Chicken Chimichangas (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Chicken Filling

01 - 1 to 2 cups vegetable oil, divided
02 - 1/2 cup diced white onion
03 - 2 teaspoons minced garlic
04 - 1/2 tablespoon chili powder
05 - 1/4 teaspoon oregano
06 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
07 - 4 cups cooked, shredded chicken
08 - 1 teaspoon salt
09 - 1/2 teaspoon pepper
10 - 1 can (4 ounces) diced green chilies
11 - 8 burrito-size flour tortillas, warmed
12 - 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese

→ Toppings

13 - Salsa
14 - Sour cream
15 - Guacamole
16 - Pico de gallo
17 - Shredded lettuce

# Instructions:

01 - In a large, heavy-bottom skillet, pour in vegetable oil until 2 inches deep. Heat oil over low heat until it reaches 375°F.
02 - Preheat the oven to 375°F and grease a large baking sheet with nonstick spray. Set aside.
03 - Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened. Add garlic, chili powder, oregano, and cumin. Stir and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in shredded chicken and season with salt and pepper. Add diced green chilies and cook for 5 minutes until heated through. Set aside.
04 - Warm tortillas in the microwave. Place 1/2 cup of the chicken mixture in the center of each tortilla. Top with 3 tablespoons of shredded Monterey Jack cheese. Fold sides over the filling, then fold the bottom over the sides to roll up. Place seam side down and repeat with remaining tortillas.
05 - Using tongs, place one chimichanga at a time into the hot oil, seam side down. Hold with tongs to prevent opening. Fry until golden brown on both sides, about 1 to 2 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
06 - Place assembled chimichangas on greased baking sheet. Spray tops with nonstick spray. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 30 minutes, or until golden brown.
07 - Serve chimichangas warm with your choice of toppings such as salsa, sour cream, guacamole, pico de gallo, or shredded lettuce.

# Notes:

01 - For crispy fried chimichangas, ensure the oil remains at 375°F for even cooking.
02 - Use rotisserie chicken for convenience and faster preparation.