can also be filled with:
- Diced peppers
- Jalapeños
- Tomatoes
- Lettuce
- Avocado
- Green chiles
- Corn
- Mushrooms
Adding vegetables contributes additional flavors, textures, colors, and nutrients. The filling possibilities are endless!
Tortilla
Chimichangas are wrapped in flour tortillas before being deep-fried. The tortilla choice affects the final texture and flavor:
- Flour tortillas – The most common wrapper, providing a soft and absorbent texture.
- Corn tortillas – Adds a distinctive corn flavor but can become too crunchy when fried.
- Spinach or sun-dried tomato tortillas – Infuses more flavor into the chimichanga but may overwhelm other fillings.
Flour tortillas are best for achieving the ideal soft, puffy texture and absorbing flavors of the savory fillings. Corn tortillas work better for dessert chimichangas filled with fruit or other sweet ingredients.
Frying Oil
Chimichangas achieve their distinctive crispy exterior by being deep-fried. The oil choice affects flavor and nutrition:
- Canola oil – A common neutral-flavored oil ideal for deep frying.
- Peanut oil – Also neutral-flavored but can add nuttiness.
- Vegetable oil – A budget-friendly option but less flavor.
- Olive oil – Provides a rich, savory flavor but has a lower smoke point.
Canola or peanut oil allow the chimichanga flavors to shine through. Olive oil adds nice flavor but risk smoking at the high heat required for frying chimichangas.
Seasonings
Chimichangas are typically seasoned with:
- Salt
- Pepper
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Cumin
- Chili powder
- Paprika
- Oregano
This combination enhances the savory flavors of the meats, beans, and other fillings. The seasonings permeate throughout the entire chimichanga when fried.
Salsa
No chimichanga is complete without salsa for dipping or drizzling. Popular salsas include:
- Pico de gallo
- Red chili salsa
- Tomatillo salsa
- Mango salsa
- Salsa verde
- Guacamole
The salsa adds freshness and extra flavor. Salsas range from mild to spicy depending on personal tastes.
Sides
Typical chimichanga sides include:
- Rice
- Beans
- Salad
- Guacamole
- Chips and salsa
- Queso dip
Sides complement the chimichanga by balancing flavors and textures. Rice or beans add more filling carbs while guacamole, salsa, and queso provide creamy and fresh contrast.
Conclusion
While creative fillings are endless, chimichangas are traditionally filled with seasoned meats, beans, cheese, onion, and cilantro. A flour tortilla is used to wrap the fillings before deep-frying to a golden crisp exterior. Salsas and sides like rice, beans, and guacamole complete the classic chimichanga experience. With so many tasty ingredients, it’s no wonder chimichangas have become so popular!