Name: Chicken Chimichangas with Sour Cream Sauce
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 2 large skinless, boneless chicken breast halves; 3 cups water; 1 tablespoon chili powder; 0.5 teaspoon salt; 0.5 teaspoon ground cumin; 0.25 teaspoon ground black pepper; 0.25 teaspoon garlic powder; 0.25 teaspoon onion powder; 0.125 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1 can (7 ounces) chopped green chilies, divided; 0.5 cup diced onion; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 cup water; 1 cube chicken bouillon; 0.5 cup sour cream; salt and pepper to taste; oil for frying; 8 tortillas (8 inch) flour; 8 ounces shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Introduction to Chicken Chimichangas with Sour Cream Sauce

If you’re a young professional juggling work, social life, and maybe even a side hustle, cooking can feel like just another task on your to-do list. Enter Chicken Chimichangas with Sour Cream Sauce—the dish that combines speed with flavor, elevating your weeknight dinner game. These crispy delights are not only easy to whip up but are also incredibly satisfying, making them perfect for those nights when takeout just won't cut it.

Making chimichangas at home allows you to control what goes into your food. This means you can choose fresh ingredients that fit your dietary needs and preferences. Plus, they can be prepped ahead of time and cooked quickly, offering a homemade alternative that’s still as comforting as your favorite restaurant fare.

By preparing the chicken filling in advance, you can create a meal that comes together in no time. Imagine coming home after a long day and having a delicious, filling dinner ready in under an hour! Whether you enjoy them as a solo indulgence or a festive gathering, homemade chimichangas are the ideal choice for busy lifestyles. To discover the full recipe, check out Allrecipes.

Ingredients for Chicken Chimichangas with Sour Cream Sauce

Chicken filling ingredients

To create the delicious chicken filling for your chimichangas, you'll need the following ingredients:

2 large skinless, boneless chicken breast halves: Choose fresh for the best flavor.
3 cups water: This will help cook and flavor the chicken.
1 tablespoon chili powder: For that classic smoky heat.
½ teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing the overall flavors.
½ teaspoon ground cumin: Adds a warm, earthy note.
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper: Just the right amount of spice.
¼ teaspoon garlic powder: A pantry staple for flavor.
¼ teaspoon onion powder: Complementary to the garlic.
⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper: Adjust according to your heat preference.
1 (7 ounce) can chopped green chilies, divided: Brightens up the filling.
½ cup diced onion: Adds sweetness and texture.
3 large cloves garlic, minced: A must for that aromatic touch.

Sour cream sauce ingredients

To prepare the creamy sour cream sauce you’ll drizzle over the chimichangas, gather these ingredients:

2 tablespoons butter: For a rich base.
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: This will help thicken the sauce.
1 cup water: To create a creamy consistency.
1 cube chicken bouillon: For deep, savory flavor.
½ cup sour cream: The star of the sauce for creaminess.
Salt and pepper to taste: Adjust according to preference.
Oil for frying: About 375°F is perfect for that crispy finish.
8 (8 inch) flour tortillas: The wrap that holds it all together.
8 ounces shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Melts beautifully and complements the dish.

With these ingredients, you're all set to whip up a crowd-pleasing dinner! For more cooking tips, check out this great resource on ingredient substitutions and techniques.

Preparing Chicken Chimichangas with Sour Cream Sauce

Making delicious Chicken Chimichangas with Sour Cream Sauce at home can be a delightful culinary adventure. Not only do you get a satisfying meal, but you can impress your friends or family, too. Let’s walk through the steps together!

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start with the star ingredient: chicken! For this recipe, take two large, skinless, boneless chicken breast halves and place them in a large saucepan. Add about three cups of water and season with chili powder, salt, cumin, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Bring the water to a simmer over high heat, then reduce to medium-low and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. This simple cooking method allows the chicken to absorb all those wonderful flavors. Once it's cooked, stir in some chopped green chilies, onions, and minced garlic, simmering until the liquid reduces to about one cup. Shred the chicken with two forks to bring everything together.

Step 2: Create the Sour Cream Sauce

Complement your chimichangas with a creamy sour cream sauce that packs a punch. In a small saucepan, melt two tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in two tablespoons of flour for about a minute to create a roux, then slowly add one cup of water and a chicken bouillon cube, stirring until it thickens. Finally, mix in the remaining green chilies and half a cup of sour cream, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Keep this delightful sauce warm while you prepare the filling!

Step 3: Assemble the Chimichangas

Once everything is cooked, it’s time to assemble your Chicken Chimichangas with Sour Cream Sauce. Lay out an 8-inch flour tortilla and spoon about one-third cup of the chicken filling near the bottom edge. Flatten it out slightly and sprinkle some shredded Monterey Jack cheese on top. Fold the tortilla snugly over the filling, tuck in the sides, and roll it up tightly. Secure the ends with wooden toothpicks and repeat with the remaining tortillas.

Step 4: Fry the Chimichangas

Heat oil in a deep fryer or a large saucepan to approximately 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Fry two chimichangas at a time until they’re crisp and golden brown on both sides, which takes about a minute per side. Ensure they're well-drained on paper towels so they don’t get too greasy.

Step 5: Serve with Sauce

Now, it’s time to dig in! Remove the toothpicks and plate your chimichangas. Drizzle the warm sour cream sauce over the top and serve hot. Pair them with a fresh salad or guacamole for added flavor. Your friends and family will be asking for seconds, and you’ll be the star of the meal!

For more inspiration, check out Allrecipes for other delicious ideas! Enjoy your cooking experience!

Variations on Chicken Chimichangas

Vegetarian Chimichangas

If you're looking for a meatless alternative, try swapping in your favorite vegetables for the chicken. Fill your chimichangas with a mix of sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, and black beans, seasoned with cumin and chili powder. Add a sprinkle of cheese and you'll have a delicious vegetarian version that’s hearty and satisfying. Check out this vegetarian chimichanga recipe for inspiration!

Spicy Chimichangas with Extra Ingredients

For those who crave a kick, consider adding jalapeños or serrano peppers to the Chicken Chimichangas with Sour Cream Sauce. You can also include corn or avocados to enhance the flavor and texture. A drizzle of hot sauce right before serving will elevate your chimichangas to new heights! Looking for a spice boost? Try this homemade hot sauce recipe to complement your dish.

Cooking tips and notes for Chicken Chimichangas with Sour Cream Sauce

Tips for achieving the perfect fry

To get that crispy, golden-brown exterior on your Chicken Chimichangas, make sure the oil is hot enough—about 375°F (190°C) is ideal. Fry them in small batches so the temperature doesn’t drop too low, ensuring even cooking. If your kitchen starts smelling like a diner, you’re doing it right!

How to store leftovers

If you find yourself with extra chimichangas, simply let them cool down and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last up to three days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F until heated through for that crispy texture, which is much better than a microwave!

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Chimichangas with Sour Cream Sauce

Pairings: Side Dishes and Drinks

To complement your Chicken Chimichangas with Sour Cream Sauce, consider pairing them with delicious side dishes such as:

Spanish Rice: The flavors meld beautifully, adding a comforting layer to your meal.
Refried Beans: Creamy and hearty, they balance the crunch of the chimichangas.
Guacamole and Salsa: Freshness from the guacamole and a kick from salsa bring a delightful contrast.

For drinks, refreshing options like lemonade or sparkling water with lime can enhance the flavors without overwhelming them.

Presentation Tips

Beautiful presentation elevates your Chicken Chimichangas with Sour Cream Sauce to the next level!

Plating: Arrange the chimichangas on a vibrant plate and drizzle the sour cream sauce artistically for visual appeal.
Garnishes: Use chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, or sliced jalapeños to add pops of color and flavor.
Serve Warm: Enjoy them hot for the best texture and taste.

Incorporate these tips to impress your friends and family at your next gathering! For more ideas on side dishes and drink pairings, check this culinary guide.

Time Breakdown for Chicken Chimichangas

Preparation Time

Preparing the ingredients for your Chicken Chimichangas with Sour Cream Sauce will take about 25 minutes. This time includes gathering all your ingredients and prepping the chicken filling, ensuring a smooth cooking process.

Cooking Time

The cooking process itself will require approximately 40 minutes. This includes simmering the chicken and frying the chimichangas until they’re perfectly crispy and golden brown.

Total Time

In total, you’ll need about 1 hour and 5 minutes from start to finish. This makes it a relatively quick meal option, especially if you prepare the chicken filling ahead of time! Perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining friends.

For more tips and cooking techniques, check out Serious Eats and Bon Appétit!

Nutritional Facts for Chicken Chimichangas

Calories

Each serving of Chicken Chimichangas with Sour Cream Sauce packs approximately 506 calories. This makes it a satisfying meal without going overboard on calorie consumption.

Protein

With about 26 grams of protein per serving, these chimichangas are a great way to fuel your body, especially after a workout or a busy day at the office.

Sodium

Keep in mind that each serving contains around 1,043 mg of sodium—a little on the higher side. Consider pairing them with a side of fresh veggies or a salad to balance things out and boost your nutrient intake.

For more insights on healthy eating and delicious recipes, check out resources like Healthline or The Mayo Clinic.

FAQs about Chicken Chimichangas

Can I use different proteins?

Absolutely! While this recipe focuses on chicken, you can easily switch it up with ground beef, shredded turkey, or even vegetables for a meat-free option. Each protein will bring its own unique flavor, so feel free to experiment and find your favorite combination!

How do I make chimichangas healthier?

If you're looking to lighten up your Chicken Chimichangas with Sour Cream Sauce, consider these tips:

Baking instead of frying: Brush the chimichangas with a bit of oil and bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Whole grain tortillas: Opt for whole wheat or corn tortillas for added fiber.
Lower-fat cheese: Use a reduced-fat cheese option to cut down on calories without sacrificing taste.

What can I serve with chimichangas?

To complement your Chicken Chimichangas, serve with:

Fresh guacamole or avocado slices
A side of Mexican rice or black beans
A crisp salad with a zesty lime dressing

These sides not only enhance your meal but also add a splash of color and freshness. Enjoy!

Conclusion on Chicken Chimichangas

In conclusion, Chicken Chimichangas with Sour Cream Sauce offer a delightful twist on a classic dish, perfect for any weeknight dinner. The crispy exterior combined with a savory filling brings comfort and joy to your table. Don't shy away from making this scrumptious recipe—your taste buds will thank you!