Chimichanga

(Chivichanga, Thingamajig)

Chimichanga is a wrapped, deep-fried flour tortilla filled with a variety of ingredients such as shredded chicken, beef, rice, beans, onions, and cheese. Although the dish is especially popular in the Mexican regions of Sinaloa and Sonora, most people believe that chimichanga was either invented in a Tucson restaurant or in a Phoenix restaurant in the early 1920s.

Regardless of its origins, chimichanga is a widely known favorite throughout Mexico and the United States up to this day, with numerous regional variations. It is recommended to serve chimichangas with salsas, sour cream dips, or guacamole.

Tucson, United States of America

Pairing tips

Cocktail

Margarita

Probably the most famous tequila-based cocktail in the world, Margarita is made with a combination of Cointreau, lime juice, and tequila. The cocktail ... Read more

Recipe variations

4.5
Chicken Chimichanga
READY IN 1h 5min
A great combination of mild, hot, and sour — this, in short, sums up this chimichanga recipe, adapted from allrecipes.com. The tortillas are filled with chicken cooked in a spicy sauce and smothered in a refreshing sour cream sauce.
n/a
Ground Beef Chimichanga
READY IN 35min
This classic chimichanga recipe was adapted from whatscookingamerica.net. The tortillas are filled with spicy ground beef, folded and deep-fried in oil. The dish can be served with a wide array of condiments, including shredded vegetables, guacamole, and black olives.
4.4
Chimichangas with Rice and Beans
READY IN 35min
This meat-free take on chimichangas was adapted from seriouseats.com, but it is still rich in nutrients since it is filled with pinto beans and rice. A spicy dark sauce based on chicken stock and a handful of grated Monterey Jack cheese completes the picture, making this version of chimichanga extra juicy.

Chimichanga Authentic recipe

PREP 25min

COOK 40min

READY IN 1h 5min

A great combination of mild, hot, and sour — this, in short, sums up this chimichanga recipe, adapted from allrecipes.com. The tortillas are filled with chicken cooked in a spicy sauce and smothered in a refreshing sour cream sauce.

VIEW RECIPE