Bean and Cheese Chimichanga
A Bean and Cheese Chimichanga is a deep-fried flour tortilla filled with refried beans and melted cheese, often folded into a neat rectangular pocket. This hearty dish is a staple of Tex-Mex and Southwestern American cuisine, known for its crispy exterior and savory, gooey interior. It's typically served with toppings like sour cream, salsa, or guacamole.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is generally high in carbohydrates from the tortilla and fat from the deep-frying process and cheese, while also providing a good amount of protein from the beans and dairy. A single, restaurant-style chimichanga can range from 500 to 800 calories, depending on size and preparation.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 530 kcal |
| Protein | 22 g |
| Carbs | 48 g |
| Fat | 28 g |
| Fiber | 7 g |
| Sugar | 3 g |
| Sodium | 980 mg |
| Calcium | 250 mg |
| Iron | 3.5 mg |
| Potassium | 420 mg |
| Vitamin A | 450 IU |
| Vitamin C | 6 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 1.2 mcg |
| Folate | 85 mcg |
| Phosphorus | 310 mg |
Per 1 chimichanga (220 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
The chimichanga is a fascinating example of culinary fusion, with its origins often debated between Mexican and American border kitchens. Nutritionally, it transforms simple, nutritious ingredients like beans into a much more indulgent meal through the deep-frying technique, which is a hallmark of Tex-Mex comfort food.
