Ultimate Recipe for Chicken Chimichangas with Cheese Sauce
Guide or Summary:Ingredients for Chicken ChimichangasIngredients for Cheese SauceStep-by-Step InstructionsStep 1: Prepare the Chicken FillingStep 2: Assembl……
Guide or Summary:
- Ingredients for Chicken Chimichangas
- Ingredients for Cheese Sauce
- Step-by-Step Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Filling
- Step 2: Assemble the Chimichangas
- Step 3: Fry the Chimichangas
- Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
- Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Tips for the Best Chicken Chimichangas
If you're a fan of Mexican cuisine, then you absolutely need to try the Ultimate Recipe for Chicken Chimichangas with Cheese Sauce. This dish combines the savory flavors of seasoned chicken with a rich and creamy cheese sauce, all wrapped up in a crispy, golden-brown tortilla. It's a meal that promises to be a hit at any dinner table. Below, we’ll dive into the step-by-step process to create this delightful dish, ensuring you get the perfect chimichangas every time.
Ingredients for Chicken Chimichangas
To make the chimichangas, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 6 large flour tortillas
- Vegetable oil for frying
Ingredients for Cheese Sauce
For the cheese sauce, gather these ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar or a blend)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Filling
1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, salsa, shredded cheese, ground cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
Step 2: Assemble the Chimichangas
1. Lay out a flour tortilla on a flat surface.
2. Spoon a generous amount of the chicken mixture onto the center of the tortilla.
3. Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll it up tightly from the bottom to the top, ensuring the filling is securely enclosed.
Step 3: Fry the Chimichangas
1. In a large skillet, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the chimichangas seam-side down into the skillet.
3. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
4. Remove the chimichangas from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Once the butter is melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook for about 1 minute, whisking constantly.
3. Slowly pour in the milk, continuing to whisk until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken.
4. Add the shredded cheese to the saucepan and stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
1. Place the fried chimichangas on a serving plate.
2. Generously drizzle the cheese sauce over the top of each chimichanga.
3. Garnish with chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, or sliced jalapeños if desired.
Tips for the Best Chicken Chimichangas
1. **Use Fresh Ingredients**: Freshly cooked and shredded chicken will provide the best texture and flavor.
2. **Don't Overfill**: Be careful not to overfill the tortillas, as this can make them difficult to roll and fry.
3. **Control the Heat**: Make sure the oil is at the right temperature. Too hot and the chimichangas will burn; too cool and they will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
4. **Cheese Sauce Consistency**: If the cheese sauce is too thick, you can thin it out with a little extra milk. If it's too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to thicken up.
This Ultimate Recipe for Chicken Chimichangas with Cheese Sauce is a surefire way to bring the flavors of Mexico into your kitchen. Whether you're cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, these chimichangas are bound to impress. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious, restaurant-quality meal ready in no time. Enjoy!