Mother made this for dinner, and it was a hit among friends and family, had to ask for recipe

Baked chicken chimichangas offer a delightful twist on the traditional deep-fried chimichanga, a staple of Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine. Originating from the southwestern United States, these delicious parcels provide a healthier alternative without compromising on flavor. Whether you're hosting a fiesta or looking for a comforting family meal, these chimichangas are sure to satisfy your cravings with their crispy exterior and flavorful filling.

These baked chicken chimichangas pair beautifully with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh garden salad. Consider adding a dollop of guacamole, salsa, or sour cream on top for an extra layer of flavor. A cold drink like a margarita or iced tea would complement the meal perfectly.

Servings: 4

1 lb cooked, shredded chicken
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies, drained
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup salsa
8 large flour tortillas
2 tablespoons melted butter
Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, salsa, chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

In a large bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, shredded cheese, diced green chilies, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and salsa until well combined.

Lay out the tortillas on a clean surface. Spoon approximately 1/2 cup of the chicken mixture onto the center of each tortilla.

Fold in the sides of the tortilla and then roll it up tightly to form a burrito shape. Place the rolled chimichangas seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Brush the tops of the chimichangas with melted butter.

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the tortillas are golden brown and crispy.

Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Serve with your favorite toppings such as sour cream, guacamole, salsa, chopped cilantro, or diced tomatoes.

Feel free to experiment by adding black beans, corn, or rice into the chicken mixture for extra texture and flavor. For a spicier kick, include some chopped jalapeños. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with a combination of black beans, corn, and sautéed vegetables. Another twist could be using a different type of protein like ground beef or shredded pork. Don't forget to customize the spice level to your preference by adjusting the amount of chili powder and adding hot sauce if you like it extra spicy.