frozen chimichanga seasons your kitchen with a burst of golden crunch and melty surprises inside. Imagine slipping that crisp tortilla into the oven, its edges crackling to perfection while fillings of spiced chicken (or tender beans for a veggie twist), cheddar and pepper jack come together in a playful creamy tango. A quick drizzle of zesty lime crema and a scatter of fresh cilantro elevates every bite. In under thirty minutes, you’ll be diving into a fun, fuss-free fiesta that feels homemade and oh-so indulgent, no wine or booze needed. Ready to crunch into pure joy?
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This frozen chimichanga
- Quick and easy meal for busy days.
- Deliciously crispy exterior with a savory filling.
- Perfect for customizing with your favorite toppings.
- Great for satisfying cravings without the fuss.
frozen chimichanga
Equipment
- 1 Deep skillet For frying the chimichanga
- 1 Tongs For flipping the chimichanga
- 1 Paper towels For draining excess oil
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 piece frozen chimichanga your choice of flavor
- 1-2 inches vegetable oil for frying
Toppings
- to taste salsa for topping (optional)
- to taste sour cream for topping (optional)
- to taste guacamole for topping (optional)
- to taste shredded cheese for topping (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat 1–2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Make sure the oil is hot enough for frying!
Cooking
- Carefully place the frozen chimichanga in the hot oil. Fry for 4–6 minutes on each side until it’s golden brown and crispy. Watch it closely!
Serving
- Remove the chimichanga and let it drain on paper towels. Sprinkle some shredded cheese on top while it’s hot. Serve with salsa, sour cream, and guacamole for a tasty treat!
Notes
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 300 |
| Fat | 15g |
| Protein | 10g |
| Carbs | 30g |
Ingredients
Get ready to enjoy a delicious frozen chimichanga with these simple ingredients!
- 1 frozen chimichanga – your choice of flavor
- vegetable oil – for frying
- salsa – for topping (optional)
- sour cream – for topping (optional)
- guacamole – for topping (optional)
- shredded cheese – for topping (optional)
How to Make frozen chimichanga
Making a frozen chimichanga is quick and easy! With a preparation time of just 5 minutes and a cooking time of 8–12 minutes, you can enjoy a delicious meal in no time. If you want to add some extra flavor, consider letting it rest for a minute before serving.
Step 1: Heat the Oil
Heat 1–2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Make sure the oil is hot enough for frying!
Step 2: Fry the Chimichanga
Carefully place the frozen chimichanga in the hot oil. Fry for 4–6 minutes on each side until it’s golden brown and crispy. Watch it closely!
Step 3: Drain and Serve
Remove the chimichanga and let it drain on paper towels. Sprinkle some shredded cheese on top while it’s hot. Serve with salsa, sour cream, and guacamole for a tasty treat!
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Main Course |
| Cuisine | Mexican |
| Prep Time | 5 minutes |
| Cook Time | 10 minutes |
| Extra Time | 1 minute (resting) |
| Total Time | 16 minutes |
| Dietary | Not specified |
| Serves | 1 |
| Best Served | With salsa, sour cream, and guacamole! |
Pro Tips for Making frozen chimichanga
- Preheat your oven for even cooking.
- Brush with olive oil for a crispy texture.
- Flip halfway through for uniform browning.
- Let them rest a few minutes before serving.
- Pair with fresh salsa for a zesty kick.
How to Serve this frozen chimichanga
- Top with fresh guacamole for a creamy twist.
- Serve alongside zesty salsa for a flavor kick.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra richness.
- Pair with a side of Mexican rice or refried beans for a complete meal.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro and lime wedges for a fresh finish.
- Enjoy with a crisp side salad for a refreshing contrast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your frozen chimichanga for the best experience:
Storing Leftovers
- Allow chimichangas to cool completely.
- Wrap each chimichanga in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place wrapped chimichangas in an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
- Wrap each chimichanga tightly in plastic wrap.
- Place wrapped chimichangas in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Label with the date and type of filling.
- Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating
- For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes.
- Alternatively, microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let sit for a minute before enjoying to avoid burns.
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FAQs
Here’s a helpful FAQ about this recipe:
1. What is in a frozen chimichanga?
A frozen chimichanga typically contains a filling of seasoned meat, beans, cheese, and sometimes vegetables, all wrapped in a flour tortilla. The filling can vary widely, with options like chicken, beef, or even vegetarian alternatives. The chimichanga is then deep-fried or baked to achieve a crispy exterior, making it a delicious and convenient meal option.
2. How to cook frozen chimichangas?
Cooking frozen chimichangas is simple! You can bake, fry, or microwave them. For baking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the chimichangas on a baking sheet for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through. If you prefer frying, heat oil in a deep fryer or skillet and fry for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Microwaving is the quickest method; just place them on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 2-3 minutes, but the texture may not be as crispy.
3. What is the difference between a frozen burrito and a frozen chimichanga?
The main difference lies in the cooking method and texture. A frozen burrito is typically steamed or microwaved, resulting in a soft tortilla, while a chimichanga is deep-fried or baked, giving it a crispy exterior. Additionally, chimichangas often have a more varied filling and are sometimes served with toppings like salsa or guacamole, making them a bit more indulgent than burritos.
4. How long should I deep fry a frozen chimichanga?
To deep fry a frozen chimichanga, heat the oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry for about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to turn them occasionally for even cooking. The chimichanga is done when it is golden brown and crispy. Always be cautious when frying and ensure the oil is hot enough to avoid sogginess!
Final Thoughts
Cooking a frozen chimichanga is like unwrapping a little gift of comfort! With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy a crispy, flavorful treat that brings back memories of cozy nights in. So go ahead, indulge in this delightful dish, and savor every bite. You deserve it!